Nga Nam Floating Market Travel Guide: Soc Trang’s Vibrant Mekong Delta Gem

Nestled in Nga Nam Ward, Soc Trang, now part of the expanded Can Tho City administrative region, Nga Nam Floating Market is a must-visit highlight of the Mekong Delta, located 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City. Renowned for its bustling trade at the confluence of five rivers—Ca Mau, Vinh Quoi, Long My, Thanh Tri, and Phung Hiep—this market, over 200 years old, draws thousands of visitors annually with its authentic riverine culture. Boats laden with colorful fruits, vegetables, and local specialties create a vibrant scene, while the iconic “bèo” poles display goods for sale. Soc Trang’s commitment to sustainable tourism, through the “Mekong Green” initiative, ensures an eco-friendly experience. Legend Travel Group, a leading local tour operator, offers immersive eco-tours to explore this lively market and its surroundings. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to book your adventure!

Legend Travel Group is dedicated to authentic, sustainable Southeast Asian travel. Our Soc Trang tours use low-impact transport—electric boats, bicycles, and eco-vans—guided by local experts who share the region’s cultural and ecological stories. Supporting communities in Nga Nam and Vinh Chau Wards, we align with Can Tho City’s vision to preserve its heritage. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless journey. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and explore responsibly!

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has merged Soc Trang and Hau Giang into Can Tho City, with Can Tho as the administrative hub. District-level units are now wards or communes, making Can Tho City Vietnam’s largest by landmass. Enhanced by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric buses, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project—Nga Nam Floating Market is easily accessible, offering a perfect blend of culture and eco-tourism.

Located 30 km from Soc Trang’s central ward, Nga Nam Floating Market spans a 1-km river stretch at the intersection of five rivers, a strategic trading hub since the early 19th century under the Nguyen Dynasty’s land reclamation efforts. The market’s name, “Nga Nam” (five directions), reflects its unique geography, connecting traders from Soc Trang, Ca Mau, and beyond. Operating daily from 3:00 AM to 8:00 AM, with peak activity from 5:00 AM to 7:00 AM, it showcases the Mekong Delta’s rustic charm. Boats, from small canoes to large vessels, carry goods like rice, seafood, and tropical fruits, with vendors using “bèo” poles—bamboo sticks displaying products—to advertise their wares. This vibrant market offers a glimpse into the daily lives of local farmers and traders, making it a cultural and eco-tourism highlight.

The name “Nga Nam” translates to “five directions” in Vietnamese, derived from the market’s location at the confluence of five river branches: Ca Mau, Vinh Quoi, Long My, Thanh Tri, and Phung Hiep. This unique geography, formed by natural rivers and French-dug canals like Quan Lo Phung Hiep in the late 19th century, created an ideal trading hub. Traders from nearby provinces converge here, using boats for all transactions, a tradition that has defined the market’s floating character for over two centuries. The market’s historical significance is further highlighted by its role as the birthplace of Soc Trang’s first Communist Party Branch, adding a layer of revolutionary heritage.

Nga Nam Floating Market operates as a daily wholesale and retail hub, bustling from 3:00 AM to 8:00 AM. Unlike periodic markets, it thrives year-round, with peak vibrancy during Tet (January–February, lunar calendar) and Ooc Om Bok Festival (October–November). Traders navigate the river in boats, from small canoes to large motorboats, selling everything from fresh produce to household goods. The signature “bèo” poles—bamboo sticks hung with sample goods like mangoes, fish, or clothing—serve as a unique advertising method, allowing buyers to spot desired items from afar. Transactions occur directly on the water, with buyers pulling alongside sellers’ boats. Smaller boats distribute goods to remote markets, while larger vessels act as floating warehouses. Food boats offer breakfast staples like Bún Nước Lèo ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND) or coffee ($0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND), creating a lively, self-contained ecosystem.

Boat Tours

Glide through the market on an electric boat to witness traders’ vibrant exchanges and colorful displays of goods. Tours offer close-up views of the “bèo” poles and local life.

• Cost: $10–$20/hour (250,000–500,000 VND, 2–4 passengers).

• Hours: 4:00 AM–8:00 AM daily, peak 5:00 AM–7:00 AM.

• Tip: Book dawn tours for the liveliest scenes. Included in our Mekong River Adventure ($60–$80).

Local Cuisine Sampling

Savor Mekong Delta specialties from food boats, including Bún Nước Lèo, Bánh Cóng, or fresh coconut water. Try tropical fruits like rambutan or mangosteen ($1–$5/kg or 25,000–125,000 VND).

• Cost: $1–$5/dish (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Hours: 4:00 AM–8:00 AM daily.

• Tip: Bargain gently for bulk fruit purchases. Included in our Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70).

Cultural Immersion

Engage with friendly vendors, often in traditional “bà ba” shirts, to learn about their river-based livelihoods. Observe the market’s unique trading practices and hear local folk songs.

• Cost: Free; tipping vendors $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) appreciated.

• Hours: 4:00 AM–8:00 AM daily.

• Tip: Smile and use “cảm ơn” (thank you) for warm interactions. Included in our Mekong River Adventure ($60–$80).

Photography

Capture the market’s vibrant colors—green vegetables, red fruits, and vendors’ conical hats—against the river’s backdrop, especially at sunrise.

• Cost: Free; guided photo tours $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

• Hours: 5:00 AM–7:00 AM for best light.

• Tip: Use a zoom lens for candid shots. Included in our Soc Trang Cultural Tour ($55–$75).

Souvenir Shopping

Buy fresh fruits, dried fish, or handmade crafts as souvenirs, sourced directly from local gardens and artisans.

• Cost: Fruits $1–$5/kg (25,000–125,000 VND); crafts $2–$10 (50,000–250,000 VND).

• Hours: 4:00 AM–8:00 AM daily.

• Tip: Choose vacuum-sealed dried goods for travel. Included in our Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70).

The dry season (November–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) is ideal, with clear skies and low humidity perfect for early morning boat tours. February to April offers mild weather and vibrant market activity. The Ooc Om Bok Festival (October–November, lunar calendar) coincides with peak trading, adding cultural vibrancy but increasing crowds and prices by 10–20%. The rainy season (May–October, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F) provides fewer visitors and 15–25% discounts, but August–October may bring flooding, disrupting boat access. May and June are quieter with moderate rainfall, suitable for serene visits. Check AccuWeather for real-time forecasts.

Tip: Book tours 3–5 weeks in advance for November–April or Ooc Om Bok to secure better rates. Dawn visits (5:00 AM–7:00 AM) capture the market’s peak energy.

Nga Nam Floating Market is 30 km from Soc Trang’s central ward and accessible via:

By Air and Ground

• Fly to Can Tho International Airport (VCA): 60 km from Soc Trang, VCA serves flights from Ho Chi Minh City ($70–$140 or 1,750,000–3,500,000 VND, 45 minutes) or Hanoi ($100–$180 or 2,500,000–4,500,000 VND, 2 hours 10 minutes).

• Ground Transport from VCA to Soc Trang:

  • Eco-Van (Recommended): Legend Travel Group’s electric vans cost $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND) for 2–4 passengers, taking 1–1.5 hours.

  • Taxi/Grab: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

  • Bus: $3–$6 (75,000–150,000 VND), 1.5–2 hours.

• From Soc Trang to Nga Nam (30 km): Follow National Highway 1A to Phu Loc (Thanh Tri Ward), then Provincial Highway 42 for 24 km to Nga Nam Ward. Options include:

  • Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Bicycle Rental: $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND).

  • Taxi/Grab: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).

  • Provincial Bus No. 1: $1 (25,000 VND), 45 minutes.

By Bus from Ho Chi Minh City

• Sleeper Bus to Soc Trang: 5–6 hours, $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND). Book via Baolau or 12go.asia.

• Private Eco-Van: $50–$80 (1,250,000–2,000,000 VND) for 2–4 passengers, 4.5–5 hours.

Tip: Book eco-van or boat transfers via Legend Travel Group for sustainable travel. Download MyCanTho app for bus schedules.

Entrance Fees:

• Nga Nam Floating Market: Free; boat rental $10–$20/hour (250,000–500,000 VND).

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

• Photo Tours: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

Transport:

• Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Bicycle Rental: $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Taxi/Grab (Soc Trang to Nga Nam): $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).

• Eco-Van (VCA to Soc Trang): $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

Dining:

• Food Boats (e.g., Bún Nước Lèo, Bánh Cóng): $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Fruits: $1–$5/kg (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Drinks: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

Accommodation (Nga Nam Town or Soc Trang Central Ward, 30 km away):

• Budget Motels (Nga Nam): $6–$12/night (150,000–300,000 VND).

• Hostels/Guesthouses (Soc Trang): $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).

• Hotels: $30–$100/night (750,000–2,500,000 VND).

• Resorts: $120–$300/night (3,000,000–7,500,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost:

• Budget: $15–$40 (boat rental, street food, bike rental).

• Mid-range: $40–$70 (guided tours, dining).

• Luxury: $70–$110 (private tours, upscale dining).

Tip: Use ATMs in Soc Trang Central Ward; carry VND for vendors. Bargaining is minimal, as prices are fair.

• Book Early: Reserve flights, hotels, and tours 3–5 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group (+84 938 987 654) or Klook for peak seasons (November–April, Ooc Om Bok).

• Timing: Arrive by 5:00 AM for the market’s peak vibrancy; tours start as early as 4:00 AM.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) or MyCanTho app. The market is boat-accessible; park motorbikes at Nga Nam Town’s pier.

• Sustainability: Use electric boats; buy from local vendors; carry reusable water bottles to align with Mekong Green initiatives.

• Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip vendors/guides ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND); avoid touching goods without intent to buy.

• Health Precautions: Apply mosquito repellent; bring sunscreen (SPF 50+) and a hat; stay hydrated.

• Safety: Secure valuables in crowded boats; avoid flooded routes in August–October.

Explore Nga Nam Floating Market and Soc Trang with our sustainable tours:

• Mekong River Adventure ($60–$80/person): Nga Nam Floating Market, Hau River cruise, local cuisine tasting. Includes electric boat transfers, entry, and lunch.

• Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70/person): Nga Nam Floating Market, Soc Trang Central Market, Bánh Gừng tasting, cooking class. Includes eco-transfers and meals.

• Soc Trang Cultural Tour ($55–$75/person): Nga Nam Floating Market, Chen Kieu Pagoda, Clay Pagoda. Includes bike rentals and snacks.

• Soc Trang Nature Tour ($65–$85/person): Nga Nam Floating Market, Tan Long Stork Garden, Vinh Chau Mangrove Forest. Includes eco-transfers and meals.

• Soc Trang Festival Tour ($70–$90/person, October–November): Nga Nam Floating Market, Ooc Om Bok Festival, Ngo boat races. Includes eco-transfers and dining.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, entrance fees, and meals/snacks. Enjoy 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book now via links around this page!

Nga Nam Floating Market in Soc Trang is a vibrant testament to the Mekong Delta’s riverine culture, offering an authentic glimpse into local trade and traditions. From bustling boat tours to savoring steamed crabs, this market captivates with its simplicity and charm. Legend Travel Group’s Soc Trang Tours guide you through Nga Nam’s lively waterways, ensuring a sustainable Soc Trang Travel experience that supports local communities and preserves its heritage. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Nga Nam Floating Market adventure today! Contact sales@legendtravelgroup.com for personalized itineraries.
Ready to sail through Nga Nam’s vibrant waters? Reserve your eco-friendly tour with Legend Travel Group and discover the soul of the Mekong Delta!

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. By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group.