Once you’re in Vietnam, make sure to prioritize a visit to the Mekong Delta right after soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City. It’s truly an unforgettable experience! This area is filled with countless boats, vibrant floating markets, serene Buddhist pagodas, and charming villages.
Being the largest delta in Vietnam with vast expanses of rice fields, the Mekong Delta boasts numerous rivers. There’s plenty to discover here. But, how do you visit mekong delta from Ho Chi Minh? Keep reading this article of Ftrip Vietnam to find out!
Distance overview from Ho Chi Minh city to Mekong delta
The Mekong Delta, often referred to as the “Nine Dragons” river delta, is located in the western region of Vietnam, where the Mekong River empties into the sea. It’s also known as the Southern Delta or the Southwestern region.
This area is characterized by a vast network of rivers, swamps, and islands, and includes the bustling city of Can Tho along with 12 smaller provinces: Long An, Tien Giang, Vinh Long, Tra Vinh, Hau Giang, Soc Trang, Kien Giang, and Ca Mau.
The distance from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta is approximately 193 kilometers. While there are 12 provinces within the delta, one of the most common routes to reach it is from Ho Chi Minh City to Can Tho. However, if you’re booking a tour to the southern region of Vietnam through local operators, they may take you on a different route from Saigon to Ben Tre.
Depending on your itinerary and interests, you can choose the route and mode of transportation that best suits your journey.
How to visit mekong delta from Ho Chi Minh?
Traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta has become quite convenient nowadays, with various transportation options available. If you’re unsure about the best way to visit mekong delta from Ho Chi Minh, here are some suggestions:
By Bus
Taking the bus is often considered the most affordable and hassle-free option. There are two main types of buses: Express and Sleeper. The journey typically takes around three hours. You can purchase tickets directly at the bus station or online.
Bus fares vary depending on factors like seat type, amenities, and the time of year, ranging from 60,000 VND to 200,000 VND. Buses depart frequently throughout the day, picking up passengers at major stations, bus stops, and sometimes even from accommodations.
One downside of taking the bus is that it can get crowded, especially during peak seasons. It’s advisable to book your ticket in advance to secure your preferred seat and departure time.
Private car
Exploring the Mekong Delta from Ho Chi Minh City can also be done by renting a private car. This option offers comfort and convenience, allowing you to create your own itinerary and explore the scenery and attractions at your own pace.
While it may be more expensive than taking the bus, you won’t be constrained by a fixed schedule, giving you the freedom to enjoy your trip fully.
The cost of hiring a private car depends on various factors such as the location, the number of seats, and the type of vehicle. You can arrange for a private car yourself, request assistance from your hotel, or include it in your booking when planning your Mekong Delta tour from Ho Chi Minh City. The tour operator will then organize a car according to your preferences.
By Boat
Traveling by boat is a popular choice for reaching The Mekong among travelers. There are various options available, such as speed boats, river cruises, overnight cruises, or local boats.
Embarking on a Mekong Delta boat journey from Ho Chi Minh City promises an unforgettable experience. For a 2-3 day excursion, considering a tour package from a local agency is worthwhile.
These packages typically include boat transport and accommodation. Depending on your budget, you can select between speed boats, river cruises, or overnight cruises. Additionally, these packages can facilitate travel from Vietnam to Cambodia.
If time is limited, hiring a small boat for a day trip to the Mekong Delta from Ho Chi Minh City is a viable option. The locals are welcoming and happy to assist with navigating the boat. Simply sit back and immerse yourself in their daily life.
You can take in the scenic river views, explore the vibrant floating markets, or indulge in fresh local fruits. However, always inquire about the price before hiring a boat to avoid any potential scams.
By airplane
For a convenient journey from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta, consider taking a flight from one of the nearby airports. Vietnam offers several airport choices for accessing the Mekong Delta region.
These include Can Tho International Airport in Can Tho province, Phu Quoc Airport, and Rach Gia Domestic Airport in Kien Giang province, as well as Ca Mau Domestic Airport in Ca Mau province.
Departing from Ho Chi Minh City Airport, you can board a flight to any of these airports in the Mekong Delta region, depending on your desired destination within the area. Whether you opt for Phu Quoc, Can Tho, or Ca Mau, air travel offers a convenient and efficient way to discover the diverse attractions and natural wonders of the Mekong Delta.
By motorbike
Exploring the Mekong Delta from Ho Chi Minh City to Mekong on a motorbike offers an exhilarating adventure for those seeking thrills and a personalized journey. Motorbikes are the preferred mode of transportation in Vietnam, providing travelers with an authentic experience of the places, people, and cuisine along the way.
The motorbike ride typically lasts less than 4 hours, making it convenient, speedy, and budget-friendly. By hopping on a motorbike, you can immerse yourself in the local culture, discover hidden gems, and create unforgettable memories.
Renting a motorbike costs around $20 per day. If you’re unfamiliar with the routes, consider enlisting the help of a local guide or rely on Google Maps for navigation during your trip.
Conclusion
Exploring the Mekong Delta from Ho Chi Minh City offers a gateway to a world of natural beauty and cultural richness.
By following the guide on how to visit mekong delta from Ho Chi Minh from Ftrip Vietnam, travelers can seamlessly navigate through this captivating region, immersing themselves in its vibrant markets, serene waterways, and hospitable communities.
Whether it’s cruising along the river, sampling local delicacies, or visiting traditional villages, there’s something for every adventurer in the Mekong Delta.
