A frequent question we hear is, how many days do you need in the Mekong Delta? The answer really depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for. Whether you’re just passing through or wanting to take your time to enjoy the region’s natural beauty and culture, here’s a breakdown of how to make the most of your time based on how many days you have, along with distances between key destinations.
1 Day in the Mekong Delta
If you only have a day, Ben Tre is a great choice. It's about 2.5 hours (around 85 kilometers or 53 miles) driving from Ho Chi Minh City, so it's feasible to do as a day trip. Ben Tre city offers a more relaxed, off-the-beaten-path vibe compared to more tourist-heavy areas like My Tho. You can spend the day taking a small boat along the peaceful rivers and canals, visiting local homes, and exploring villages. This is also a perfect spot for a non-touristy experience if you want to see real life in the Mekong.
2 Days/1 Night: Ben Tre or Can Tho
If you have two days, you have the option of spending the night in either Ben Tre or Can Tho, both offering unique experiences of the Mekong Delta.
Ben Tre, about 2.5 hours from Ho Chi Minh City (85 kilometers or 53 miles), offers a more laid-back, off-the-beaten-path experience. You can explore peaceful villages, take boat trips along quiet rivers, and enjoy authentic local life away from the tourist crowds. It's a great spot for a relaxed and serene getaway.
Alternatively, if you're keen on experiencing the Mekong Delta's famous floating markets, you can head to Can Tho, about 3.5-4 hours from Ho Chi Minh City (170 kilometers or 105 miles) and 2 hours from Ben Tre (110 kilometers or 68 miles). While the Can Tho floating market can be crowded, it's an iconic sight worth checking out.
For the rest of your time in either location, you could hire a scooter or bicycle to wander around local villages. This gives you the chance to escape the busier spots, explore the countryside, and connect with the quieter side of the Mekong Delta.
3 Days/2 Nights: Ben Tre and Can Tho
If you have a bit more time, a combination of 1 night in Ben Tre and 2 nights in Can Tho is a great way to see different sides of the Mekong Delta. Spend your first day in Ben Tre, experiencing the authentic, peaceful countryside and local life. Then, head to Can Tho for the floating market and explore the local villages on a scooter or bike.
This itinerary gives you a chance to see both the serene, off-the-beaten-path Mekong Delta and the lively, bustling side in Can Tho. Plus, you'll have more flexibility to take your time and enjoy the surroundings without rushing through.
4+ Days: Explore More or Head to Phu Quoc
If you have more than three nights, you've probably fallen in love with the serenity of the Mekong Delta. In this case, you can either:
Combine Ben Tre, Can Tho, and add a few days in Phu Quoc, the stunning island known for its beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Phu Quoc is easily reached by a 1-hour flight or a combination of 3 hours by car (to Rach Gia) and 2.5 hours by ferry from Can Tho. Phu Quoc offers a perfect way to unwind after exploring the Delta.
Or, if you're feeling more adventurous, consider a Mekong loop. You can travel deeper into the Delta by scooter (or bus if that's more your style). This option will allow you to visit places like Chau Doc, which has a different cultural feel compared to other Mekong regions due to its proximity to Cambodia.
Chau Doc is around 3.5 hours (around 150 kilometers or 93 miles) from Can Tho, and about 4-5 hours (around 210 kilometers or 130 miles) from Ben Tre. If you're heading back to Ho Chi Minh City, it's around 6-7 hours(around 240 kilometers or 150 miles) from Chau Doc by car.
Chau Doc is known for its floating fish farms, stunning temples, and mix of Khmer, Cham, and Vietnamese cultures. The loop is a fantastic way to see more of the Delta without rushing through, and it lets you explore regions that many tourists overlook.
From Our Experience in Ben Tre: A Common Scenario
From our experience in Ben Tre, many people book just 1 night here to see how it goes, only to end up staying for 1-2-3 more nights! Why? Because it's so relaxed, peaceful, and the food is just incredible.
Guests often find themselves slowing down completely, discovering the nearby villages, enjoying fresh local dishes, and indulging in simple pleasures like lying in a hammock, reading a book, playing guitar, or even writing. It's the kind of place that invites you to relax, take your time, and enjoy the quiet moments. And did I mention the food? It's so good, you'll want to eat all day long!
Conclusion: How Many Days Do You Need in the Mekong Delta?
Ultimately, the Mekong Delta has something for every traveler, whether you only have a day or want to spend over a week.
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