When travelers think about the Mekong Delta, destinations like Can Tho and Chau Doc often come to mind. Yet those looking for a quieter, greener, and more authentic experience will quickly discover that Ben Tre is one of southern Vietnam's hidden treasures. Nicknamed the "Kingdom of Coconuts," Ben Tre offers peaceful waterways, lush orchards, traditional villages, warm-hearted locals, and an atmosphere that perfectly reflects the slow rhythm of life in the Mekong Delta.
Unlike many tourist hotspots, Ben Tre has preserved much of its rural charm. Here, visitors exchange busy streets for winding canals shaded by coconut palms, bustling cities for tranquil villages, and crowded attractions for genuine encounters with local families. Every journey becomes an opportunity to understand the culture, traditions, and agricultural heritage that have shaped this fertile region for centuries.
Whether you enjoy nature, photography, local culture, history, or outdoor adventures, the top 12 best things to do in Ben Tre promise unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. From peaceful sampan rides through narrow canals to cycling beneath coconut trees and visiting traditional workshops, Ben Tre invites visitors to slow down and embrace authentic Mekong life.
Why visit Ben Tre ?
Situated approximately 90 kilometers south of Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Tre lies at the end of the mighty Mekong river where its numerous branches meet the East Sea. The province consists of three large islands formed by the Tien River and an intricate network of canals that have supported local communities for generations.
Ben Tre is internationally famous for its coconut plantations. More than 70,000 hectares of coconut trees stretch across the province, producing countless products including coconut candy, coconut oil, handicrafts, activated charcoal, handicraft furniture, and refreshing coconut drinks. The coconut is not simply an agricultural product—it is deeply connected to the identity and daily life of the local people.
Beyond coconuts, Ben Tre is also home to colorful fruit orchards, mangrove forests, bird sanctuaries, Buddhist temples, historic sites, and welcoming homestays where visitors can immerse themselves in local culture.
Unlike more commercialized destinations, tourism in Ben Tre remains community-oriented and environmentally friendly. Many local families welcome travelers into their homes, offering cooking classes, cycling tours, fishing experiences, and traditional meals prepared with fresh local ingredients.
This combination of nature, culture, history, and genuine hospitality makes Ben Tre one of the finest destinations in the Mekong Delta.
1. Boat trip & sampan rides through the canals
Among the top 12 best things to do in Ben Tre, nothing captures the spirit of the Mekong Delta better than exploring its peaceful waterways by boat.
Thousands of small canals weave through coconut groves, fruit orchards, mangrove forests, and riverside villages. These waterways have served as transportation routes for centuries and continue to play an essential role in the daily lives of local residents.
Most excursions begin aboard a traditional wooden motorboat along one of the wider rivers before transferring to a hand-rowed sampan. The smaller boat glides silently beneath dense coconut palms, nipa palms, and tropical vegetation, allowing visitors to appreciate the remarkable tranquility of the countryside.
Along the journey, it is common to see fishermen checking their nets, children waving from wooden bridges, women washing vegetables by the riverbank, and cargo boats transporting coconuts and agricultural products. These authentic scenes provide wonderful opportunities for photography while revealing everyday life in the Mekong Delta.
Many cruises also include stops at local workshops where visitors can watch artisans making coconut candy, weaving baskets from coconut leaves, producing coconut oil, or creating handicrafts from coconut shells.
Sunrise and late afternoon are particularly magical times for a canal cruise. The soft golden light reflects beautifully on the calm water while birds return to their nests and farmers finish their work.
Rather than being simply a sightseeing activity, a boat trip through Ben Tre offers visitors a peaceful introduction to the unique river culture that defines southern Vietnam.
2. Cycling through the countryside
Another highlight among the top 12 best things to do in Ben Tre is discovering the countryside by bicycle.
The province's flat terrain makes cycling accessible for travelers of all ages and fitness levels. Quiet roads shaded by endless rows of coconut trees create ideal conditions for leisurely rides through picturesque villages rarely visited by large tour groups.
As you pedal through the countryside, you'll encounter lush rice fields, tropical orchards, canals crossed by charming bridges, family homes surrounded by flower gardens, and smiling locals who often greet visitors with genuine curiosity.
Cycling allows travelers to experience the peaceful rhythm of rural life at their own pace. Unlike traveling by car or bus, bicycles provide the freedom to stop whenever something catches your attention.
Many routes pass through traditional farming communities where families cultivate coconuts, pomelos, mangoes, longans, rambutans, and vegetables using techniques passed down through generations.
Depending on the season, cyclists may witness farmers harvesting coconuts, drying coconut fibers, collecting fruit, or preparing rice fields for planting. These authentic agricultural activities provide fascinating insights into daily life in the Mekong Delta.
Several community tourism villages also offer guided cycling tours that combine village visits with cooking classes, fruit tasting, handicraft demonstrations, and traditional music performances.
The roads are generally peaceful with little traffic, making cycling one of the safest and most enjoyable ways to explore Ben Tre.
For photographers, every turn reveals another beautiful rural landscape—flowering gardens, coconut plantations stretching toward the horizon, colorful boats moored beside canals, and smiling children cycling home from school.
Cycling transforms the journey itself into one of Ben Tre's greatest attractions.
3. Explore local villages & traditional workshops
No visit would be complete without exploring the local villages and traditional workshops that have made Ben Tre famous throughout Vietnam.
As the country's leading coconut-producing province, Ben Tre has developed a remarkable variety of cottage industries centered around this extraordinary tree.
Visitors can tour family-owned coconut candy factories where fresh coconut milk is slowly cooked with malt syrup before being hand-cut and individually wrapped. Watching skilled workers perform each step using techniques perfected over decades is both fascinating and educational.
Another popular stop is coconut oil production. Here, visitors learn how fresh coconuts are grated, pressed, filtered, and processed into high-quality virgin coconut oil used for cooking, cosmetics, and traditional medicine.
Many workshops also specialize in creating handicrafts from coconut shells, coconut wood, and coconut fibers. Talented artisans transform these natural materials into bowls, spoons, lamps, jewelry, decorative items, furniture, and environmentally friendly souvenirs.
Nearby villages preserve other traditional crafts as well. Brick kilns, once powered by rice husks, continue producing handmade bricks using methods that have changed little over generations. Visitors may also discover workshops producing woven mats, rice paper, bamboo baskets, incense, or traditional cakes prepared for local festivals.
What makes these visits particularly memorable is the opportunity to meet the families behind these businesses. Rather than operating as large factories, most workshops remain small-scale enterprises where several generations work together under one roof.
Guests are warmly welcomed with fresh coconut juice or seasonal fruits while learning about the challenges and traditions of rural life. These personal interactions often become some of the most meaningful memories of a trip to Ben Tre.
Exploring traditional villages also supports sustainable tourism by helping preserve local craftsmanship and providing additional income for rural communities.
For travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences rather than commercial attractions, these workshops represent one of the most rewarding activities included in the top 12 best things to do in Ben Tre.
Continuing our guide to the top 12 best things to do in Ben Tre, this section introduces five more unforgettable experiences that showcase the province's rich biodiversity, fascinating history, and deep spiritual heritage. From paddling through hidden waterways to observing thousands of birds in their natural habitat, Ben Tre offers much more than coconut groves and peaceful canals.
4. Kayaking & SUP on quiet canals
Among the top 12 best things to do in Ben Tre, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) provide one of the most immersive ways to discover the Mekong Delta.
While larger boats explore the main rivers, kayaks and paddleboards allow visitors to venture into narrow waterways that remain inaccessible to motorboats. The calm canals are shaded by dense coconut palms, nipa palms, bamboo groves, and tropical vegetation, creating a peaceful environment where only the sounds of birds and gently flowing water accompany your journey.
Unlike many water sports destinations, Ben Tre's canals are remarkably calm throughout most of the year, making kayaking suitable even for beginners. Local guides provide basic instructions and safety equipment before leading visitors through scenic routes that reveal a hidden side of the Mekong Delta.
As you paddle quietly along the waterways, you may encounter fishermen casting traditional nets, farmers transporting coconuts by small wooden boats, or children waving from riverside homes. Water coconut palms arch gracefully over the canals, creating natural green tunnels that offer shade from the tropical sun.
Many eco-tourism sites combine kayaking with cycling, fruit tasting, or visits to local workshops, allowing travelers to enjoy a full day of outdoor activities. Sunrise and sunset are particularly rewarding times for paddling, when golden light reflects on the calm water and the countryside becomes even more peaceful.
Stand-up paddleboarding has also become increasingly popular in Ben Tre. Thanks to the slow-moving canals, visitors can safely learn the basics while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding coconut forests.
For travelers seeking gentle adventure combined with nature, kayaking and SUP perfectly complement the more traditional boat excursions and deserve a place among the top 12 best things to do in Ben Tre.
5. Fruit picking at orchards
Ben Tre's fertile alluvial soil makes it one of Vietnam's richest fruit-producing regions. Visiting local orchards is therefore one of the most enjoyable experiences included in the top 12 best things to do in Ben Tre.
The province is home to countless family-owned gardens where visitors can walk beneath fruit-laden trees, learn about tropical agriculture, and taste freshly harvested produce directly from the orchard.
Depending on the season, visitors may enjoy sweet coconuts, green-skinned pomelos, rambutans, longans, mangoes, mangosteens, star apples, durians, jackfruit, guavas.
Many orchard owners warmly welcome guests, explaining how each fruit is cultivated, harvested, and prepared for local markets. Unlike commercial plantations, these family gardens maintain traditional farming methods that have been passed down through generations.
Visitors are often invited to harvest their own fruit using bamboo picking poles before enjoying generous tasting sessions under shaded garden pavilions. Fresh coconut water, homemade tea, and local snacks are frequently served alongside seasonal fruits.
Some eco-tourism farms also organize cooking demonstrations using freshly harvested ingredients. Travelers can learn how coconut milk, tropical fruits, herbs, and vegetables are incorporated into traditional Mekong cuisine.
The experience changes throughout the year. During harvest seasons, orchards become especially colorful as branches bend beneath abundant fruit, while flowering periods transform the gardens into peaceful landscapes filled with butterflies and birds.
For photographers, these orchards provide countless opportunities to capture authentic rural life, vibrant tropical fruits, and smiling farmers proud to share their agricultural traditions.
6. Bird spotting at Vam Ho bird sanctuary
Nature lovers should not miss Vam Ho bird sanctuary, one of the most important ecological sites in the Mekong Delta.
Located approximately 50 kilometers from Ben Tre City, this protected area covers hundreds of hectares of mangrove forests, nipa palm wetlands, and natural waterways. It provides a vital habitat for thousands of resident and migratory birds.
Every year, particularly during the dry season, enormous flocks of birds gather here to nest and breed. Visitors may observe storks, egrets, herons, kingfishers, cormorants, bitterns, various species of waterfowl.
Observation towers built throughout the sanctuary offer panoramic views over the forest canopy, where thousands of birds fill the trees during nesting season.
The sanctuary is usually explored by small boat before continuing on foot along elevated wooden walkways that wind through mangrove forests. Knowledgeable local guides explain the importance of wetland conservation while introducing visitors to the area's remarkable biodiversity.
Besides birds, Vam Ho is home to numerous fish species, mudskippers, crabs, butterflies, reptiles, and small mammals that thrive within this unique ecosystem.
Early morning provides the best opportunity for birdwatching, as the sanctuary comes alive with birds leaving their nests in search of food. Late afternoon is equally spectacular when thousands of birds return simultaneously, filling the sky above the forest.
For wildlife photographers and eco-tourists, Vam Ho offers one of southern Vietnam's finest natural experiences while demonstrating the importance of preserving the Mekong Delta's fragile ecosystems.
7. Visit the Ben Tre Revolutionary Museum (War Gallery)
Beyond its peaceful countryside, Ben Tre possesses a rich and courageous history. Visiting the Ben Tre Revolutionary Museum is one of the top 12 best things to do in Ben Tre for travelers interested in Vietnam's modern history.
Located in Ben Tre City, the museum chronicles the province's significant contribution to Vietnam's struggle for independence, particularly during the First Indochina War and the Vietnam War.
Ben Tre is especially famous as the birthplace of the Dong Khoi Movement, the uprising that began in 1960 and played a crucial role in the southern resistance movement.
The museum houses an extensive collection of historical photographs, military equipment, personal belongings, maps, weapons, official documents, letters, uniforms and audio-visual exhibitions
Visitors learn about the courage of local civilians, women, and soldiers who participated in the resistance while continuing their daily agricultural activities.
One of the most moving sections highlights the extraordinary role played by women during the revolution. Ben Tre's "Long-Haired Army" became internationally recognized for its non-violent demonstrations and political activism, symbolizing resilience and determination.
Although relatively small compared to museums in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, the Ben Tre Revolutionary Museum provides valuable local perspectives that deepen visitors' understanding of Vietnam's complex history.
8. Visit Van Phuoc pagoda
For travelers seeking peace and spiritual reflection, Van Phuoc pagoda ranks among the most beautiful religious sites in Ben Tre.
Surrounded by lush tropical gardens and quiet ponds, the pagoda offers a serene atmosphere far removed from busy tourist destinations. Its elegant architecture combines traditional Vietnamese Buddhist design with colorful decorative elements and carefully maintained courtyards.
Visitors entering the temple immediately notice beautifully carved gates, incense-filled prayer halls, impressive Buddha statues, and intricate dragon sculptures adorning the rooftops.
The pagoda serves not only as a place of worship but also as an important cultural center where local residents gather during major Buddhist festivals such as Vesak, Vu Lan, and Lunar New Year celebrations.
Walking through the peaceful grounds, visitors often encounter monks engaged in meditation, devotees offering incense, and families praying for health, prosperity, and happiness.
The beautifully landscaped gardens feature lotus ponds, bonsai trees, flowering plants, and shaded walking paths that encourage quiet contemplation.
Foreign visitors are welcome provided they dress respectfully, speak softly, and observe local customs while exploring the temple.
Beyond its architectural beauty, Van Phuoc pagoda offers a meaningful opportunity to experience the spiritual dimension of daily life in the Mekong Delta, making it a memorable stop on any journey through Ben Tre.
As we continue exploring the top 12 best things to do in Ben Tre, this section introduces four experiences that allow visitors to immerse themselves even more deeply in the province's culture, history, and everyday life. From exploring the picturesque islands of the Mekong river to spending a memorable night with a local family, these activities reveal why Ben Tre has become one of the Mekong Delta's most rewarding destinations.
9. Discover the islands (con/islets)
One of the highlights among the top 12 best things to do in Ben Tre is discovering the beautiful river islands scattered across the Mekong Delta.
Ben Tre itself is formed by three large islands separated by the Tien river, Ham Luong river, and Co Chien river. In addition, numerous smaller islets, locally known as "con," offer peaceful landscapes, fertile orchards, traditional villages, and authentic rural experiences.
Many visitors explore these islands by boat as part of a full-day Mekong Delta excursion.
Con Phung (phoenix islet)
Although administratively located in Tien Giang province, Con Phung is often included in Ben Tre boat tours because of its close proximity.
This island is famous for its coconut candy workshops, handicraft demonstrations, horse-drawn carriage rides, fruit orchards, and traditional folk music performances. Visitors can sample tropical fruits while listening to Don Ca Tai Tu, the UNESCO-recognized traditional music of southern Vietnam.
Walking or cycling through the island also offers opportunities to observe peaceful village life and meet friendly local residents.
Con Quy (turtle islet)
Con Quy is known for its quiet atmosphere and beautiful fruit gardens.
Unlike busier tourist destinations, the island retains an authentic rural character. Visitors can cycle through shaded village roads, visit family orchards, enjoy fresh coconuts, and participate in cooking classes organized by local households.
Traditional fishing techniques and small-scale agriculture continue to define everyday life on the island.
Smaller coconut islets
Throughout Ben Tre, countless smaller islands remain largely untouched by mass tourism.
These peaceful islets feature endless coconut plantations, narrow canals, vegetable gardens, and traditional wooden houses built along the waterways.
Many local boat operators offer customized excursions that combine island hopping with kayaking, cycling, and visits to family workshops.
Exploring these islands allows travelers to appreciate the extraordinary relationship between the Mekong River and the communities that depend upon it. Life here continues to follow the rhythm of the tides, creating an atmosphere that has remained largely unchanged for generations.
10. Visit Tuyen Linh temple
Among Ben Tre's lesser-known cultural attractions, Tuyen Linh temple occupies a special place due to both its religious significance and its connection to Vietnamese history.
Built during the nineteenth century, the temple originally served as a Buddhist monastery where monks practiced meditation and studied Buddhist teachings. Over time, it also became associated with important historical events and respected national figures.
Perhaps its most notable historical connection is with Nguyen Sinh Sac, the father of President Ho Chi Minh, who spent time here during his travels through southern Vietnam. This association has transformed Tuyen Linh Temple into both a place of worship and a historical landmark.
Architecturally, the temple reflects traditional Vietnamese Buddhist design.
Visitors admire beautiful curved roofs decorated with dragons and phoenixes, wooden columns carved with intricate floral motifs, peaceful courtyards shaded by ancient trees, delicately crafted Buddha statues, decorative ceramic mosaics and large incense burners used during religious ceremonies
The surrounding gardens further enhance the tranquil atmosphere. Lotus ponds, flowering plants, bonsai trees, and centuries-old shade trees create an ideal environment for quiet reflection.
Throughout the year, local residents visit the temple to pray for good health, happiness, and prosperity. During important Buddhist festivals, the temple becomes especially lively as devotees gather to make offerings, chant prayers, and participate in religious ceremonies.
Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly, remove hats when entering prayer halls, and maintain a respectful silence while exploring the temple.
Although less famous than pagodas in Hue or Ho Chi Minh City, Tuyen Linh temple offers an authentic glimpse into the spiritual life of Ben Tre's local communities.
11. Explore local markets for daily life
No visit to the Mekong Delta is complete without experiencing one of its vibrant local markets, making this one of the top 12 best things to do in Ben Tre.
Unlike markets designed primarily for tourists, Ben Tre's traditional markets remain genuine centers of daily commerce where local residents buy fresh produce, seafood, household goods, and handcrafted products every morning.
Walking through these colorful markets offers visitors an authentic cultural experience filled with fascinating sights, sounds, and aromas.
Stalls overflow with fresh coconuts, tropical fruits, vegetables harvested that same morning, river fish, fresh shrimp and crabs, dried seafood, fragrant herbs, local spices, handmade sweets and traditional snacks
One of Ben Tre's specialties is, of course, coconut products.
Visitors can purchase coconut candy, coconut jam, coconut crackers, coconut wine, coconut oil, handicrafts made from coconut shells, woven baskets, hats, and many other locally produced souvenirs.
The markets also provide an excellent opportunity to sample authentic Mekong Delta cuisine.
Popular dishes include Hu Tieu noodles, Banh Xeo (Vietnamese crispy pancakes), Banh Beo, Sticky rice dishes, fresh spring rolls, coconut cakes and sweet tropical desserts prepared with coconut milk
Early morning is the best time to visit when fishermen arrive with their overnight catch and farmers bring freshly harvested fruits and vegetables from nearby villages.
For photographers, these markets provide endless opportunities to capture vibrant displays of tropical produce and candid moments of everyday life.
Unlike shopping malls or supermarkets, Ben Tre's local markets preserve the warm social atmosphere that continues to characterize Vietnamese rural communities.
12. Stay overnight in a homestay
Among all the top 12 best things to do in Ben Tre, spending a night in a traditional homestay is perhaps the experience that leaves the deepest impression on visitors.
Rather than staying in a conventional hotel, travelers have the opportunity to live alongside local families and experience the genuine hospitality for which the Mekong Delta is famous.
Most homestays are located within coconut gardens or fruit orchards beside peaceful canals. The accommodations range from simple traditional wooden houses to charming eco-lodges equipped with modern comforts while preserving local architectural styles.
A typical day begins with the sounds of birds singing and boats passing along nearby canals. After enjoying a homemade breakfast prepared with fresh local ingredients, guests may spend the day cycling through villages, exploring orchards, paddling along canals, or joining cooking classes.
One of the highlights is sharing meals with the host family.
Traditional dishes often include elephant ear fish, fresh river prawns, caramelized pork cooked in coconut juice, coconut salad, vegetable dishes harvested from the family garden and homemade desserts prepared with coconut milk
During the evening, many hosts gather with guests to exchange stories about local traditions, agriculture, family life, and the history of the Mekong Delta. Some homestays also organize performances of Don Ca Tai Tu, allowing visitors to discover southern Vietnam's rich musical heritage.
Guests may also participate in seasonal farming activities such as harvesting coconuts, picking fruit, catching fish, or making coconut candy.
These simple experiences create meaningful connections between visitors and local communities while supporting sustainable tourism that directly benefits rural families.
Staying overnight in a homestay transforms a visit to Ben Tre from a sightseeing excursion into a genuine cultural exchange. Many travelers consider it the highlight of their journey through the Mekong Delta, offering memories that last long after the trip has ended.
Best time to visit Ben Tre
One of the reasons why the top 12 best things to do in Ben Tre can be enjoyed throughout the year is the province's warm tropical climate. Located in the heart of the Mekong Delta, Ben Tre experiences two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. Each offers unique landscapes and memorable experiences.
Dry season (December to April)
The dry season is widely considered the best time to visit Ben Tre. Sunny skies, low humidity, and pleasant temperatures ranging from 25°C to 33°C (77°F–91°F) create ideal conditions for outdoor activities.
This is the perfect season for boat trips through the canals, cycling around villages, kayaking and SUP adventures, visiting coconut plantations, exploring local markets and staying in riverside homestays
Roads remain dry, river transportation is reliable, and sunsets over the waterways are particularly beautiful.
Rainy season (May to November)
Although afternoon showers become more frequent, the rainy season has its own charm.
The countryside turns exceptionally green, canals become fuller, orchards flourish, and fruit harvests reach their peak.
Rain usually falls for only one or two hours before sunshine returns, allowing visitors to continue sightseeing comfortably.
This season is especially recommended for travelers interested in tropical fruit picking, photography, birdwatching and experiencing authentic agricultural life
Because Ben Tre receives fewer international tourists during this period, visitors also enjoy a quieter atmosphere and greater opportunities to interact with local communities.
How to get to Ben Tre
Reaching Ben Tre is simple thanks to its excellent road connections with Ho Chi Minh City and other provinces in southern Vietnam.
From Ho Chi Minh City
Most international visitors begin their journey from Ho Chi Minh City, located approximately 90 kilometers away.
Private car
Hiring a private car with a driver is the most comfortable option.
Travel time: approximately 2 to 2.5 hours
Advantages include flexible departure time, air-conditioned comfort, stops for photography or refreshments and ideal for families and private tours
Tourist bus
Several reputable bus companies operate daily services between Ho Chi Minh City and Ben Tre.
Travel time is generally around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic.
This option is affordable and suitable for independent travelers.
Motorcycle
Experienced riders may enjoy traveling by motorcycle through the scenic Mekong countryside.
The journey crosses several impressive bridges and passes rice fields, coconut plantations, and rural villages.
Where to stay in Ben Tre
Accommodation in Ben Tre focuses on nature, comfort, and authentic local experiences rather than large luxury resorts.
Riverside homestays
Homestays remain the province's most popular accommodation option.
Guests enjoy traditional wooden houses, home-cooked meals, fruit gardens, bicycle rental, boat excursions and friendly family hospitality.
Many homestays are surrounded by coconut groves, creating peaceful environments ideal for relaxation.
Boutique eco-lodges
Travelers seeking additional comfort can choose charming eco-lodges designed to blend harmoniously with the surrounding landscape.
These properties often feature swimming pools, riverside restaurants, tropical gardens, spa services, kayaking activities and guided excursions
Their environmentally friendly design reflects Ben Tre's commitment to sustainable tourism.
Hotels in Ben Tre city
Visitors preferring urban conveniences will find comfortable hotels in Ben Tre City. These hotels provide easy access to restaurants, markets, museums, and transportation while serving as convenient bases for day trips throughout the province.
What to eat in Ben Tre
No guide to the top 12 best things to do in Ben Tre would be complete without introducing the province's delicious cuisine.
Ben Tre's gastronomy reflects the abundance of coconuts, fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and agricultural products found throughout the Mekong Delta. Some specialties include:
Coconut candy (Kẹo Dừa)
Ben Tre's most famous product.
Made from fresh coconut milk, malt syrup, and sugar, these soft candies have become one of Vietnam's best-known souvenirs.
Elephant ear fish (Cá Tai Tượng Chiên Xù)
A signature Mekong Delta dish. The whole fish is deep-fried until crispy before being wrapped with rice paper, herbs, green banana, cucumber, and fresh vegetables.
Coconut worms (Đuông Dừa)
For adventurous food lovers, coconut worms are considered a local delicacy. Although unusual for many visitors, they remain part of traditional regional cuisine.
Giant river prawns
Freshwater prawns from the Mekong River are grilled, steamed, or cooked with coconut juice, highlighting Ben Tre's rich aquatic resources.
Coconut rice
Rice cooked inside a fresh coconut absorbs the sweet aroma of coconut water and pairs perfectly with grilled seafood or local dishes.
Fresh tropical fruits
Seasonal fruits are available almost everywhere, including rambutan, longan, durian, mangosteen, mango, pomelo, star apple, jackfruit and fresh coconuts. Many orchards allow visitors to enjoy unlimited fruit tasting during guided tours.
Suggested two-day itinerary
Day 1 : Saigon - Ben Tre
- Depart from Ho Chi Minh City.
- Enjoy a traditional boat cruise through the canals.
- Visit coconut candy and handicraft workshops.
- Cycle through peaceful villages.
- Lunch featuring local Mekong specialties.
- Kayak or paddleboard along quiet waterways.
- Check into a riverside homestay.
- Join a cooking class.
- Enjoy dinner with the host family.
- Listen to traditional Don Ca Tai Tu music.
Day 2 : Ben Tre - Saigon
- Wake up early to experience the peaceful countryside.
- Visit a local market.
- Explore tropical fruit orchards.
- Continue to Vam Ho Bird Sanctuary for birdwatching.
- Visit Van Phuoc Pagoda or Tuyen Linh Temple.
- Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the afternoon.
Practical travel tips
To make the most of the top 12 best things to do in Ben Tre, consider the following recommendations:
- Wear lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for tropical weather.
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Carry insect repellent, especially when visiting orchards and canals.
- Wear comfortable walking or cycling shoes.
- Keep cash available, as many small businesses do not accept credit cards.
- Respect local customs when visiting temples by dressing modestly.
- Avoid leaving litter in natural areas and canals.
- Ask permission before photographing local residents.
- Support family-run businesses by purchasing locally made products.
- Stay hydrated throughout the day, particularly during the dry season.
Top 12 best things to do in Ben Tre
The top 12 best things to do in Ben Tre reveal a destination where nature, culture, and authentic rural life come together in perfect harmony. Unlike many rapidly developing tourist destinations, Ben Tre has preserved the peaceful charm that has long defined the Mekong Delta. Every canal, coconut grove, fruit orchard, and riverside village tells a story of communities that have lived in close connection with the river for generations.
Whether you are gliding through tranquil waterways on a traditional sampan, cycling beneath endless rows of coconut palms, tasting tropical fruits freshly picked from local orchards, exploring historic temples, watching thousands of birds at Vam Ho Bird Sanctuary, or sharing a home-cooked meal with a welcoming family, every experience offers a deeper understanding of southern Vietnam's unique way of life.
Easily accessible from Ho Chi Minh City yet wonderfully removed from the pace of urban life, Ben Tre is an ideal destination for travelers seeking authenticity, sustainability, and meaningful cultural encounters. Its friendly people, breathtaking landscapes, delicious cuisine, and rich traditions ensure that every visit leaves lasting memories.
If you are planning a journey through the Mekong Delta, including the top 12 best things to do in Ben Tre in your itinerary will undoubtedly reward you with one of the most genuine and unforgettable travel experiences Vietnam has to offer.
What you should not miss
