Hoi An Wet Rice Farming Tour-Basket Boat Tour Fishing-Lunch

Exploring the countryside around Hoi An through this Wet Rice Farming Tour offers a chance to see Vietnam’s rural life firsthand. Although it’s a mix of hands-on activities and scenic boat rides, some reviewers mention it could be more detailed.

What we love most about this experience is how it connects you directly with local farmers and fishermen, giving you a taste of traditional Vietnamese life. The delicious homemade lunch with local noodles is another highlight, offering both sustenance and a cultural treat. The exciting coracle boat fishing and bamboo basket explorations add a fun, adventurous element perfect for those looking for something active and authentic.

A potential consideration is that the tour’s explanation of rice processing after planting may be somewhat limited, according to some reviews. If you’re expecting an in-depth guide through every stage of rice cultivation or processing, you might find it somewhat brief.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy hands-on cultural activities, want a break from typical sightseeing, and are interested in rural Vietnamese traditions. It’s ideal for small groups or private outings seeking genuine local engagement at an accessible price point.

Good To Know

Authentic Cultural Experience: Participate directly in rice planting using traditional tools, giving a real feel for Vietnamese farming.
Adventurous Activities: Fish, crab, and ride buffaloes—all in a scenic river and rice field setting.
Local Cuisine: Savor a homemade Vietnamese noodle lunch and fresh coffee, highlighting regional flavors.
Family-friendly & Small Groups: Suitable for intimate groups looking for personalized experiences.
Value for Money: At $22 per person, it offers a unique mix of activities and cultural insight for a reasonable price.
Limited Depth: Some reviews note that the rice processing details are brief, so don’t expect a deep dive into rice farming technology.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Introduction

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel, arranged via WhatsApp, which makes organizing straightforward. The meeting point is in Cam Thanh Village, a small, picturesque area close to Hoi An’s center. The initial moment gives you a glimpse of the lush greenery, preparing you for an authentic countryside experience.

Rice Farming from Seeding to Planting

One of the most engaging parts of this tour is participating in wet rice farming. You’ll use traditional tools like hoes, ploughs, and harrows to plant “baby rice”—a task that truly connects you with local farmers’ daily lives. Visitors have mentioned that guides are generally knowledgeable and eager to share insights about the rice cycle, although some felt the explanation could be more detailed. Still, it’s a rare chance to get your hands dirty and understand the effort behind rice production.

Catching Live Fish and Crabs

Following the planting, the tour incorporates a fascinating activity of catching live fish under the rice plants. Using simple nets and hand-lifting techniques, you might find yourself scooping up fish that have been living beneath the muddy water—an experience that’s both fun and educational. Reviewers note that guides are experienced and often share interesting facts about local aquatic life.

Next, the activity shifts to crabbing with bamboo poles, where you stop by coconut trees along the river to catch crabs in shallow waters. It’s an interactive process, and many find it satisfying to see how these traditional fishing techniques work. One reviewer humorously mentioned their “wish” of catching plenty of fish or crabs, only to return them back alive—highlighting the tour’s respect for nature.

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Bamboo Basket Boat & Buffalo Ride

The basket boat adventure is often the highlight—gliding through coconut forests and narrow waterways in small, round bamboo boats. This part offers fantastic photo opportunities and a taste of local transportation methods. The gentle ride is relaxing and offers a different perspective of the lush landscape.

You also have the option to ride buffaloes along a stream—an activity some reviewers mentioned as “great,” though brief. This traditional mode of transport adds an extra layer of rural charm to the experience.

Lunch and Refreshments

After all the activities, you’ll be treated to a homemade local noodle lunch, often described as simple yet delicious. The meal is prepared by your host using regional ingredients, giving you a true taste of Vietnamese home-style cuisine. Accompanying the meal is a refreshing Vietnamese iced coffee, perfect for recharging after a busy morning.

Tour Summary and Return

The tour concludes with a relaxing ride back to your hotel, where you can reflect on the day’s adventures. The entire experience lasts between 2 to 4 hours, making it a manageable addition to a day of sightseeing in Hoi An.

Is it Worth the Price?

At $22 per person, the tour offers a surprising amount of hands-on activities, local insights, and scenic beauty. While some reviews mention that the rice farming explanation could be more comprehensive, the price remains reasonable considering the variety of experiences included—farming, fishing, boat rides, and a tasty meal.

The fact that it’s a small-group or private activity enhances the value, allowing for personalized attention and more meaningful interaction with guides. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want to go beyond traditional tours and engage in local life directly.

Practical Details to Keep in Mind

Duration and Starting Times

This tour lasts approximately 2 to 4 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability. Be sure to check the schedule beforehand to plan your day efficiently.

Transportation & Pickup

Complimentary pickup and drop-off are included for guests staying within 4-5 km of Hoi An. If you are staying outside this radius, you may need to arrange your own transportation.

Group Size & Guides

The experience is offered in small groups or private settings, which is excellent for those seeking a more intimate, customized adventure. The guides speak English and are generally knowledgeable, eager to share local stories and insights.

Suitability

While mostly suitable for most travelers, the tour has weight restrictions listed (around 260 lbs or 118 kg), so check if you or your companions fall within those limits.

Authenticity and Review Insights

Based on reviews, the guides are often praised for their friendliness and knowledge. However, some felt the explanation of rice processing after planting was somewhat limited, indicating that if in-depth agricultural details are your priority, you might want to supplement this experience with additional information.

One traveler summed it up as “everything was great,” which many agree with, especially for those wanting a hands-on, culturally immersive experience. Conversely, others find the tour too short or feel it’s overpriced compared to the level of detail provided, especially regarding the rice cycle.

Who Should Do This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to participate actively rather than just observe. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for a down-to-earth Vietnamese rural experience. Food lovers will enjoy the homemade noodle lunch and coffee, while those interested in traditional farming and fishing methods will find it educational.

If you’re after a quick, lightweight overview of rice farming with some fun activities in nature, this tour fits the bill. However, if you seek a deep dive into rice processing or a more extensive farm tour, you might find this somewhat limited.

The Sum Up

The Hoi An Wet Rice Farming Tour offers a genuine peek into rural Vietnam, blending hands-on planting, fishing, scenic boat rides, and tasty local food. While it’s not overly lengthy or detailed in every aspect, the opportunity to connect with local traditions at an affordable price makes it a worthwhile experience.

Travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, culture, and authentic regional flavors will find plenty to love here. It’s especially suited for those wanting a memorable, small-group adventure that’s more than just sightseeing — it’s participation in Vietnam’s farming and fishing life.

For the best experience, come with an open mind, ready to get a little muddy and a lot more connected to Vietnam’s countryside.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off by private car within 4-5 km of Hoi An, arranged via WhatsApp.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the activities and schedule availability.

What activities are included?
You’ll participate in wet rice farming, buffalo riding, fish catching under rice plants, bamboo basket boat exploration, and crabbing.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Generally yes, especially for those with children comfortable with outdoor activities, but check weight restrictions if applicable.

What is the lunch like?
You’ll enjoy homemade Vietnamese noodles and regional ingredients, complemented by Vietnamese iced coffee.

Are guides knowledgeable?
According to reviews, guides are friendly and eager to share insights about rice farming, fishing, and local life.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities, and possibly waterproof gear given the muddy rice fields.

Can I do this tour alone?
It’s designed for small groups or private bookings, so solo travelers are welcome but should expect a more personalized experience.

Is it a good value for the price?
At $22, it offers a variety of engaging activities and cultural insight, making it a reasonable choice for those interested in rural Vietnamese life.

Are the activities physically demanding?
Most activities are gentle but involve some walking, bending, and sitting in bamboo boats; check weight and health restrictions beforehand.

This tour is a charming way to see Vietnam’s countryside, participate actively in traditional farming, and enjoy some fun fishing in a scenic setting — all at a price that won’t break the bank.

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