Local driver riding a xe lôi (tuk-tuk) with smiling travelers along a narrow village road lined with coconut and banana trees in Ben Tre, Mekong Delta.

Authentic Mekong Delta

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Tour info

TOUR CODE

MK01

Language

Vietnamese

Destination

Southern Vietnam

Physicality

1/10

Duration

1 day

Tour Type

Short Trips

Pace

Leisurely

Group Size

Private

Overview

Skip the crowded group buses to My Tho and Cai Be — this private day trip takes you to Ben Tre, the quieter side of the Mekong Delta, still shaped by coconut groves, brick kilns, and river life that hasn’t changed much in decades. About 1.5 hours from Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Tre offers a more authentic, less touristy alternative to the delta’s more-visited routes.

You’ll glide through narrow canals by sampan, watch local families weave coconut mats and make traditional candy by hand, and stop at a working brick kiln — one of the few still operating in the region. With a private guide and driver, the pace is entirely yours: linger where it’s interesting, skip what isn’t. Best suited for travelers who want a genuine look at rural delta life rather than a checklist of tourist stops.

Itinerary

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Pick-up: 8:00AM | Drop-off: ~16:00PM

Known as “Land of Coconut“, Ben Tre is one of the best area to explore the natural landscapes of Mekong Delta and discover local life, beautiful canals and a variety of activities.

Upon arrival into Ben Tre, board a private boat to enjoy the most spectacular view and relaxing boat trip on the Mekong River. Your first stop is a local brick kiln where we’ll learn how the clay bricks are made. Continuing to other villages, you’ll learn about Coconut charcoal, coconut fiber processing, coconut candy workshop and savour freshly picked fruits from a local orchard garden.

inside the conical brick and pottery kiln, the kiln mouth can be seen above the top

After the boat trip you will have a short walk to a local village to see mat weavers at work then jumping on the Delta’s version of a tuk-tuk (xe-lôi)/ bike to explore the surrounding fields and traveling down country roads to reach a nice local restaurant for lunch before boarding a sampan for a tranquil trip along the picturesque canals. Come back to the port and continue to visit Ben Tre Local Market before heading back to Ho Chi Minh City.

(*) Some of the stops can be slightly changed, depends on actual time of travel.

Included

✅ Transfer by private air-conditioning vehicle
✅ English-speaking guide
✅ Lunch at local restaurant
✅ Local fruits
✅ Mineral water; wet tissue
✅ Local vehicles (Boat, bike/ tuktuk, sampan)

Excluded

❌ Personal expenses
❌ Travel insurance
❌ Tips for guide & driver
❌ Beverage
❌ VAT

FAQ

How far is Ben Tre from Ho Chi Minh City?

Ben Tre is about 85 km (53 miles) from Ho Chi Minh City, roughly 1.5–2 hours by car depending on traffic. Most of this tour’s travel time is on the outbound and return drive, with the rest of the day spent on boats, bikes, or on foot exploring the villages.

What's the difference between this tour and a group tour to My Tho or Cai Be?

My Tho and Cai Be are the delta’s most-visited routes, often crowded with large group tours and floating markets that have become more staged than authentic. Ben Tre sees far fewer tourists, so villages, workshops, and canals feel more lived-in than performed. This tour is also private — no waiting for a group, no fixed script.

Is this tour suitable for kids or elderly travelers?

Yes, with some caveats. The sampan rides are calm and low-effort, and the walking pace is easy. Some sections involve short unpaved paths or narrow plank bridges between boats, which may be tricky for travelers with limited mobility. Let your consultant know in advance so the itinerary can be adjusted.

What should I bring?

Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), insect repellent, and a light rain jacket in the wet season (May–October). Cash in Vietnamese dong is useful for small purchases at local workshops.

Is lunch included, and what kind of food will I eat?

Yes, lunch is included as part of this tour. You’ll enjoy a set lunch of local Mekong Delta specialties, featuring the region’s signature elephant ear fish wrapped in rice paper (bánh tráng) with fresh herbs, alongside steamed shrimp, banana blossom salad, chicken, steamed rice, and a traditional Vietnamese soup. It’s a full, home-style spread that gives you a genuine taste of how families in the delta eat.

Can this tour be combined with other Mekong Delta destinations?

Yes — this itinerary can be extended or combined with Can Tho’s floating markets for travelers with more time. Ask your consultant about a 2-day version.

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