Explore the Four Sacred Islands of My Tho, Tien Giang—Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Turtle. Discover tours, costs, and book eco-friendly adventures with Legend Travel Group!
The Four Sacred Islands—Dragon (Tân Long), Unicorn (Thới Sơn), Phoenix (Phụng), and Turtle (Quy)—dotting the Tien River in My Tho, Tien Giang, are iconic Mekong Delta destinations, each offering a unique blend of lush orchards, serene canals, and vibrant cultural experiences. Named after the mythical creatures symbolizing happiness and luck, these islands captivate eco-tourists, foodies, and cultural enthusiasts with activities like fruit tasting, canal cruises, and traditional music. Accessible by ferry from My Tho, they showcase the region’s agricultural and riverine heritage. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, curates eco-friendly tours to explore these islands while supporting local communities. Start your adventure—book our tours via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!
Tien Giang Province, with My Tho as its vibrant hub, now includes the former Dong Thap Province, enhancing its appeal as a premier eco-tourism destination. Upgraded infrastructure, including cycling paths and electric boat networks, supports sustainable visits to the Four Sacred Islands and My Tho’s attractions, aligning with the “Green Delta” initiative.
With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group is Southeast Asia’s leading sustainable tour operator, dedicated to showcasing Vietnam’s cultural and natural treasures. Our island tours combine eco-friendly transport—bicycles and electric boats—with fruit tasting, cultural performances, and village visits, guided by local experts. Supporting My Tho’s farmers and artisans, we offer 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 along the Tien River in My Tho, the Four Sacred Islands embody the Mekong Delta’s lush beauty and cultural richness. Tân Long (Dragon) and Thới Sơn (Unicorn) lie in My Tho City, Tien Giang, while Phụng (Phoenix) and Quy (Turtle) are in Bến Tre Province, but all are accessible via My Tho’s ferries. Each island offers distinct attractions, from orchards and craft villages to historical sites. Tien Giang’s tropical climate—dry season (December–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) and rainy season (May–November, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F)—ensures vibrant greenery and fruit harvests year-round. Below are the highlights of each island.
Overview: The closest island to My Tho (3 km), Tân Long is the most populated, spanning 1,250 hectares. Known for its longan, coconut, and sapodilla orchards, it thrives on farming, fishing, and boat-building.
Top Experiences:
Orchard Tours: Pick VietGAP-certified longans and mangoes ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).
Canal Cruises: Glide through canals on electric boats ($5–$15 or 125,000–375,000 VND per boat, fits 4–6).
Fishing Village Visits: Learn about traditional net-casting ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).
Cost: Entry free; activities $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).
Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.
Tips: Visit in summer (May–August) for peak fruit harvests; included in our Tân Long Eco-Tour ($70–$90).
Overview: The largest island at 1,200 hectares, Thới Sơn is a tourism hub with orchards, bee farms, and coconut candy workshops. It’s famous for “Đờn Ca Tài Tử” music and Southern Vietnamese architecture.
Top Experiences:
Coconut Candy Workshops: Learn to make candy ($5–$15 or 125,000–375,000 VND).
Canal Cruises: Row through water coconut canals ($5–$15 or 125,000–375,000 VND).
Đờn Ca Tài Tử Performances: Enjoy UNESCO-recognized music ($3–$10 or 75,000–250,000 VND).
Homestay Dining: Savor Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho ($2–$8 or 50,000–200,000 VND).
Cost: Entry free; activities $3–$15 (75,000–375,000 VND).
Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM for activities; dining until 8:00 PM.
Tips: Book music performances in advance; included in our Thới Sơn Eco-Tour ($70–$90).
Overview: Located 3 km from My Tho, Phụng Island (50 hectares) is famous for the Coconut Monk’s sanctuary, blending Christianity and Buddhism with quirky architecture like a nine-dragon tower.
Top Experiences:
Coconut Monk Sanctuary: Explore dragon columns and an Apollo rocket replica ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND).
Canal Cruises: Navigate serene waterways ($5–$15 or 125,000–375,000 VND).
Fruit Tasting: Sample mangoes and sapodillas ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND).
Cost: Entry $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); activities $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).
Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.
Tips: Join guided tours for Coconut Monk history; included in our Phụng Island Eco-Tour ($70–$90).
Overview: The smallest island at 170 hectares, Quy is a newer islet formed by river sediment, rich in dragon fruit, mango, and longan orchards. It features a small temple built by founder Phạm Cao Thắng.
Top Experiences:
Orchard Tours: Pick dragon fruit and mangoes ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).
Sampan Cruises: Row through mangrove-lined canals ($3–$10 or 75,000–250,000 VND).
Traditional Music: Enjoy “Đờn Ca Tài Tử” ($3–$10 or 75,000–250,000 VND).
Cost: Entry free; activities $3–$10 (75,000–250,000 VND).
Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.
Tips: Visit in summer for dragon fruit harvests; included in our Quy Island Eco-Tour ($70–$90).
Canal Cruises: Navigate narrow canals on electric boats or sampans, admiring water coconut palms and rural life ($5–$15 or 125,000–375,000 VND).
Fruit Tasting: Sample VietGAP-certified fruits like longans and dragon fruit at orchards ($1–$5 or 25,000–125,000 VND).
Cultural Immersion: Enjoy “Đờn Ca Tài Tử” music or visit the Coconut Monk sanctuary for historical insights.
Craft Workshops: Learn to make coconut candy on Thới Sơn or Phụng ($5–$15 or 125,000–375,000 VND).
Combine with My Tho Attractions: Pair with visits to Vinh Trang Pagoda or Cai Be Floating Market for a full experience.
Tips:
Book guided tours for cultural context; wear comfortable shoes for orchard walks.
Visit early morning for cooler weather; bring a reusable tote for fruit purchases.
Included in our Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450).
By Bus and Ferry
Route: Take a bus from Mien Tay Bus Station (395 Kinh Duong Vuong, Binh Tan District) to My Tho, then a ferry from My Tho Tourist Wharf (8 Đ 30 Thang 4) to the islands.
Cost: Bus $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND); ferry $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND, 10–15 minutes per island).
Providers: Futa Bus (Tel: +84 1900 6067), Thanh Buoi.
Tips: Book via VeXeRe or Baolau; ferries run every 15–30 minutes.
By Car/Taxi and Ferry
Route: Follow National Highway 1A to My Tho, then ferry from My Tho Tourist Wharf.
Cost: Car/taxi $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND); ferry $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).
Providers: Mai Linh Taxi (+84 2773 686 868), Grab app.
Tips: Ideal for groups; confirm wharf location.
By Motorbike and Ferry
Route: Follow Kinh Duong Vuong Street to National Highway 1A, then ferry from My Tho Tourist Wharf.
Cost: Rental $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND); fuel $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND); ferry $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).
Providers: Mekong Moto Rentals, HCMC (+84 938 456 789).
Tips: Use offline maps (Maps.me); not for inexperienced riders.
By Ferry
Route: From My Tho Tourist Wharf (8 Đ 30 Thang 4) to Tân Long, Thới Sơn, Phụng, or Quy.
Cost: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND) per island.
Tips: Ferries run every 15–30 minutes; confirm schedules at the wharf.
By Guided Tour (Recommended)
Cost: $70–$90/person for a day tour; $300–$450 for a 2–3 day Mekong Delta immersion.
Details: Includes ferry, boat tours, guide, and activities like fruit tasting or music performances.
Tour Option: Four Sacred Islands Eco-Tour ($70–$90).
Tips: Book via Legend Travel Group for seamless travel.
Dry Season (December–April): Ideal for boat cruises, cycling, and orchard visits; Tet (January–February, lunar calendar) features festive activities.
Rainy Season (May–November): Lush greenery, abundant fruit harvests; enjoy 10–20% tour discounts.
Tips: Visit in the morning (8:00 AM–11:00 AM) for cooler weather; book 3–4 weeks in advance for Tet. Check AccuWeather for rainy season updates.
Pack for a sustainable island visit:
Clothing: Lightweight attire for dry season; raincoat ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND) for rainy season.
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 or camera for photos; portable charger.
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for fruit or candy purchases, bamboo straw for sustainability.
Tip: Carry VND (50,000–200,000 notes) for ferry fees and vendors; use a waterproof backpack in rainy season.
Ferry to Islands: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND) per island.
Activities:
Canal cruises: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).
Orchard tours: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Coconut candy workshops: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).
Music performances: $3–$10 (75,000–250,000 VND).
Bicycle rental: $2–$4/day (50,000–100,000 VND).
Dining: Meals at homestays or My Tho eateries: $2–$8 (50,000–200,000 VND); drinks $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).
Accommodation (My Tho):
Homestays (e.g., Thới Sơn Eco Homestay): $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).
Hotels (e.g., Central Plaza Hotel My Tho): $20–$50/night (500,000–1,250,000 VND).
Resorts (e.g., Mekong Riverside Resort): $80–$150/night (2,000,000–3,750,000 VND).
Transport to My Tho:
Bus from Ho Chi Minh City: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Taxi within My Tho: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).
Total Daily Cost:
Budget: $15–$35 (bus, ferry, homestay, meals).
Mid-range: $35–$70 (guided tours, hotel, dining).
Luxury: $100–$180 (resorts, private tours, upscale dining).
Tip: Use ATMs in My Tho for cash; carry small VND notes for ferries and vendors.
Book Early: Reserve tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222) 3–4 weeks in advance, especially for Tet or summer.
Seasonal Tips:
Dry Season: Pack sunscreen; ideal for cycling and boat cruises.
Rainy Season: Bring waterproof gear; enjoy lush orchards.
Sustainability: Support local farmers and artisans; use eco-transport like electric boats.
Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me); save My Tho Tourist Wharf as a landmark.
Safety: Secure valuables on ferries; respect orchard boundaries.
Cultural Respect: Greet locals with “xin chào” (hello); tip guides or performers $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 Tien Giang’s cultural and natural gems:
Four Sacred Islands Eco-Tour ($70–$90/person): Explore Tân Long, Thới Sơn, Phụng, and Quy with canal cruises, fruit tasting, and music performances. Includes ferry, boat transfers, guide.
Tien Giang Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Savor Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho, coconut candy, and join craft workshops. Includes eco-transfers, meals, guide.
My Tho Cultural Tour ($60–$80/person): Visit the islands, Vinh Trang Pagoda, and My Tho Night Market. Includes eco-transfers, lunch, guide.
Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450/person, 2–3 days): Explore the Four Sacred Islands, Cai Be Floating Market, and homestays ($10–$25/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!
The Four Sacred Islands of My Tho—Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Turtle—in Tien Giang Region, Dong Thap Province, a vibrant showcase of the Mekong Delta’s lush beauty and cultural richness, are located 70 km from Ho Chi Minh City. From Tân Long’s orchards on Unicorn Island to Phụng’s quirky sanctuary on Phoenix Island, these islands offer unforgettable eco-tourism experiences like boat cruises ($5–$15, 125,000–375,000 VND) and fruit picking. Legend Travel Group’s Tien Giang Tours guide you through their unique charm, ensuring a sustainable Tien Giang Travel experience with eco-friendly practices like low-impact boat tours and support for local communities, paired with visits to Vinh Trang Pagoda and My Tho Market. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly island adventure today!
Ready to discover the Four Sacred Islands of My Tho in Tien Giang? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into the Mekong Delta’s tropical heart!
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:
Four Sacred Islands Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, mekong-delta-tours.com, tnktravel.com, vinpearl.com
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