Ho Chi Minh City: 3-Day Explore The South of Vietnam

If you’re looking to venture beyond the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City into the tranquil beauty of Vietnam’s countryside, this 3-day Mekong Delta tour promises just that — and more. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, based on detailed reviews and comprehensive itineraries, it sounds like a fantastic way to see some of Vietnam’s most iconic sights with a good balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation.

What we love about this experience are the vibrant Cai Rang Floating Market, the opportunity to learn traditional Vietnamese cooking, and the chance to explore by bicycle through lush rice paddies and fragrant fruit gardens. The inclusion of homestays offers a rare peek into local life, and the cruise on the Mekong River is a highlight that combines scenery with local music.

A potential consideration is that the tour involves cycling and kayaking, so it’s best suited for those with at least a moderate level of fitness. Travelers who prefer more independent travel or dislike guided group tours may find this a bit structured. However, it’s ideal for those craving an authentic, hands-on experience of rural Vietnam with a taste of adventure and cultural insight.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of culture, natural beauty, and local cuisine—especially if you enjoy active days and meaningful interactions with local communities.

Key Points

• Authentic local markets: Get up close at Cai Rang Floating Market, witnessing lively trade from boats.
• Hands-on experiences: Enjoy a Vietnamese cooking class and learn to prepare traditional dishes.
• Active exploration: Explore by bicycle and kayak through rice fields, orchards, and waterways.
• Community stays: Spend nights in homestays, experiencing genuine Vietnamese hospitality.
• Scenic river cruise: Relax on a boat ride with traditional Vietnamese music playing in the background.
• Good value for the price: At $308, it covers transport, meals, accommodation, and activities, offering comprehensive value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: From Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong

Starting early in the morning, you’ll be picked up at your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City—a smooth start that ensures you avoid the city’s rush hour. The journey takes you to My Tho and Ben Tre, two classic Mekong Gateway towns. A key stop here is Vinh Trang Pagoda, the largest ancient temple in the region, which offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s spiritual side.

The boat cruise on the Mekong River sets the tone for the trip. Expect to glide along the Tien River, with moments of tranquility that contrast sharply with the city’s hustle. During the cruise, you’ll hear traditional Vietnamese music, a soothing accompaniment that enhances the peaceful vibe. The boat ride also includes a stop at a bee farm where you can sample honey tea—delicious and surprisingly refreshing.

A highlight of the day is visiting the coconut candy factory, where you’ll see how the region’s famous treats are made. This gives you a taste of local craftsmanship and flavor. After a hearty lunch, you’ll continue to Can Tho and settle into the Mekong Silt Ecolodge for the night. The setting here is rustic yet comfortable, with the chance to unwind in a hammock under coconut trees.

Day 2: Cai Rang Floating Market & Countryside Adventures

Wake up early to beat the crowds at the Cai Rang Floating Market, renowned for its bustling trade of fruits, vegetables, and local specialties. Here, you’ll see farmers and traders exchanging goods directly from their boats—an iconic snapshot of southern Vietnamese commerce. The local coffee boat is a charming detail, offering you a fresh brew as you watch the busy scene unfold.

Post-market, you’ll cruise through green canals, passing by fruit orchards and rice paddies. These stops are perfect for tasting tropical fruits and learning about local agricultural practices. Returning to the homestay for breakfast, you’ll then check out and head toward Long An, where the Family Tiny Garden Homestay awaits.

This afternoon is all about cooking—you’ll join a class to make simple Vietnamese dishes, which you can later enjoy during a BBQ lunch. The experience extends beyond the kitchen: you’ll relax in hammocks, explore the countryside by bicycle, and even participate in rice planting and fish catching activities with local farmers. The night is capped with a lively karaoke session—a fun, informal way to connect with fellow travelers and locals alike.

Day 3: Biking & Water Adventures in the Countryside

Start early with a bicycle ride at sunrise over paddy fields—an unforgettable moment of peace and natural beauty. After breakfast, continue cycling through orchards, discovering fruits like dragon fruit, grapefruit, oranges, and guava, all thriving in the fertile land.

A visit to a local market adds a touch of everyday life, where you can observe local vendors and perhaps pick up some fresh produce. The tour’s highlight is a kayaking adventure through the waterways, allowing you to see the countryside from a different perspective and enjoy the quiet of Vietnam’s water labyrinths.

The day also includes rice transplanting and fish catching—hands-on activities that deepen your understanding of rural livelihoods. After lunch, it’s time to head back to Ho Chi Minh City, arriving around 2:30 PM, with plenty of memories and photos to share.

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What Sets This Tour Apart

Cultural and Authentic Experiences

Visiting the floating market isn’t just a sightseeing stop; it’s an active window into the local economy. The coconut candy factory and orchard visits give you a taste of regional craftsmanship and agriculture, making the experience genuinely immersive.

Balance of Adventure and Relaxation

The combination of cruises, cycling, kayaking, and relaxing in hammocks ensures you’re active without feeling exhausted. Each activity is designed to show you different facets of Mekong life, from bustling markets to tranquil waterways.

Accommodation and Meals

Staying at homestays like the Mekong Silt Ecolodge and Family Tiny Garden provides a more meaningful connection with local families than typical hotels. Plus, the included meals—ranging from traditional breakfasts to BBQs—are both tasty and a chance to try authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

Value for Money

At $308 per person, this tour packs in transportation, guide services, entrance fees, accommodation, meals, and activities. It’s a well-rounded package that offers great value for those keen to explore the Mekong Delta thoroughly and comfortably.

Group Size and Guides

Guides are bilingual (English and Vietnamese), adding clarity and local insight. Most reviews point out that guides like Mr. Thanh or Ms. Lan are friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience smoother and more engaging. The group size is typically small, fostering a more personal experience.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress comfortably and wear appropriate shoes for cycling and kayaking.
• Bring a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and your camera.
• If you have dietary restrictions, communicate this in advance; meals are included, but flexibility might vary.
• A moderate level of fitness is recommended, especially if you plan to cycle or kayak.
• The tour is conducted in English, making communication straightforward.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for curious travelers who want to see Vietnam’s rural life up close while enjoying active, participatory experiences. It’s ideal for those comfortable with biking and kayaking, eager to learn about local customs, and interested in genuine cultural exchanges. If you prefer structured sightseeing with little physical activity, this might feel a bit intense, but for most, it offers a meaningful, well-rounded adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It depends on their comfort with cycling and kayaking, and their level of fitness. The activities involve some physical effort, so most parents may find it more suitable for older children.

What is included in the price?
The $308 covers transportation in an A/C vehicle, meals, guide services, entrance fees, homestays, boat trips, bicycle and kayak rentals, and travel insurance.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
Yes, they are in shared rooms at homestays, offering a cozy, authentic experience. You’ll have access to basic amenities and a chance to enjoy local hospitality.

Can I book without paying upfront?
Yes, the tour offers a “Reserve & Pay Later” option, allowing you to secure your spot now and pay closer to the date.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a camera, and lightweight clothing are recommended. Don’t forget your water and a sense of adventure.

Is there any free internet during the trip?
Yes, the tour includes access to a Free Internet Center at the homestays, so you can stay connected.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The schedule is somewhat fixed to ensure you cover key sights, but local guides often tailor activities based on group interests or weather conditions.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day Mekong Delta tour offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and lively local interactions. It’s a fantastic choice for active travelers eager to experience Vietnam beyond the typical tourist spots. With comfortable homestays, authentic activities, and scenic waterways, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of rural life, and plenty of stories to tell.

Perfect for those wanting more than just a sightseeing overview, this tour balances adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery — all at a reasonable price point. Whether you’re a foodie, an adventure-seeker, or someone craving real connections with local communities, this trip checks many boxes for a memorable Mekong experience.

Note: If you’re not comfortable on bikes or in kayaks, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re up for a bit of physical activity and love exploring nature and local markets, it could be your highlight in Vietnam.

You can check availability for your dates here: