What to Do on a One-Day Mekong Delta Trip from Ho Chi Minh City

The Mekong Delta, often called “Vietnam’s rice bowl,” is a huge, lush area down south where the Mekong River splits into a maze of rivers and canals before meeting the sea. It’s famous for its floating markets, stilt houses, and tropical farms — and is home to millions of people whose lives revolve around the water.

In this guide, we’ll show you what you can do in just one day on a Mekong Delta trip from Ho Chi Minh City — from visiting sacred islands to cruising past nipa palms in a hand-rowed sampan.

Photo Credit: kimkim

Getting to Mỹ Tho — The Gateway to the Mekong Delta

Most one-day Mekong Delta tours start in Mỹ Tho, a small riverside city about 1.5 to 2 hours from HCMC by car or bus. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even rent a motorbike to get there. Alternatively, many tours offer hotel pickup directly from central Saigon.

From the My Tho Pier, board a boat to begin your river cruise — passing by local fishing villages, fish farms, and going under the iconic Rạch Miễu Bridge. Soon, you’ll find yourself drifting toward the Four Sacred Islands.

What to Do on a One-Day Mekong Delta Trip

1. Explore the Four Sacred Islands

The Tiền River is dotted with four legendary islets — Dragon, Unicorn, Turtle, and Phoenix — each named after mythological creatures symbolizing luck, peace, wisdom, and purity. These islands offer a blend of culture, nature, and local traditions.

Unicorn Island (Cù lao Thới Sơn)

The largest and most visited of the four, Unicorn Island is best known for its lush orchards, eco-activities, and canal rides.

Photo Credit: Cattour

Highlights:

Paid activities:

Phoenix Island (Cù lao Phụng)

Phoenix Island offers a quiet glimpse into riverside spirituality and local craftsmanship. This tranquil island is home to the Coconut Monk’s Temple, an interesting spiritual landmark.

Photo Credit: Xứ Dừa Bến Tre

Highlights:

Dragon Island (Cù lao Long Trị)

This is where you’ll find a slower, more authentic, local vibe. Dragon Island doesn’t have touristy attractions, rather, it has more emphasis on farming and aquaculture.

Photo Credit: Tổ Chức Sự Kiện Trà Vinh

Highlights:

Turtle Island (Cù lao Tân Quy)

The smallest and most peaceful of the four, Turtle Island is all about quiet garden experiences and river stillness.

Photo Credit: Crystal Bay

Highlights:

2. Go on a Sampan Ride

No Mekong Delta tour is complete without a sampan ride. These small, hand-rowed wooden boats take you into narrow canals shaded by coconut palms and mangroves.

Photo Credit: Soha Travel

Along the way, you might see:

It’s one of the most peaceful ways to soak up the delta’s charm.

For those not joining a guided tour, sampan rides may be arranged directly at the My Tho Tourist Pier, subject to availability and separate fees.

3. Visit a Floating Market

Don't mind waking up early in the morning? Consider visiting a floating market like Cái Răng.

Photo Credit: Thanh Lâm resort

These boat-based markets begin around 6:00–8:00 AM, with sellers offering everything from mangoes to morning noodles — all sold right off the boat.
It’s a true taste of the Mekong’s commercial soul — and makes for great photos and even better memories.

4. Taste Authentic Mekong Delta Food

The Mekong Delta’s food is a journey all its own — rustic, rich, and full of bold flavors you won’t find in the city.

Photo Credit: Lữ Hành Việt

Many tours include a rustic garden lunch where you can taste:

And don’t forget to try fresh fruit straight from the orchards!

When’s the Best Time to Go?

Quick tip: weather can be unpredictable, so it’s worth checking conditions online before you go!

Bundle Your Stay and Mekong Delta Tour for Convenience

Don’t want the stress of figuring out boat tickets, transfers, or early pickups? Kin Hotel has you covered. With centrally located stays in District 1, Kin now offers bundle deals that combine your room and a Mekong Delta day tour — so you can save both money and time. Even better? The tour picks you up right from the hotel.

👉 Discover the Mekong Delta Tour Bundle

Let the Mekong Set the Pace

A one-day Mekong Delta trip is more than a checklist of attractions — it’s a glimpse into the soul of southern Vietnam. You’ll cruise peaceful canals, visit mythical-named islands, and eat food made with care — all just 2 hours from the city.

So grab your sunhat, charge your camera, and let the Mekong show you its magic.

Curious where to head next? Discover more stunning day trips, local landmarks, and must-see destinations over at @kinhotel. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for your daily dose of Vietnam’s hidden wonders.