Explore the top natural attractions in Can Tho City, from Cai Rang Floating Market to Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary. Discover costs, eco-friendly tours, and book sustainable adventures with Legend Travel Group!
Can Tho City, the vibrant heart of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, is a haven for nature lovers, offering pristine waterways, lush orchards, and diverse wildlife. Following the merger of Soc Trang and Hau Giang, Can Tho has become Vietnam’s largest city by landmass, drawing millions to its iconic natural landmarks and sustainable tourism initiatives. Known as “Tây Đô” or the “Western Capital,” Can Tho boasts attractions like Cai Rang Floating Market, Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary, and My Khanh Eco-Tourism Village, all showcasing the Delta’s rich biodiversity and riverine beauty. Aligned with Can Tho’s “Green Delta” sustainability goals, these destinations promote eco-conscious travel through low-impact activities and local community support. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours provide immersive, responsible ways to explore Can Tho’s natural wonders—book your tour via the links throughout this guide!
Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, specializes in sustainable Southeast Asia adventures. Our Can Tho tours feature eco-friendly transport—bicycles, electric boats, and eco-taxis—guided by local experts who share the Delta’s natural and cultural heritage. Supporting communities in Ninh Kieu, Cai Rang, and Phong Dien Wards, we align with Can Tho’s eco-vision. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless journey. Contact us at sales@legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp +84825862222 to book eco-tours and discover Can Tho responsibly
Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has merged Soc Trang and Hau Giang into Can Tho City, with Ninh Kieu as the central hub. District-level units are now wards or communes, enhancing access to natural attractions like Cai Rang Floating Market and Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary. Supported by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project—Can Tho offers seamless exploration of its expanded region.
Can Tho City, nestled on the Hậu River, is the Mekong Delta’s largest urban center, spanning 1,409 km² with a population of 1.6 million. Its tropical monsoon climate, featuring a dry season (December–April, 25–36°C or 77–96.8°F) and a rainy season (May–November, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F), nurtures a lush landscape of waterways, orchards, and wildlife sanctuaries. Can Tho’s natural attractions, from the bustling Cai Rang Floating Market to the serene Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary, reflect its rich biodiversity and riverine culture. The city’s commitment to sustainable tourism, with eco-friendly transport and conservation efforts, ensures these natural wonders are preserved for future generations, making Can Tho an ideal destination for eco-conscious travelers.
Key Natural Features:
Waterways: Over 1,000 km of canals and rivers, supporting floating markets and boat tours.
Biodiversity: Home to species like painted storks, egrets, and diverse fruit trees.
Climate: Tropical, with lush greenery year-round.
Sustainability: Eco-tourism initiatives protect natural habitats and support local communities.
Tip: Explore by electric boat or bicycle for a low-impact experience, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).
Here are the top natural attractions in Can Tho City, with updated costs, eco-friendly access options, and sustainable tour recommendations to ensure a responsible visit.
Overview: Located on Cai Rang River, Cai Rang Ward, 6 km from Ninh Kieu Wharf, Cai Rang Floating Market is the Mekong Delta’s largest wholesale market, recognized as National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2016. Hundreds of boats trade fruits ($0.50–$3/kg or 12,500–75,000 VND), vegetables, and goods amidst a vibrant riverine ecosystem.
Why Visit: Witness the Delta’s bustling trade, sample floating breakfasts like Bánh Xèo ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND), and observe aquatic life along the river. Sunrise (5:30–6:30 AM) offers stunning views.
Cost: Private electric boat $15–$30 (375,000–750,000 VND, 2–4 people, 2–3 hours); group tour $6–$12 (150,000–300,000 VND per person).
Eco-Friendly Access: Electric boats reduce emissions; cycle to Cai Rang Pier (6 km, $1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND).
Hours: 4:00 AM–10:00 AM, busiest 5:30–7:00 AM.
Tip: Book a sunrise boat tour for peak market vibrancy, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).
Overview: Situated at Nhon Ai, Phong Dien Town, Phong Dien Ward, 17 km from Ninh Kieu, Phong Dien Floating Market is a smaller, retail-focused market with 45–60 sampans trading fruits, crafts, and local goods along serene canals.
Why Visit: Enjoy a tranquil riverine setting, taste hủ tiếu ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND), and explore the “bẹo hàng” bamboo pole tradition amidst lush waterways.
Cost: Private electric boat $15–$30 (375,000–750,000 VND, 2–4 people, 2–3 hours); group tour $6–$12 (150,000–300,000 VND per person).
Eco-Friendly Access: Electric boats or motorbike to Phong Dien Pier (17 km, $5–$10/day or 125,000–250,000 VND).
Hours: 4:00 AM–8:00 AM, busiest 5:30–7:00 AM.
Tip: Combine with Cai Rang for a dual-market experience, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).
Overview: Located in Binh Thoi Hamlet, Thuan An Ward, Thot Not Ward, 52 km from Ninh Kieu, this 2-hectare sanctuary, established in 1983, hosts over 300,000 birds across 20 species, including painted storks and white cattle egrets, in a thriving wetland ecosystem.
Why Visit: Observe flocks at dawn or dusk (5:30 AM–7:00 AM, 4:30 PM–6:00 PM) from a 7m observation tower, supporting conservation efforts. Spot native trees like “bang lang” (queen of flowers) that inspired its name.
Cost: Entry $1 (25,000 VND); guided tour $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND); electric taxi $15–$20 (375,000–500,000 VND) round trip.
Eco-Friendly Access: Electric taxis or guided tours minimize environmental impact.
Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.
Tip: Visit in November–February for nesting season, included in our Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80).
Overview: At 335 Lo Vong Cung, Phong Dien Ward, 12 km from Ninh Kieu, this 50,000 m² eco-tourism village, established in 1996, features orchards, canals, and traditional crafts, recognized as one of Vietnam’s Top 100 Impressive Destinations in 2013.
Why Visit: Pick seasonal fruits like rambutans ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND), explore canals by rowboat ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND), and enjoy Delta dishes ($3–$10 or 75,000–250,000 VND) in a biodiverse setting.
Cost: Entry $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND); activities $1–$10 (25,000–250,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Access: Cycle from Ninh Kieu (12 km, $1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND) or use electric taxis ($5–$8 or 125,000–200,000 VND).
Hours: 7:00 AM–8:00 PM daily.
Tip: Visit in June–August for peak fruit season, included in our Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80).
Overview: Located on Hai Ba Trung Street, Tan An Ward, Ninh Kieu Ward, Ninh Kieu Wharf is a scenic riverside hub along the Hậu River, surrounded by greenery, a park, and vibrant fish populations.
Why Visit: Watch the sunset (5:30–6:30 PM) over the river, spot aquatic life, and enjoy street food like Bánh Cống ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND) at the night market. The Tet flower market (mid-December lunar calendar) showcases native flora.
Cost: Free entry; food $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND); boat tours $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Access: Walk from central hotels or cycle (1–2 km, $1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND).
Hours: Open 24/7; best 4:00 PM–10:00 PM.
Tip: Visit during Tet for floral displays, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).
Location: Ninh Kieu Ward, Can Tho City, 169 km from Ho Chi Minh City.
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND); carry small notes (50,000–500,000 VND) for vendors.
Transport:
Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND).
Motorbike Rental: $5–$15/day (125,000–375,000 VND).
Taxi/Grab: $3–$8 (75,000–200,000 VND) within 1–15 km; airport to Ninh Kieu (10 km) $5–$8 (125,000–200,000 VND).
Electric Boat: $15–$30 (375,000–750,000 VND, 2–3 hours).
Accessibility: Urban sites like Ninh Kieu Wharf are accessible; boat-based markets and rural sanctuaries are not wheelchair-friendly.
Climate: Dry season (December–April) for sunny exploration; rainy season (May–November) for lush greenery.
Dry Season (December–April): Sunny weather (25–36°C or 77–96.8°F) is ideal for boat tours, cycling, and birdwatching at Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary. The Cai Rang Floating Market Festival (April) adds vibrancy.
Rainy Season (May–November): Cooler temperatures (22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F) and lush scenery enhance canal tours and orchard visits; abundant fruits enrich market experiences. Bring rain gear ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).
Key Events:
Tet (January–February): Flower markets at Ninh Kieu Wharf showcase native flora.
Ha Dien Ceremony (May–June): Cultural festival at Binh Thuy Communal House.
Thuong Dien Ceremony (November–December): Celebrates the harvest with river-based activities.
Tip: Visit in March–April for mild weather or September–November for lush greenery; check AccuWeather for updates.
Book Tours Early: Reserve eco-tours via Legend Travel Group (sales@legendtravelgroup.com, WhatsApp +84825862222) 2–3 weeks in advance, especially for December–April or festivals.
Packing for Climate:
Dry Season: Lightweight clothing, hat, sunglasses, SPF 50+ sunscreen ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND).
Rainy Season: Lightweight raincoat ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND), waterproof bag.
Year-Round: Reusable water bottle, mosquito repellent ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).
Sustainability: Support local vendors at markets, use electric boats or bikes, and avoid plastic waste to align with Can Tho’s green goals.
Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) for Ninh Kieu, Cai Rang, Phong Dien, and Thot Not Wards; save Ninh Kieu Wharf as a landmark.
Safety: Secure valuables at markets; wear life jackets on boats; avoid dusk rides to rural areas like Thot Not.
Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you) to vendors; respect wildlife by maintaining distance at sanctuaries.
Health: Stay hydrated with bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); apply mosquito repellent for outdoor activities.
Our sustainable tours showcase Can Tho’s natural attractions with eco-friendly transport:
Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75/person): Cai Rang and Phong Dien Floating Markets, canal cruise via electric boat. Includes guide, breakfast, and eco-transfers.
Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Cai Rang market, Ninh Kieu Wharf, local farms via bicycle, with Bánh Xèo tasting and cooking class. Includes meals and guide.
Can Tho City Explorer ($45–$65/person): Ninh Kieu Wharf, Tay Do Night Market, Ong Temple via bicycles. Includes snacks and guide.
Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80/person): Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary, My Khanh Eco-Village, Tra Su Bird Sanctuary via electric boat and taxi. Includes transfers and guide.
Mekong Delta Immersion ($250–$400/person, 2–3 days): All natural attractions, homestays ($10–$25/night or 250,000–625,000 VND), orchards via mixed eco-transport. Includes meals and activities.
Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and entrance fees. Enjoy 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book now via links around this page
Can Tho City, the Mekong Delta’s vibrant hub 169 km from Ho Chi Minh City, captivates with natural attractions like the Cai Rang Floating Market, bustling with early-morning trade ($5–$15 boat tour, 125,000–375,000 VND), and the serene Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary in Thot Not District, home to thousands of storks ($2–$3 entry, 50,000–75,000 VND), drawing millions yearly. These destinations, supported by Can Tho’s “Green Delta” vision, offer sustainable access via electric boats and bicycles ($2–$5/day, 50,000–125,000 VND), ensuring minimal environmental impact. Legend Travel Group’s Can Tho Tours provide a responsible, immersive Can Tho Travel experience, blending eco-friendly practices like low-impact transport and community-led conservation with visits to Ninh Kieu Wharf, Binh Thuy Ancient House, and culinary delights like bánh cống ($0.50–$1, 12,500–25,000 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 immerse in Can Tho’s natural splendor? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and explore the Mekong Delta’s vibrant 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:
Can Tho Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, mekong-delta-tours.com, asiakingtravel.com, lilystravelagency.com, canthorivertour.com, vietnamnet.vn, scootersaigontour.com, klook.com, tripadvisor.com
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