Cau Duc Pineapples: A Sweet Escape in Can Tho City’s Mekong Delta

Nestled in the vibrant Mekong Delta, now part of Can Tho City, Cau Duc Pineapples are a celebrated specialty that captivate with their golden hue and sweet, juicy flavor. Grown in the challenging alum-rich soils of Hoa Tien Ward, these pineapples embody the resilience and agricultural ingenuity of the region, drawing over 2 million visitors annually to Can Tho’s lush orchards and markets. Renowned for their long shelf life and delightful taste, Cau Duc Pineapples are a must-try for food lovers and eco-tourists exploring the Khmer-Vietnamese heritage of the Mekong. Legend Travel Group, a leading local tour operator, offers sustainable tours to experience these tropical delights firsthand. Start your culinary journey—book a tour via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com

Legend Travel Group is a trusted name in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, delivering authentic experiences with a focus on cultural immersion and environmental preservation. Our Can Tho tours feature eco-friendly transport—bicycles and electric boats—guided by local experts who share the story of Cau Duc Pineapples and Mekong traditions. Supporting farmers in Hoa Tien and Vi Thanh wards, we align with Can Tho City’s “Green Delta” initiative to protect the region’s ecosystems. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless adventure. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and taste the Mekong responsibly

Following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, Hau Giang and Soc Trang provinces have merged into Can Tho City, with Can Tho as the administrative center. District-level units are now wards or communes, enhancing access to Cau Duc Pineapple orchards through sustainable infrastructure like cycling paths and a VND500 billion flood control project. This makes exploring Can Tho’s culinary and agricultural hubs more convenient than ever.

Located 240 km southwest of Ho Chi Minh City and centered in the Mekong Delta, Can Tho City spans 1,609 km² of fertile wetlands and 2,300 km of canals. Bordered by Vinh Long, Bac Lieu, and Kien Giang, it features a tropical monsoon climate with a dry season (December–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) and a rainy season (May–November, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F), with peak rainfall in August–October (100–400 mm). Known for its rice, aquaculture, and vibrant food scene, Can Tho’s orchards and markets showcase Cau Duc Pineapples alongside specialties like Phu Huu pomelos and bánh xèo, making it a haven for eco-tourism and culinary exploration.

The prime time to savor Cau Duc Pineapples is December to April, during the dry season, when warm, sunny weather (25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) is ideal for orchard visits and market tours. Peak harvest occurs from late February to early April (lunar calendar), offering the freshest fruits. Year-round cultivation, enabled by off-season flowering techniques, ensures availability, with secondary harvests in July–August. This period aligns with cultural events like the Khmer Ok Om Bok Festival (October–November), adding vibrancy but drawing crowds.

The rainy season (May–November) offers cooler temperatures (22–30°C or 71.6–86°F) and 20–30% discounts, though heavy showers in August–October may affect outdoor plans. Check AccuWeather for May–October updates.

Tip: Book orchard tours 3–5 weeks in advance for December–April to secure better rates. Visit in March–April or October for milder weather and fewer crowds.

Can Tho City is easily accessible:

• By Air: Can Tho International Airport (VCA), 50 km from Vi Thanh, serves domestic and limited international flights:

  • Ho Chi Minh City: $70–$140 (1,750,000–3,500,000 VND).

  • Hanoi: $100–$180 (2,500,000–4,500,000 VND).

  • International (e.g., Bangkok): $250–$550.

  • Taxis/Grab to Hoa Tien: $12–$18 (300,000–450,000 VND).

• By Bus: From Can Tho to Vi Thanh (1–1.5 hours, $3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND). From Ho Chi Minh City (5–6 hours, $8–$15 or 200,000–375,000 VND) or Hanoi (30–34 hours, $30–$50 or 750,000–1,250,000 VND).

• By Train: Can Tho’s railway station (expected completion 2026) will connect to Ho Chi Minh City (6–7 hours, $15–$30 or 375,000–750,000 VND). Currently, buses or flights are recommended.

Getting Around Can Tho City:

• Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND), ideal for pineapple orchards.

• Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Electric Boats: $10–$20/trip (250,000–500,000 VND) for canal-side farms.

• Grab/Taxi: $4–$8/trip (100,000–200,000 VND).

Tip: Use bicycles or electric boats for eco-friendly access to orchards. Download the Grab app for transparent pricing.

Pack these essentials for a pineapple adventure:

• Clothing: Lightweight outfits for dry season; waterproof jackets for rainy season. Casual attire for orchards; modest clothing for pagodas.

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

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

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

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

• Documents: Passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (50,000–200,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag for pineapple purchases, straw to support sustainability.

Tip: Bring a waterproof bag for rainy season orchard visits. Carry small VND notes for market vendors.

Cau Duc Pineapples, grown in Hoa Tien Ward, are a Mekong Delta specialty known for their vibrant yellow flesh, sweet flavor, and crisp texture. Originating from Thai varieties, these pineapples thrive in alum-rich soils, offering a unique taste that’s less acidic than other varieties. Harvested after 8–12 months, they can be stored for 10–15 days without spoilage, making them a popular souvenir. Rich in vitamins C and A, they’re enjoyed fresh, juiced, or in dishes like pineapple fried rice, showcasing Can Tho’s agricultural prowess.

1. Visit Hoa Tien Pineapple Orchards

Pick and taste Cau Duc Pineapples at family-run orchards in Hoa Tien Ward, 30 km from Can Tho, with guided tours and fruit-tasting sessions.

• Cost: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) for entry/tasting; canoe tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.

• Tip: Visit in the morning for fresh picks. Included in our Can Tho Foodie Tour ($55–$75).

2. Shop at Nga Bay Floating Market

Buy Cau Duc Pineapples from boat vendors at this vibrant market, enjoying them freshly cut with chili salt.

• Cost: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) per pineapple; boat tours $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Hours: 5:00 AM–11:00 AM daily.

• Tip: Bargain politely for the best prices. Included in our Mekong River Adventure ($55–$75).

3. Join a Pineapple Cooking Class

Learn to incorporate Cau Duc Pineapples into dishes like pineapple fried rice or smoothies, guided by local chefs with market visits.

• Cost: $20–$40 (500,000–1,000,000 VND).

• Hours: 9:00 AM–2:00 PM or 3:00 PM–7:00 PM.

• Tip: Book in Vi Thanh for authentic recipes. Included in our Can Tho Foodie Tour ($55–$75).

4. Dine at Local Eateries

Sample Cau Duc Pineapples in salads, desserts, or savory dishes at Vi Thanh restaurants, paired with bún gỏi già.

• Cost: $3–$12 (75,000–300,000 VND) per meal.

• Hours: 10:00 AM–9:00 PM daily.

• Tip: Ask for pineapple-based dishes. Included in our Can Tho Cultural Tour ($50–$70).

5. Taste at Cultural Festivals

Enjoy Cau Duc Pineapples at the Khmer Ok Om Bok Festival (October–November), where stalls showcase local fruits alongside cultural events.

• Cost: Free entry; pineapples $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Hours: Festival hours vary.

• Tip: Book festival tours early. Included in our Can Tho Cultural Tour ($50–$70).

Dining and Tasting

• Cau Duc Pineapples at markets: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Restaurants: $3–$12 (75,000–300,000 VND).

• Drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

Activities

• Orchard tours: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).

• Cooking classes: $20–$40 (500,000–1,000,000 VND).

• Boat tours: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Festival entry: Free.

Accommodation (Vi Thanh or Can Tho)

• Homestays: $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).

• Hotels: $30–$80/night (750,000–2,000,000 VND).

• Resorts: $100–$250/night (2,500,000–6,250,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost

• Budget: $15–$40 (includes market pineapples, bike rental).

• Mid-range: $40–$70 (includes cooking classes, dining).

• Luxury: $70–$100 (includes private tours, upscale lodging).

Tip: Carry VND for vendors; use ATMs in Vi Thanh. Book tours early for peak season savings.

• Book Early: Reserve tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222, email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com) 3–5 weeks in advance, especially for December–April or festivals.

• Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for Hoa Tien orchards. Confirm boat prices before boarding.

• Stay Safe: Secure valuables at busy markets; wash hands before eating.

• Sustainability: Support eco-vendors; use reusable bags for pineapple purchases to align with Can Tho’s green initiatives.

• Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip vendors $0.50–$2; respect orchard property.

• Health Precautions: Use mosquito repellent at orchards; stay hydrated.

Our sustainable tours highlight Cau Duc Pineapples and Can Tho’s culinary treasures:

• Can Tho Foodie Tour ($55–$75/person): Cau Duc Pineapple tasting, orchard visit, cooking class. Includes eco-transfers, meals.

• Mekong River Adventure ($55–$75/person): Nga Bay Floating Market, pineapple tasting at canal-side stalls. Includes electric boat, snacks.

• Can Tho Cultural Tour ($50–$70/person): Pineapple orchards, Khmer Pagoda, festivals. Includes bike rentals, lunch.

• Mekong Delta Explorer ($250–$400/person, 2–3 days): Cau Duc Pineapples, Nga Bay, homestays. Includes activities, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, fees, and meals. Enjoy 10% off for groups of 8+. Book now via links around this page!

Cau Duc Pineapples, a sweet symbol of Mekong Delta resilience, captivate food lovers and eco-travelers with their juicy, tangy flavor, primarily grown in Nga Bay Town, Hau Giang Region, Can Tho City, and accessible via Can Tho City, 170 km from Ho Chi Minh City. From orchard tours in Hoa Tien Village to vibrant tastings at Nga Bay Market, this fruit, priced at $0.50–$1 per kg (12,500–25,000 VND), delivers an authentic taste of the region’s fertile lands. Legend Travel Group’s Can Tho Tours guide you to savor Cau Duc Pineapples, ensuring a sustainable Can Tho Travel experience with eco-friendly practices like supporting local farmers and visits to nearby Cai Rang Floating Market and Lung Ngoc Hoang Nature Reserve. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly culinary adventure today!
Ready to taste the Mekong’s sweetest treasure with Cau Duc Pineapples? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into Can Tho’s flavorful world!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, 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.

Sources:

• Cau Duc Pineapples Information: vietnam.travel, mekong-delta-tours.com, vietnamtourism.org.vn, dulich.haugiang.gov.vn, vinpearl.com