Explore Soc Trang’s Historical Base with our expert guide! Discover its revolutionary legacy, eco-friendly tours, costs, and travel tips. Book your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group today!
Nestled within the lush Melaleuca forests of My Phuoc Ward, now part of the expanded Can Tho City following Vietnam’s administrative merger, the Soc Trang Historical Base (formerly the Provincial Party Committee Base) is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and eco-conscious travelers. Located 36 km from Soc Trang’s central ward, this 310-hectare site is a testament to Vietnam’s revolutionary resilience, having played a pivotal role during the resistance against French and American forces. Surrounded by interlacing canals and verdant greenery, the base offers a unique blend of historical significance and natural beauty. With Legend Travel Group’s sustainable eco-tours, you can explore this iconic site while supporting local communities and the “Mekong Green” initiative. Book your immersive tour via the links throughout this guide and dive into Vietnam’s storied past!
Legend Travel Group is a leading local tour operator committed to authentic, sustainable travel across Southeast Asia. Our Soc Trang tours utilize eco-friendly transport—bicycles, electric boats, and eco-vans—guided by local experts who bring the region’s history and culture to life. Supporting communities in My Phuoc and Vinh Chau Wards, we align with Can Tho City’s vision to preserve its natural and historical assets. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless, responsible travel experience. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and travel with purpose!
Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has merged Soc Trang and Hau Giang into Can Tho City, with Can Tho as the administrative hub, effective from mid-2025. District-level units have been reclassified as wards or communes, making Can Tho City Vietnam’s largest by landmass. Enhanced by sustainable infrastructure—cycling networks, electric buses, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project—the Historical Base is now more accessible, offering a seamless journey through history and nature.
Photograph the authentic allure of Can Tho’s heritage (Source: Internet)Located 36 km from Soc Trang’s central ward and 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City, the Soc Trang Historical Base lies in My Phuoc Ward, bordered by Bac Lieu, Tra Vinh, and the South China Sea. The site spans 310 hectares within Can Tho City’s 3,312 km², featuring 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 in August–October (100–400 mm). Surrounded by the Hau River’s canals and Melaleuca forests, the base is a haven for history buffs and eco-travelers, with over 40% of the region forested or agricultural, enhancing its serene, immersive appeal.
Experience Can Tho Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Internet)The ideal time to visit is from December to April, during the dry season, when sunny weather (25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) is perfect for exploring the base’s trails, tunnels, and canals. This period aligns with cultural events like the Ok Om Bok Festival (October–November, lunar calendar), which may increase accommodation prices by 10–15%. The rainy season (May–November) offers cooler temperatures (22–30°C or 71.6–86°F) and fewer crowds, ideal for indoor activities like guided historical talks, though August–October may bring flooding. Check forecasts via AccuWeather for real-time updates.
Tip: Book flights, accommodations, and tours 3–5 weeks in advance for December–April to secure better rates. For a quieter visit, consider May or November for mild weather and 15–25% discounts.
Start your Can Tho Travel with tranquil vistas (Source: Internet)The Historical Base is accessible via multiple transport options from Can Tho City or Ho Chi Minh City:
By Air: Can Tho International Airport (VCA), 70 km from the base, serves domestic flights and limited international routes (e.g., Bangkok). Round-trip costs:
Ho Chi Minh City: $70–$140 (1,750,000–3,500,000 VND).
Hanoi: $100–$180 (2,500,000–4,500,000 VND).
International (e.g., Bangkok): $250–$550.
Taxis or Grab to the base: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).
By Bus: From Soc Trang’s central bus station (36 km away), buses connect to Can Tho (1.5–2 hours, $3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND) or Ho Chi Minh City (5–6 hours, $10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND). From Soc Trang, a taxi or motorbike to the base costs $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
By Private Transfer: Eco-vans from Can Tho or Ho Chi Minh City cost $60–$90 (1,500,000–2,250,000 VND) for 2–4 passengers, ideal for groups.
By Waterway: Electric boats from Soc Trang’s central ward (30 km) offer a scenic 1-hour journey to the base, costing $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).
Getting to the Base from Soc Trang Central Ward:
Follow National Highway 1A toward Bac Lieu for 20 km to Nhu Gia market. A signboard on the right guides to the base; turn right and continue 16 km through My Phuoc Ward’s scenic canals and forests.
Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND) for flexibility.
Bicycle Rental: $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND) for eco-friendly exploration.
Electric Boat: $10–$20/hour (250,000–500,000 VND) for a serene canal journey.
Tip: Download the Grab app for transparent pricing. Opt for bicycles or electric boats for sustainable travel aligned with the Mekong Green initiative.
Pack these essentials for a comfortable visit:
Clothing: Lightweight, breathable outfits for the dry season (December–April); waterproof jackets for the rainy season (May–November). Modest attire (covered shoulders, knees) for respectful visits to historical sites.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen (SPF 50+), sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat for outdoor trails.
Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes for forest paths; waterproof shoes for rainy season.
Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, power bank, and a compact umbrella.
Tech Gear: Smartphone or camera for capturing the base’s tunnels and canals; portable charger for long tours.
Documents: Passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, and VND (50,000–500,000 notes) for small vendors.
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag and straw to support Can Tho City’s sustainability goals.
Tip: Use a waterproof backpack for boat tours or rainy season visits. Pack light for easy navigation through the base’s trails.
Established during the resistance against French colonial forces in the 1940s, the Soc Trang Historical Base spans 310 hectares of Melaleuca forest, serving as a strategic hub for Vietnam’s revolutionary efforts. Its intricate network of canals and dense foliage provided natural camouflage, making it a vital stronghold during both the French and American wars. The base’s main hall, originally built before 1968 with Melaleuca wood and coconut leaves, was upgraded post-1968 with solid wooden columns, split roofs, and four floating basements. Two underground tunnels, constructed in 1968, and secret vaults 300 meters from the hall sheltered leaders. Today, the site preserves the main hall, a water reservoir, and two cannon-avoidance tunnels, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s revolutionary past. Maintained by the Soc Trang Museum, the base educates visitors on the nation’s resilience, with regular cleanups and photo exhibitions during holidays like Reunification Day (April 30).
Tour the preserved main hall, featuring wooden columns and historical artifacts. Guided talks reveal its role in Vietnam’s resistance.
Cost: Free; donations appreciated ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND).
Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.
Tip: Join a guided tour for in-depth stories. Included in our Historical Base Eco-Tour ($50–$70).
Crawl through the 1968 tunnels, designed to evade cannon fire, for a visceral historical experience.
Cost: Free with entry; guided tour $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes; tunnels are narrow. Included in our Historical Base Eco-Tour ($50–$70).
Take an electric boat through the base’s scenic canals, surrounded by Melaleuca forests and wildlife.
Cost: $10–$20/hour (250,000–500,000 VND).
Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.
Tip: Visit at sunrise for birdwatching. Included in our Mekong Historical Adventure ($60–$80).
Join photo exhibitions and talks during holidays like Tet or Reunification Day, hosted by the Soc Trang Museum.
Cost: Free; donations $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Hours: Event-dependent, typically 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.
Tip: Check schedules via Legend Travel Group. Included in our Historical Base Eco-Tour ($50–$70).
Engage with local guides to understand the base’s role in educating youth about Vietnam’s resistance, fostering national pride.
Cost: Included in guided tours ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).
Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.
Tip: Ideal for students and history buffs. Included in our Historical Base Eco-Tour ($50–$70).
Entrance Fees:
Soc Trang Historical Base: Free; donations $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Guided tours: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Electric boat tours: $10–$20/hour (250,000–500,000 VND).
Dining:
Street food (e.g., noodle soup, banh xeo): $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
Nearby restaurants: $3–$12 (75,000–300,000 VND).
Drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).
Activities:
Guided historical tours: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Private tours: $50–$80 (1,250,000–2,000,000 VND).
Cultural workshops (e.g., Mekong crafts): $20–$40 (500,000–1,000,000 VND).
Accommodation (Soc Trang Central Ward, 36 km away):
Hostels/Guesthouses: $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 (includes free entry, street food, bike rental).
Mid-range: $40–$70 (includes guided tours, dining).
Luxury: $70–$110 (includes private tours, upscale dining).
Tip: Use ATMs in Soc Trang Central Ward; carry VND for donations and small vendors. Book early for holiday season savings.
Book Early: Reserve flights, hotels, and tours 3–5 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group (+84 938 987 654) or Klook, especially for December–April or holidays like Reunification Day.
Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) or MyCanTho app for routes. The base is bike- and boat-friendly.
Stay Safe: Secure valuables during crowded events; avoid flooded paths in August–October.
Sustainability: Use bicycles or electric boats; support eco-vendors; carry reusable bottles to align with Mekong Green initiatives.
Cultural Respect: Dress modestly (covered shoulders, knees); say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip guides ($1–$2).
Health Precautions: Apply mosquito repellent for forest areas; stay hydrated on trails.
Our sustainable tours showcase the Soc Trang Historical Base and beyond:
Historical Base Eco-Tour ($50–$70/person): Explore the main hall, tunnels, and canals with guided historical talks. Includes bike rentals, eco-transfers, and snacks.
Mekong Historical Adventure ($60–$80/person): Combines the Historical Base with a Hau River cruise and Nga Nam Floating Market. Includes electric boat transfers and lunch.
Soc Trang Cultural Explorer ($55–$75/person): Historical Base, Clay Pagoda, and Kh’leang Pagoda. Includes eco-transfers and meals.
Mekong Heritage Journey ($250–$400/person, 2–3 days): Historical Base, Vinh Chau Mangrove Forest, and Ok Om Bok Festival (seasonal). Includes activities, meals, and eco-transfers.
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!
Soc Trang Historical Base, nestled in the Melaleuca forests of Can Tho City, offers a profound journey into Vietnam’s revolutionary past. From its preserved tunnels and halls to scenic canal cruises, this site blends history with natural beauty, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking authenticity. Legend Travel Group’s Can Tho Tours uncover the base’s legacy, ensuring a sustainable Can Tho Travel experience while supporting eco-conscious tourism. Don’t wait—browse our featured tours and book your Soc Trang Historical Base adventure today!
Ready to step into Vietnam’s history? Reserve your eco-friendly tour with Legend Travel Group and explore the heart of the Mekong Delta’s revolutionary legacy!
Author Bio: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights and guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Favorite experiences booked by travelers