Mekong Tour: Ben Tre 1 day by DGT

Exploring the Mekong Delta: A Full Day in Ben Tre

Taking a guided tour of the Mekong Delta is a popular way to experience the vibrant, bustling life of southern Vietnam. While we haven’t personally joined this specific trip, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s an immersive, well-rounded day that combines scenic waterways, local industries, and authentic village life.

What we love about this tour:
First, it offers a genuine glimpse into the everyday lives of locals through visits to coconut processing workshops, brick-making facilities, and traditional industries.
Second, the variety of transport modes—boat rides, xe loi (motorized rickshaws), and bicycles—keeps the experience lively and interactive.
Third, the included meal at a riverside restaurant, featuring local specialties and beer, makes the entire day feel like a well-planned adventure with great value.

One consideration is the tour’s pace, which, while packed with activities, involves a lot of moving between different modes of transport. This might be tiring for those who prefer a more relaxed, slower pace.

This trip is best suited for travelers seeking an authentic, culture-rich experience packed with scenic views, local industry visits, and hands-on activities. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a bit of adventure, delicious food, and learning about Vietnam’s unique river communities.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Visit local industries like coconut processing and brick-making.
• Variety of Transport: Enjoy boat rides, xe loi, and cycling for a dynamic day.
• Scenic Waterways: Cruise along the Ham Luong River and narrow canals.
• Delicious Food: Savor a riverside lunch with local specialties and beer.
• Small Group: Max of 12 travelers ensures a personal, engaging tour.
• All-Inclusive Value: Includes transportation, guide, lunch, and activities.

Discovering the Mekong Delta with DGT

This one-day tour from Ho Chi Minh City to Ben Tre offers an excellent balance of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and fun activities. At just $60 per person, it provides fantastic value for a comprehensive experience that covers the highlights of the Mekong Delta.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins early, with pickup from your hotel or meeting point in District 1 or 3 around 7:00 a.m. From there, the journey to Ben Tre is smooth, efficient, and filled with interesting sights. The connecting modes of transport—van, boat, and tuk-tuk—are tailored to give you a taste of local life, as many reviewers noted.

Stop 1: The Mekong River and Local Markets

Your first stop involves cruising along the Ham Luong River, a wide and tranquil stretch of water that sets the tone for the day. As you glide past floating markets and lush green scenery, you’ll understand why this area is called the “Rice Bowl” of Vietnam. Guests mention the boat riding here is both relaxing and visually appealing, with some reviewers noting that the trip provides varied experiences, from wide river cruising to narrow canal rides.

Visiting Local Industries

Next, you’ll visit a coconut processing workshop, where you’ll see firsthand how the abundant coconuts are turned into products like candy, oil, and crafts. Many reviews highlight the coconut candy as a highlight—”absolutely fantastic” according to one traveler—so be sure to taste what’s offered.

Another stop features a traditional brick factory, giving insight into local craftsmanship. The chance to see how bricks are made, and perhaps buy some souvenirs, keeps the experience practical and memorable.

Village Walk and Cultural Interactions

A short walk through a quiet village reveals the day-to-day life of Mekong locals. From observing rural homes to chatting with artisans, this part of the tour offers a genuine look at traditional Vietnamese village life. Reviewers often mention the peaceful ambiance of these villages and the opportunity to see how locals live and work outside the bustling city.

Cycling or Xe Loi Ride

One of the most praised aspects of the tour is the bike ride or xe loi (moto-rickshaw) through the coconut-row-lined village to surrounding fruit orchards. The approximately 15-minute pedal or ride is described as delightful, with reviewers noting the good quality of the countryside lanes and the lush, tropical scenery. It’s an active way to connect with nature and take in the views at a relaxed pace.

Lunch by the Riverside

Lunch is served at a riverside restaurant, and reviewers consistently mention the quality and variety of the meal. Expect local Vietnamese dishes, with some reviewers emphasizing the “spectacular” lunch and the generous portion sizes. The inclusion of beer or non-alcoholic drinks adds to the leisure aspect of the experience, giving you a chance to unwind and chat with fellow travelers.

Sampan Ride: Canals and Tropical Vibes

In the afternoon, you’ll enjoy a sampan ride through the narrow, water coconut-filled canals, offering a peaceful respite from the more active parts of the tour. Many guests describe this segment as the highlight—“a lovely relaxing way to experience the delta”—and note the scenic tropical views that are perfect for photography.

Transportation and Group Size

The entire experience is designed for comfort and efficiency. Pickup and drop-off are included, with most travelers praising the punctuality and convenience. The maximum group size is 12, which ensures a more intimate experience—ideal if you prefer a tour with personalized attention and less crowding. Many reviews highlighted how the small group made the day feel exclusive, with guides able to engage more personally.

Guides and Service

One of the most consistent points of praise is the knowledgeable guides. Travelers frequently mention guides like Timothy, Henry, Tommy, and Kate, describing them as friendly, informative, and eager to share stories that enrich the trip. Their storytelling, combined with their professional attitude, makes the experience more meaningful.

Cost and Value

At $60 per person, the tour offers a well-rounded day of activities, transport, meals, and insights—all included in the price. When compared to the experiences’ richness, scenic beauty, and the variety of modes of transport, it offers excellent value. Many reviewers mention that the lunch alone justifies the price, and the inclusions such as mineral water and fresh fruits add thoughtful touches to the experience.

Authentic Experiences That Stand Out

While many Mekong tours tend to be quite touristy, this one consistently receives positive remarks for its relatively intimate and authentic approach. Guests have noted the opportunity to see real local industries, interact with villagers, and enjoy homegrown food.

For example, one reviewer praised the coconut candy as “handmade,” and the visit to a brick factory provided an engaging glimpse into traditional craftsmanship. The combination of activities—boats, bikes, and visits—makes the tour feel lively, diverse, and well-paced.

Review Insights

Several travelers appreciated the expertise of the guides, with one saying Timothy made the trip “informative and good fun,” and another praising Henry for his friendliness and knowledge. Many reviews mention the delicious lunch—with some describing it as “spectacular”—highlighting the importance of good food in making the trip memorable.

Practical Tips

• Arrive early for pickup around 7:00 a.m to maximize your day.
• Be prepared for some physical activity during bike rides or walking sections.
• Bring cash if you want to buy souvenirs or local products at the industries visited.
• The tour isn’t overly long on water time, but the boat rides are scenic and peaceful.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This Mekong Delta tour is perfect for travelers who want a taste of authentic Vietnamese rural life without sacrificing comfort or convenience. It suits those interested in local industries, scenic waterways, and interactive activities like biking or boat riding.

It’s also a good choice for small groups or solo travelers who appreciate a personalized experience and the chance to learn from friendly guides. If you’re after a relaxing yet engaging day, with plenty of photo opportunities and delicious food, this tour hits the mark.

Those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path or less touristy experience** might find it slightly structured, but it remains a well-balanced introduction to the Mekong.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in District 1 or 3, as well as all transportation during the day—van, boat, and xe loi.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, starting around 7:00 a.m. and returning in the late afternoon.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 12 travelers, making it a more intimate and engaging experience.

What meals are included?
A riverside lunch featuring local specialties and beer, along with fresh fruits and bottled water.

Can I participate if I’m not very active?
Yes, but be prepared for some walking, cycling, and boat riding. The activities are manageable, and the scenery is worth it.

Are there options for vegetarians?
Many reviewers noted that the lunch catered to various dietary preferences, including vegetarians, and the food was generally highly praised.

What are the main highlights?
Boat rides along the Mekong River and canals, visits to local industries like coconut processing and brick-making, village walks, cycling or xe loi rides, and the scenic sampan cruise.

Final Thoughts

This Ben Tre Mekong tour offers a well-rounded, immersive glimpse into rural life along Vietnam’s most iconic waterway. With knowledgeable guides, scenic boat rides, local industry visits, and a delicious riverside lunch, it presents excellent value for money.

It’s a fantastic choice if you want to experience authentic village scenes, enjoy scenic waterways, and learn about traditional crafts—all in a compact, manageable day trip. Perfect for curious travelers who love a mix of cultural insights, nature, and good food, this tour will leave you with memorable stories and plenty of stunning photos.

Whether you’re a first-timer in Vietnam or a seasoned traveler seeking deeper regional insights, this trip manages to balance comfort with authenticity, making it an experience worth considering.