The Mekong Delta is a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and vibrant local life. Known for its intricate network of rivers, lush rice paddies, and bustling floating markets, this area offers an array of experiences that cater to every type of traveler. If you’re wondering what to do in Mekong Delta, this comprehensive guide covers the top 20 activities, ensuring your visit is filled with authentic and memorable adventures.
1/ Discover the Cai Rang Floating Market – A must on your what to do in Mekong Delta list
The Cai Rang Floating Market in Can Tho is the heartbeat of the Mekong Delta’s riverine culture. As one of the largest and most vibrant floating markets in the region, it’s a must-visit for anyone seeking the quintessential Mekong experience. Even though it operates daily from around 4:00 AM to 10:00 AM, the market reaches its peak activity between 5:30 and 6:30 AM. Consider arriving around this period to catch the market in full swing, when wooden boats piled high with pineapples, mangoes, dragon fruit, and more weave through the canals like a floating mosaic of colors.
Want to truly soak it in? Hop aboard a traditional wooden sampan, and dive into the bustling market maze. As the first light dances on the rippling water, there’s nothing quite like sipping a smooth, creamy ca phe sua da – Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed milk, while drifting through the lively market. But the fun doesn’t stop here. Strike up a friendly chat with local vendors, capture Instagram-worthy shots of the colorful chaos, and don’t leave without tasting a steaming bowl of hu tieu – a signature Mekong noodle soup, or biting into a crispy, flavorful bánh mì, freshly made on a floating kitchen.
No trip to the Mekong Delta is complete without visiting the iconic Cai Rang Floating Market! For the most convenient and exciting way to soak up the action, opt for MeKong Delta 2 days 1 night. The tour will take you on a peaceful boat ride along the scenic tributaries of the Hau River (Bassac River), where life drifts by slowly, then immersing you in the vibrant energy of Cai Rang Floating Market.
2/ Pay tribute at Ba Chua Xu Temple in Chau Doc
The Ba Chua Xu Pagoda at the base of Sam Mountain in Chau Doc is one of the most sacred sites in the Mekong Delta. Dedicated to the Lady of the Realm (Ba Chua Xu) – a powerful local deity believed to bring prosperity, protection, and good fortune, this sacred temple attracts thousands of pilgrims each year.
The vibrant architecture, adorned with colorful tiles and intricate carvings, forms a striking backdrop. Visit during the Ba Chua Xu Festival in the fourth lunar month to experience the temple at its liveliest, with grand processions, incense offerings, and spiritual ceremonies that reflect centuries-old traditions. Even outside festival season, the site is alive with the hum of prayer, as devotees light incense and pay their respects.
3/ Savor the unique flavor of grilled field rat (Dong Thap & An Giang)
Sampling grilled field rat is a daring yet rewarding experience in Dong Thap and An Giang, showing a taste of the Delta’s unique culinary heritage that surprises and delights adventurous foodies. Unlike urban misconceptions, these field rats, thriving in rice paddies, are clean, herbivorous creatures, prized for their tender, protein-rich meat. The preparation is an art: rats are meticulously cleaned, marinated with local spices like lemongrass, garlic, and chili, then grilled over an open flame until golden and fragrant.
The result is a crispy exterior with juicy, flavorful meat, often paired with fresh herbs, rice noodles, or a tangy tamarind dipping sauce. Trying this dish at a local eatery or homestay is a bold way to dive into the culinary scene and a memorable addition to your list of what to do in Mekong Delta. Be open-minded, and you might discover a new favorite!
4/ Visit the mansion of Bac Lieu’s playful millionaire (Cong tu Bac Lieu)
Often known as The Cong tu Bac Lieu House, this mansion is a window into the opulent past of the Mekong Delta. This French-inspired mansion, built in the early 20th century, was once the residence of Tran Trinh Huy, a wealthy playboy known as cong tu Bac Lieu, a wealthy playboy whose flamboyant lifestyle and bold personality still echo through local legends.
The well-preserved residence features elegant architecture, antique furniture, and artifacts that tell the story of his extravagant spending, including tales of burning money to light his way. Guided tours provide insights into the family’s history and the cultural context of the era. The mansion’s grandeur and intriguing stories make it a fascinating stop for history enthusiasts looking for unique things to do in Mekong Delta.
5/ Step into the mystical Bat Pagoda in Soc Trang
Bat Pagoda, also known as Chua Doi or Mahatup Temple, is a place you shouldn’t miss in Soc Trang, steeped in Khmer cultural heritage. Nestled in a lush, green setting, the temple captivates with its distinctive architecture, vibrant curved roofs, and intricate carvings. Its most unique feature is the colony of large fruit bats residing in the temple grounds, creating a mesmerizing sight as they take flight at dusk.
Beyond its spiritual significance, Bat Pagoda serves as a cultural hub, hosting lively Khmer festivals like Chol Chnam Thmay. Visitors can immerse themselves in Khmer traditions through stories shared by monks and admire the vivid murals adorning the temple walls. With its mystical charm and serene atmosphere, Bat Pagoda brings a captivating cultural experience that leaves a lasting impression on every traveler exploring Soc Trang.
6/ Experience the Floating Fish Farms of Chau Doc
Far from the tourist crowds, Floating Fish Farms in An Giang Province reveals a truly authentic side of the Mekong Delta: a visit to its fascinating floating fish farms. These villages on water aren’t just picturesque but living, breathing hubs of aquaculture. Built entirely on the river, each floating home doubles as a fish farm, where locals raise thousands of catfish, tilapia, and other species in submerged cages right beneath their feet.
Climb aboard a boat and drift through this floating world. You’ll see daily life unfold in real-time: fish feeding, cage maintenance, cooking, and kids playing on decks just inches above the river. What makes this journey even more special is the human connection. Chat with friendly villagers, learn how they’ve turned river water into livelihood, and hear the real stories behind this resilient way of life. It’s a blend of culture, innovation, and survival, with all being afloat.
If you’re dreaming of cruising the winding rivers and canals of the Mekong Delta, Southern Vietnam Tours is exactly what you need! With just one trip, you will get a chance to immerse yourself in vibrant local communities and their rich traditions, creating unforgettable memories that will stay with you long after the journey ends.
7/ Celebrate the Ok Om Bok Festival
Each year, around the 14th and 15th days of the 10th lunar month (typically mid-November), the peaceful province of Tra Vinh transforms into a vibrant cultural hub for the Khmer festival of Ok Om Bok, also known as the Moon Worship Festival. This cherished tradition is a heartfelt expression of gratitude to the Moon God for a plentiful harvest. Kick off your cultural adventure with the exhilarating Ghe Ngo boat races, where serpent-shaped boats powered by 40-50 rowers race in unison to honor the Water God and celebrate river life.
When night falls, join in the tranquil Moon Worship Ceremony, as locals present sticky rice, ripe bananas, and flat rice beneath the full moon to express gratitude to the Moon God. Then, look up – as thousands of lanterns float into the night sky, carrying hopes and blessings for the year ahead. Recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage, this event is one of the top things to do in Mekong Delta for travelers who want more than just sightseeing.
Read more: Discovering Khmer heritage: A guide to the Khmer museum
8/ Drift through Tra Su’s tranquil canals
The Tra Su Melaleuca Forest in An Giang is a pristine sanctuary that feels like a journey into another world. Glide silently through emerald-green canals aboard a xuong ba la (traditional three-leaf sampan), steered by a friendly local rower who knows every twist and turn. As you float beneath a canopy of tall melaleuca trees, keep your eyes peeled for flocks of egrets, herons, and shimmering kingfishers darting between branches – a paradise for birdwatchers and photographers alike.
Don’t miss the chance to climb the observation tower, where a sweeping panoramic view awaits. At sunrise or sunset, the wetlands glow with golden light, revealing vast lotus fields, winding waterways, and a horizon filled with natural wonder. This eco-adventure is a top pick for nature lovers wondering what to do in Mekong Delta, providing a perfect blend of tranquility and wildlife exploration.
9/ Admire breathtaking Tram Chim National Park
Tram Chim National Park in Dong Thap is a biodiversity hotspot, embodying the untamed essence of the Mekong Delta’s Dong Thap Muoi. Its uniqueness with its unique seasonal cycle, shifting from six months of flooded plains to six months of dry, fiery grasslands, sustaining over 130 plant species and a lively ecosystem. This dynamic shift fuels a living tapestry of nature, unmatched in its diversity. The park also thrives as a sanctuary for 233 bird species, including rare and endangered birds like the Sarus crane and black-headed ibis.
Picture yourself gliding through lush channels on a three-leaf canoe, marvel at lotus and wild rice fields, and witness flocks of waterbirds in their natural dance. Don’t forget to savor rustic dishes like grilled snakehead fish and join unique activities like harvesting sky rice or fishing like locals. Tram Chim’s pristine beauty and biodiversity deliver an unparalleled escape into nature’s heart. It often takes 3 to 4 hours to explore the park, so make sure to fit it into your schedule for a fulfilling visit.
10/ Uncover the art of making traditional hu tieu Sa Dec
Sa Dec is renowned for its iconic hu tieu – a rice noodle dish that’s a culinary icon of the Mekong Delta. For a truly immersive experience, visit a traditional noodle-making workshop in Sa Dec, where skilled artisans reveal the art behind these delicate strands. Watch in awe as they mix rice flour, steam it to perfection, and expertly cut the noodles by hand, which is an age-old craft that’s pure art.
Many workshops invite you to roll up your sleeves, try crafting your own hu tieu, and then savor a steaming, fresh bowl bursting with authentic flavors. This culinary experience is a delicious way to explore what to do in Mekong Delta, especially for foodies eager to learn about local cuisine.
11/ Listen to don ca tai tu – One of the top things to do in Mekong Delta
If you want to truly feel the cultural essence of southern Vietnam, listening to don ca tai tu is one of the things to do in Mekong Delta you should include on your bucket list. This traditional music genre is a captivating form of folk music recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. With its soulful melodies and poetic charm, don ca tai tu carries the stories and emotions of generations, making it an unique cultural experience for any traveler.
Don ca tai tu comes alive through elegant instruments like the dan tranh (16-string zither) and dan bau (monochord), blending improvisation with heartfelt storytelling. You’ll often find these performances in Can Tho, Vinh Long, or during river cruises and cultural festivals, where locals gather to share their stories through song. Attending a live performance is a cultural highlight among the what to do in Mekong Delta, giving a window into the Delta’s artistic traditions.
Read more: Explore Can Tho Vietnam Nightlife
12/ Wander the colorful Sa Dec Flower Gardens
Sa Dec, often called the “Flower Capital” of the Mekong Delta, is a haven for floral enthusiasts. At the heart of this charming town lies the famous Sa Dec Flower Village – a kaleidoscope of colors and scents that stretches as far as the eye can see. Here, local farmers lovingly grow everything from romantic roses and radiant orchids to cheerful chrysanthemums and exotic bonsai trees. During Lunar New Year (Tet), the entire village bursts into full bloom with a spectacular Floral Show unlike any other in the region.
Stroll through peaceful garden paths, breathe in the sweet scent of blossoms, and chat with passionate growers who’ve spent generations mastering their craft. Many gardens also have potted plants for sale, perfect if you want to take a little piece of Sa Dec home with you. Sa Dec Flower Village is truly a top experience when exploring what to do in the Mekong Delta.
13/ Visit Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery – The largest pagoda in the Mekong Delta
For a serene escape, visit Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery – the largest pagoda in the Mekong Delta, spanning over 10 hectares. This Buddhist temple is a masterpiece of traditional Vietnamese architecture, complete with a majestic seven-story tower, intricate wooden carvings, and lush landscaped gardens that invite quiet reflection.
Just wander the peaceful grounds, listen to the soft rustling of leaves, or sit in silent meditation as incense drifts through the air. Don’t miss the chance to climb to the top of the tower for sweeping views of the countryside, where endless rice fields roll gently toward the horizon. Beyond its peaceful ambiance, the pagoda is also a hub of cultural and spiritual life, hosting annual festivals and Buddhist ceremonies that give visitors a deeper connection to the local traditions. Whether you’re on a journey of self-discovery or simply looking for meaningful things to do in Mekong Delta, this sacred space is a worthy destination.
14/ Make your own Ben Tre coconut candy
Ben Tre is a renowned region where endless coconut groves paint the landscape, and everyday life thrives around this incredibly versatile fruit. One of the most delightful and interactive experiences here is visiting a traditional coconut candy (kẹo dừa) workshop. Step inside a local workshop and watch skilled artisans crack coconuts, extract creamy milk, and transform it into a bubbling caramel concoction before your eyes. The sweet aroma fills the air as the mixture is cooked to perfection, then poured, cut, and wrapped into bite-sized treats.
Many workshops invite you to stir the mixture or hand-wrap the candies in edible rice paper, turning this visit into a fun, hands-on cultural immersion. The chewy, fragrant coconut candy makes for a perfect souvenir, made even sweeter by the fact that you helped create it with your own hands. It’s a tasty and educational highlight that deserves a spot on your list of what to do in Mekong Delta.
15/ Pick and taste seasonal fruits in the orchard
The Mekong Delta is a lush treasure trove of tropical fruits, famous for its mangosteen, rambutan, durian, and longan orchards. Visit fruit gardens in Vinh Long, Tien Giang, or Can Tho, where you can pick ripe fruits right from the trees and taste their natural sweetness on the spot and even pack some fruit to take home. Enjoying these fresh fruits amid the peaceful greenery is one of the most delightful experiences you can add to your what to do in Mekong Delta itinerary.
If you have a consuming passion for juicy and fresh fruits, don’t miss MEKONG DELTA DAY TOUR. During this tour, you can have chances to take a short stroll around an orchard and then enjoy wonderful traditional music while tasting some local fresh fruits of the Mekong Delta. It’s the best way to dive into recharge energy and dive into local cuisine at the same time.
16/ Enjoy timeless beauty at Binh Thuy Ancient House (Can Tho)
The Binh Thuy Ancient House was built in 1870 by the Duong family and is recognized as a national relic, blends French colonial elegance with Vietnamese tradition, showcasing the Mekong Delta’s rich heritage. Admire its five-compartment layout, intricate wooden carvings, and vibrant red-tiled roof, a testament to meticulous craftsmanship. The interior dazzles with antique furniture, porcelain vases, and a grand altar honoring ancestors, exuding history and charm.
Surrounded by a lush garden of orchids, bonsai, and fruit trees, the peaceful setting creates an inviting space for relaxation and quiet contemplation. Visitors can wander through its well-preserved rooms, capture beautiful photos, and hear captivating stories of the Duong family’s legacy from knowledgeable guides. The house welcomes visitors every day from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and again from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, with a modest entrance fee of just 15,000 VND. The house’s charm and historical significance make it a cultural gem among the Mekong Delta what to do attractions.
17/ Stop at the blooming paradise of Sa Dec
In addition to its flower gardens, Sa Dec is famous for its traditional ornamental plant villages, where bonsai, cacti, and decorative trees are cultivated with meticulous care. While strolling through these lush, green spaces, you’ll witness the craftsmanship of local artisans who shape each plant into living works of art.
The atmosphere becomes even more lively in the weeks leading up to Lunar New Year, when demand for unique and symbolic plants surges. Visiting these villages offers a serene and visually captivating experience, perfect for nature lovers and culture seekers alike.
18/ Take a look at how linh fish sauce is made
If there’s one ingredient that captures the soul of Vietnamese cuisine, it’s definitely nuoc mam – the iconic, aromatic fish sauce found in nearly every dish. And there’s no better place to explore its roots than An Giang or Phu Quoc, which are considered one of its most authentic birthplaces.
Step into a traditional fish sauce factory and witness the time-honored process where linh fish is layered with salt and left to ferment for months in giant wooden barrels. It’s a slow and fragrant journey, rich in history and flavor. For any foodie wondering what to do in Mekong Delta, this is a truly unforgettable experience that dives deep into the heart of Vietnamese culinary culture.
19/ Honor at the tomb of Pho bang Nguyen Sinh Sac – the father of President Ho Chi Minh
The tomb of Nguyen Sinh Sac, the father of President Ho Chi Minh, is a serene memorial in Cao Lanh, Dong Thap. The tomb, adorned with granite and a stylized lotus canopy, symbolizes the Mekong Delta’s protective embrace. Encircled by a mesmerizing star-shaped lotus pond and shaded by ancient giants, like the 300-year-old khe and sop trees, the grounds radiate peace and timeless beauty.
Visitors can pay respects, light incense, and explore exhibits showcasing his humble legacy of teaching and healing in Hoa An village. This peaceful spot unmistakably mirrors Đồng Tháp’s deep admiration for a devoted patriotic scholar.
20/ Take a journey to Ong Pagoda in Tra Vinh
Ong Temple, or Phuoc Minh Cung, built in the late 19th century, is a historic cultural treasure in Tra Vinh. The temple mainly honors Quan Thanh De Quan (Guan Yu), symbolizing loyalty, righteousness, and bravery. Its unique architecture features a green-glazed tiled roof adorned with intricate carvings of dragons, immortals, mythical creatures, and floral patterns. Recognized as a national cultural and historical site since 2005, Ong Temple has become a symbol of traditional architecture and the cultural legacy of Trà Vinh’s Chinese-Vietnamese community.
The Mekong Delta offers so many exciting activities that planning the perfect trip can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry about that, because Lily’s Travel has got you covered. With 15 years of experience and over 2,000 five-star reviews on TripAdvisor, we specialize in crafting personalized itineraries for the best experiences across Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. Guided by passionate local experts and powered by cutting-edge 4.0 technology, including immersive 3D trip previews, we tailor every journey to fit your unique preferences and needs. Choose Lily’s Travel and turn your dream getaway into unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
The Mekong Delta is a land of endless wonders, where every corner reveals a new adventure. From bustling floating markets to tranquil wetlands and ancient temples, this what to do in Mekong Delta activities offer a perfect blend of culture, nature, and cuisine, promising memories that will last a lifetime. Plan your journey today and uncover the vibrant heart of southern Vietnam!
