Mekong River Cruises From Ho Chi Minh City
The mighty Mekong River is Southeast Asia’s longest river and cruising around the canals, waterways, and floating markets of the Mekong Delta—often called the “rice bowl” of Vietnam—offers a startling contrast to the busy urban center of Ho Chi Minh City. Here are your options for Mekong Delta tours.
Even with limited time in Vietnam, it’s possible to get a taste of the Mekong Delta on a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City. Set sail on a Mekong River cruise and spot wildlife in the Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve, explore the Cai Be floating market, or experience rural life in riverside towns like Vinh Long, My Tho, Ben Tre, or Chau Doc. For a more personalized experience, opt for a small-group or private tour.
Multi-day cruises mean you can explore further afield, immerse yourself in local life, and spend a night in a traditional Mekong village. Opt for a 2-day cruise and combine a boat trip around Mekong islands and villages, with a bike ride around the rice fields, a Vietnamese cooking class, or a visit to a coconut candy factory, a bee farm, or a tropical fruits orchard. Most multi-day tours include accommodation, round-trip transport, and activities.
The Mekong River runs through Southern Vietnam from the South China Sea into Cambodia, and the Mekong Delta stretches south and west of Ho Chi Minh City.
Traveling by road from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta takes about two hours, while speedboat transfers are also available from the city.
Full-day tours from Ho Chi Minh city typically last between nine and 12 hours and often include hotel pickup, lunch, and round-trip transport.
Be sure to bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and mosquito repellant.
