If you’ve got plans to travel as part of a small group or even on your own then you’ll undoubtedly have heard of the Mekong Delta in Southwest Vietnam where the mighty Mekong River approaches and disappears into the sea.
Due to its immense size (over 15,000sq miles), the area presents a wealth of opportunities to discover the landscapes and the wildlife of Vietnam as well as a superb chance to soak up the sunshine.
If you’d like to find out more about what lies in store on the Mekong Delta then check out the list below because there’s plenty of reasons why this is one of the coolest locations on the planet.
Relaxation on the mighty Mekong
Van Thanh Mieu Temple
Found in the Vinh Long Province, Van Thanh Mieu is one of three temples that have been erected to honour literature and Confucianism which makes it a ‘must visit’ for anyone interested in finding out more about the spirituality and the fundamental need to learn that’s ascribed to the people of Vietnam. Not only is this quite a rare example of a Confucian temple it’s also a great spot to discover more about a true local legend, Phan Thanh Gian, and if you think Che Guevara was cool then check this guy out.
Phu Quoc Island
As the largest island in Vietnam you can expect to find plenty of great things to do and from the awesome night market to the equally impressive water features of Su?i Tranh this is indeed one of the highlights of any trip to the Mekong Delta. Of course, if you are heading to Phu Quoc Island then you’ll never be far from the beach and if you’re into white sands, fringed by palm trees, then you’ll find yourself in your absolute element with Long Beach being the pick of the bunch.
An Thoi Islands
Of course, if you are thinking about hitting the beach during your visit to the Mekong Delta then you won’t go far wrong by travelling to the An Thoi Islands as there are 15 hidden gems lying in wait just off the south of Phu Quoc. Seriously, this is where your tour of the Delta gets totally tropical and by chartering a boat you’ll gain access to some of the lesser-visited spots that casual tourists rarely tread. Snorkelling, fishing, swimming or simply strolling over cool white sand, you name it and Hon Dua, Chan Qui and Hon Mong Tay (to name but 3 islands) are ready and waiting for your arrival.
Chau Doc
Situated just a few miles from the borders with neighbouring Cambodia, Chau Doc is blessed with much more than simply a gateway stop-over for travelling back-packers. Temples such as Quan Cong and Chùa Hang are both well-worth a visit as is the Thoai Ngoc Hau mausoleum and if you’re looking to explore a little further afield then Sam Mountain is always a great option for a day hike. Another excellent idea if you find yourself in Chau Doc is to make the most of life on the water with floating markets, houses and fish farms providing a fascinating insight into what’s it’s like to live and work in the Mekong Delta.
San Chim Vam Ho Bird Sanctuary
The Mekong Delta is regarded as an absolute haven for naturalists and wildlife watchers with no end of opportunities to spot birds and animals in their natural habitat. One of the best areas to really savour the indigenous species of southern Vietnam has to be the San Chim Vam Ho Bird Sanctuary which can be found around 25 miles from Ben Tre and contains a whole host of storks, pelicans, herons and cranes as well as a few docile water buffalo thrown in for good measure.
Vietnam is an awesome country that’s full of excellent options for groups, couples and families alike with the Mekong Delta being absolutely no exception. If you’re looking for more options for small group tours or trips abroad then check out what’s available online and good luck on all of your travels.