Ben Tre’s 13 Best Tours & Experiences (With Prices & Reviews)

Ben Tre offers a remarkable blend of natural beauty, local culture, and genuine experiences that few other destinations in Vietnam can match. Unlike the busy tourist spots, Ben Tre’s charm lies in its slow pace, lush coconut gardens, and friendly local communities. Whether you’re exploring on a scooter, cruising on a sailboat, or learning to cook traditional dishes, every tour promises a slice of real life. We especially love the Ben Tre Mekong Zig Zag: Scooter, Sailboat, and Food for its intimate approach and relaxed storytelling—perfect for those who want authentic local encounters without the crowds.

For those short on time, the Ben Tre: Scooter, Culture, Sailboat, and Mekong Food offers a half-day deep dive into the region’s flavors and rural life. And if you’re interested in hands-on activities, the Cooking class & Vibrant Market by Scooter/Tuktuk combines market exploration with culinary fun. These experiences are what make Ben Tre a must-visit for travelers seeking genuine Vietnamese culture.

1. Ben Tre Mekong Zig Zag: Scooter, Sailboat, and Food (Full day)

At number 1, this full-day tour offers an engaging mix of motorbike rides, a sailboat cruise, and a local feast. The tour begins with a pickup around 9:00-10:00 am in Ben Tre, where you’ll hop on a scooter or tuktuk to explore coconut gardens and traditional villages. The highlight is a delicious Mekong lunch, prepared by a local chef with fresh ingredients, and a serene sail along the quiet river tributaries. The guides, like Chi, are praised for their warmth and knowledge—one review called her “an incredible guide.” The boat ride on the Mekong is particularly relaxing, with lush scenery surrounding you.

What makes this tour stand out is its personalized, intimate approach—it’s ideal for travelers craving authentic interactions and a slower pace. The reviews strongly favor the tour, with all 186 giving a perfect 5-star rating. Expect to learn about local life, taste fresh fruits, and enjoy a spontaneous, fun day.

Bottom Line: For a full immersion into Mekong life with plenty of food and scenic cruising, this tour hits the mark with its friendly guides and genuine vibe.

2. Ben Tre: Scooter, Culture, Sailboat and Mekong Food (Half Day)

Ranked second, this half-day trip is perfect if you’re short on time but still want a taste of Mekong Delta’s off-the-beaten-path villages and local cuisine. Starting in Nho Thanh, you’ll ride a scooter through rural scenes, visit the Ben Tre markets, and enjoy a serene sailboat cruise along winding tributaries. The tour also includes tasting fresh fruits and snacks, giving you an authentic flavor of the region.

Reviewers love the authenticity—many mention it’s a peaceful experience away from travelers. The guides are described as warm and attentive, making this a comfortable choice for first-timers or those on a tight schedule. The tour’s value is excellent at $49, providing a mix of cultural insight and scenic cruising.

Bottom Line: This tour offers a compact but fulfilling Mekong experience, ideal for travelers wanting to maximize culture and scenery in a short time.

3. Cooking class & Vibrant Market by Scooter/Tuktuk

Number 3 on our list is the immersive half-day cooking experience that combines market touring with hands-on food prep. You’ll start by exploring Ben Tre’s local markets, selecting fresh ingredients, then head into a kitchen to cook traditional dishes based on what you find. The menu is flexible, accommodating your cravings or the market’s surprises.

Reviewers rave about how fun and authentic the experience is, with many saying it’s a highlight of their trip. It’s perfect for food lovers eager to understand local ingredients and cooking techniques. The price of $49 offers excellent value given the personalized nature of the experience and the delicious lunch at the end.

Bottom Line: If you want a personal, flavorful introduction to Mekong cuisine, this class will leave your stomach and heart full.

4. Mekong River Relaxing Sail boat cruise to Coconut Canals

Number 4 offers a relaxing 1.5-hour boat cruise designed for tranquility. This intimate trip takes you through coconut-lined canals and lush green waters, perfect for unwinding and soaking in the scenery. You’ll enjoy a laid-back ride, with the option to see the sunset from atop a swayingly tall coconut tree or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Rated highly for its serene atmosphere and friendly staff, it’s ideal for travelers who want to escape the crowds and enjoy nature’s quiet beauty. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, and at $35, it’s a gentle, affordable way to connect with the Mekong’s gentle pace.

Bottom Line: For pure relaxation and scenic beauty, this boat cruise is a simple, calming choice.

5. Private tour: Explore the authentic rural life in Ben Tre

Number 5 offers a personalized, private experience exploring small rivers and scissor canals. You’ll visit a traditional brick kiln, see coconut candy being made, and even try weaving straw mats yourself. The tour emphasizes hands-on workshops and genuine interactions with local families, giving a real sense of rural life.

Rated highly despite only 7 reviews, it’s perfect for travelers seeking a customized, immersive experience away from touristy spots. The tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours and is priced at roughly $47 per person, offering good value for a private guide and varied activities.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want to get up close and personal with local crafts and rural traditions.

6. Private Vinh Trang Pagoda & Mekong Delta from Ho Chi Minh

Number 6 is for travelers who prefer a more spiritual and architectural experience. Starting with a visit to Vinh Trang Pagoda, the tour then cruises the serene waterways of the Mekong, ending with a local lunch and tropical fruits. The boat rides are classic, and the architecture of the pagoda adds a touch of cultural elegance.

Rated 5/5, this tour combines cultural sights with relaxing river cruising and is best suited for those wanting a more contemplative Mekong experience. It’s priced at $112, making it a slightly more premium option but worthwhile for the quality and intimate setting.

Bottom Line: A good pick for culturally minded travelers who want a peaceful, well-rounded day.

7. From Ho Chi Minh: Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta Day Trip

Number 7 combines two iconic sights in one day: the Cu Chi tunnels and the Mekong Delta. Starting with the maze of tunnels, you’ll learn about wartime survival strategies, then switch to a peaceful boat ride through lush waterways. The tour also includes a local lunch and a visit to a beekeeping farm.

Rated 5/5, this tour is perfect for history enthusiasts and those wanting a rundown of southern Vietnam. The itinerary is busy but offers tremendous value at $57, seeing two must-do sites in one trip.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers interested in history and scenery packed into a single day.

8. Full-Day Mekong Tour: HCM to My Tho & Ben Tre

Number 8 is a more budget-friendly full-day trip, costing just $20. It covers villages, local crafts, and boat cruises with a focus on the largest pogoda and traditional hand-rowed boats. This tour is straightforward and good for travelers seeking an economical, authentic Mekong experience.

Rated 4.7/5, many reviewers appreciate the value and simple, genuine interactions. It’s best suited for travelers who want a basic but authentic day out, without the frills.

Bottom Line: A solid choice for budget travelers or those new to Mekong Delta touring.

9. Ben Tre Prawn-Catching & Authentic Mekong Private Day Tour

Number 9 lets you catch prawns, visit a chocolate factory, and enjoy a boat ride through jungle canals. The tour is private, allowing a flexible schedule, and emphasizes interactive activities like prawn catching and fruit picking. The onboard prawn meal is a special touch.

Rated 5/5, this experience suits adventurous food lovers and those who want active participation. The $150 price reflects its private, personalized nature, making it a premium option for families or couples.

Bottom Line: For hands-on fun and culinary treats, this tour delivers a unique Mekong experience.

10. Ben Tre- Mekong River private tour with Local experiences

Number 10 offers a private, less-touristy boat cruise along the river, with interactions at local houses, a water coconut forest, and the Ben Tre market. It emphasizes authenticity, relaxation, and photo opportunities.

Rated 5/5, this tour is perfect if you want a tranquil, personalized river experience. It also includes optional hotel pickup in Ho Chi Minh, with a modest extra fee. Price is around $55 per person with a focus on less crowded, memorable moments.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a quiet, intimate cruise and meaningful local interactions.

11. HCM City: Ben Tre Mekong Delta & My Tho Day Trip with Lunch

Number 11 is a reliable day trip from Ho Chi Minh City, including visits to Cao Dai Temples and Cai Rang Market. It combines boat rides, local foods, and cultural sights in around a full day.

Rated 4.7/5, it suits first-time visitors who want a comprehensive Mekong experience. The $20 price is highly competitive, making it accessible to budget travelers.

Bottom Line: A good all-rounder for a full day of Mekong highlights without breaking the bank.

12. Saigon: Mekong Delta Day Cruise

Number 12 is a 10-hour day cruise from Ho Chi Minh, offering scenic river explorations, orchards, and village visits. It includes lunch and round-trip hotel transfer, providing a relaxed way to see the delta.

Rated 4.0/5, it’s suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, all-inclusive day with minimal planning. The cruise’s leisurely pace makes it a good choice for those who prefer not to rush.

Bottom Line: Best for those who value a full, hassle-free Mekong experience with scenic cruising.

13. Mekong Delta 2 Days 1 Night – Shared Tour

Number 13 is perfect for an overnight stay, allowing deeper immersion. It includes boat trips, local workshops, and an opportunity to experience the peaceful countryside at a relaxed pace.

Rated 3.7/5, it’s best suited for travelers with more time and a desire for extended exploration. The tour costs $101, which is a good deal considering the overnight accommodation and activities included.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a more in-depth Mekong experience with comfortable overnight options.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Ben Tre

When selecting your ideal experience, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. For a full-day culture, the Ben Tre Mekong Zig Zag is excellent, especially with its friendly guides and authentic food. If a shorter trip suits your schedule, the Ben Tre: Scooter, Culture, Sailboat, and Mekong Food offers a quick but thorough taste. For culinary enthusiasts, the Cooking class & Vibrant Market combines delicious food with market adventures.

Travelers seeking a serene boat cruise should consider the Mekong River Relaxing Sail boat cruise, while history buffs might prefer the Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta day trip. For those with more time, the 2-day Mekong Delta tour offers deeper immersion.

Final Thoughts

Ben Tre serves up a variety of experiences suited to different tastes and schedules. For a personal, hands-on adventure, the full-day Zig Zag tour stands out. If you want quiet relaxation, the boat cruises are perfect. And for food lovers, the cooking classes or prawn-catching tours offer a delicious, authentic taste of Mekong life.

No matter which you choose, remember that booking early helps secure your preferred date and ensures you don’t miss out. Whether you want a quick taste or a deep dive, Ben Tre’s tours promise a genuine connection to the rural charm of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. Book your favorite experience now, and prepare for a memorable journey through lush canals, local markets, and welcoming villages.