Planning your first trip to Ben Tre? Discover essential travel tips, costs, and top tours to explore the Coconut Kingdom. Book with Legend Travel Group for an unforgettable Mekong Delta experience!
Ben Tre, the heart of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, is a vibrant destination known as the “Coconut Kingdom” for its lush coconut groves, serene waterways, and rich cultural heritage. Located just 85 km southwest of Ho Chi Minh City, it’s an accessible escape into rural Vietnam, offering everything from boat tours to coconut candy workshops. For first-time visitors, proper planning ensures a seamless and unforgettable experience in this tropical paradise.
As a leading local tour operator, Legend Travel Group is here to guide you with expert tips and curated tours to make your Ben Tre journey effortless. From weather preparation to local customs, our comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know, plus opportunities to book immersive tours that showcase the best of Ben Tre. Let’s get started!
Ben Tre’s charm lies in its blend of natural beauty, authentic cuisine, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re cruising through its intricate canals, savoring snail pancakes, or exploring historic sites like Tuyen Linh Temple, the region offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Its proximity to Ho Chi Minh City makes it ideal for day trips or extended stays, and Legend Travel Group’s tailored tours ensure you experience the Mekong Delta’s soul.
Key Attractions:
Coconut Culture: Visit workshops and taste iconic coconut candy.
Waterways: Explore rivers and canals by boat or sampan.
Local Markets: Shop for crafts and fresh produce at Ben Tre Night Market.
Eco-Tourism: Discover Vam Ho Bird Sanctuary and fruit orchards.
Ben Tre’s tropical monsoon climate features two seasons:
Dry Season (November–April): Warm (25–35°C) and sunny, ideal for outdoor activities like boat tours and cycling. Pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat.
Rainy Season (May–October): Lush and green, with brief showers. Bring a lightweight raincoat, umbrella, and waterproof shoes.
Tip: Check weather apps a week before your trip to pack appropriately. Our tours include indoor options during unexpected rain, ensuring a comfortable experience.
Recommended Tour: Mekong Delta Boat & Coconut Village Tour (1,400,000 VND/~$56 USD per person) for scenic canal exploration, rain or shine. Book at info@legendtravelgroup.com or (+84) 825862222.
Ben Tre offers diverse lodging, from luxury resorts like Ben Tre Riverside Resort (1,300,000 VND/~$52 USD per night) to cozy homestays like Mango Home Riverside (1,250,000 VND/~$50 USD per night).
Before Check-In: Inspect the room’s air conditioning, Wi-Fi, hot water, and cleanliness. Request a room away from elevators or noisy areas.
Booking Tip: Reserve early during peak seasons (November–April) or festivals like the Coconut Festival. Legend Travel Group can bundle accommodations with tours for exclusive rates.
Tip: Ask for fresh towels and sanitized cups upon arrival, as housekeeping may occasionally overlook these.
Recommended Tour: Ben Tre Cultural Heritage Tour (1,300,000 VND/~$52 USD per person) with a stay at a local homestay. Reserve at (+84) 825862222.
Ben Tre’s compact layout is easy to explore, but rural areas can be tricky without a map.
Tools: Download offline maps (e.g., Google Maps) or carry a physical map. Local Wi-Fi is reliable at hotels and cafes.
Getting Lost: If disoriented, relax at a riverside cafe and ask locals for directions. Basic Vietnamese phrases like “Xin chào” (Hello) or “Đi đâu?” (Where to go?) can help.
Transport Options:
Buses: From Ho Chi Minh City’s Mien Tay Bus Station (85,000–140,000 VND/~$3.40–$5.60 USD, 1.5–2 hours).
Motorbikes: Rent for 200,000 VND (~$8 USD) per day; an International Driving Permit is required for foreigners.
Private Cars: Hire for 1,200,000–2,500,000 VND (~$48–$100 USD) per day.
Tip: Our tours include round-trip transport from Ho Chi Minh City, eliminating navigation hassles.
Recommended Tour: Ben Tre Cycling & Orchard Adventure (1,600,000 VND/~$64 USD per person) with guided routes. Book at info@legendtravelgroup.com.
Health Precautions: Pack hand sanitizer, mosquito repellent, and any personal medications. Tap water is not potable—buy bottled water (10,000 VND/~$0.40 USD per liter).
In Case of Illness: Contact your hotel staff or tour guide for assistance. Ben Tre General Hospital is well-equipped, and pharmacies are widely available.
Food Safety: Stick to busy eateries for fresh dishes like elephant earfish or coconut rice. Our culinary tours ensure hygienic dining at trusted venues.
Tip: Carry a small first-aid kit with band-aids and pain relievers for minor issues.
Recommended Tour: Ben Tre Market & Food Tour (900,000 VND/~$36 USD per person) for safe street food tastings. Call (+84) 825862222.
Plan your trip based on your stay duration:
1 Day: Focus on a boat tour through canals, a coconut candy workshop, and Ben Tre Night Market.
2–3 Days: Add Con Phung Island, Vam Ho Bird Sanctuary, and a cycling tour through orchards.
Festivals: Visit during the Coconut Festival (typically April, biennial) or Dong Khoi Revolutionary Festival (January 17) for cultural immersion.
Tip: Legend Travel Group customizes itineraries to match your interests, from food to eco-tourism. Allow buffer time for relaxed exploration.
Recommended Tour: Full-Day Ben Tre & My Tho Combo Tour (2,000,000 VND/~$80 USD per person) for a comprehensive experience. Book at info@legendtravelgroup.com.
Foreigners can rent motorbikes or cars for flexibility, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is mandatory.
Motorbike Rental: 200,000 VND (~$8 USD) per day; helmets are required.
Car Rental: 1,200,000 VND (~$48 USD) per day with a driver.
Rules: Follow speed limits (40–60 km/h in urban/rural areas) and carry your IDP, passport, and rental agreement.
Tip: For safety and convenience, join our guided tours with included transport instead of driving.
Recommended Tour: Fireflies Night Boat Tour (1,200,000 VND/~$48 USD per person) for a hassle-free evening adventure. Reserve at (+84) 825862222.
Ben Tre’s residents are warm and welcoming, but observing local etiquette enhances your experience.
Greetings: A smile and “Xin chào” go a long way.
Dress Code: Wear modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees) at temples like Tuyen Linh.
Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated; 20,000–50,000 VND (~$0.80–$2 USD) for guides or servers is generous.
Photography: Ask permission before photographing locals, especially in rural areas.
Tip: Our guides brief you on cultural norms during tours, ensuring respectful interactions.
Recommended Tour: Ben Tre Cultural Heritage Tour (1,300,000 VND/~$52 USD per person) with temple visits. Book at info@legendtravelgroup.com.
Ben Tre is budget-friendly, but planning helps:
Accommodation: 350,000–1,500,000 VND (~$14–$60 USD) per night.
Food: Street food (15,000–50,000 VND/~$0.60–$2 USD per dish); restaurant meals (70,000–250,000 VND/~$2.80–$10 USD).
Transport: Bus tickets (85,000–140,000 VND/~$3.40–$5.60 USD); motorbike rentals (200,000 VND/~$8 USD).
Tours: 900,000–2,000,000 VND (~$36–$80 USD) per person for guided experiences.
Tip: Book with Legend Travel Group for bundled tour and accommodation deals to save costs.
Recommended Tour: Ben Tre Night Market & Dinner Tour (900,000 VND/~$36 USD per person) for affordable dining. Call (+84) 825862222.
As of late 2025, Ben Tre will transition from a province to a ward within the restructured Vinh Long Province, following the merger of Ben Tre, Vinh Long, and Tra Vinh provinces. This change will not impact tourism, attractions, or accessibility. Legend Travel Group stays updated on regional developments to ensure seamless travel planning.
As a trusted local tour operator, Legend Travel Group specializes in authentic Ben Tre experiences. Here’s why first-timers choose us:
Local Expertise: Our Mekong Delta-native guides share insider knowledge.
Tailored Tours: Customize your itinerary for a personalized adventure.
Affordable Rates: Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
Hassle-Free Booking: Reserve online, via email, or through our hotline for instant confirmation.
Ben Tre’s coconut groves, tranquil rivers, and vibrant culture await your discovery. With these essential tips and Legend Travel Group’s expertly crafted tours, your first visit will be both seamless and memorable. From boat cruises to culinary adventures, we’ve got your Mekong Delta experience covered. Legend Travel Group’s Ben Tre Tours guide you through this tropical paradise, ensuring a sustainable Ben Tre Travel experience that supports local communities and eco-friendly practices. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Ben Tre adventure today!
Book Your Tour Now: Visit our website, email info@legendtravelgroup.com, or call (+84) 825862222 to secure your spot. Don’t wait—your Ben Tre adventure begins here!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group
Favorite experiences booked by travelers