Southern Vietnam: Mekong Backwaters & Island Escape

Soak up the sun while traveling through Vietnam’s scenic waterways and idyllic islands

A sampan—a traditional flat-bottomed wooden boat—weaving through the Mekong Delta’s technicolor floating markets is one of the most stirring, evocative images of Vietnam. On our 10-day Southern Vietnam: Rivers and Islands itinerary, you’ll board your own sampan to explore the sultry, sun-warmed tributaries of the Mekong River, learning about local life in the delta. 

You’ll also explore lesser-known sites, cruising down canals shaded by cajuput trees in Tra Su Cajuput Forest and retreating to an idyllic island hideaway in the Con Dao Archipelago off Vietnam’s southeast coast. Along the journey, visit historic sites, learn about food and farming culture from the people who grow and prepare these local ingredients, enjoy atmospheric private dining experiences on hidden beaches and ocean-side rooftops, and learn about green sea turtle conservation with a chance to participate in an ethical hatchling release. And you’ll kick off your adventure in the fascinating modern metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City. Here, indulge in delectable street food eats and connect with the people who call the city home to discover untold stories and local insights, laying a rich foundation for your exploration of southern Vietnam. 

Southern Vietnam: Mekong Backwaters & Island Escape: 10 days / 9 nights

Southern Vietnam: Mekong Backwaters & Island Escape Trip Highlights

Begin your journey through Vietnam in the buzzing metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City where your VIP escort will whisk you through priority customs and immigration. Your personal guide and driver will welcome you and bring you to your hotel, the Park Hyatt Saigon, a sleek and sophisticated property that puts some of the city’s top cultural and historical sites at your fingertips. The country’s past and future collide here, where heritage temples and French colonial architecture jostle for space with towering skyscrapers, and vibrant markets and street art are sprinkled among historic sites.  
Spend a day diving deep into Ho Chi Minh street culture on two expertly led tours. Go beyond the typical tourist trail and wind down narrow streets and back alleys to reach fascinating spots such as French colonial and war-era apartment buildings, a vibrant market, and a quiet Buddhist temple. You’ll gain insights into daily life here from the locals who call the city home. Come evening, you’ll embark on a street food tour through the colorful Tan Dinh Market to taste local favorites, including crab soup and crispy pancakes. Learn about the origins of these dishes and connect with the people who bring the flavors to life, then end the day at a cozy cafe or live music venue. 
You’ll begin your Mekong Delta adventure aboard the Cai Be Princess Sampan and sail to Vinh Long, learning about life along the riverbanks. Gain insights into the region’s history, culture, and architecture by visiting a 19th-century house, a historic church, and local cottage industries along the river, learning about traditional crafts such as making coconut candy and puffed rice, the Mekong Delta’s unique take on popcorn. Enjoy lunch in a colonial-style garden villa along the river, savoring a gorgeous culinary experience surrounded by fruit trees. 
Embark on a boat tour to explore the most famous of the Mekong Delta’s floating markets, Cai Rang, a cornerstone of life in the delta. Savor breakfast on board as you pass local villages en route to the market, where you’ll glide through the canals and watch local life play out. Navigate the maze of trading boats for a close-up view of locals selling tropical fruits, vegetables, and other regional goods directly from their boats. While gaining a glimpse into the daily lives of the Mekong Delta’s people you’ll also be supporting the local economy and community traditions. 
Spend a night in the charming Mekong town of Chau Doc. En route, visit the Tra Su Cajuput Forest, a tranquil natural sanctuary home to diverse flora and fauna. Explore on foot and by small boat, cruising down canals under a canopy of cajuput trees. While in Chau Doc you’ll also visit a village home to the Mekong Delta’s Cham ethnic minority, learning more about local life in this region and observing their traditional weaving handicraft. 
Catch a direct flight to the Vietnam Coast and arrive at sun-drenched Con Dao Island, settling in at the luxurious Six Senses Con Dao, where spacious pool villas hugged by forested hills look out over the South China Sea. Kick things off with a unique, private Dining Under the Stars experience this evening, beginning with a guided, sensory stroll through the on-site vegetable and herb garden. Take a seat at your rooftop, ocean-view private table as the sun sets for an unforgettable multi-course dining experience that ends with dessert under starry skies. 
Six Senses Con Dao partners with Con Dao National Park on green sea turtle conservation, and the resort’s pristine beach has been carefully maintained as a safe nesting ground, while a secure incubation center protects the eggs from threats such as poaching. Depending on the season you visit, you can participate in an ethical baby turtle release or watch a sea turtle laying her eggs on the sandy shores.  
Set out on an island-hopping adventure around the Con Dao archipelago on a private speedboat. Snorkel around vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, linger on a sugary soft beach for a picnic, and swim in hidden bays. You can also visit Hon Bay Canh Island and learn about its green sea turtle conservation projects. 
Enjoy a slow, free last day under the sun on Con Dao, enjoying delicious food or indulging in a massage to decompress before beginning your journey home the following day. You’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Ho Chi Minh City (enjoying fast-track services to ensure a smooth experience before your international flight home) or for the next leg of your Southeast Asia travel adventure.

Price

Starting at $6,600 per person sharing in 2025

Southern Vietnam: Mekong Backwaters & Island Escape on a Map

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