Exploring Dong Thap’s Fruit Gardens: A Sustainable Mekong Delta Adventure

Nestled in the fertile Mekong Delta, now part of Tien Giang Province, Dong Thap Ward is renowned for its vibrant fruit gardens, nourished by the alluvial soils of the Tien River, attracting over 100,000 visitors annually. Known as the “Land of Pink Lotus,” Dong Thap’s orchards offer a delightful blend of tropical flavors, scenic beauty, and eco-tourism, with specialties like Cao Lanh mangoes and Lai Vung tangerines. Legend Travel Group, a leading sustainable tour operator, crafts eco-friendly tours that immerse you in these lush gardens while supporting local farmers and communities. Start your journey—book our tours 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 tourism allure remains strong, supported by upgraded infrastructure like cycling paths, electric boat networks, and a VND600 billion flood control project, ensuring easy access to its fruit gardens and eco-tourism sites.

With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group is Southeast Asia’s premier sustainable tourism operator, dedicated to preserving Vietnam’s cultural and environmental heritage. Our Dong Thap tours combine visits to fruit gardens with eco-friendly transport like bicycles and electric boats, guided by local experts who share the region’s agricultural and cultural stories. 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 experience!

Located 160 km southwest of Ho Chi Minh City, Dong Thap Ward benefits from 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 of 100–400 mm in August–October). The region’s fertile soils produce an abundance of tropical fruits, making fruit garden tourism a highlight of Mekong Delta travel. Visitors can pick fresh fruits, enjoy rustic meals, and explore nearby attractions like Tram Chim National Park, all while supporting sustainable farming practices.

1. Lai Vung Tangerine Gardens

Located in Lai Vung, these gardens are famous for their juicy, golden tangerines, a Mekong Delta specialty. The vibrant orchards burst with color during Tet (January–February).

• Cost: Entry $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND); guided tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Pick tangerines, enjoy fresh juice, cycle through orchards.

• Tips: Visit during Tet for festive vibes; included in our Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

2. Cao Lanh Mango Orchards

In Hoa An Commune, Cao Lanh, these orchards grow Hoa Loc mangoes, known for their sweet, aromatic flavor and thin skins.

• Cost: Entry $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND); guided tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Mango tasting, farmer interactions, scenic paths.

• Tips: Try mango smoothies; included in our Dong Thap Eco-Tour ($70–$90).

3. Chau Thanh Longan Gardens

Located in An Hoa Isle, Chau Thanh, these gardens are renowned for succulent longans, offering a sweet, fragrant experience.

• Cost: Entry $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND); guided tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Longan picking, rustic picnics, canal views.

• Tips: Pair with a boat tour; included in our Dong Thap Eco-Tour ($70–$90).

4. Nam Huong Eco Garden

In Tan Hong, this sustainable garden combines fruit cultivation with eco-tourism, featuring mangoes, tangerines, and organic farming practices.

• Cost: Entry $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND); guided tours $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Organic fruit tasting, farming workshops, eco-friendly practices.

• Tips: Book a workshop for hands-on experience; included in our Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

• Fruit Picking and Tasting: Hand-pick tangerines, mangoes, or longans; enjoy fresh juices or lotus-based snacks.

• Cycling Tours: Rent bicycles ($2–$4/day or 50,000–100,000 VND) to explore orchards and nearby canals.

• Boat Tours: Combine with electric boat trips ($5–$15 or 125,000–375,000 VND) to visit lotus fields or floating markets.

• Rustic Dining: Savor Mekong specialties like bánh xèo or grilled snakehead fish at local eateries ($4–$15 or 100,000–375,000 VND).

• Cultural Immersion: Join farming workshops or interact with local farmers to learn about sustainable agriculture.

• Tips:

  • Wear comfortable shoes for orchard walks; bring a reusable tote for fruits.

  • Book guided tours for insights into farming practices; included in our eco-tours.

  • Visit during harvest seasons (Tet for tangerines, summer for mangoes/longans).

Dong Thap’s fruit gardens are accessible via My Tho, Tien Giang’s transport hub:

• By Bus:

  • Ho Chi Minh City (Mien Tay Bus Station) to Sa Dec/Cao Lanh: $10–$18 (250,000–450,000 VND, 3–4 hours, 160 km).

  • My Tho to Sa Dec/Cao Lanh: $4–$7 (100,000–175,000 VND, 1–1.5 hours, 70 km).

  • Providers: Phuong Trang (Futa Bus), Tel: (+84) 1900 6067; Thanh Buoi.

• By Car/Taxi:

  • Ho Chi Minh City to Sa Dec/Cao Lanh: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND, 3–4 hours).

  • My Tho to Sa Dec/Cao Lanh: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND, 1.5 hours).

  • Providers: Mai Linh Taxi (+84) 2773 686 868, Grab app.

• By Motorbike:

  • Ho Chi Minh City to Sa Dec/Cao Lanh: $6–$12/day (150,000–300,000 VND, 3–4 hours).

  • Rent at Mekong Moto Rentals, HCMC (+84) 938 456 789.

• Tips:

  • Book buses online via VeXeRe or Baolau; arrive 30 minutes early at Mien Tay Bus Station.

  • Use offline maps (Maps.me); save Lai Vung Tangerine Gardens as a landmark.

  • Included in our Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450) for seamless transfers.

• Dry Season (December–April): Ideal for fruit picking and cycling; Tet (January–February) brings vibrant tangerine harvests and Thap Muoi Lotus Festival (March–April).

• Rainy Season (May–November): Lush scenery and mango/longan harvests; 15–25% tour discounts. August–October is best for lotus blooms and floating markets.

• Tips: Book 3–4 weeks in advance for peak season; check AccuWeather for rainy season updates.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable visit:

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

• 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 views.

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

Tip: Carry VND (50,000–200,000 notes) for vendors; use a waterproof backpack in rainy season.

• Fruit Garden Entry: $1–$4 (25,000–100,000 VND).

• Activities:

  • Guided tours: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

  • Bicycle rental: $2–$4/day (50,000–100,000 VND).

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

• Dining: Meals at local eateries (e.g., Nha Hang Sen Viet, Pho Sa Dec): $4–$15 (100,000–375,000 VND); drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

• Accommodation (Sa Dec or Cao Lanh):

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

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

  • Resorts: $90–$180/night (2,250,000–4,500,000 VND).

• Transport to Dong Thap:

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

  • Taxi from My Tho: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost:

• Budget: $20–$50 (bus, meals, free attractions).

• Mid-range: $50–$100 (guided tours, dining, taxi).

• Luxury: $120–$250 (resorts, private tours, upscale dining).

Tip: Carry VND for small transactions; ATMs are available in My Tho 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 Thap Muoi Lotus Festival.

• Seasonal Tips:

  • Dry Season: Ideal for fruit picking; pack sunscreen and hats.

  • Rainy Season: Lush orchards; bring waterproof gear.

• Sustainability: Support local farmers; use bicycles or electric boats to reduce carbon footprint.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me); save Lai Vung Tangerine Gardens as a landmark.

• Safety: Secure valuables; avoid over-picking fruits to respect farms.

• 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 Dong Thap’s fruit gardens and beyond:

• Dong Thap Eco-Tour ($70–$90/person): Visit Lai Vung Tangerine Gardens, electric boat tour in Tram Chim National Park, cycling through orchards. Includes transfers, snacks, guide.

• Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Explore Cao Lanh Mango Orchards, lotus-based cooking class, Sa Dec markets. Includes eco-transfers, meals, guide.

• Dong Thap Cultural Tour ($60–$80/person): Tour Chau Thanh Longan Gardens, Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House, festival visits. Includes eco-transfers, lunch, guide.

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450/person, 2–3 days): Explore Dong Thap’s fruit gardens, Cai Be, and 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 fertile heart of the Mekong Delta 130 km from Ho Chi Minh City, enchants with its fruit gardens, offering a delightful escape with tropical flavors like mangoes, rambutans, and durians ($1–$3/kg, 25,000–75,000 VND), drawing thousands yearly. Wander through orchards in Cai Be or Lai Vung on eco-friendly boat tours ($5–$15, 125,000–375,000 VND) along lush waterways, or cycle through rural paths ($2–$5/day bike rental, 50,000–125,000 VND). Supported by sustainable practices like organic farming and community-led conservation, Legend Travel Group’s Dong Thap Tours ensure a responsible, immersive Dong Thap Travel experience, blending fruit garden visits with explorations of Sa Dec Flower Village, Tram Chim National Park, and culinary delights like hủ tiếu Sa Đéc ($1–$2, 25,000–50,000 VND). Contact Legend Travel Group at www.legendtravelgroup.com, info@legendtravelgroup.com, or (+84) 825862222 to browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to taste Dong Thap’s tropical bounty? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and discover the Mekong Delta’s vibrant 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 Fruit Gardens Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, mekong-delta-tours.com, vietnamamazingtours.com, scootersaigontour.com, tripadvisor.com