Dong Thap Rat Meat: A Unique Culinary Adventure in the Mekong Delta

Nestled in the fertile Mekong Delta, now part of Tien Giang Province, Dong Thap Ward is renowned for its unique culinary tradition of rat meat, a delicacy that intrigues and delights adventurous foodies, drawing thousands of visitors annually. Sourced from rice field rats that feed on natural grains and herbs, this dish offers a clean, flavorful taste akin to wild game. Recognized as a specialty of the Dong Thap Muoi region, it reflects the area’s rustic heritage and sustainable practices. Legend Travel Group, a leading sustainable tour operator, enhances your culinary journey with eco-friendly food tours, connecting you to Dong Thap’s vibrant food scene and local communities. Book your adventure via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Update

As of July 1, 2025, Dong Thap Province has merged into Tien Giang Province, with My Tho as the administrative center. Dong Thap is now a ward, but its culinary fame, particularly for rat meat, remains strong, supported by upgraded infrastructure like cycling paths, electric boat networks, and a VND600 billion flood control project, ensuring easy access to dining and attractions.

With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group is Southeast Asia’s premier sustainable tourism operator, dedicated to preserving Vietnam’s culinary and cultural heritage. Our Dong Thap food tours pair rat meat tastings with eco-friendly activities like cycling and electric boat rides, guided by local experts who share the region’s traditions and sustainable practices. Supporting communities in Dong Thap, My Tho, and Sa Dec, we align with Tien Giang’s “Green Delta” initiative. Enjoy 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 culinary experience!

Located in the Dong Thap Muoi region, 160 km southwest of Ho Chi Minh City, Dong Thap Ward’s rat meat is a delicacy crafted from field rats that feed on rice and herbs, ensuring a clean, lean flavor. The region’s tropical monsoon climate features 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 of 100–400 mm in August–October). Prepared through grilling, stir-frying, or steaming, rat meat is often served with local herbs, lemon pepper salt, and lotus leaves, offering a unique taste of Mekong Delta’s rustic cuisine. Its popularity peaks during the rice harvest season (January–February), making it a cultural highlight for visitors.

Dong Thap rat meat stands out for its unique qualities:

• Sustainable Sourcing: Field rats, abundant in rice paddies, are a natural, eco-friendly protein source, feeding on rice and herbs, free from chemicals.

• Distinctive Flavor: Lean and tender, the meat has a gamey taste similar to wild deer or rabbit, enhanced by local spices like lemongrass and chili.

• Cultural Heritage: A traditional dish of the Dong Thap Muoi region, it reflects the resourcefulness of Mekong Delta farmers, often paired with seasonal festivals like Tet.

• Versatile Preparations: Enjoy grilled (chuột nướng), stir-fried with lemongrass (chuột xào sả ớt), or steamed with lotus leaves (chuột hấp lá sen), each offering a unique flavor profile.

• Culinary Adventure: Its bold reputation makes it a must-try for adventurous eaters, often paired with local rice wine or fresh coconut water.

1. Savor Rat Meat at Local Eateries

Taste expertly prepared rat meat dishes at renowned restaurants like Sen Le Bo Ecotourism Area or Cao Lanh local eateries, served with herbs, green bananas, and lemon pepper salt.

• Cost: $3–$10 (75,000–250,000 VND) per portion; drinks $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

• Hours: Typically 8:00 AM–8:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Grilled rat with lotus leaves, stir-fried rat with chili.

• Tips: Try with local rice wine; included in our Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

2. Join a Rat Meat Cooking Class

Learn to prepare rat meat dishes in workshops led by local chefs, using fresh ingredients and traditional techniques.

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

• Hours: 8:00 AM–4:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Hands-on grilling, stir-frying, tasting your creation.

• Tips: Book through local cooperatives; included in our Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

3. Visit Local Markets

Explore Cao Lanh Market or Sa Dec Night Market to buy fresh rat meat or sample it at food stalls, paired with Mekong Delta specialties like bánh xèo.

• Cost: Rat meat dishes $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND); snacks $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Hours: 5:00 AM–10:00 PM daily (peak 6:00–8:00 PM for night markets).

• Highlights: Freshly prepared rat meat, local herbs, vibrant atmosphere.

• Tips: Arrive early for the freshest offerings; included in our Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

4. Combine with Eco-Tourism Attractions

Pair your culinary experience with visits to Tram Chim National Park (40 km), Sa Dec Flower Village (30 km), or Xeo Quyt Relic Area (30 km).

• Cost: Boat tours $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND); bike rentals $2–$4/day (50,000–100,000 VND).

• Highlights: Sarus Cranes, lotus fields, historical relics.

• Tips: Book through Sa Dec River Tours (+84) 930 234 789; included in our Dong Thap Eco-Tour ($70–$90).

5. Experience Tet Festivals

Visit during Tet (January–February) to enjoy rat meat at festive markets alongside cultural events like folk music and boat races.

• Cost: Food $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND); festival entry free.

• Highlights: Vibrant food stalls, traditional performances.

• Tips: Book 3–4 weeks in advance; included in our Dong Thap Cultural Tour ($60–$80).

• By Bus:

  • Ho Chi Minh City (Mien Tay Bus Station) to Cao Lanh/Sa Dec: $10–$18 (250,000–450,000 VND, 3–4 hours).

  • My Tho to Cao Lanh/Sa Dec: $4–$7 (100,000–175,000 VND, 1–1.5 hours). Providers: Phuong Trang (+84) 1900 6067.

• By Car/Taxi:

  • Ho Chi Minh City to Cao Lanh/Sa Dec: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND, 3–4 hours). Route: Ho Chi Minh City–Trung Luong Expressway–National Highway 1A–National Route 80.

  • My Tho to Cao Lanh/Sa Dec: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND, 1–1.5 hours). Providers: Mai Linh Taxi (+84) 2773 686 868, Grab app.

• By Motorbike:

  • Ho Chi Minh City to Cao Lanh/Sa Dec: $6–$12/day (150,000–300,000 VND, 3–4 hours). Rent at Mekong Moto Rentals (+84) 938 456 789.

• Tips:

  • Book buses online via VeXeRe or Baolau; use offline maps (Maps.me) with Cao Lanh Market as a landmark.

  • Transfers included in our Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450).

• Dry Season (December–April): Ideal for dining and exploring markets, especially during Tet (January–February) when rat meat is a festive highlight; book 3–4 weeks in advance.

• Rainy Season (May–November): Lush scenery and fewer crowds; 15–25% tour discounts. August–October is great for serene dining.

• Tips: Visit during rice harvest (January–February) for the freshest rat meat; check AccuWeather for rainy season updates.

• Sen Le Bo Ecotourism Area (My Hoa, 30 km from Cao Lanh): Grilled and stir-fried rat meat with lotus leaves. $3–$10 (75,000–250,000 VND). Address: My Hoa Commune, Thap Muoi. Open: 9:00 AM–7:00 PM. Tel: (+84) 918 107 132.

• Cao Lanh Market (Cao Lanh): Fresh rat meat dishes at food stalls. $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND). Address: Le Loi Street, Cao Lanh. Open: 5:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Tam Nong Local Eatery (Tam Nong, 40 km from Cao Lanh): Rustic rat meat dishes. $3–$8 (75,000–200,000 VND). Address: Tam Nong Commune. Open: 8:00 AM–8:00 PM. Tel: (+84) 936 789 456.

• Hotels and Homestays:

  • Lotus Haven Homestay: Tan Quy Dong, Sa Dec (30 km). $15–$30/night (375,000–750,000 VND). Tel: (+84) 939 123 456.

  • Mekong Charm Hotel: 120 Tran Hung Dao, Sa Dec (30 km). $25–$60/night (625,000–1,500,000 VND). Tel: (+84) 927 345 678.

  • Sen Vang Resort: Cao Lanh (10 km). $90–$180/night (2,250,000–4,500,000 VND). Tel: (+84) 913 789 123.

• Restaurants:

  • Nha Hang Sen Viet (Sa Dec, 30 km): Rat meat, bánh xèo, lotus dishes. $4–$15 (100,000–375,000 VND). Open: 10:00 AM–9:00 PM.

  • Pho Sa Dec (Sa Dec, 30 km): Rice noodle soup, rat meat sides. $3–$8 (75,000–200,000 VND). Open: 7:00 AM–8:00 PM.

• Cafes:

  • Tam Nong Lotus Cafe (Tam Nong, 40 km): Coffee, lotus tea $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND). Open: 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.

  • Sa Dec River Cafe (Sa Dec, 30 km): Riverside views, coffee $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND). Open: 7:00 AM–10:00 PM.

Tip: Support local eateries using organic ingredients; carry VND for small vendors.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable culinary visit:

• Clothing: Lightweight attire for dry season; waterproof jacket ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND) for rainy season. Modest clothing for cultural respect.

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

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

• Tech Gear: Smartphone for photos; portable charger for market visits.

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

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

Tip: Use a small backpack for convenience; carry VND for market vendors.

• Dining:

  • Rat meat dishes: $2–$10 (50,000–250,000 VND) per portion.

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

• Activities:

  • Cooking classes: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

  • Market visits: Free entry; snacks $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

  • Boat tours to nearby attractions: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Accommodation:

  • Homestays: $15–$30/night (375,000–750,000 VND).

  • Hotels: $25–$60/night (625,000–1,500,000 VND).

• Transport to Dong Thap:

  • Bus from Ho Chi Minh City: $10–$18 (250,000–450,000 VND).

  • Taxi from My Tho: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost:

• Budget: $20–$50 (homestay, market dining, local transport).

• Mid-range: $50–$100 (hotel, cooking classes, dining).

• Luxury: $100–$200 (hotel, private tours, upscale dining).

Tip: Carry VND for small transactions; ATMs are available in Cao Lanh and Sa Dec.

• Book Early: Reserve tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222, email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com) 3–4 weeks in advance, especially for Tet or peak season (December–April).

• Seasonal Tips:

  • Dry Season: Ideal for dining and market visits; pack sunscreen.

  • Rainy Season: Lush scenery; bring waterproof gear.

• Sustainability: Support restaurants using locally sourced rats and ingredients; avoid single-use plastics.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me); save Cao Lanh Market as a landmark.

• Safety: Secure valuables at busy markets; confirm prices before ordering.

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

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

Our eco-friendly tours showcase Dong Thap’s rat meat and beyond:

• Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Taste rat meat at Sen Le Bo, visit Cao Lanh Market, join a rat meat cooking class. Includes eco-transfers, meals, guide.

• Dong Thap Eco-Tour ($70–$90/person): Enjoy rat meat, cycle through Lai Vung Tangerine Gardens, take an electric boat tour in Tram Chim National Park. Includes transfers, snacks, guide.

• Dong Thap Cultural Tour ($60–$80/person): Pair rat meat dining with visits to Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House, Thap Muoi Lotus Festival. Includes eco-transfers, lunch, guide.

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450/person, 2–3 days): Savor rat meat, explore Sa Dec Flower Village, stay at homestays ($15–$30/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!

Dong Thap Province, a bold culinary gem in the Mekong Delta located 170 km from Ho Chi Minh City, enchants with rat meat (thịt chuột đồng), a flavorful delicacy embodying the region’s rustic heritage, prized for its tender texture and earthy taste when grilled or stir-fried with lemongrass and garlic. Savor this unique dish at vibrant markets like Cao Lanh Market or during eco-tourism experiences in Tram Chim National Park, drawing thousands yearly for $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) per serving. Legend Travel Group’s Dong Thap Tours ensure a sustainable Dong Thap Travel experience, exploring responsibly sourced rat meat while supporting local communities through eco-friendly practices like low-impact tours and visits to Gao Giong Lotus Pond and Sa Dec Flower Village. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-conscious culinary adventure today!
Ready to taste the adventurous Dong Thap rat meat? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse in the Mekong Delta’s culinary charm!

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:

• Dong Thap Rat Meat Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, mekong-delta-tours.com, vnexpress.net, vietnamcoracle.com