Biking the Mekong Delta

Upon our arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, we quickly realized that Vietnam thrives on a unique blend of chaos. Just three days later, we embarked on our adventure to the Mekong Delta, filled with excitement for our first cycling tour together. Armed with bits of information gleaned from various blogs and outdated tour sites, we hoped to uncover the quieter side of this vibrant country.

In hindsight, while there were moments of fleeting tranquility, the Delta itself buzzed with activity. The main roads were noisy, dusty, and congested with large trucks, so we opted to use Google Maps’ “Walking” option. This allowed us to explore smaller towns along the way, where we could take relaxing lunch breaks.

Day 1, Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho

Leaving the bustling metropolis behind, we ventured into the serene countryside. The smog quickly dissipated, and the chaotic flow of scooters and trucks began to ease. However, our journey took on a new challenge as we navigated the intense sun and humidity. The mid-morning heat was punishing, but we found refuge in roadside coffee shops and vibrant street markets, which offered a refreshing break from cycling.

Upon reaching My Tho, once a tranquil gateway to the Mekong Delta, we were greeted by thick traffic once again. We checked into a modest Airbnb known as “Kim’s Place.” While the apartment itself was nothing extraordinary, our host and her friend were exceptionally welcoming. They generously provided us with plenty of fresh water and fruit and even treated us to a delightful dinner!

Day 2, My Tho to Tra Vinh

As we set out for Ben Tre, we encountered our first major bridge, along with more of the loud traffic that had become familiar. However, we soon discovered that incorporating smaller towns into our Google Maps route was our secret to finding peace amidst the bustling jungle. This strategy allowed us to shift most of our travel from busy roads to narrow, sidewalk-width paths that meandered through what I believe is suburban Mekong Delta. We were greeted by plenty of stray dogs, smiling children, and charming thatched roofs—an experience that felt truly special.

Upon reaching Tra Vinh, we found a modest budget hotel near downtown called the Gia Hoa. The property offered secure accommodations for our bikes, cold showers, and air conditioning—everything we needed for a comfortable stay!

Day 3, Tra Vinh to Soc Trang

Today was filled with island hopping as we took advantage of the ferries, which are essentially basic barges that run continuously to facilitate the flow of traffic. We’ve officially immersed ourselves in the heart of the Mekong Delta, where very little, if any, English is spoken. It’s been amusing to adapt to the constant expressions of shock and wonder from the locals as we pedal by. They seem to find it both unusual and entertaining that two “Westerners” would opt to travel by bike instead of the more common scooter.

A fun-and sometimes tricky-new aspect of our journey has been navigating the small bridges scattered throughout the region. These bridges come in all shapes and sizes, with some proving to be quite steep! For more details, I’ve shared my experiences in a blog post dedicated to Cycle Touring in Vietnam.

Day 4:

Similar experiences in the Mekong Delta

Our tours are designed to offer authentic local encounters during your visit. Led by our knowledgeable guides who are locals, they will take you to hidden gems and top attractions that showcase the true essence of the region. Feel free to consult with our experts for recommendations on excursions and activities that immerse you in the culture of the area you are exploring.