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

If you’re after an authentic experience in the Mekong Delta, this tour through Dong Thap offers just that. From the quiet serenity of Xeo Quyt forest to the colorful blooms of Sa Dec flower village, it promises a mix of nature, history, and local culture—all packed into a manageable 7-hour trip.

What really caught our eye are the thoughtfully curated stops, including the Huynh Thuy Le ancient house (famous from the movie The Lover), the peaceful forest adventure, and the chance to wander through a village bursting with flowers. Plus, the tour is led by knowledgeable guides who bring stories and insights that deepen each visit.

One thing to consider is the timing—while most activities are well-paced, the full day includes some travel time and a few busy spots, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a somewhat full schedule. This experience suits travelers looking for a blend of culture, nature, and local flavor, especially if you enjoy guided tours that reveal less touristy, more authentic sights.

Good To Know

• Authentic Cultural Encounters: Visit historic houses and temples that tell stories of Vietnamese, Chinese, and French influences.
• Natural Beauty: Experience Xeo Quyt forest by boat and on foot, offering a relaxing escape into nature.
• Vibrant Local Markets & Villages: Explore Sa Dec flower village, especially during blooming season, for stunning visuals and fragrant scents.
• Professional Guidance: Guided by friendly, knowledgeable local guides who enrich your understanding of each site.
• Value for Money: Includes transportation, lunch, entrance fees, and a well-rounded itinerary—good bang for your buck.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off in Can Tho make the day seamless and stress-free.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Morning Pickup & Journey to Dong Thap

The adventure begins early, with hotel pickup in Can Tho. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures you’re comfortable during the approximately one-hour ride to Dong Thap. This early start is perfect for making the most of the day, and the small group size (max 15 travelers) facilitates a more personal experience.

Xeo Quyt Relic Area: Forest by Boat & Foot

First stop is Xeo Quyt, a historically significant forest area known for its role in wartime resistance. Here, you’ll board a small sampan boat paddled by local operators—an authentic way to experience the tranquil waterways. Expect the boat ride to give you peaceful views of the dense greenery, with reflections dancing on the water.

Walking through the narrow jungle paths, you’ll notice how lush and untouched this forest remains, providing a refreshing break from city life. The reviewer who described it as “being with nature” highlights how relaxing and genuine this experience can be. The entrance fee is included, so you just need to sit back and enjoy.

Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House: A Slice of History

Next, the tour heads to Sa Dec, where the Huynh Thuy Le house awaits. This historic residence is a window into early 20th-century Vietnamese, Chinese, and French cultural influences, with beautiful architecture and stories embedded in its walls. The house gained fame from the French film The Lover, making it a romantic, cinematic spot.

Visitors often find the house “impressive” thanks to its architecture and the stories told by guides. The 30-minute visit includes an admission fee, and the guide’s storytelling makes history come alive, giving you a richer appreciation of local heritage.

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

After a morning of exploration, a well-deserved lunch break at a local restaurant provides an opportunity to taste regional dishes. The included meal offers a chance to sample authentic Vietnamese cuisine, which is often praised for its freshness and flavor. This relaxed pause also allows conversation about the morning’s sights and the chance to ask guides questions.

Sa Dec Hokkien Assembly Hall & Local Culture

Post-lunch, the tour visits the Kien An Assembly Hall, a temple dedicated to Guang Ze Zun Wang (Ong Quach). Its architecture, with the distinctive Swallowtail roof, offers insight into the Fui Jian architectural style, providing a visual feast for architecture buffs.

Local beliefs hold that Ong Quach offers protection for business endeavors, so this site is both spiritual and cultural. The guide explains its significance, enriching your understanding of the local community’s spiritual life.

Sa Dec Flower Village: A Burst of Color & Fragrance

By mid-afternoon, you’ll arrive at the Sa Dec flower village. During the blooming season, the village is a riot of colors and scents, with hundreds of flower varieties cultivated by local growers. Travelers often find this part of the tour especially photogenic, with vibrant blooms and aromatic air.

The owner’s mention of the village being particularly lively during the New Year season highlights how special this place can be at certain times of the year. A full hour here allows ample time for photos, wandering, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Return Journey & Drop-off

The tour wraps up with a return to Can Tho or HCM City, depending on your arrangements. The drop-off in Can Tho is quick, giving you time to reflect on the day before heading back to your hotel or next destination.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Including transportation, entrance fees, a hearty lunch, and guided commentary, this tour packs a lot into one day at $139 per person. The experience is designed to balance culture, natural beauty, and leisurely exploration, making it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive yet manageable day trip.

The small group size increases comfort and allows guides to tailor the experience, ensuring you aren’t just another face in a crowd. Reviewers praise guides like Edward for their professionalism and kindness, which adds a personal touch to the journey.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for travelers interested in cultural heritage, local history, and scenic nature. If you enjoy guided excursions that reveal hidden stories and authentic local lifestyles, you’ll find this very rewarding. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate comfortable transportation and want to see the lesser-known spots of Dong Thap.

Participants should be prepared for some walking and a full, active day—so comfortable shoes and a sense of curiosity are recommended. Although the schedule is busy, the variety of sites ensures you’ll leave with a well-rounded understanding of the region.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides pickup from hotels in Can Tho city center, making the day seamless.

How long does the whole tour take?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel time, visits, and lunch.

What’s the cost of the tour?
It is priced at $139 per person, which covers transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and guide services.

Are drinks included?
Yes, bottles of water, coffee, tea, coconut, or soft drinks are provided during the day. Alcoholic beverages are not included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but guests under 18 cannot be served alcohol. Check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

What are the main highlights?
The highlights include Xeo Quyt forest, Huynh Thuy Le ancient house, Sa Dec flower village, and the local temple with Fui Jian architecture.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts, offering flexibility.

Is the tour accessible via public transport?
It’s near public transportation, but the tour includes private vehicle transfers for convenience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for walking and outdoor activities are recommended, along with sun protection.

Will I have enough time at each site?
Yes, the schedule is designed to balance sightseeing with enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

The Sum Up

This tour provides a well-rounded look at some of Dong Thap’s most captivating spots. It balances cultural, historical, and natural attractions, making it a fantastic choice for travelers who want an authentic, guided experience. The inclusion of local guides, manageable group size, and comprehensive itinerary ensure you get value and insight beyond just visiting sights.

Ideal for those with a curiosity for history and nature, this tour offers a snapshot of the Mekong Delta’s secret treasures, away from overly touristy routes. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone wanting to deepen your understanding of southern Vietnam, this trip has a lot to offer.

If you’re after a relaxing yet enriching day with a mix of scenic beauty and local flavor, this tour is definitely worth considering.