Discover Tra Vinh’s iconic Vinh Kim Dry Shrimp in Vinh Long, a Mekong Delta delicacy with vibrant flavor. Book eco-friendly foodie tours with Legend Travel Group for an authentic culinary adventure!
Capture the savory essence of Tra Vinh’s culinary gemTra Vinh, now a vibrant ward of Vinh Long Province following Vietnam’s administrative reform on July 1, 2025, is a Mekong Delta gem celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions. Nestled between the Co Chien and Cung Hau Rivers, Tra Vinh is home to Vinh Kim Dry Shrimp, a delicacy renowned for its vivid pink-red color and rich, savory taste. This artisanal seafood product, crafted in Vinh Kim Village, draws food enthusiasts to Tra Vinh, attracting 10,000 visitors annually to its culinary and cultural scene, with tasting and purchasing experiences costing $1–$30 (25,000–750,000 VND). The tropical monsoon climate (dry season: November–April, 24–32°C or 75.2–89.6°F; rainy season: May–October, 26–36°C or 78.8–96.8°F) enhances visits with vibrant market atmospheres and lush coastal surroundings.
Legend Travel Group, a sustainable tourism leader since 2008, offers eco-friendly foodie tours in Tra Vinh, blending culinary exploration with cultural immersion using eco-transport and local guides. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to book your culinary adventure.
Use “Tra Vinh Ward, Vinh Long Province” for navigation. Tra Vinh remains a key culinary and cultural hub within Vinh Long, ideal for international travelers seeking authentic Mekong Delta flavors.
With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group serves 15,000 travelers annually across Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar, prioritizing sustainable tourism. Our Tra Vinh foodie tours feature eco-friendly transport, English-speaking guides sharing culinary and cultural insights, and partnerships with local artisans to support sustainable practices. Enjoy transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours prior, and 24/7 support. Book through this guide for an immersive, responsible experience aligned with Vietnam’s green tourism vision.
Photograph the vibrant allure of Tra Vinh’s food scene (Source: Internet)Vinh Kim Dry Shrimp is a culinary masterpiece from Vinh Kim Village, crafted through a time-honored process that highlights Tra Vinh’s coastal bounty. Its distinctive features include:
Ingredients: Fresh shrimp sourced from the nutrient-rich waters between the Co Chien and Cung Hau Rivers, lightly salted to preserve natural flavor.
Preparation: Sun-dried using traditional methods, with minimal salt to ensure long shelf life without compromising taste. The process yields a vibrant pink-red color and a concentrated, umami-rich flavor.
Flavor Profile: Sweet, salty, and slightly chewy, perfect as a snack, topping for dishes like bun nuoc leo (fish sauce noodles), or a gourmet gift.
Cultural Significance: A symbol of Tra Vinh’s fishing heritage, these dry shrimp are a staple at local markets and festivals, reflecting the region’s Kinh and Khmer culinary traditions.
Presentation: Sold in eco-friendly banana leaf or paper packaging, available in 100g to 1kg packs, ideal for travelers to take home.
Tra Vinh’s vibrant food scene offers several spots to savor and purchase authentic Vinh Kim Dry Shrimp, from its origin in Vinh Kim Village to bustling city markets. Here are the top recommendations:
Location: Vinh Kim Village, 12 km from Tra Vinh city center.
Description: The heart of Vinh Kim Dry Shrimp production, this local market features family-run stalls where artisans sell freshly dried shrimp using traditional methods. Visitors can sample and learn about the drying process.
Price: $20–$30/kg (500,000–750,000 VND); 100g packs $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).
Hours: 6:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.
Eco-Friendly Note: Vendors use banana leaf packaging; bring a reusable tote ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND) for purchases.
Tip: Sample before buying to choose your preferred size; pair with local rice noodles for tasting. Included in Legend Travel Group’s Foodie Tour ($70–$100).
Transport: Bicycle ($2–$5/day or 50,000–125,000 VND) or taxi ($5–$8 or 125,000–200,000 VND).
Location: Ward 2, Tra Vinh city center, near Le Loi Street.
Description: A lively evening market where vendors sell Vinh Kim Dry Shrimp alongside Mekong Delta specialties like banh tet. Perfect for a vibrant foodie experience with tasting opportunities.
Price: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) for a small tasting portion; 100g packs $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).
Hours: 5:00 PM–10:00 PM daily.
Eco-Friendly Note: Choose vendors with minimal plastic; use a reusable container for takeaway.
Tip: Try shrimp as a topping on bun nuoc leo for a local dish. Included in Legend Travel Group’s Foodie Tour ($70–$100).
Transport: Walk (10 minutes from city center) or cyclo ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND).
Location: Ward 2, Tra Vinh city center.
Description: A bustling daytime market where vendors offer Vinh Kim Dry Shrimp alongside fresh produce and snacks. Ideal for morning culinary stops.
Price: $20–$28/kg (500,000–700,000 VND); 100g packs $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).
Hours: 5:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.
Eco-Friendly Note: Support vendors using eco-friendly packaging; bring a reusable tote for shopping.
Tip: Arrive by 8:00 AM for the freshest stock; pair with a macapuno coconut ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND).
Transport: Walk (5 minutes from city center) or cyclo ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND).
Location: 45 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, 1 km from Tra Vinh city center.
Description: A cozy restaurant serving Vinh Kim Dry Shrimp as a topping or side with dishes like com tam(broken rice), offering a refined dining experience.
Price: $1.50–$3 (37,500–75,000 VND) for a tasting portion; 100g packs $2.50–$4 (62,500–100,000 VND).
Hours: 7:00 AM–9:00 PM daily.
Eco-Friendly Note: Uses locally sourced shrimp; bring reusable utensils to minimize waste.
Tip: Pair with Vietnamese iced coffee ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND). Close to Ong Pagoda for post-meal exploration.
Transport: Bicycle ($2–$5/day or 50,000–125,000 VND) or taxi ($3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND).
Start your Tra Vinh Travel with flavorful local vibes (Source: Internet)Enhance your Vinh Kim Dry Shrimp adventure with nearby cultural and natural sites:
Ang Pagoda: A 10th-century Khmer masterpiece, 5 km from the city center. Entry: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND). Visit after dining at Quan An Ngon.
Ba Om Pond: A lotus-filled oasis, 5 km southwest. Free entry; electric boat rides ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND). Pair with a trip to Vinh Kim Village.
Chua Co (Stork Pagoda): A serene temple with resident storks, 3 km from the center. Free entry. Explore after a market visit.
Eco-Friendly Note: Use bicycles or cyclos ($1–$3/hour or 25,000–75,000 VND) to reach these sites; join cleanups to support conservation.
November–April (Dry Season, 24–32°C or 75.2–89.6°F): Ideal for market visits and outdoor dining, with moderate crowds (50–150 daily visitors). Book tours 1–2 weeks ahead.
May–October (Rainy Season, 26–36°C or 78.8–96.8°F): Lush scenery and fewer crowds (30–100 daily visitors); bring rain gear ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND). Last-minute bookings often available.
Festival Seasons: Lunar New Year (January/February) and Ok Om Bok (October/November) feature Vinh Kim Dry Shrimp as a festive delicacy, drawing 200+ visitors. Book 2–4 weeks ahead.
Timing Tip: Mornings (6:00–10:00 AM) for fresh market purchases; evenings (5:00–8:00 PM) for vibrant night market tastings.
Learn Tra Vinh’s heritage with expert insights (Source: Internet)Tra Vinh Ward, Vinh Long Province, is 125 km from Ho Chi Minh City, 45 km from Vinh Long Ward, and 80 km from Can Tho:
From Ho Chi Minh City (2.5–3.5 hours): Bus ($6–$12 or 150,000–300,000 VND) + taxi ($12–$18 or 300,000–450,000 VND); private car ($60–$80 or 1,500,000–2,000,000 VND); Xanh SM electric taxi ($90–$120 or 2,250,000–3,000,000 VND, eco-friendly).
From Hanoi (4.5–5 hours): Flight to Can Tho ($65–$130 or 1,625,000–3,250,000 VND) + taxi ($50–$60 or 1,250,000–1,500,000 VND).
From Vinh Long Ward (45–60 minutes): Taxi ($15–$20 or 375,000–500,000 VND); motorbike rental ($7–$12/day or 175,000–300,000 VND, Vietnamese license required).
Navigation Tip: Save “Tra Vinh Ward, Vinh Long Province” in offline maps (Maps.me). Parking: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Note: Opt for buses or Xanh SM taxis; book through Legend Travel Group for sustainable transport.
Walking: Free, ideal for city center markets (1–2 km radius).
Cyclo: $1–$3/hour (25,000–75,000 VND), eco-friendly, perfect for short trips to eateries.
Bicycle Rental: $2–$5/day (50,000–125,000 VND), sustainable, great for Vinh Kim Village.
Taxi/Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $0.50–$1/km (12,500–25,000 VND), best for longer trips to Vinh Kim.
Eco-Friendly Note: Prioritize cyclos or bicycles; book through Legend Travel Group for eco-transport.
Tip: Confirm fares upfront; rent bikes near Tra Vinh Market.
Capture the authentic charm of Tra Vinh’s coastal culture (Source: Internet)Pack these essentials for a sustainable experience:
Clothing: Lightweight, breathable attire, sturdy sandals, hat; waterproof poncho ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND) for rainy season.
Gear: Reusable water bottle ($0.80 or 20,000 VND), reusable tote ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND), reusable container to reduce waste.
Essentials: Compact umbrella ($3–$6), hand sanitizer, mosquito repellent ($0.80 or 20,000 VND).
Tech: Smartphone with Vietmap/Maps.me, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($6–$12 or 150,000–300,000 VND).
Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).
Vinh Kim Dry Shrimp: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) for a tasting portion; $20–$30/kg (500,000–750,000 VND).
Other Local Dishes (e.g., bun nuoc leo, banh xeo): $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).
Drinks (e.g., iced coffee, coconut water): $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Pagoda/Museum Entry: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Boat Tours (Ba Om Pond): $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).
Guided Foodie Tour: $20–$35 (500,000–875,000 VND).
Homestay: $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).
Cyclo: $1–$3/hour (25,000–75,000 VND).
Bicycle Rental: $2–$5/day (50,000–125,000 VND).
Taxi/Xanh SM: $0.50–$1/km (12,500–25,000 VND).
Budget: $5–$15 (walking, street food, homestay).
Mid-range: $20–$35 (cyclo, guided tour, local dining).
Luxury: $50–$80 (taxi, premium dining, homestay).
Embrace the vibrant spirit of Tra Vinh Travel culinary adventures (Source: Internet)Timing: Visit morning markets (6:00–10:00 AM) for the freshest shrimp; evenings (5:00–8:00 PM) for vibrant night market tastings. November–April for dry weather; weekdays for fewer crowds (30–100 vs. 50–150 on weekends).
Booking: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s foodie tours 24–48 hours ahead; book homestays 1–2 weeks ahead for festivals (January/February, October/November).
Sustainability: Choose vendors using eco-friendly packaging; join market cleanups. Use eco-transport like bicycles or Xanh SM taxis.
Navigation: Save “Tra Vinh Ward, Vinh Long Province” in offline maps; Vinh Kim Village is 12 km from the city center via National Highway 53.
Safety: Secure valuables; store shrimp in airtight containers for travel. Confirm prices before purchasing.
Cultural Respect: Greet vendors with “xin chào”; ask about the drying process for a cultural exchange.
Explore Tra Vinh’s culinary scene with our eco-friendly tours:
Tra Vinh Foodie Tour ($70–$100/person, 1 day): Savor Vinh Kim Dry Shrimp, visit Tra Vinh Market, explore Ang Pagoda. Includes guide, cyclo transport, tastings.
Tra Vinh Cultural & Culinary Adventure ($140–$190/person, 2 days): Enjoy shrimp tastings, Ba Om Pond cruise, homestay. Includes meals, guide, bicycle transport.
Mekong Delta Explorer ($340–$480/person, 4 days): Discover Tra Vinh, Ben Tre, Can Tho, with culinary stops and eco-stays. Includes meals, eco-transfers.
Prices include guides, eco-transport, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book via this guide.
Tra Vinh Ward, Vinh Long Province, is a culinary haven where Vinh Kim Dry Shrimp shines as a Mekong Delta delicacy. From the artisanal stalls of Vinh Kim Village to vibrant city markets, this seafood treat offers a taste of Tra Vinh’s coastal heritage. Legend Travel Group’s Tra Vinh Tours guide you through these authentic flavors, ensuring a sustainable Tra Vinh Travel experience that supports local artisans. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your tour today for a delicious, eco-conscious adventure in Tra Vinh!
Ready to taste Tra Vinh’s Vinh Kim Dry Shrimp? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group for a sustainable, unforgettable culinary journey!
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 (to certify content copyright).
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