Discover Soc Trang’s unmissable destinations, from Nga Nam Floating Market to Kh’leang Pagoda! Explore costs, highlights, and sustainable tours with Legend Travel Group for a vibrant Mekong Delta adventure.
Soc Trang, a vibrant cultural hub in the Mekong Delta, now part of the expanded Can Tho City administrative region, is a captivating destination 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City. Renowned for its harmonious blend of Khmer, Vietnamese (Kinh), and Chinese heritage, Soc Trang attracts over 3 million visitors annually with its unique festivals, historic sites, and natural beauty. From the bustling Nga Nam Floating Market to the serene Kh’leang Pagoda, Soc Trang offers a rich tapestry of experiences showcasing its ethnic diversity. Committed to sustainable tourism through the “Mekong Green” initiative, Soc Trang ensures eco-friendly exploration. Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, curates sustainable tours to immerse you in these iconic sites. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to book your adventure
Legend Travel Group specializes in authentic, sustainable Southeast Asian experiences across Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar. Our Soc Trang tours use low-impact transport—bicycles, electric boats, and eco-vans—guided by local experts who share the region’s cultural and natural stories. Supporting communities in Soc Trang’s central ward and Vinh Chau, 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 Soc Trang 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—Soc Trang’s attractions are easily accessible, offering a perfect blend of cultural and eco-tourism exploration.
Soc Trang’s attractions range from bustling river markets to historic pagodas and serene eco-parks, each reflecting its multicultural heritage. Below are the top destinations, with updated details to plan your visit sustainably.
Overview: Located in Nga Nam Ward, 30 km from Soc Trang’s central ward, Nga Nam Floating Market is a vibrant hub where five rivers converge, creating a lively trade scene. Open from 4:00 AM to 8:00 AM, this market features boats laden with fruits, vegetables, dried goods, and street food, with “bẹo poles” displaying goods for sale. Its rustic charm and riverine commerce embody the Mekong Delta’s soul.
Cost: Free entry; boat rentals $10–$20/hour (250,000–500,000 VND, 4–6 passengers); food $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
How to Get There: From Soc Trang Central Ward, take a taxi ($10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND, 45 minutes) or motorbike ($5–$10/day rental or 125,000–250,000 VND). Legend’s eco-vans cost $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).
Best Time: Dawn (5:00 AM–7:00 AM) for peak activity; dry season (November–April) for calm waters.
Experience: Bargain for fresh produce, taste Bún Nước Lèo ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND) from food boats, and photograph the vibrant river scene.
Sustainability Tip: Use reusable bags for purchases; choose eco-friendly boat operators.
Included in: Mekong River Adventure ($60–$80), Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70).
Overview: Situated at 73B Le Hong Phong Street, Ward 3, this 456-year-old Khmer temple, built in 1569, is a cultural landmark, recognized as a national relic in 1999. Famous for its colony of over 1,000 fruit bats (flying foxes) and unique five-clawed pig tombs, the pagoda features vibrant yellow architecture with Naga snake motifs.
Cost: Free entry; donations $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); guided tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
How to Get There: 3 km from central ward; walk (30 minutes), bike ($1–$2/day or 25,000–50,000 VND), or taxi ($2–$4 or 50,000–100,000 VND).
Best Time: Spring (February–April) for Khmer New Year; dusk (5:00 PM–6:00 PM) to see bats fly out.
Experience: Admire the main hall’s murals, observe bats in the garden, join meditation sessions, or attend Ooc Om Bok Festival (October–November).
Sustainability Tip: Respect wildlife by maintaining distance from bats; support temple donations for preservation.
Included in: Soc Trang Cultural Tour ($55–$75), Soc Trang Festival Tour ($70–$90).
Overview: Located at 23 Nguyễn Chí Thanh Street, Ward 6, opposite Kh’leang Pagoda, this museum, built in 1938, showcases Soc Trang’s Khmer heritage with over 13,000 artifacts, including costumes, tools, and palm-leaf scriptures. Its Khmer-style architecture and exhibits highlight the community’s spiritual and daily life.
Cost: Free entry; donations $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); guided tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
How to Get There: 1 km from central ward; walk (10 minutes), bike ($1–$2/day), or taxi ($2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND).
Best Time: November–April for pleasant weather; Ooc Om Bok Festival for cultural events.
Experience: Explore exhibits, attend occasional Dù Kê performances ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND), or join palm-leaf calligraphy workshops ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND).
Sustainability Tip: Support local artisans by purchasing Khmer crafts at nearby markets.
Included in: Soc Trang Cultural Tour ($55–$75).
Overview: In Long Bình Commune, Nga Nam Ward, 40 km from central Soc Trang, this 1.5-hectare sanctuary, managed by the Huỳnh Văn Mười family, hosts thousands of storks, including white storks, gongs, and rare species. Its serene bamboo groves and vibrant birdlife offer a natural retreat.
Cost: $1–$2 entry (25,000–50,000 VND); guided tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
How to Get There: Taxi ($15–$20 or 375,000–500,000 VND, 1 hour) or motorbike ($5–$10/day). Legend’s eco-vans cost $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).
Best Time: Dawn or dusk (5:00 AM–7:00 AM, 5:00 PM–7:00 PM) for bird activity; November–April for clear skies.
Experience: Observe storks, photograph their flights, or relax in the tranquil setting.
Sustainability Tip: Avoid disturbing birds; support conservation through entry fees.
Included in: Soc Trang Nature Tour ($65–$85).
Overview: Nestled on the Hậu River in Nhơn Mỹ Commune, Kế Sách Ward, 30 km from central Soc Trang, this islet is a fruit-lover’s paradise with orchards of oranges, mangoes, longans, and durians. Its riverine setting and Mid-Year Festival (5th lunar month) draw visitors for fruit-picking and cultural events.
Cost: Free entry; boat crossing $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); fruit-picking $2–$5/kg (50,000–125,000 VND); festival events free, donations $1–$2.
How to Get There: From Soc Trang, take Highway 1A to An Trạch crossroads, then Provincial Highway 1 to Kế Sách (28 km), and cross by ferry (1 km). Or, via Highway 60 to Đại Ngãi, then Provincial Road 11 to Nhơn Mỹ ferry (35 km). Taxi $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND); motorbike $5–$10/day.
Best Time: May (lunar 5th month) for Mid-Year Festival and ripe fruits; November–April for mild weather.
Experience: Pick fruits, join dragon boat races, or taste garden-fresh durians during festivals.
Sustainability Tip: Buy directly from farmers to support local agriculture; use reusable bags.
Included in: Mekong River Adventure ($60–$80), Soc Trang Festival Tour ($70–$90).
Overview: At 71 Mậu Thân 68 Street, Ward 2, this 5-hectare eco-park along the Maspero River offers lush gardens, lotus ponds, and Khmer cultural experiences. Ideal for relaxation, it features cycling, fishing, and traditional performances.
Cost: $1–$2 entry (25,000–50,000 VND); activities $2–$10 (50,000–250,000 VND); meals $2–$10 (50,000–250,000 VND).
How to Get There: 1 km from central ward; walk (10 minutes), bike ($1–$2/day), or taxi ($2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND).
Best Time: November–April; Khmer festivals like Ooc Om Bok (October–November) for cultural vibrancy.
Experience: Cycle through gardens, fish in ponds, or enjoy Dù Kê opera ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).
Sustainability Tip: Use reusable water bottles; support local vendors for snacks.
Included in: Binh An Eco-Tour ($50–$70), Soc Trang Cultural Tour ($55–$75).
Overview: At 71 Mậu Thân Street, Ward 6, this 493-year-old Khmer temple, built in 1532, is Soc Trang’s oldest, recognized as a national relic in 1990. Its three-tiered main hall, rebuilt in 1918, houses 45 Shakyamuni statues and features Khmer-Chinese-Vietnamese architectural motifs.
Cost: Free entry; donations $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); guided tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
How to Get There: 1 km from central ward; walk (10 minutes), bike ($1–$2/day), or taxi ($2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND).
Best Time: February–April for Khmer New Year; October–November for Ooc Om Bok.
Experience: Admire gilded statues, join meditation, or attend cultural workshops ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND).
Sustainability Tip: Respect sacred spaces; donate to support temple maintenance.
Included in: Soc Trang Cultural Tour ($55–$75), Soc Trang Festival Tour ($70–$90).
Overview: Located in Vĩnh Hải Commune, Vĩnh Châu Ward, 40 km from central Soc Trang, this coastal eco-site boasts pristine white sand beaches and wild seascapes. Known for affordable seafood and friendly locals, it’s ideal for camping or day trips.
Cost: Free entry; camping $5–$10/night (125,000–250,000 VND); seafood $2–$10/dish (50,000–250,000 VND).
How to Get There: Taxi ($15–$20 or 375,000–500,000 VND, 1 hour) or motorbike ($5–$10/day). Legend’s eco-vans cost $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).
Best Time: November–April for calm seas; avoid August–October storms.
Experience: Swim, camp, or feast on fresh crab ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).
Sustainability Tip: Avoid plastic waste; support local fishermen for seafood.
Included in: Soc Trang Nature Tour ($65–$85).
Overview: In Mỹ Phước Commune, Mỹ Tú Ward, 36 km from central Soc Trang, this 310-hectare historical site in a melaleuca forest was a key resistance base during the anti-French war (1945–1954). Rebuilt post-1968, it features tunnels, halls, and exhibitions on revolutionary history.
Cost: $1 entry (25,000 VND); guided tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
How to Get There: From central ward, take Highway 1A toward Bạc Liêu (20 km) to Nhự Gia Market, turn right for 16 km. Taxi ($12–$18 or 300,000–450,000 VND); motorbike ($5–$10/day). By waterway, a 30-km boat trip costs $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).
Best Time: November–April for dry paths; Tet (January–February) for exhibitions.
Experience: Explore tunnels, view war relics, or attend historical talks.
Sustainability Tip: Respect the site’s heritage; avoid littering in the forest.
Included in: Soc Trang Cultural Tour ($55–$75).
The dry season (November–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) is ideal for exploring markets, pagodas, and eco-areas, with clear skies and mild weather. February–April aligns with Khmer New Year (mid-April), offering vibrant ceremonies. The rainy season (May–October, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F) provides lush greenery and 15–25% discounts, but August–October flooding may affect rural sites like Tân Long or Hồ Bể. Ooc Om Bok Festival (October–November) is a cultural highlight, though crowds increase prices by 10–20%. Visit markets early (6:00 AM–9:00 AM) or eco-areas at dusk (5:00 PM–7:00 PM) for optimal experiences. Check AccuWeather for forecasts.
By Air: Fly to Can Tho International Airport (VCA), 60 km away, 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). Eco-van transfers to Soc Trang cost $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND, 1–1.5 hours).
By Bus: From Ho Chi Minh City (5–6 hours, $6–$15 or 150,000–375,000 VND) via Phuong Trang (Futa Bus) from Mien Tay Bus Station. From Can Tho (1–1.5 hours, $3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND). Book via Baolau or Vexere.
By Private Eco-Van: From Can Tho or Ho Chi Minh City, $50–$80 (1,250,000–2,000,000 VND) for 2–4 passengers, arranged through Legend Travel Group.
Tip: Book early for festival seasons; use eco-vans for sustainability. Download Maps.me or MyCanTho app for navigation.
Entrance Fees:
Nga Nam Market, Bat Pagoda, Khmer Museum, Kh’leang Pagoda: Free; donations $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Tân Long, Binh An, Hồ Bể, Provincial Base: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Guided Tours: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Workshops/Activities: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).
Transport in Soc Trang:
Taxi/Grab (1–5 km): $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND).
Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND); fuel $1–$2/liter (25,000–50,000 VND).
River Boat: $10–$20/hour (250,000–500,000 VND, shared).
Bicycle Rental: $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND).
Eco-Van (to rural sites): $15–$30 (375,000–750,000 VND).
Dining:
Street Food (e.g., Bún Gỏi Dà, Bánh Cóng): $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
Restaurants: $3–$12 (75,000–300,000 VND).
Drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).
Accommodation (Soc Trang Central Ward):
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 (Excluding Tours):
Budget: $15–$40 (free sites, street food, bike rental, guesthouse).
Mid-range: $40–$70 (guided tours, restaurants, hotel).
Luxury: $70–$110 (premium tours, upscale dining, resort).
Tip: Use ATMs in Soc Trang Central Ward; carry VND for small transactions. Book early for festivals to save 15–20%.
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 like Ooc Om Bok.
Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) or MyCanTho app. Central wards are walkable; use bikes for rural sites like Tân Long or Cồn Mỹ Phước.
Sustainability: Choose bicycles or electric boats; buy from local vendors; carry reusable bags and bottles to align with Mekong Green initiatives.
Cultural Respect: Dress modestly at pagodas (covered shoulders, knees); say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip guides/vendors ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND); avoid touching artifacts or wildlife.
Health Precautions: Apply mosquito repellent for rural sites; bring sunscreen (SPF 50+); stay hydrated during festivals.
Safety: Secure valuables in crowded markets or festivals; avoid flooded rural routes in August–October.
Explore Soc Trang’s attractions with our sustainable tours:
Soc Trang Cultural Tour ($55–$75/person): Bat Pagoda, Kh’leang Pagoda, Khmer Museum, cultural workshops. Includes bike rentals, eco-transfers, and snacks.
Mekong River Adventure ($60–$80/person): Nga Nam Floating Market, Cồn Mỹ Phước, Hậu River cruise. Includes electric boat transfers and lunch.
Soc Trang Nature Tour ($65–$85/person): Tân Long Stork Garden, Hồ Bể, Binh An Eco-Area. Includes eco-transfers and meals.
Soc Trang Festival Tour ($70–$90/person, October–November): Ooc Om Bok Festival, Cồn Mỹ Phước Mid-Year Festival, boat races. Includes eco-transfers and dining.
Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70/person): Nga Nam Market, Binh An, local eateries. Includes eco-transfers and meals.
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 Region, Can Tho City, a Mekong Delta gem 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City, captivates with must-visit destinations like the lively Nga Nam Floating Market, the historic Kh’leang Pagoda, and the serene Tân Long Stork Garden, drawing thousands yearly. Reflecting the region’s Khmer, Vietnamese, and Chinese heritage, explore the bustling market’s vibrant trade ($5–$15 boat tour, 125,000–375,000 VND), the 500-year-old Khmer architecture of Kh’leang Pagoda with its seven-story tower (free entry), and the ecological haven of Tân Long Stork Garden hosting thousands of storks ($1–$2 entry, 25,000–50,000 VND). Supported by sustainable practices like eco-friendly boats and community-led conservation, Legend Travel Group’s Soc Trang Tours ensure a responsible, immersive Soc Trang Travel experience, blending visits to Bat Pagoda, Clay Pagoda, and culinary delights like bún nước lèo ($1–$2, 25,000–50,000 VND). Contact Legend Travel Group at www.legendtravelgroup.com, info@legendtravelgroup.com, or (+84) 825862222 to browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to discover Soc Trang’s iconic destinations? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in the Mekong Delta’s vibrant cultural and natural 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:
Soc Trang Destinations Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, vemekong.com, asiakingtravel.com, scootersaigontour.com, lonelyplanet.com, originvietnam.com, vietnamnet.vn, talkvietnam.com, tripadvisor.com
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