Discover essential tips for first-time visitors to Long An with our guide to sustainable travel, attractions, dining, and costs. Book eco-friendly tours with Legend Travel Group!
Capture the serene beauty of Long An’s Mekong Delta gem (Source: Internet)Long An Province, now encompassing Tay Ninh Ward, is a hidden gem in the Mekong Delta, just 50 km southwest of Ho Chi Minh City, renowned for its lush waterways, rice paddies, and cultural landmarks like Tan Lap Floating Village and Ba Chua Xu Temple. Ideal for first-time visitors seeking authentic experiences, Long An offers vibrant markets, Đờn ca tài tử music, and sustainable eco-tourism, attracting thousands annually. Its flat terrain and canal networks, nourished by the Vam Co Dong and Vam Co Tay rivers, create a serene backdrop for exploration. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, curates eco-friendly tours to immerse you in Long An’s treasures 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!
As of July 1, 2025, Tay Ninh Province has merged into Long An Province, with Tan An City as the administrative center. Vietnam’s streamlined administrative structure (wards/communes and provinces/cities) enhances regional connectivity. Long An’s tourism infrastructure, bolstered by a VND700 billion eco-tourism project, includes upgraded cycling paths and electric boat networks, ensuring sustainable access for first-time visitors.
With over 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group is Southeast Asia’s premier sustainable tour operator, dedicated to preserving Vietnam’s cultural and environmental heritage. Our Long An tours offer guided experiences with eco-friendly transport like electric boats and bicycles, led by local experts who share the region’s stories. Supporting Long An’s communities, we align with the Mekong Delta’s “Green Tourism” initiative and Vietnam’s “Travel to Love” campaign. 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 journey
Experience Long An Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Internet)Long An Province, spanning 4,495.5 km² with a population of 2.1 million, including Kinh, Khmer, and Hoa communities, thrives in a tropical monsoon climate with a dry season (November–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) and a rainy season (May–October, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F, with 100–400 mm monthly rainfall). Its flat terrain, nourished by the Vam Co Dong and Vam Co Tay rivers, supports vibrant ecosystems and cultural sites like Lang Sen Wetland Reserve. For first-time visitors, Long An’s welcoming locals and accessible attractions make it an ideal introduction to the Mekong Delta.
Clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable attire (cotton t-shirts, shorts) for the dry season; include a waterproof jacket or poncho ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND) for rainy season showers. For pagodas like Ba Chua Xu or Hoang Gia, wear modest clothing (long pants, maxi dresses, or shirts covering shoulders).
Sun Protection: Bring SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to combat intense UV rays.
Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes for markets; sandals for casual outings; waterproof shoes for rainy season wetland visits.
Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent (essential for rural areas like Tan Lap), reusable water bottle ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), and a compact umbrella.
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag and straw to support sustainability and reduce plastic waste.
Tech Gear: Camera for photography, portable charger, offline maps (Maps.me) with landmarks like Cho Dao Market.
Tip: Pack light for easy mobility; carry VND (50,000–200,000 notes) for vendors; use a waterproof backpack in rainy season.
Language: Most locals speak Vietnamese, with limited English proficiency outside urban areas like Tan An. Expect basic English at hotels and tourist sites.
Solutions:
Local Guides: Book tours with Legend Travel Group for English-speaking guides to bridge communication gaps and provide cultural insights.
Translation Apps: Download Google Translate or iTranslate (free on App Store/Google Play) for real-time Vietnamese translation; use offline mode for rural areas.
Basic Phrases: Learn simple Vietnamese phrases like “xin chào” (hello), “cảm ơn” (thank you), and “bao nhiêu” (how much) to connect with locals.
Tips: Carry a small notebook for writing or drawing to communicate needs; be patient and smile to foster goodwill; avoid complex questions without a guide.
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND) is preferred; ATMs are available in Tan An but scarce in rural areas like Moc Hoa. Carry small denominations (50,000–200,000 VND) for markets.
Haggling: Common at markets like Cho Dao; start at 50–70% of the quoted price and negotiate politely. Confirm prices before purchasing to avoid disputes.
Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated; tip guides/drivers $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) for excellent service.
Tips: Use mobile apps like XE Currency for real-time VND conversion; avoid flashing large sums to deter pickpockets; confirm prices for tours or transport upfront.
Safety: Long An is generally safe, but stay vigilant in crowded markets like Cho Dao to avoid pickpockets. Secure valuables in a money belt or locked bag.
Cultural Etiquette:
Dress modestly at pagodas (no shorts or sleeveless tops).
Remove shoes when entering homes or temples.
Greet locals with “xin chào” and a smile; avoid pointing or public displays of affection.
Health: Stay hydrated ($0.50 or 12,500 VND per bottle); use hand sanitizer for street food; avoid tap water and unfiltered ice.
Tips: Watch for slippery paths in rainy season; carry a small first-aid kit; respect local customs to enhance interactions.
Eco-Friendly Choices: Use bicycles ($2–$4/day or 50,000–100,000 VND) or electric boats ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND) for low-carbon exploration. Support local artisans at Cho Dao Market.
Minimize Waste: Carry a reusable water bottle and tote bag; avoid single-use plastics.
Community Support: Dine at local eateries and stay in homestays to boost the economy.
Tips: Choose Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours to align with sustainable practices; respect wildlife at Lang Sen Wetland Reserve by avoiding littering.
Dive into the flavorful charm of Long An Travel (Source: Internet)A 135-hectare cajeput forest with serene canals, ideal for eco-boat tours and birdwatching.
Cost: Entry $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND); boat tours $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).
Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.
Highlights: Lotus blooms, 38m observation tower, wildlife like herons.
Tips: Visit August–October for lush scenery; book electric boat tours; included in our Long An Eco-Tour ($70–$90).
A 5,030-hectare Ramsar site with lotus fields and rare birds like sarus cranes.
Cost: Entry $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND); guided tours $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).
Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.
Highlights: Eco-boat tours, photography, sustainable farming workshops.
Tips: Bring binoculars; ideal for August–October; included in our Long An Eco-Tour ($70–$90).
A historic temple known for its vibrant festival in the fourth lunar month.
Cost: Free entry; donations $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND); guided tours $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).
Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.
Highlights: Spiritual rituals, Đờn ca tài tử music, festival boat races.
Tips: Book 4–6 weeks in advance for the festival (April–May); included in our Long An Cultural Tour ($65–$85).
Nha Hang Que Nha (Tan An): Riverside eatery serving lẩu mắm (fish sauce hotpot) and cá lóc nướng trui (grilled snakehead fish).
Address: 128 Hung Vuong Street, Ward 2, Tan An City, Long An Province.
Cost: $4–$15 (100,000–375,000 VND).
Hours: 10:00 AM–9:00 PM daily.
Tips: Reserve for riverside tables; try the lotus stem salad.
Café Song Nuoc (Tan An): Cozy café offering Vietnamese coffee and dragon fruit smoothies.
Address: 56 Tran Phong Sac Street, Ward 2, Tan An City, Long An Province.
Cost: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).
Hours: 6:00 AM–8:00 PM daily.
Tips: Ideal for morning coffee with river views.
Quan An Huong Viet (Moc Hoa): Rustic eatery near Tan Lap, serving cá lóc nướng trui and lotus dishes.
Address: 42 Tran Hung Dao Street, Moc Hoa Commune, Long An Province.
Cost: $4–$10 (100,000–250,000 VND).
Hours: 10:00 AM–7:00 PM daily.
Tips: Pair with Go Den Wine; perfect for eco-tourists.
Experience Long An Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Internet)The Mira Central Park Hotel (Tan An): 4-star hotel with eco-friendly amenities, near cultural hubs.
Cost: $50–$90/night (1,250,000–2,250,000 VND).
Amenities: Pool, gym, free breakfast, bicycle rentals.
Tips: Book early for river-view rooms; ideal for luxury travelers.
Mekong Riverside Homestay (Chau Thanh): Sustainable homestay with farm-to-table meals.
Cost: $15–$35/night (375,000–875,000 VND).
Amenities: Home-cooked meals, bike rentals, cooking classes.
Tips: Perfect for immersive stays; book for farm activities.
Tan Lap Eco Lodge (Moc Hoa): Rustic lodge with canal views, near Tan Lap.
Cost: $20–$40/night (500,000–1,000,000 VND).
Amenities: Home-cooked meals, bike rentals, eco-tours.
Tips: Book for proximity to Tan Lap; mosquito repellent recommended.
By Bus:
Ho Chi Minh City to Tan An: From Mien Tay Bus Station (1–1.5 hours, 50 km, $5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).
Providers: Phuong Trang (Futa Bus), Tel: (+84) 1900 6067; Kumho Samco.
Tips: Book online via VeXeRe or Baolau; arrive 30 minutes early.
By Taxi:
Ho Chi Minh City to Tan An: 1–1.5 hours, 50 km, $20–$35 (500,000–875,000 VND).
Providers: Mai Linh Taxi, Tel: (+84) 2723 838 838; Grab app.
Tips: Use Grab for transparent pricing; confirm fares upfront.
By Bicycle (Eco-Friendly):
Cost: $2–$4/day (50,000–100,000 VND).
Details: Available at homestays or hotels; ideal for short trips in Tan An or Chau Thanh.
Tips: Combine with electric boat tours; included in our Long An Eco-Tour ($70–$90).
Start your Long An Travel with tranquil vibes (Source: Internet)Dry Season (November–April): Ideal for outdoor exploration and festivals like Ba Chua Xu (April–May); comfortable weather for cycling and boat tours.
Rainy Season (May–October): Lush wetlands and lotus blooms, especially August–October, perfect for photography; 10–20% tour discounts.
Tips: Book 4–6 weeks in advance for festivals; check AccuWeather for updates; August–October is best for eco-tourism.
Attraction Entry: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).
Activities:
Guided tours: $5–$25 (125,000–625,000 VND).
Boat tours: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).
Cultural workshops: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).
Dining: Meals at restaurants (e.g., Nha Hang Que Nha, Quan An Huong Viet): $4–$15 (100,000–375,000 VND); drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).
Accommodation:
Homestays: $15–$35/night (375,000–875,000 VND).
Hotels: $25–$90/night (625,000–2,250,000 VND).
Lodges: $20–$40/night (500,000–1,000,000 VND).
Transport:
Bus (HCMC to Tan An): $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Taxi (Tan An to Moc Hoa): $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).
Total Daily Cost:
Budget: $25–$50 (bus, meals, homestay).
Mid-range: $50–$100 (guided tours, dining, taxi).
Luxury: $120–$250 (hotel, private tours, upscale dining).
Tip: Carry VND for small transactions; ATMs are available in Tan An.
Our eco-friendly tours showcase Long An’s treasures for first-time visitors:
Long An Eco-Tour ($70–$90/person): Explore Tan Lap Floating Village and Lang Sen Wetland Reserve via electric boats, cycle through rice paddies. Includes transfers, snacks, guide.
Long An Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Savor lẩu mắm and bánh tét at Cho Dao Market, join a cooking class. Includes eco-transfers, meals, guide.
Long An Cultural Tour ($65–$85/person): Visit Phuoc Loc Tho Ancient Village and Ba Chua Xu Temple, enjoy Đờn ca tài tử performances. Includes eco-transfers, lunch, guide.
Mekong Delta Explorer ($350–$500/person, 2–3 days): Discover Long An, My Tho, and Ben Tre with homestays and eco-activities. Includes meals, transfers, guide.
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!
For first-time visitors, Long An Province offers an authentic Mekong Delta experience with its lush landscapes, vibrant markets, and cultural treasures. With Legend Travel Group’s Long An Tours, you’ll explore Tan Lap’s canals, savor local cuisine, and connect with welcoming communities while following eco-conscious travel tips, ensuring a sustainable Long An Travel journey. Plan your Long An adventure with our guide and book your eco-friendly tour today!
Ready to discover Long An for the first time? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and experience the Mekong Delta’s authentic 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: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group
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