The Mekong Delta, with its lush natural beauty and unique culture, is always an attractive destination for both domestic and international tourists. Ecotourism in the Mekong Delta is becoming increasingly popular due to its closeness to nature, authentic experiences of local life, and contribution to environmental conservation. However, with countless tour options available, how do you find the Mekong Delta eco-tour that best suits your preferences and desires? This article will reveal useful tips and suggestions to help you have a complete and meaningful journey to explore the Mekong Delta.
What Makes Mekong Delta Eco Tours Appealing?
The Mekong Delta region, with its intricate network of rivers and canals, vast rice fields, and lush orchards, holds immense potential for ecotourism. Mekong Delta eco-tourism is not just about sightseeing; it’s also an opportunity for visitors to:
- Immerse themselves in pristine nature: Explore immense mangrove forests, lush islets, and biodiverse national parks.
- Experience unique riverine culture: Learn about the lives of local people, participate in daily activities such as boating, ditch fishing, and enjoy Southern folk music performances.
- Savor distinctive cuisine: Taste rustic Mekong Delta dishes made from fresh, local ingredients.
- Contribute to environmental conservation: Choose responsible eco-tours that support local communities and minimize negative environmental impacts.
Popular Types of Mekong Delta Eco Tours
To meet the diverse needs of tourists, Mekong Delta eco-tours are designed in various forms, including:
- Islet exploration tours: Visit famous islets such as Con Phung (Phoenix Islet), Thoi Son Islet, Tan Quy Islet, and experience activities like cycling through village roads, visiting fruit orchards, and enjoying local cuisine.
- Mangrove forest tours: Discover the mysterious beauty of Tra Su cajuput forest, Xeo Quyt cajuput forest, navigate through small canals by boat, and observe birds and diverse ecosystems.
- National park tours: Explore national parks such as Tram Chim, U Minh Thuong, Lo Go – Xa Mat, learn about rare flora and fauna, and participate in birdwatching activities.
- Homestay tours: Stay with local families, experience daily life, participate in agricultural production activities, and engage in cultural exchanges with locals.
- Combined tours: Combine the above types to create a diverse and enriching itinerary, exploring many facets of Mekong Delta ecotourism.
Detailed Guide on How to Find Mekong Delta Eco Tours
Finding the right Mekong Delta eco-tour is no longer difficult if you master these steps:
1. Define your personal needs and preferences
Before you start searching, ask yourself what you expect from a Mekong Delta eco-tour. Do you like exploring pristine nature, learning about local culture, or experiencing distinctive cuisine? Do you want a short day trip or a multi-day tour? What is your budget? Clearly defining your needs and preferences will help you narrow down your search and choose the most suitable tour.
2. Smart online search
The internet is an endless source of information for finding Mekong Delta eco-tours. Use search engines like Google, Bing, and enter relevant keywords such as:
- “Mekong Delta eco tour”
- “Eco tours Mekong Delta”
- “Mekong Delta ecotourism [desired location name]” (e.g., “Mekong Delta ecotourism Con Phung”)
- “Mekong Delta eco tour companies”
In addition, you can search on travel websites, travel forums, and social media pages to find information and reviews about Mekong Delta eco-tours.
3. Contact reputable tour companies directly
To ensure the quality and reliability of the tour, you should contact tour companies that specialize in organizing Mekong Delta tours, especially companies with experience in ecotourism. You can find contact information for tour companies on their websites or through travel review websites. Request detailed advice on the Mekong Delta eco-tours they offer, compare prices and itineraries, and ask questions about any concerns you have.
4. Refer to reviews and experiences from previous travelers
Reading reviews and experience sharing from tourists who have participated in Mekong Delta eco-tours is an important step for you to gain an objective perspective and make the right decision. You can find reviews on travel websites, travel forums, social media, or ask for opinions from friends and relatives who have traveled to the Mekong Delta. Note, read multiple sources of reviews and consider both positive and negative reviews to get a comprehensive view.
Suggested Outstanding Mekong Delta Eco-tourism Destinations and Sample Tours
Below are some suggestions for famous Mekong Delta eco-tourism destinations and sample tours for you to choose from:
1. Con Phung (Phoenix Islet) Eco-tourism Area
Con Phung, located in Ben Tre, is one of the most popular Mekong Delta eco-tourism destinations. Coming to Con Phung, visitors will immerse themselves in the green space of fruit orchards, participate in rustic activities such as crocodile fishing, monkey bridge walking, enjoy Southern folk music performances and distinctive Mekong Delta cuisine.
Sample Tours:
- Mekong Delta – Pilgrimage Long An – Tien Giang – Explore ancient pagodas – enjoy vegetarian cuisine (1 Day)
- Mekong Delta: Tien Giang – My Tho – Thoi Son Islet – Ben Tre – Con Phung (1 Day)
2. My Khanh Tourist Village
My Khanh Tourist Village, located in Can Tho, is a typical example of garden ecotourism. Here, visitors can explore lush fruit orchards, participate in activities such as “A day as a landlord,” ditch fishing, watch pig races, dog races, and enjoy rustic dishes.
My Khanh Tourist Village in Can Tho
Sample Tours:
- Mekong Delta: Vinh Long – Can Tho (Enjoy Vinh Long specialties – top typical Vietnamese cuisine) | Cantho Eco Resort Stay (2D1N)
- Mekong Delta: Chau Doc – Nui Cam – Tra Su Cajuput Forest – Can Tho – Cai Rang Floating Market – Experience the Newest Expressway of the Mekong Delta (3D2N)
3. Tan Lap Floating Village
Tan Lap Floating Village, Long An, is a newly emerging destination that is attractive with the pristine and peaceful beauty of the cajuput forest. Visitors can walk on the path through the cajuput forest, admire lotus and water lilies, and enjoy the fresh air.
Tan Lap Floating Village in Long An
Sample Tours: Currently, tours to Tan Lap Floating Village are often designed as self-guided tours or small group tours. You can contact local tour companies in Long An for advice and to book a suitable tour.
4. Xeo Quyt Tourist Area
Xeo Quyt Tourist Area, Dong Thap, is a historical relic combined with unique ecotourism. Visitors will be taken on a sampan boat to weave through the cajuput forest, explore the former resistance base, and enjoy rural cuisine.
Xeo Quyt Eco-tourism Area in Dong Thap
Sample Tours:
- Mekong Delta: Ben Tre – Hai Van Farm – Vam Ho Primeval Forest (1 Day) (Can be combined with visiting Xeo Quyt)
5. Tra Su Cajuput Forest
Tra Su Cajuput Forest, An Giang, is one of the most beautiful flooded cajuput forests in Vietnam. During the flood season, Tra Su cajuput forest puts on a lush green coat of water hyacinth, creating an incredibly impressive natural landscape. Visitors can take a boat to explore the cajuput forest, watch birds, and enjoy Mekong Delta specialties.
Tra Su Cajuput Forest in An Giang
Sample Tours:
- Mekong Delta: Chau Doc – Tra Su Cajuput Forest – Ha Tien – Rach Gia – Can Tho – Experience the Newest Expressway of the Mekong Delta (4D3N)
- Mekong Delta: Can Tho – Ca Mau – Dat Mui – Bac Lieu – Soc Trang – Experience the Newest Expressway of the Mekong Delta (Fruit garden visit) (4D3N)
Important Notes When Choosing a Mekong Delta Eco Tour
To have a complete and meaningful Mekong Delta eco-tour, you need to note a few points:
- Choose responsible tours: Prioritize eco-tours organized by reputable tour companies with commitments to environmental protection and support for local communities.
- Learn carefully about the itinerary and services: Read the detailed itinerary of the tour, the services included and not included, prices, cancellation policies, and other terms.
- Prepare suitable luggage: Bring comfortable clothes, shoes suitable for walking and participating in outdoor activities, hats, sunscreen, personal medications, and other necessary items.
- Respect culture and environment: Throughout the trip, respect the culture and customs of local people, maintain environmental hygiene, do not litter, and comply with the regulations of the tourist area.
Conclusion
Mekong Delta eco-tourism is a wonderful experience to discover the pristine natural beauty, learn about unique culture, and enjoy the fresh atmosphere of the riverine region. With the tips and suggestions above, hopefully you will easily find a suitable Mekong Delta eco-tour and have a memorable exploration journey. Plan your Mekong Delta trip today to enjoy the wonderful things this land has to offer!