Why Visit Hau Giang: Uncover the Mekong Delta’s Hidden Gem

Hau Giang, a serene jewel in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta now part of Can Tho City, beckons travelers with its lush waterways, vibrant culture, and authentic charm. Attracting over 2 million visitors annually, this region offers a tranquil escape from urban life, featuring iconic attractions like Nga Bay Floating Market, Uncle Ho Temple, and Vi Thuy Cajuput Forest. Known for its sustainable tourism through Can Tho City’s “Green Delta” initiative, Hau Giang blends natural beauty, historical significance, and warm hospitality. Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, curates eco-friendly tours to immerse you in Hau Giang’s unique offerings. Discover why Hau Giang is a must-visit—book a tour via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Legend Travel Group is committed to sustainable tourism, delivering authentic Mekong Delta experiences with a focus on cultural preservation and environmental care. Our Hau Giang tours use eco-friendly transport—electric boats, bicycles, and solar-powered shuttles—guided by local experts who share the region’s stories. Supporting Vi Thanh and Nga Bay communities, we offer transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page to explore Hau Giang responsibly!

Following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, Hau Giang and Soc Trang provinces have merged into Can Tho City, with Can Tho as the administrative center. District-level units are now wards or communes, enhancing access to Hau Giang’s attractions through sustainable infrastructure like cycling paths, electric boat networks, and a VND500 billion flood control project. This ensures a seamless travel experience to Hau Giang’s cultural and natural sites.

Located 240 km southwest of Ho Chi Minh City, Hau Giang spans 1,609 km² of wetlands and 2,300 km of canals. Bordered by Vinh Long, Bac Lieu, and Kien Giang, it features 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). Its fertile plains, rice fields, and orchards, coupled with a rich Khmer-Vietnamese heritage, make Hau Giang a captivating destination for eco-tourism and cultural exploration.

Hau Giang’s unique blend of natural wonders, cultural depth, and sustainable experiences sets it apart as a Mekong Delta must-visit. Below are the key reasons to explore this hidden gem, with updated costs and tour options:

1. Vibrant Floating Markets and Riverine Culture

Hau Giang’s waterways, including the iconic Nga Bay Floating Market, embody the Mekong Delta’s riverine lifestyle. Since 1915, Nga Bay has thrived at the confluence of seven rivers, offering a bustling trade of fruits, seafood, and Bún Nước Lèo. Visitors can glide through canals, interact with vendors, and savor local life.

• Cost: Boat tours $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND); snacks $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Why Visit: Experience authentic Mekong trading and vibrant community interactions.

• Tip: Visit at 6:00 AM for peak activity; hire an electric boat for sustainability. Included in our Mekong River Adventure ($55–$75).

2. Rich Historical and Cultural Heritage

Hau Giang boasts over 15 historical relics, reflecting its revolutionary past and cultural diversity. Key sites include Uncle Ho Temple (built 1969, Luong Tam Ward), Long My Cultural Area (a wartime base), and the Khmer Pagoda in Vi Thanh, showcasing Khmer architecture. These relics offer insights into Vietnam’s independence struggle and ethnic traditions.

• Cost: Free entry; donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND); guided tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Why Visit: Deepen your understanding of Hau Giang’s role in Vietnam’s history and its Khmer-Vietnamese culture.

• Tip: Visit during May 19 or September 2 for commemorative ceremonies at Uncle Ho Temple. Included in our Hau Giang Cultural Tour ($50–$70).

3. Pristine Natural Landscapes and Eco-Tourism

Hau Giang’s 60% wetland coverage includes Lung Ngoc Hoang Nature Reserve (2,800 hectares) and Vi Thuy Cajuput Forest (200 hectares), both biodiversity hotspots. These sites offer kayaking, birdwatching, and serene boat tours through melaleuca forests, highlighting the Mekong’s unique ecosystem.

• Cost: Lung Ngoc Hoang entry $2 (50,000 VND); kayak rentals $5–$10/hour (125,000–250,000 VND); Vi Thuy boat tours $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Why Visit: Escape to tranquil nature and support eco-tourism initiatives.

• Tip: Morning visits maximize wildlife sightings; opt for eco-friendly boats. Included in our Hau Giang Eco-Tour ($60–$80).

4. Authentic Local Life and Homestay Experiences

Live like a local by staying in homestays, where you can cook Soi Mam, fish in canals, or harvest pineapples with hosts. Hau Giang’s communities are renowned for their hospitality, offering a genuine glimpse into rural Mekong life.

• Cost: Homestays $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND); activities $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Why Visit: Forge meaningful connections with locals and learn traditional practices.

• Tip: Book homestays in Vi Thuy or Long My for immersive experiences. Included in our Mekong Delta Explorer ($250–$400).

5. Culinary Delights and Fruit Orchards

Hau Giang’s cuisine, from Bun Goi Gia to Cá Lóc Nướng Trui, showcases fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Its orchards yield Cau Duc pineapples and Phu Huu pomelos, perfect for tasting or souvenirs.

• Cost: Street food $1–$4 (25,000–100,000 VND); restaurant meals $3–$12 (75,000–300,000 VND); fruits $0.50–$2/kg (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Why Visit: Savor authentic Mekong flavors and seasonal produce.

• Tip: Visit Vi Thanh Night Market or orchards in March–April for peak freshness. Included in our Hau Giang Foodie Tour ($55–$75).

Entrance Fees

• Lung Ngoc Hoang: $2 (50,000 VND).

• Nga Bay, Uncle Ho Temple, Khmer Pagoda, Vi Thuy Cajuput Forest: Free (donations $0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND).

Dining

• Street food: $1–$4 (25,000–100,000 VND).

• Restaurants: $3–$12 (75,000–300,000 VND).

• Drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

Activities

• Guided tours: $5–$50 (125,000–1,250,000 VND).

• Cooking classes: $20–$40 (500,000–1,000,000 VND).

• Bike/boat rentals: $1–$20 (25,000–500,000 VND).

Accommodation

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

• Hotels: $30–$80/night (750,000–2,000,000 VND).

• Resorts: $100–$250/night (2,500,000–6,250,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost

• Budget: $15–$40.

• Mid-range: $40–$70.

• Luxury: $70–$100.

Tip: Carry VND for vendors; use ATMs in Vi Thanh. Book early for dry season (December–April) savings.

• Book Early: Reserve tours and accommodations via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222, email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com) 3–5 weeks in advance for December–April or festivals like Ok Om Bok.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) for rural areas. Confirm boat prices upfront.

• Stay Safe: Secure valuables at markets; avoid slippery canal paths during rainy season.

• Sustainability: Use electric boats or bikes; support eco-vendors with reusable items.

• Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip guides/vendors $0.50–$2; dress modestly at relics.

• Health Precautions: Apply mosquito repellent; stay hydrated.

Our sustainable tours showcase why Hau Giang is unforgettable:

• Mekong River Adventure ($55–$75/person): Nga Bay Floating Market, Xa No Canal. Includes electric boat, snacks.

• Hau Giang Foodie Tour ($55–$75/person): Bun Goi Gia, Soi Mam tasting, cooking class. Includes eco-transfers, meals.

• Hau Giang Eco-Tour ($60–$80/person): Lung Ngoc Hoang, Vi Thuy Cajuput Forest. Includes kayak rentals, eco-transfers.

• Hau Giang Cultural Tour ($50–$70/person): Uncle Ho Temple, Khmer Pagoda, Long My. Includes bike rentals, lunch.

• Mekong Delta Explorer ($250–$400/person, 2–3 days): All attractions, homestays. Includes activities, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, entrance fees, and meals. Enjoy 10% off for groups of 8+. Book now via links around this page!

Hau Giang’s enchanting blend of vibrant floating markets, profound historical relics, pristine wetlands, authentic local life, and delectable cuisine makes it a Mekong Delta standout. Its commitment to sustainable tourism ensures your visit supports local communities and preserves its natural beauty. Legend Travel Group’s Hau Giang Tours guide you through Hau Giang’s hidden treasures, ensuring a sustainable Hau Giang Travel experience that creates lasting memories. Don’t wait—browse our featured tours and book your Hau Giang adventure today!
Ready to discover Hau Giang’s Mekong magic? Reserve your eco-friendly tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into the Delta’s heart!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group