8 Tips For Ben Tre Mekong Delta Tour From Ho Chi Minh City

Ben Tre is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a deeper connection with nature when visiting Vietnam. It is known for its vast rivers, lush mangrove forests, and rich biodiversity. This region also provides a unique glimpse into the Mekong Delta’s vibrant culture and warm-hearted people.

Proper planning is essential to ensure a smooth and memorable experience. That’s why Joy Journeys has compiled these 8 essential tips to help you enjoy a hassle-free Ben Tre Mekong Delta tour from Ho Chi Minh City.

Essential tips for a Ben Tre Mekong Delta tour from Ho Chi Minh City

Embrace the early start

Ben Tre is located just 85 km from Ho Chi Minh City, so the journey takes about two hours by car or motorbike. It’s best to start early in the morning, around 6-7 a.m., when the roads are less crowded. This helps you avoid traffic jams and enjoy a more comfortable journey. Additionally, traveling at this time allows you to experience the fresh morning air and cooler, more pleasant weather as the sun rises.

Dress comfortably

A trip to Ben Tre often involves a variety of activities, such as visiting orchards, learning to weave mats, and cycling around, making it essential to choose comfortable clothing. Opt for loose, stretchy garments to ensure ease of movement during your trip.

Prioritize breathable fabrics like cotton, rayon, or linen to stay dry and comfortable throughout the day. Also, wear comfortable, anti-slip footwear like sneakers or sports shoes to ensure safety on different terrains.

If you have sensitive skin, remember to bring a jacket and hat, as the sun in the Mekong Delta can be quite harsh. Sun-protective clothing will help prevent sunburn and minimize UV exposure.

Pack essentials

In addition to appropriate clothing, visitors should consider bringing the following essential items:

• Sunscreen: Ben Tre experiences a tropical monsoon climate with hot weather year-round. To protect your skin, be sure to apply sunscreen throughout your trip.
• Insect repellent: With its large rivers and agricultural areas, Ben Tre has mosquitoes and other small insects. To avoid insect bites, pack insect repellent in your luggage.
• Reusable water bottle: The warm weather here can make visitors feel thirsty more often. To reduce plastic waste and ensure safe hydration, bring a personal water bottle.
• Camera: Ben Tre is known for its lush landscapes and friendly locals. Consider bringing a camera to capture the memorable moments of your journey.

Engage with locals

Whenever possible, take the opportunity to interact and chat with the locals, as no one knows Ben Tre better than they do. This will give you valuable insight into their daily lives and the unique culture of the region.

You should also learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to help with communication and when buying or selling items. Remember, every culture has its own unique qualities, so always approach these interactions with respect.

Try local delicacies

Food is always a key part of experiencing a new destination, and your Ben Tre Mekong Delta tour from Ho Chi Minh City is no exception. Don’t hesitate to try the local specialties.

• Coconut candy: A sweet treat made from coconuts, widely grown in Ben Tre. These chewy, rich, and delicious candies will charm any visitor.
• Fried elephant ear fish: Ben Tre’s abundant rivers support aquaculture. This dish is a local specialty known for its fresh ingredients and meticulous preparation. It offers a delightful combination of crispy exterior and tender interior.

• Fresh tropical fruits: No visit to the Mekong Delta is complete without sampling its tropical fruits. Enjoy durians, rambutans, longans, and more for an unforgettable taste experience.

Explore beyond the tourist trail

Don’t limit your journey to the typical tourist spots. Seek out hidden gems like dining at local homes, boating along quiet canals with few tourists, and exploring traditional handicraft villages. These unique experiences are deeply connected to the local way of life, offering visitors a more intimate connection to the land and people of Ben Tre.

Support local businesses

Ben Tre is home to many family-run businesses offering a variety of goods, from fresh fruits and local restaurants to handicrafts and boat services.

Whenever possible, choose to support these local businesses. Not only will you enjoy authentic experiences, but you’ll also contribute to the well-being of the community.

Respect the environment

Visitors to Ben Tre will immediately notice the fresh, peaceful natural surroundings. To help preserve this beautiful environment, both the local community and tourists must contribute.

Be mindful of your impact and practice responsible tourism to ensure this area remains unspoiled for future generations.

Must-do activities in Ben Tre – Mekong Delta

Visit a coconut grove

In Ben Tre, coconut groves line small roads and canals everywhere. Tourists can take the time to visit these gardens, as the coconut tree is significant to the region.

With 163,000 households involved in coconut farming, this is an excellent opportunity to learn about the cultivation process and the various coconut-based products made here.

Cruise the waterways

Boats are one of the primary modes of transportation in Ben Tre, giving you the perfect chance to observe the locals’ daily lives. The scenic canals, shaded by trees, also offer a wonderful backdrop for capturing beautiful moments during your journey.

Explore local villages

Ben Tre is home to numerous traditional craft villages with rich histories. Some well-known places include Nhon Thanh mat weaving village, Hung Phong coconut basket weaving village, and the local coconut candy-making villages. In addition to sightseeing, visitors can purchase handmade products as unique gifts for friends.

Cycle through the countryside

Cycling along the fields, gardens, and charming narrow roads is a must-try experience for all visitors. By bike, you’ll easily navigate the small bridges and alleys of Ben Tre, giving you a better chance to immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere and picturesque scenery.

Learn a local craft

When visiting the traditional craft villages during your Mekong Delta tour, you can even try your hand at making some of these products under the guidance of skilled and friendly local artisans.

Suggestion for full day small group tour to discover Mekong Delta

Joy Journeys offers specially crafted full day small group tour to discover Mekong Delta that prioritize comfort, authenticity, and a more intimate experience with small groups of up to 10 guests. Here are two highly recommended itineraries for those looking to explore the Mekong Delta tour from Ho Chi Minh City.

Experience the Authentic ‘Less-Touristy’ Mekong Delta Ben Tre 1-Day Tour, which begins with a pick-up from your accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City. As you journey to Ben Tre, enjoy the scenic views of lush rice fields and take a moment for a refreshing coffee break.

Your first stop is a local brick factory, where you’ll learn how residents utilize riverbed soil for their livelihoods. Then, board a long boat to cruise along the Mekong River, savoring fresh fruits and coconut water.

Next, discover the local coconut farms, where you’ll witness how coconuts are harvested and turned into products like coconut candy and oil. Choose to cycle or take a Tuk-Tuk through the charming village’s coconut groves, observing local artisans as they craft sleeping mats.

A highlight of the tour is indulging in a delicious Southern Vietnamese meal at a riverside homestay, with vegetarian and vegan options available. Conclude your day with a serene rowing boat ride through the picturesque coconut canals of Ben Tre before returning to Ho Chi Minh City, filled with wonderful memories.

Alternatively, join the Local ‘Less-Known’ Mekong Delta My Tho 1-Day Tour, starting with a pick-up from your accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City. Enjoy the scenic rice paddies on your way to the historic Vinh Trang Pagoda, an architectural gem.

Experience local life on a boat ride, visiting a home to learn about fruit growing and beekeeping while enjoying honey tea. The trip includes a peaceful rowing boat ride through a lesser-known coconut canal.

Savor a traditional Southern Vietnamese lunch at a riverside homestay, visit a coconut candy workshop, and delight in tropical fruits while listening to Vietnamese folk music before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.

Conclusion

With these tips in mind, your Ben Tre Mekong Delta tour from Ho Chi Minh City is set to be smooth and full of memorable moments. Joy Journeys is here to ensure you experience the very best of Ben Tre, with insights that enhance every part of your journey. Reach out to us to start planning an unforgettable adventure tailored to you