Ho Chi Minh: Mekong Delta Day Trip Small Group (Max 11 Pax)

Traveling to Vietnam and exploring the Mekong Delta is a must for anyone craving a glimpse into rural life, vibrant waterways, and local traditions. This small-group tour from Ho Chi Minh City offers an intimate experience with no more than 11 travelers, making it perfect for those who prefer personalized attention and a relaxed pace.

We love how this tour balances scenic boat rides, cultural visits, and delicious food—plus, the chance to see local craftsmanship firsthand. It feels authentic without sacrificing comfort or value. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour lasts a full day, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy schedule. If you’re after an immersive look into Vietnam’s countryside while enjoying some fun activities, this trip hits the mark.

The only potential downside? The drive from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong takes about 2 hours each way, so it’s a longer day. Still, the varied experiences along the way make it worthwhile. This tour caters well to travelers seeking an insightful, well-organized day outside the city, especially if you want to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more personal experience.

Good To Know

• Intimate Group Size: Max 11 people for a more personalized, relaxed experience
• Diverse Activities: Boat rides, village visits, bike or tuk tuk rides, and local workshops
• Authentic Flavors: Traditional Vietnamese lunch with vegetarian options
• Cultural Insights: Local folk music, craft demonstrations, and seasonal fruits
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup/drop-off and air-conditioned transportation
• Value for Money: At just $28, it offers a comprehensive taste of the Mekong

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Depth

Pickup & Transportation

Your day begins with hotel pickup in Ho Chi Minh City. This is a real plus—no need to arrange transport yourself, and it ensures a smooth start. The journey to My Tho, located in the heart of the Mekong Delta, takes approximately 2 hours in a comfortable, air-conditioned van or bus. Traveling in a small group means you can enjoy conversation and unobstructed views, avoiding the hustle and bustle of larger tours.

Cruising the Mekong River

Once in My Tho, you’ll hop on a motorboat to cruise along the Mekong River. Expect to glide past floating houses, fishing boats, and small islands, all framed by the lush greenery of the delta. This scenic ride is a highlight, giving you a front-row seat to everyday life on the water. As one reviewer pointed out, this part of the tour offers “great views and authentic scenery,” an ideal way to start your adventure.

Visiting a Coconut Workshop

Next, you’ll visit a local coconut candy workshop. Here, traditional methods are still used to produce candies, oils, and handicrafts. It’s fascinating to see how everyday materials are transformed into souvenirs and treats—an insight many travelers find both educational and delicious. The workshop is also a chance to pick up some unique souvenirs directly from artisans.

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Sampan Ride Through Canals

Perhaps the most memorable part is the sampan (rowboat) ride through narrow, shaded canals. This experience reveals the tranquility of rural life, away from the busy streets of Ho Chi Minh City. The gentle glide through quiet waterways offers plenty of photo opportunities and a real sense of peace. As one reviewer mentioned, “this small boat ride through the canals was one of the most iconic parts of the trip.”

Village Exploration & Cultural Encounters

After the boat rides, you’ll explore village roads either by bicycle or tuk tuk. These rides take you through orchards and gardens, where local families tend to tropical fruits and vegetables. Visiting a local home for seasonal fruits offers a taste of Vietnamese hospitality—plus, you might get to listen to live folk music, like the traditional n ca tài t, adding a cultural layer to your visit.

Lunch and Relaxation

Midday brings a hearty Vietnamese lunch featuring specialties such as caramelized clay pot fish, spring rolls, and fresh vegetables. Vegetarian options are available, catering to different dietary needs. After lunch, you can relax in a hammock or stroll around more of the village before heading back to Ho Chi Minh.

Return Journey

The tour wraps up with a comfortable drive back to your hotel, typically in the late afternoon. The entire experience is planned to be enjoyable and stress-free, leaving you with a well-rounded impression of the Mekong Delta.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At just $28, this day trip packs in a lot of authentic experiences. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, boat rides, a cultural workshop, a traditional lunch, and guided commentary—basically everything you need for a hassle-free day. The small group size not only enhances comfort but also allows guides to share more personalized insights, which is evident from the praise about knowledgeable guides, like Andy, who has a reputation for sharing plenty of local stories.

Travelers consistently mention how the tour is educational and entertaining, with many appreciating the chance to see how local products are made firsthand. The inclusion of folk music and village visits adds depth, making it more than just a sightseeing trip but an opportunity to genuinely connect with local life.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for travelers wanting an authentic, immersive day outside the city, especially those comfortable with a full schedule. It’s perfect for small groups or solo travelers who value intimate experiences and local insights. Food lovers will also appreciate the well-rounded Vietnamese lunch, and photography enthusiasts will find plenty of scenic moments along the waterways and village scenes.

If you’re after a budget-friendly adventure that offers a true taste of Vietnamese rural life, this trip ticks all the boxes. It’s great for curious travelers keen to learn about local craftsmanship, enjoy scenic boat rides, and experience genuine hospitality.

The Sum Up

This Mekong Delta day trip from Ho Chi Minh City offers a balanced blend of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and authentic interactions—all within a comfortable, small-group setting. The inclusion of boat rides, village exploration, and local workshops makes it a well-rounded choice for those who want a meaningful glimpse into rural Vietnam without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

For the price, it’s an excellent value, especially with a knowledgeable guide who can enhance your understanding of the region’s way of life. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, this tour provides a memorable day of discovery, perfect for those craving genuine experiences in a relaxed environment.

Travelers looking for an easy, insightful, and fun escape from Ho Chi Minh City will find this trip delivers on its promises—delivering both scenic views and authentic cultural moments that will stay with you long after the day ends.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta?
The journey takes around 2 hours each way in a comfortable air-conditioned van or bus, making for a relaxed start and finish to your day.

What is included in the tour price?
The $28 fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, boat trips, a sampan ride, village exploration by tuk tuk or bike, a traditional Vietnamese lunch, a knowledgeable guide, and bottled water.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?
Yes, vegetarian choices are available, along with traditional Vietnamese dishes like caramelized clay pot fish and spring rolls.

What activities are part of the tour?
You’ll enjoy scenic boat rides on the Mekong River, visit a coconut candy workshop, take a sampan through canals, explore village roads on bike or tuk tuk, and listen to local folk music.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, young children should be comfortable with a full day of travel and outdoor activities. Check with the provider about specific age recommendations.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, camera, water, and comfortable shoes for walking or cycling. A light raincoat might be handy during the rainy season.

Can I cancel or rebook easily?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is flexible with the option to pay later, making it easy to plan your trip with confidence.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby