Le Mat Snake Village Tour with 10 Dishes in Hanoi

Introduction: Exploring Hanoi’s Bold Culinary Heritage with the Le Mat Snake Village Tour

If you’re on the lookout for a truly distinctive food experience in Hanoi, this Le Mat Snake Village Tour offers just that. It’s not your average street-food crawl or a sit-down dinner—this is a deep dive into Vietnam’s centuries-old tradition of snake eating, combined with cultural insights and culinary surprises.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you get to taste 10 different snake dishes, from crispy spring rolls to savory soups—each prepared with Vietnamese herbs and spices, elevating a controversial ingredient into an intriguing tasting journey. Second, the visit to a local snake farm provides a fascinating glimpse into how these creatures are raised and cared for, adding an educational layer to the experience. Third, sampling snake wine, including a daring shot of snake blood, makes it an adventure for the curious and brave alike.

That said, it’s worth noting that this tour might not be for everyone, especially those squeamish about eating or seeing live snakes. The focus on snake-based cuisine and the visit to a farm are very authentic, but also quite bold for some travelers.

This experience is best suited to adventurous food lovers, those interested in Vietnamese culture and traditions, or travelers looking for a truly offbeat activity that’s genuinely local—not touristy. If you’re open-minded and curious about unique culinary practices, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Good To Know

• Authentic experience: A genuine glimpse into Vietnam’s snake cuisine rooted in tradition.
• Educational: Insight into how snakes are raised and cared for at the local farm.
• Variety of dishes: Enjoy ten carefully prepared snake recipes, covering different flavors and textures.
• Cultural insight: Learn about the history and significance of snake eating in Vietnam.
• Adventure element: Taste snake wine, including a shot of snake blood, for the brave.
• Private tour: Only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.

A Detailed Look at the Le Mat Snake Village Tour

The Journey Begins: Convenient Pickup and Transportation

Starting about 10 km from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, the tour’s pickup option makes logistics simple. The transport is included, which is a real plus considering the distance to Le Mat village, famous for its snake cuisine. The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes—just enough time to enjoy a variety of dishes without feeling rushed.

Visiting Le Mat Village: The Heart of Snake Culture

Le Mat is a small, traditional village where snake farming is a long-standing practice. During the visit to the snake farm, we appreciated how the guides explained the process of raising and feeding snakes, emphasizing that these animals are carefully cared for. One review mentions, “Chung, our guide, gave us insights into the everyday life at the farm and even allowed us to tea and chat with the family.” This personal touch makes the experience more than just a tasting; it becomes a window into local life and customs.

The farm visit is an interesting contrast to the culinary part, offering insights into the sustainability and cultural importance of this practice. You might see snakes being trained or prepared for the kitchen, which adds a visceral dimension to the tour—be prepared for some candid moments if you’re sensitive about animal welfare practices.

Tasting 10 Snake Dishes: From Crispy to Savory

The highlight is, of course, the 10 different snake dishes. These are not just random recipes; they represent traditional preparations that showcase the versatility of snake meat. Expect to sample crispy snake spring rolls, which are surprisingly crunchy and flavorful, and snake soup, with a comforting, herbal broth that highlights the meat’s delicate taste.

The dishes are prepared with Vietnamese herbs and spices, making them flavorful and balanced. One reviewer says, “The dishes were marinated with herbs and spices, which made the snake taste much better than I expected.” For those wondering about the textures, the snake meat can range from tender to slightly chewy, depending on the recipe.

Sampling Snake Wine and Daring Rituals

A unique feature is the sample of snake wine, a traditional Vietnamese drink made with rice wine and infused with snake parts, sometimes including blood. One adventurous opportunity is to try the snake heart with a shot of snake wine—a ritual that might appeal to the thrill-seekers or those interested in local alcohol customs.

Many travelers find the snake wine to be a memorable part of the tour. The guide often explains its cultural significance, portraying it as a health tonic or a traditional remedy. If you’re open to trying something bold, this is a definite highlight.

Additional Cost and What’s Included

For $92 per person, you get a comprehensive package: transportation, access to the snake farm, a guide, 10 dishes of snake cuisine, and one drink (which could be snake wine, beer, or soft drink). This pricing offers good value, considering the variety of experiences and the educational component.

Authenticity and the Guide’s Role

The tour is described as private, so your experience will be personalized. The guide, Chung, is praised for providing insights into both the food and cultural aspects of snake cuisine. According to a review, “Chung gave us a behind-the-scenes look at the daily life at the farm, making the experience more meaningful.”

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Timing: The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, so plan your day accordingly.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing suitable for walking and possibly getting a bit close to animals at the farm.
• Sensitivity: If you’re squeamish about live animals or animal products, this might not be for you.
• Booking: Confirm your reservation in advance, especially if you want a private experience, and note the free cancellation policy for flexibility.
• Cost: While $92 may seem high, it includes multiple dishes, a farm visit, and a guide—offering good overall value for a niche experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Find This Tour Most Rewarding?

This tour is perfect for adventurous eaters who want to go beyond typical Hanoi street food. It’s ideal if you’re curious about Vietnamese traditional practices and don’t mind trying snake meat or wine. It also suits travelers interested in culture and those who appreciate learning about local livelihoods through farm visits.

However, it may not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer vegetarian options or are uncomfortable around animals used for food. If you’re seeking a safe, predictable culinary experience, this could feel too intense. But for those seeking something genuinely different, it offers a blend of food, culture, and adventure that’s hard to find elsewhere.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes transportation from Hanoi to Le Mat village and back, making logistics straightforward.

How many dishes will I taste? You will sample 10 different snake dishes, offering a wide variety of flavors and preparations.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians? No, the focus is entirely on snake cuisine, so it’s not suitable for vegetarians or those avoiding animal products.

Can I try snake wine? Yes, the tour includes a tasting of snake wine, and there’s an option to try a shot of snake blood if you’re feeling brave.

What is the duration of the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Is this a private tour? Yes, only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Are children allowed? Most travelers can participate, but consider the nature of the experience and whether children are comfortable with animals and bold flavors.

What language is the guide speaking? The tour is led by a local expert, typically fluent in English, providing clear explanations.

Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

The Le Mat Snake Village Tour offers a bold, authentic dive into Vietnam’s snake-eating tradition. It’s a memorable experience for the curious, the adventurous, and those eager to understand Hanoi’s unique culinary culture beyond the usual pho or bun. If you’re ready to try something different and learn from passionate locals, this tour is worth considering.