Lai Vung Tangerine Gardens: A Sweet Eco-Tourism Escape in Dong Thap

Nestled between the Tien and Hau rivers in Dong Thap Ward, now part of Tien Giang Province, Lai Vung Tangerine Gardens are a vibrant eco-tourism gem, dubbed the “Kingdom of Tangerines” by locals, attracting over 50,000 visitors annually. Renowned for its juicy, seedless pink tangerines, this 1,200-hectare orchard region offers a delightful blend of fruit-picking, cultural experiences, and scenic beauty, set against the fertile backdrop of the Mekong Delta. Legend Travel Group, a leading sustainable tour operator, crafts eco-friendly tours to immerse you in Lai Vung’s citrus charm while supporting local farmers. Book your adventure via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222or 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 Lai Vung’s tourism allure remains vibrant, enhanced by upgraded infrastructure like cycling paths, electric boat networks, and a VND600 billion flood control project, ensuring seamless access to these lush orchards.

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 Lai Vung tours combine fruit-picking with eco-friendly activities like cycling and electric boat rides, 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 in Long Hau, Tan Phuoc, and Tan Thanh Communes, Lai Vung, approximately 30 km from Sa Dec and 170 km from Ho Chi Minh City, Lai Vung Tangerine Gardens thrive in the Mekong Delta’s fertile alluvial soils. 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). Over 2,000 households cultivate pink tangerines, known for their large, seedless fruits, thin skins, and sweet aroma, making Lai Vung a key supplier for Tet festivals and a top eco-tourism destination.

Lai Vung Tangerine Gardens, cultivated since the early 20th century, are celebrated for their unique pink tangerines, which owe their distinct flavor to the region’s climate and soil. Recognized as a specialty fruit of the Mekong Delta, these tangerines are grown across renowned orchards like Phuong Nghi, Ut Tuong, and Ba Lien, covering 1,200 hectares. The gardens’ eco-tourism model, blending fruit-picking with cultural workshops and sustainable farming, supports local livelihoods and attracts visitors seeking authentic rural experiences. Their proximity to attractions like Sa Dec Flower Village and Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House enhances their appeal.

1. Tangerine Picking and Tasting

Hand-pick juicy pink tangerines and savor their sweet, aromatic flavor directly from the orchards.

• 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 (weekend fees may be higher, $1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND).

• Highlights: Phuong Nghi and Ba Lien orchards, fresh tangerine juice.

• Tips: Respect farmer guidelines; avoid over-picking. Included in our Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

2. Cycling Tours

Ride bicycles ($2–$4/day or 50,000–100,000 VND) through lush tangerine orchards and nearby canals for a scenic, eco-friendly adventure.

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

• Highlights: Rural paths, canal views, farmer interactions.

• Tips: Morning rides are cooler; included in our Dong Thap Eco-Tour ($70–$90).

3. Electric Boat Tours

Cruise the Tien River or local canals on eco-friendly electric sampans to explore orchards and nearby markets.

• Cost: Shared tours $5–$10/person (125,000–250,000 VND); private tours $10–$20/boat (250,000–500,000 VND, 1–2 hours).

• Providers: Lai Vung River Tours (+84) 937 890 456; included in our Dong Thap Eco-Tour ($70–$90).

• Highlights: Lotus ponds, river life, tangerine garden views.

• Tips: Book morning tours for better weather; bring a camera.

4. Cultural and Farming Workshops

Join workshops to learn tangerine cultivation, organic farming, or traditional crafts like hyacinth weaving.

• Cost: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Highlights: Hands-on grafting, farmer stories, local crafts.

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

5. Tet Festival Experience

Visit during Tet (January–February) to see orchards in full bloom, vibrant markets, and cultural events like folk music and boat races.

• Cost: Free entry; food and activities $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND).

• Highlights: Golden tangerine displays, festive atmosphere.

• 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 Sa Dec: $10–$18 (250,000–450,000 VND, 3–4 hours), then taxi to Lai Vung ($5–$8 or 125,000–200,000 VND, 30 km).

  • My Tho to Sa Dec: $4–$7 (100,000–175,000 VND, 1–1.5 hours), then taxi ($5–$8 or 125,000–200,000 VND). Providers: Phuong Trang (+84) 1900 6067.

• By Car/Taxi:

  • Ho Chi Minh City to Lai Vung: $35–$55 (875,000–1,375,000 VND, 3.5–4 hours). Route: Ho Chi Minh City–Trung Luong Expressway–National Highway 1A–Provincial Road 852.

  • My Tho to Lai Vung: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND, 1.5 hours). Providers: Mai Linh Taxi (+84) 2773 686 868, Grab app.

• By Motorbike:

  • Ho Chi Minh City to Lai Vung: $6–$12/day (150,000–300,000 VND, 3.5–4 hours). Rent at Mekong Moto Rentals (+84) 938 456 789.

• Tips:

  • Book buses online via VeXeRe or Baolau; use offline maps (Maps.me) with Phuong Nghi Orchard as a landmark.

  • Avoid Tet holidays for less crowding.

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

• Dry Season (December–April): Ideal for tangerine harvests, especially during Tet (January–February) when orchards are golden and festive. Book 3–4 weeks in advance.

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

• Tips: Visit in December–January for peak tangerine ripeness; check AccuWeather for rainy season updates.

• Hotels and Homestays (Sa Dec or Lai Vung):

  • 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. $25–$60/night (625,000–1,500,000 VND). Tel: (+84) 927 345 678.

  • Lai Vung Eco Homestay: Long Hau, Lai Vung (on-site). $20–$35/night (500,000–875,000 VND). Tel: (+84) 938 234 567.

• Restaurants:

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

  • Lai Vung Orchard Eatery (Long Hau, on-site): Tangerine salads, grilled fish. $3–$12 (75,000–300,000 VND). Open: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Cafes:

  • 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.

  • Lai Vung Tangerine Cafe (Tan Phuoc, 2 km): Tangerine juice, coffee $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND). Open: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM.

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

Pack these essentials for a sustainable 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.

• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes; sandals for orchard walks.

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

• Tech Gear: Smartphone, camera for orchard photos; portable charger.

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

Tip: Use a waterproof backpack in rainy season; carry VND for entry and vendors.

• Entry and Activities:

  • Entry: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

  • Guided tours: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Boat tours: $5–$20 (125,000–500,000 VND).

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

• Dining: Meals: $3–$15 (75,000–375,000 VND); drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

• Accommodation:

  • Homestays: $15–$35/night (375,000–875,000 VND).

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

• Transport to Lai Vung:

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

  • Taxi from My Tho: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost:

• Budget: $20–$50 (homestay, meals, entry).

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

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

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

• 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 tangerine picking; pack sunscreen.

  • Rainy Season: Lush greenery; bring waterproof gear.

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

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me); save Phuong Nghi Orchard as a landmark.

• Safety: Secure valuables; follow farmer guidelines to avoid damaging trees.

• 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 near canals.

Our eco-friendly tours showcase Lai Vung’s citrus charm and beyond:

• Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Tangerine picking in Lai Vung, Sa Dec markets, lotus-based cooking class. Includes eco-transfers, meals, guide.

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

• Dong Thap Cultural Tour ($60–$80/person): Lai Vung gardens, Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House, Thap Muoi Lotus Festival. Includes eco-transfers, lunch, guide.

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450/person, 2–3 days): Lai Vung, Xeo Quyt, homestays ($15–$35/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!

Lai Vung Tangerine Gardens in Dong Thap Ward offer a sweet, eco-friendly escape into the Mekong Delta’s agricultural heart, with vibrant orchards and cultural experiences. With Legend Travel Group’s Dong Thap Tours, you’ll immerse in this citrus paradise responsibly, ensuring a sustainable Dong Thap Travel experience that supports local farmers and eco-tourism. Plan your Lai Vung adventure with our guide and book your eco-conscious tour today!
Ready to savor the sweetness of Lai Vung Tangerine Gardens? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and discover the Mekong Delta’s vibrant charm!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group, 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. All content is copyrighted by Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group.