DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF CAN THO DURING FLOOD SEASON - THE MYSTERY OF THE WEST'S WATER

When Autumn’s Gentle Breeze Turns Golden – The Awakening of the Mekong Delta

As autumn’s gentle touch paints the land in hues of gold, the watery plains of the Mekong Delta awaken, donning a magical cloak of vitality and mystery. Cần Thơ – the beautiful soul of the Mekong Delta – emerges as an unmissable destination, inviting travelers to explore its radiant natural beauty and the heartfelt warmth found in every aspect of life along its rivers.

Join Mỹ Khánh in unveiling “The Mystery of the Mekong Waters”, and lose yourself in the sweet symphony of Cần Thơ’s floating season, a time of color, life, and wonder in the western heartland of the Nine Dragon River Delta.

Cần Thơ During the Floating Season – A Hidden Natural Wonder of the Southwest

The floating season in Cần Thơ usually begins from August to November each year. This is when water from the upper Mekong River flows downstream, flooding the fields and waterways across the region.

At first, this mysterious phenomenon was met with fear and uncertainty by locals. But through generations of experience and adaptability, the people of Cần Thơ have learned to live in harmony with nature—turning challenges into opportunities. The flood season not only brings abundant resources but also helps sustain the environment and preserve freshwater for the region.

For travelers, this is the perfect time to witness a different side of Cần Thơ—to explore the vibrant floating markets, experience the riverine lifestyle, and savor seasonal specialties that can only be found during this time of year. The floating season of Cần Thơ is a living testament to the resilience and creativity of its people.

Where to Go in Cần Thơ During the Floating Season

One must not miss a visit to Cái Răng Floating Market—located about 6 km from Cần Thơ city center on the Cần Thơ River. Formed in the early 20th century, this floating market is not only a hub of trade but also a cultural meeting point for river communities.

By 4 a.m., the market comes alive with boats and vendors gathering to trade their goods. Each boat has a distinctive “bẹo” pole, showcasing the items for sale—an ingenious way to advertise in this floating marketplace.

Visitors can purchase a variety of fresh tropical fruits and local produce at reasonable prices, or enjoy them right on the boat—an authentic and unforgettable experience that reveals the rustic charm of the riverine lifestyle.

Don’t miss one of the most vibrant floating markets in Vietnam, where you can truly feel the rhythm and richness of life in the Mekong Delta.

The Unique Cuisine of Cần Thơ During the Floating Season

Enjoying a bowl of steaming bún riêu on the river – Sưu tầm

The cuisine of Cần Thơ in the floating season is a harmonious blend of local flavors and the abundance of nature. Don’t miss the chance to savor specialties such as hotpot with fish (lẩu cá linh), fish noodle soup (bún cá), braised goby fish in clay pot, or crispy pancakes (bánh xèo) made from the freshest ingredients.

This is also the season for many kinds of tropical fruits—such as Nam Roi pomelo, star apple, banana, jackfruit, and rambutan.

The floating season not only enriches local food sources but also inspires culinary creativity, offering travelers a truly unique and memorable dining experience.

Suggested Can Tho tourist route during flood season that you cannot miss!

During the floating season, Cần Thơ offers countless fascinating spots to explore, each reflecting its own distinct river culture. Here’s a recommended route for you:

1-Day Tour: Exploring the River Gardens of the Mekong Delta

(Cái Răng Floating Market – Mỹ Khánh Tourist Village – Trúc Lâm Phương Nam Zen Monastery)

My Khanh Eco-tourism Village - Suu Tam

TOUR SCHEDULE INCLUDES

05:00 a.m.: Pick up guests by Mỹ Khánh electric shuttle at designated location.

05:30 a.m.: Depart for Cái Răng Floating Market, enjoy unique outdoor activities:

• Take photos and check-in at the market.
   
• Visit floating houses selling local specialties.
   
• Try making rice paper at a traditional craft village.
   
• Taste fresh fruits from local gardens at fair prices.
   
• Have breakfast on the river with dishes like hủ tiếu or bún riêu (personal expense).
   

07:30 a.m.: Transfer by electric shuttle through Mỹ Khánh orchard route, admiring the scenic Vòng Cung Road.

08:00 a.m.: Enjoy tea and local cakes, explore the Southern Ancient House, and listen to vintage music from gramophones.

08:30 a.m.: Visit Trúc Lâm Phương Nam Zen Monastery – one of the largest Buddhist structures in the Mekong Delta.

09:30 a.m.: Fun activities at Mỹ Khánh Tourist Village:

• Visit the carp pond where fish drink from baby bottles.
   
• Tour the premium bird’s nest processing area.
   
• Explore the fairy garden and flower garden for photo opportunities.
   
• Watch pig races, dog obstacle races, and animal performances with prizes for participants.
   
• Visit the crocodile lake and try crocodile fishing (bait cost excluded).
   
• Discover traditional craft workshops such as rice noodle making or coconut candy production.
   
• Check in at the Cultural House of Four Ethnic Groups: Kinh, Hoa, Chăm, Khmer with distinctive wooden architecture.
   
• Visit and pick fruits in the orchard, featuring over 15 fruit species year-round such as durian, mangosteen, rambutan, strawberry, pomelo, guava, papaya, jackfruit, mango, plum, canary orange, longan, star apple, banana, and coconut. (If fruits are not in season, guests will enjoy fruit tastings at the Southern House instead.)
   

11:30 a.m.: Lunch at the on-site restaurant in Mỹ Khánh Tourist Village featuring authentic Mekong specialties. (See menu here).

14:30 p.m.: Gather at the village gate, return by electric shuttle to your hotel, ending the tour.