Discover Chợ Gạo dragon fruit, a juicy Mekong Delta specialty, in Tien Giang’s My Tho. Explore orchards, costs, and book eco-tours with Legend Travel Group!
Nestled in the fertile heart of Tien Giang, Chợ Gạo is renowned for its vibrant dragon fruit orchards, producing some of Vietnam’s juiciest and most nutritious fruits. Known as thanh long Chợ Gạo, these dragon fruits, with their sweet, refreshing white or red pulp, are a highlight of the Mekong Delta’s agricultural heritage. Just a short trip from My Tho, Chợ Gạo’s orchards offer a delightful blend of fruit tasting, eco-tourism, and cultural immersion. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, curates eco-friendly tours that let you explore these lush orchards while supporting local farmers. Start your adventure—book our tours via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!
Tien Giang Province, with My Tho as its bustling hub, now includes the former Dong Thap Province, enhancing its appeal as a tourism destination. Upgraded eco-friendly infrastructure, including cycling paths and electric boat networks, supports sustainable visits to Chợ Gạo’s orchards, aligning with the “Green Delta” initiative.
With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group is Southeast Asia’s premier sustainable tour operator, dedicated to showcasing Vietnam’s agricultural and cultural treasures. Our Chợ Gạo tours combine eco-friendly transport—bicycles and electric boats—with hands-on dragon fruit tasting and orchard visits, guided by local experts. Supporting Tien Giang’s farming communities, 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 experience!
Chợ Gạo, a key agricultural hub in Tien Giang, boasts over 7,400 hectares of dragon fruit orchards, producing 188,000 tons annually, making it Vietnam’s second-largest dragon fruit region. These fruits, certified under VietGAP standards for quality and sustainability, come in two varieties: white pulp with red skin and red pulp with red skin, both prized for their mild sweetness and high nutritional value. 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)—nurtures these orchards year-round. Visit Chợ Gạo’s farms or My Tho’s markets to taste this delicacy, paired with eco-tours for a true Mekong experience.
White Pulp Dragon Fruit: Light, refreshing, and slightly sweet, ideal for snacking or juicing.
Red Pulp Dragon Fruit: Sweeter and vibrant, perfect for desserts or smoothies.
Serving Style: Slice in half and scoop out the flesh, or peel and cube for salads. Pair with a squeeze of lime for a tangy twist.
Eco-Tip: Choose VietGAP-certified fruits to support sustainable farming practices.
Chợ Gạo Fruit Market
A lively market in Chợ Gạo, offering fresh dragon fruits and local produce.
Cost: $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND) per fruit; $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) per kg.
Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.
Highlights: Freshly harvested fruits, vibrant market atmosphere, budget-friendly.
Tips: Visit early for the best selection; included in our Chợ Gạo Eco-Tour ($70–$90).
My Tho Night Market
A bustling food hub on 30/4 Street, serving dragon fruit in smoothies, salads, or fresh slices.
Cost: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) per serving.
Hours: 6:00 PM–11:00 PM daily.
Highlights: Lively street food scene, diverse Mekong dishes, affordable.
Tips: Try dragon fruit smoothies; included in our My Tho Cultural Tour ($60–$80).
Thoi Son Island Homestays
Enjoy dragon fruit fresh from nearby orchards at rustic homestays, paired with Mekong hospitality.
Cost: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) per serving.
Hours: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.
Highlights: Farm-fresh fruits, canal views, cultural immersion.
Tips: Pair with a boat tour; included in our Thoi Son Foodie Tour ($65–$85).
Mekong Taste Restaurant (My Tho)
A riverside eatery offering dragon fruit in creative dishes like salads or desserts.
Cost: $3–$7 (75,000–175,000 VND) per serving.
Hours: 10:00 AM–9:00 PM daily.
Highlights: Elegant presentation, riverfront seating, diverse menu.
Tips: Reserve for sunset dining; included in our Tien Giang Foodie Tour ($65–$85).
Visit Orchards: Tour Chợ Gạo’s dragon fruit farms to pick and taste fruits straight from the vine ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND for guided tours).
Join Workshops: Learn about dragon fruit cultivation and VietGAP standards from local farmers ($5–$15 or 125,000–375,000 VND).
Pair with Eco-Tours: Combine tastings with cycling through orchards, canal cruises, or visits to My Tho’s Vinh Trang Pagoda for a full Mekong adventure.
Shop at Markets: Buy fresh dragon fruits or dragon fruit-based products like jams at Chợ Gạo or My Tho markets.
Explore Local Cuisine: Complement with Tien Giang specialties like Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho or bánh bèo.
Tips:
Bring a reusable tote for fruit purchases to support sustainability.
Book guided eco-tours for insights into Chợ Gạo’s farming practices; included in our tours.
Visit during the rainy season (May–November) for peak dragon fruit harvests.
My Tho, Tien Giang’s hub, is the gateway to Chợ Gạo (25 km away):
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 Chợ Gạo: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND, 30–45 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 Chợ Gạo: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND, 30 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 Chợ Gạo: 30–45 minutes.
Rent at Mekong Moto Rentals, HCMC (+84 938 456 789).
Tips:
Book buses via VeXeRe or Baolau for convenience.
Use offline maps (Maps.me); save Chợ Gạo Fruit Market as a landmark.
Included in our Chợ Gạo Eco-Tour ($70–$90) for seamless transfers.
Dry Season (December–April): Ideal for cycling and market visits; Tet (January–February) features festive fruit stalls.
Rainy Season (May–November): Peak dragon fruit harvest season with lush orchards; enjoy 10–20% tour discounts.
Tips: Book 3–4 weeks in advance for peak seasons; check AccuWeather for rainy season updates.
Pack for a sustainable orchard 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 orchards; waterproof shoes for rainy season.
Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella.
Tech Gear: Smartphone for photos; portable charger; camera for orchard shots.
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for fruit purchases, bamboo straw for sustainability.
Tip: Carry VND (50,000–200,000 notes) for small vendors; use a waterproof backpack in rainy season.
Dragon Fruit: $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND) per fruit; $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) per kg.
Activities:
Orchard tours: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Cooking/farming workshops: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).
Boat tours to Thoi Son: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).
Bicycle rental: $2–$4/day (50,000–100,000 VND).
Dining (Other Dishes): Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho, bánh bèo at eateries: $2–$8 (50,000–200,000 VND); drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).
Accommodation (My Tho):
Homestays: $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).
Hotels (e.g., Minh Kieu Hotel): $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 Chợ Gạo: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).
Total Daily Cost:
Budget: $15–$35 (bus, market fruits, 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 markets.
Book Early: Reserve tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222) 3–4 weeks in advance, especially for Tet or harvest season.
Seasonal Tips:
Dry Season: Pack sunscreen; ideal for cycling through orchards.
Rainy Season: Bring waterproof gear; enjoy lush, fruitful orchards.
Sustainability: Support VietGAP-certified farmers; use eco-transport like bicycles or electric boats.
Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me); save Chợ Gạo Fruit Market as a landmark.
Safety: Secure valuables at markets; respect orchard boundaries when picking fruit.
Cultural Respect: Greet farmers with “xin chào” (hello); tip guides $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).
Health: Stay hydrated ($0.50 or 12,500 VND per bottle); apply mosquito repellent in orchards.
Our eco-friendly tours showcase Tien Giang’s agricultural and cultural gems:
Chợ Gạo Eco-Tour ($70–$90/person): Explore dragon fruit orchards, cycle through Chợ Gạo, and visit My Tho’s markets. Includes transfers, fruit tastings, guide.
Tien Giang Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Taste dragon fruit, Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho, and join coconut candy workshops. Includes eco-transfers, meals, guide.
My Tho Cultural Tour ($60–$80/person): Enjoy dragon fruit at My Tho’s night market, visit Vinh Trang Pagoda, and experience “Don Ca Tai Tu” music. Includes eco-transfers, lunch, guide.
Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450/person, 2–3 days): Explore Chợ Gạo, My Tho’s markets, Cai Be Floating Market, 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!
Chợ Gạo Dragon Fruit, a sweet, vibrant taste of Tien Giang Region, Dong Thap Province’s Mekong Delta heritage, offers juicy flavors with its pink-red skin and white or red flesh, priced at $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) per kg. Grown in the lush farms of Chợ Gạo District and sold at My Tho’s bustling markets, this fruit invites travelers to savor local traditions, located 70 km from Ho Chi Minh City. Legend Travel Group’s Tien Giang Tours ensure a sustainable Tien Giang Travel experience, blending eco-friendly orchard adventures with organic farming practices and visits to Cai Be Floating Market and Vinh Trang Pagoda. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to taste Tien Giang’s juicy dragon fruit? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into the Mekong Delta’s fruitful heart!
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:
Chợ Gạo Dragon Fruit Information: By Tony Bui at Legend Travel Group
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