The Hidden Gems of Dong Thap Sa Dec Flower Village and Xeo Quyt

This 7-hour tour from Can Tho offers a well-rounded glimpse into some of the lesser-known but wonderfully authentic spots in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. It’s a perfect choice for travelers craving a mix of nature, history, and local culture, all without the crowds often found at more touristy spots. We love that this experience combines scenic boat rides, historical insights, and vibrant local markets, all led by knowledgeable guides who genuinely want you to enjoy the day.

One of the best things about this trip is the variety — from exploring the mysterious Xeo Quyt forest by sampan and on foot, to wandering through the colorful Sa Dec flower village, and stepping inside the Huynh Thuy Le ancient house. The tour feels thoughtfully curated, offering both relaxing moments and intriguing stories. The only thing to keep in mind is that the entire experience requires a full day; if you prefer a more relaxed pace, consider whether this fits your travel style.

This tour is ideal for those who want an authentic, insider look into the Mekong Delta’s lesser-visited sites, especially if you enjoy nature, history, and local craftsmanship. Whether you’re a history buff, a flower enthusiast, or just looking for a meaningful day away from the typical tourist trail, this trip delivers.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: The tour combines nature, history, and local culture in a single day.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Expect professional guides who share insightful stories and practical tips.
• Diverse Highlights: From forest boat rides to historic houses, there’s a variety of scenery and activities.
• Excellent Value: Includes lunch, water, and all entrance fees, making for a worry-free day out.
• Comfortable Transportation: An air-conditioned vehicle makes the journey between stops more pleasant.
• Flexible and Well-Organized: The schedule maximizes sightseeing while allowing time to relax and explore.

Exploring the Xeo Quyt Relic Area

Your adventure begins with a visit to Xeo Quyt, a site that is as atmospheric as it is historically significant. Known for its forest and wetlands, this area offers an experience that’s both peaceful and a little mysterious. You’ll get onto a small sampan boat, paddled by local boatmen, to glide through the waterways surrounded by lush greenery. This tranquil ride is a highlight, offering a close-up view of the dense forest and the chance to listen to bird calls and the gentle splash of water.

After the boat ride, you’ll walk along a small path through the jungle—an ideal spot to breathe in fresh air and enjoy the sounds of nature. The entire visit lasts about an hour and includes an entry fee. From the reviews, it’s clear that visitors find this stop refreshingly calm and photogenic. The guide will likely point out unique plants or tell stories about the area’s history, adding layers to this scenic adventure.

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen or a hat—shade can be limited in the jungle paths.

Visiting the Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House

Next, your journey takes you to Sa Dec, home of the famous Huynh Thuy Le house, often called the “House of Love” thanks to its role in the classic novel “The Lover.” This house showcases a blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and French architectural influences, with intricate details that tell stories of a bygone era.

Often, guides highlight that this house was used as a filming location for the romantic French movie based on Marguerite Duras’s novel, adding a cinematic allure. The house’s romantic charm, combined with its historical significance, makes it a fascinating stop. Visitors typically spend around 30 minutes exploring its rooms, which are filled with antiques, traditional furniture, and period details.

Insight from reviews: Travelers appreciate the guide’s storytelling, especially when they learn about the house’s cultural blend and the film connection. The experience feels intimate, not rushed.

Tip: Take your time to look at the architecture and capture photos—this site is both picturesque and historically meaningful.

Lunch and Relaxation in Sa Dec

After the house visit, you’ll enjoy a meal at a local restaurant in Sa Dec. The lunch is included in the tour, offering a taste of regional Vietnamese cuisine. Expect dishes that highlight local ingredients, possibly including fresh vegetables, herbs, and fish, giving you a true flavor of the Mekong Delta region.

Many travelers mention that this meal is a welcome break, giving them energy for the rest of the day. The relaxed pace of the tour allows you to savor your food and chat with fellow travelers, often led by friendly guides who share insights or recommend other local spots worth exploring.

Tip: If you have specific dietary needs, inform your guide beforehand — the tour is flexible enough to accommodate requests, as long as they’re communicated early.

Sa Dec Hokkien Assembly Hall

Next, you’ll visit the Kien An Assembly Hall, a temple dedicated to Guang Ze Zun Wang, one of the guardian deities for the Hoa (Chinese Vietnamese) community. The architecture here is distinctive, with a Swallowtail roof that’s characteristic of Fu Jian province in China. This ornate temple is both a place of worship and a community center, reflecting the strong cultural ties of the Hoa people in the area.

From a visitor’s perspective, the hall offers a glimpse into the religious and social life of the Chinese Vietnamese. The detailed carvings and traditional style are photo-worthy, and the guide will probably explain the significance of various symbols and statues.

Insight: Many visitors appreciate how this site offers an authentic look at local beliefs and traditions, often described as visually impressive and culturally enriching.

The Vibrant Flower Village

At around 2:30 pm, the journey takes you to the Sa Dec flower village, a riot of color and scent. This area is known for growing hundreds of flower varieties—especially during the Lunar New Year, when the entire village bursts into bloom, filling the air with fragrance.

Walking amongst the flower stalls and cultivated fields, you’ll see local farmers at work, creating arrangements and tending to their blooms. The atmosphere is lively yet peaceful, with the vibrant colors providing perfect photo opportunities. Many travelers find this stop to be the most enchanting part of the tour, especially if you enjoy gardening, photography, or simply soaking in beautiful scenery.

Tip: Bring your camera and take plenty of photos—this is a visually stunning, authentic slice of local life.

Returning and Final Remarks

The tour wraps up with a drive back to Can Tho, passing through scenic countryside and small villages. The entire day is well-paced, giving you ample time at each stop without feeling rushed. The transportation is air-conditioned, providing comfort after a day of walking and exploring.

From the reviews, it’s clear that guides like Edward are highly praised for their professionalism and friendliness. Many find the overall value excellent, given that the tour includes lunch, water, all entrance fees, and pick-up/drop-off service.

Overall, this experience offers a balanced mix of nature, history, and local culture, making it perfect for curious travelers wanting a deeper connection with the Mekong Delta beyond the usual tourist spots.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who enjoy authentic experiences and cultural insights. It suits those who appreciate a bit of history, stunning scenery, and local crafts, all within a day’s outing. If you prefer a relaxed pace with meaningful stops, you’ll find this tour quite rewarding.

It’s also great for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a comprehensive taste of the Mekong’s lesser-visited gems. Keep in mind that the full day might be tiring if you prefer leisurely mornings — but the variety of activities and beautiful scenery make it worth the effort.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off in Can Tho city center, with comfortable, air-conditioned transport throughout the day.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel time, with a start at 8:00 am.

Are entrance fees included?
Most of the sites, including Xeo Quyt, Huynh Thuy Le House, and the flower village, include admission in the tour price. The only free stops are the lunch break and the final return segment.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and perhaps a camera to capture the colorful scenery. Water is included, but bringing extra snacks or cash for souvenirs is optional.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but those under 18 are not served alcohol. The tour involves walking and boat rides, so consider your children’s comfort levels.

How many people are on the tour?
The maximum group size is 15, making for a more intimate and personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, giving you flexibility if needed.

Final Thoughts

This tour of Dong Thap’s hidden spots offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty, history, and culture, all curated with care by experienced guides. It’s an excellent way to escape the busier tourist centers and discover authentic local life in the Mekong Delta. The combination of boat rides, historical houses, and vibrant flower fields ensures a day filled with memorable moments and visual delights.

If you’re after a well-organized, value-packed adventure that balances fun and learning, this trip is a smart choice. It’s particularly suited for travelers who crave genuine experiences, enjoy nature and architecture, and prefer a guided approach that enriches every stop. Just pack your camera and an open mind—this tour promises plenty of stories, sights, and smiles.