Cai Be Floating Market: A Vibrant Mekong Delta Experience in My Tho, Tien Giang

Cai Be Floating Market, located near My Tho in Tien Giang, is a bustling aquatic marketplace where the Mekong Delta’s vibrant culture comes alive. Boats laden with tropical fruits, fresh vegetables, and local crafts navigate the Tien River, creating a colorful spectacle of trade and tradition. Surrounded by lush orchards and traditional villages, Cai Be offers a unique glimpse into the riverine lifestyle of southern Vietnam. Perfect for foodies, photographers, and eco-tourists, this market is a must-visit for an authentic Mekong experience. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, curates eco-friendly tours to explore Cai Be’s vibrant market and nearby attractions while supporting local communities. Start your adventure—book our tours via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Note

Tien Giang Province, with My Tho as its vibrant hub, now includes the former Dong Thap Province, enhancing its appeal as a premier eco-tourism destination. Upgraded infrastructure, including cycling paths and electric boat networks, supports sustainable visits to Cai Be and My Tho’s attractions, aligning with the “Green Delta” initiative.

With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group is Southeast Asia’s leading sustainable tour operator, dedicated to showcasing Vietnam’s cultural and natural treasures. Our Cai Be tours combine eco-friendly transport—bicycles and electric boats—with curated market visits, fruit tasting, and cultural experiences, guided by local experts. Supporting Cai Be’s vendors and farmers, we offer transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support. Book our tours via links on this page for an authentic, eco-conscious adventure!

Located in Cai Be, 40 km from My Tho, this iconic floating market thrives along the Tien River, connecting Tien Giang, Ben Tre, and Vinh Long. Spanning 500–600 boats daily, it’s a vibrant hub for trading VietGAP-certified fruits like Hoa Lộc mangoes and Cố Cố grapefruits, alongside vegetables and crafts. Unlike land-based markets, vendors display goods on long poles, signaling their wares from boats that often double as homes. The market peaks at dawn, offering a lively scene of commerce and local life. Tien Giang’s tropical climate—dry season (December–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) and rainy season (May–November, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F)—ensures fresh produce year-round. Pair market visits with orchard tours or cultural sites like Vinh Trang Pagoda for a complete My Tho experience.

1. Boat Tours Through the Market

Glide through Cai Be Floating Market on an eco-friendly electric boat, witnessing vendors trading fruits, vegetables, and crafts from colorful boats.

• Cost: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND) per boat (fits 4–6 people).

• Hours: 5:00 AM–12:00 PM for peak activity; afternoon tours available.

• Highlights: Vibrant trade, river life, photo ops.

• Tips: Start at 5:00 AM for the liveliest scenes; included in our Cai Be Eco-Tour ($70–$90).

2. Sampan Rides in Narrow Canals

Explore Cai Be’s smaller canals on traditional sampan boats, passing palm forests and rural villages.

• Cost: $3–$10 (75,000–250,000 VND) per person.

• Hours: 7:00 AM–4:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Tranquil waterways, lush scenery, authentic village life.

• Tips: Wear a hat for sun protection; included in our Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450).

3. Fruit Tasting and Orchard Visits

Sample Cai Be’s VietGAP-certified fruits like Hoa Lộc mangoes and Cố Cố grapefruits at nearby orchards or market stalls.

• Cost: Fruits $0.50–$5 (12,500–125,000 VND) per kg; orchard tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Fresh produce, farmer interactions, tropical flavors.

• Tips: Visit during harvest seasons (e.g., mangoes April–August); included in our Cai Be Eco-Tour ($70–$90).

4. Local Craft Workshops

Learn about Cai Be’s traditional crafts, like coconut candy or rice paper making, at nearby villages.

• Cost: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND) per workshop.

• Hours: 8:00 AM–4:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Hands-on learning, cultural insights, sustainable practices.

• Tips: Buy handmade souvenirs; included in our Tien Giang Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

5. Riverside Dining

Savor Mekong specialties like Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho or cá lóc nướng trui at Cai Be’s eateries or My Tho’s restaurants.

• Cost: Meals $2–$8 (50,000–200,000 VND); drinks $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

• Hours: 8:00 AM–8:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Fresh ingredients, river views, authentic flavors.

• Tips: Try fruit smoothies; included in our Tien Giang Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

• Early Morning Market Tours: Visit at 5:00 AM to catch the market’s peak bustle and vibrant trade.

• Sampan Adventures: Row through narrow canals for a tranquil glimpse of rural life.

• Fruit and Food Tasting: Sample Cai Be’s fruits and dishes like bún gỏi già at market stalls or orchards.

• Cultural Immersion: Join craft workshops or engage with vendors to learn about riverine lifestyles.

• Combine with My Tho Attractions: Pair with visits to Vinh Trang Pagoda or Thoi Son Island for a full experience.

• Tips:

  • Arrive early to avoid crowds; bring a reusable tote for market purchases.

  • Book guided eco-tours for market insights; included in our tours.

  • Wear comfortable shoes for boat and orchard visits.

Cai Be is 40 km from My Tho, accessible by road or boat:

• By Bus:

  • Ho Chi Minh City (Mien Tay Bus Station) to My Tho: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND, 1.5–2 hours, 70 km).

  • My Tho to Cai Be: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND, 45 minutes).

  • Providers: Futa Bus (Tel: +84 1900 6067), Thanh Buoi.

• By Car/Taxi:

  • Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho: $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND, 1.5 hours).

  • My Tho to Cai Be: $15–$20 (375,000–500,000 VND, 45 minutes).

  • Providers: Mai Linh Taxi (+84 2773 686 868), Grab app.

• By Motorbike:

  • Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND, 1.5–2 hours).

  • My Tho to Cai Be: 45 minutes.

  • Rent at Mekong Moto Rentals, HCMC (+84 938 456 789).

• By Boat from My Tho:

  • My Tho to Cai Be Floating Market: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND, 1 hour).

  • Depart from Cai Be Pier (near My Tho Marina).

• Tips:

  • Book buses via VeXeRe or Baolau for convenience.

  • Use offline maps (Maps.me); save Cai Be Floating Market as a landmark.

  • Included in our Cai Be Eco-Tour ($70–$90) for seamless transfers.

• Dry Season (December–April): Ideal for boat tours and orchard visits; Tet (January–February, lunar calendar) brings festive market vibes.

• Rainy Season (May–November): Lush scenery and fewer crowds; enjoy 10–20% tour discounts.

• Tips: Arrive at 5:00 AM for peak market activity; check AccuWeather for rainy season updates.

Pack for a sustainable market visit:

• Clothing: Lightweight attire for dry season; raincoat ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND) for rainy season.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.

• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes; sandals for boat rides; waterproof shoes for rainy season.

• Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella.

• Tech Gear: Smartphone or camera for photos; portable charger.

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for market purchases, bamboo straw for sustainability.

Tip: Carry VND (50,000–200,000 notes) for vendors; use a waterproof backpack in rainy season.

• Market Boat Tours: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND) per boat; sampan rides $3–$10 (75,000–250,000 VND).

• Fruits and Goods: $0.50–$5 (12,500–125,000 VND) per kg for fruits; crafts $1–$10 (25,000–250,000 VND).

• Activities:

  • Orchard tours: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Craft workshops: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

  • Bicycle rental: $2–$4/day (50,000–100,000 VND).

• Dining: Meals at Cai Be or My Tho eateries: $2–$8 (50,000–200,000 VND); drinks $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

• Accommodation (My Tho):

  • Homestays (e.g., Happy Farm Tien Giang Homestay): $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).

  • Hotels (e.g., Central Plaza Hotel My Tho): $20–$50/night (500,000–1,250,000 VND).

  • Resorts: $80–$150/night (2,000,000–3,750,000 VND).

• Transport:

  • Bus from Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Taxi from My Tho to Cai Be: $15–$20 (375,000–500,000 VND).

  • Boat from My Tho to Cai Be: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost:

• Budget: $15–$35 (bus, market meals, homestay).

• Mid-range: $35–$70 (guided tours, restaurant dining, hotel).

• Luxury: $100–$180 (resorts, private tours, upscale dining).

Tip: Use ATMs in My Tho for cash; carry small VND notes for market vendors.

• Book Early: Reserve tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222) 3–4 weeks in advance, especially for Tet or summer.

• Seasonal Tips:

  • Dry Season: Pack sunscreen; ideal for boat tours and photography.

  • Rainy Season: Bring waterproof gear; enjoy lush river scenery.

• Sustainability: Support local vendors; use eco-transport like electric boats.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me); save Cai Be Floating Market as a landmark.

• Safety: Secure valuables on boats; respect vendor spaces.

• Cultural Respect: Greet vendors with “xin chào” (hello); tip boat drivers or guides $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Health: Stay hydrated ($0.50 or 12,500 VND per bottle); apply mosquito repellent near canals.

Our eco-friendly tours showcase Tien Giang’s cultural and natural gems:

• Cai Be Eco-Tour ($70–$90/person): Explore Cai Be Floating Market, cycle through orchards, and visit craft villages. Includes boat transfers, tastings, guide.

• Tien Giang Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Savor Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho, bánh bèo, and join coconut candy workshops. Includes eco-transfers, meals, guide.

• My Tho Cultural Tour ($60–$80/person): Taste market fruits, visit Vinh Trang Pagoda, and enjoy “Don Ca Tai Tu” music. Includes eco-transfers, lunch, guide.

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450/person, 2–3 days): Explore Cai Be, My Tho’s markets, Thoi Son Island, and homestays ($10–$25/night). Includes meals, activities, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Get 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book via links around this page!

Cai Be Floating Market, a vibrant showcase of My Tho’s Mekong Delta heritage, blends bustling trade with riverine charm. From boat tours to fruit tasting and craft workshops, this market offers an authentic taste of local life. Legend Travel Group’s Tien Giang Tours guide you through this lively hub, ensuring a sustainable Tien Giang Travel experience that supports eco-friendly practices and local communities. Don’t miss out—plan your Mekong adventure with our guide and book your eco-tour today!
Ready to explore Cai Be Floating Market? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into My Tho’s vibrant heart!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Source: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group.