Unforgettable Things to Do on Thoi Son Island: A Mekong Delta Gem

Tucked along the Tien River in My Tho, Tien Giang, Thoi Son Island is a lush, 1,200-hectare haven in the Mekong Delta, renowned for its vibrant orchards, intricate canals, and warm local culture. Home to over 6,000 residents, this island blends eco-tourism with authentic experiences, offering tropical fruit tasting, traditional music, and sustainable adventures. Known as “Con Lan” in the Four Sacred Elements (Dragon, Qilin, Turtle, Phoenix), Thoi Son captivates with its natural beauty and community spirit. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, designs eco-conscious tours that immerse you in the island’s charm while supporting local livelihoods. Start your journey—book our tours via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Note

As part of Vietnam’s administrative changes, Thoi Son Island remains a cornerstone of Tien Giang Province, with My Tho as the region’s vibrant hub. Enhanced with eco-friendly infrastructure like electric boats and cycling paths, the island aligns with Tien Giang’s “Green Delta” initiative, ensuring sustainable access to its attractions.

With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group is Southeast Asia’s premier sustainable tour operator, dedicated to preserving Vietnam’s cultural and natural heritage. Our Thoi Son Island tours feature eco-friendly transport—bicycles and electric boats—paired with expert guides who share the island’s stories. Supporting local 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!

Just 70 km from Ho Chi Minh City, Thoi Son Island enjoys a tropical monsoon climate: a dry season (December–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) for clear skies and a rainy season (May–November, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F) for lush landscapes. Its fertile soils produce tropical fruits like longans, rambutans, and star-apples, making it a hub for eco-tourism. From canal cruises to cultural workshops, the island offers immersive activities that celebrate Mekong Delta life while promoting sustainability.

1. Cruise the Canals by Electric Boat

Glide through Thoi Son’s winding canals on eco-friendly electric boats, surrounded by water coconut trees and vibrant greenery.

• Cost: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Hours: 7:00 AM–4:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Scenic waterways, birdwatching, peaceful village views.

• Tips: Opt for morning tours to avoid heat; included in our Thoi Son Eco-Tour ($65–$85).

2. Pick and Taste Tropical Fruits

Harvest fresh fruits like mangoes, star-apples, and rambutans in Thoi Son’s lush orchards, guided by local farmers.

• Cost: Entry $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND); guided tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Fruit tasting, farmer stories, scenic orchard walks.

• Tips: Visit in summer for the ripest fruits; included in our Thoi Son Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

3. Experience “Don Ca Tai Tu” Music

Immerse yourself in the UNESCO-recognized “Don Ca Tai Tu” music, a soulful Mekong tradition performed by local artists.

• Cost: $3–$7 (75,000–175,000 VND); often included in guided tours.

• Hours: Typically 10:00 AM–3:00 PM, varies by tour.

• Highlights: Live performances, cultural storytelling, rustic venues.

• Tips: Pair with a homestay for a deeper experience; included in our Thoi Son Cultural Tour ($60–$80).

4. Join a Coconut Candy Workshop

Learn to craft Thoi Son’s famous coconut candy at family-run workshops, tasting and buying handmade treats.

• Cost: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Hours: 8:00 AM–4:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Hands-on candy-making, souvenir shopping, local hospitality.

• Tips: Purchase candies as gifts; included in our Thoi Son Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

5. Cycle Through Rural Villages

Pedal along shaded paths, passing orchards and traditional homes, for an eco-friendly exploration of the island.

• Cost: Bicycle rental $2–$4/day (50,000–100,000 VND); guided cycling tours $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Rural scenery, local encounters, low-carbon adventure.

• Tips: Bring a reusable water bottle; included in our Thoi Son Eco-Tour ($65–$85).

6. Try Traditional Fish Catching

Engage in a unique Mekong activity by bailing water from ditches to catch fish, then enjoy a freshly cooked meal.

• Cost: $5–$12 (125,000–300,000 VND).

• Hours: 8:00 AM–3:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Hands-on fishing, cooking with locals, rustic dining.

• Tips: Wear comfortable clothes; included in our Thoi Son Eco-Tour ($65–$85).

7. Stay Overnight in a Homestay

Spend a night in a traditional homestay with coconut-leaf roofs, learning to cook Mekong dishes with friendly hosts.

• Cost: $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).

• Hours: Check-in after 2:00 PM; check-out by 11:00 AM.

• Highlights: Authentic village life, home-cooked meals, cultural exchange.

• Tips: Book early for peak seasons; included in our Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450).

Thoi Son Island is easily reached via My Tho, Tien Giang’s transport hub:

• By Bus to My Tho, then Boat:

  • Ho Chi Minh City (Mien Tay Bus Station) to My Tho: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND, 1.5–2 hours, 70 km).

  • My Tho to Thoi Son by boat (30/4 Pier): $3–$7 (75,000–175,000 VND, 15–20 minutes).

  • Providers: Futa Bus (Tel: +84 1900 6067), Thanh Buoi.

• By Car/Taxi to My Tho, then Boat:

  • Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho: $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND, 1.5 hours).

  • My Tho to Thoi Son by boat: $3–$7 (75,000–175,000 VND).

  • Providers: Mai Linh Taxi (+84 2773 686 868), Grab app.

• By Motorbike to My Tho, then Boat:

  • Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND, 1.5–2 hours).

  • Rent at Mekong Moto Rentals, HCMC (+84 938 456 789).

• Tips:

  • Book buses via VeXeRe or Baolau for ease.

  • Use offline maps (Maps.me); save 30/4 Pier as a landmark.

  • Included in our Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450) for seamless transfers.

• Dry Season (December–April): Perfect for cycling, fishing, and fruit picking; Tet (January–February) brings festive orchard tours.

• Rainy Season (May–November): Lush scenery and abundant fruits; enjoy 10–20% tour discounts. August–October is ideal for canal cruises.

• Tips: Reserve tours 3–4 weeks ahead for peak seasons; check AccuWeather for rainy season updates.

Prepare for a sustainable adventure:

• Clothing: Breathable 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 for photos; portable charger; camera for canal views.

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for fruits and souvenirs, bamboo straw.

Tip: Carry VND (50,000–200,000 notes) for vendors; use a waterproof backpack in rainy season.

• Island Access and Entry: Boat to island $3–$7 (75,000–175,000 VND); orchard entry $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Activities:

  • Guided tours: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

  • Bicycle rental: $2–$4/day (50,000–100,000 VND).

  • Boat cruises: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

  • Workshops or fishing: $5–$12 (125,000–300,000 VND).

• Dining: Meals at local eateries (e.g., Thoi Son Riverside or homestays): $4–$12 (100,000–300,000 VND); drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

• Accommodation:

  • Homestays: $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).

  • Hotels in My Tho: $20–$50/night (500,000–1,250,000 VND).

  • Resorts: $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 from Ho Chi Minh City: $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost:

• Budget: $15–$35 (bus, meals, boat access).

• Mid-range: $35–$70 (guided tours, dining, taxi).

• Luxury: $100–$180 (resorts, private tours, upscale dining).

Tip: Use ATMs in My Tho for cash; carry small VND notes for island 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 outdoor activities.

  • Rainy Season: Bring waterproof gear; enjoy lush canals.

• Sustainability: Support artisans by buying coconut candies; use bicycles or electric boats to reduce emissions.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me); save 30/4 Pier as a landmark.

• Safety: Secure valuables; respect orchard boundaries when picking fruits.

• Cultural Respect: Greet locals with “xin chào” (hello); tip guides $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Health: Stay hydrated ($0.50 or 12,500 VND per bottle); apply mosquito repellent in rural areas.

Our eco-friendly tours highlight Thoi Son Island’s best experiences:

• Thoi Son Eco-Tour ($65–$85/person): Cruise canals, cycle villages, and try fish catching. Includes boat transfers, snacks, guide.

• Thoi Son Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Harvest fruits, join coconut candy workshops, and savor Mekong dishes. Includes eco-transfers, meals, guide.

• Thoi Son Cultural Tour ($60–$80/person): Enjoy “Don Ca Tai Tu” music, visit homestays, and explore orchards. Includes eco-transfers, lunch, guide.

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450/person, 2–3 days): Discover Thoi Son, nearby islands, 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!

Thoi Son Island, a vibrant gem in the Mekong Delta’s heart, offers eco-adventures, cultural immersion, and tropical delights. From canal cruises to fruit picking and traditional music, every experience celebrates the island’s natural and cultural richness. Legend Travel Group’s Thoi Son Tours guide you through this serene haven, ensuring a sustainable Thoi Son Travel journey that supports local communities. Plan your Thoi Son adventure with our guide and book your eco-friendly tour today!
Ready to uncover Thoi Son’s treasures? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on a Mekong Delta journey like no other!

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.
Source: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group.