If you’re a traveler who finds joy in lush green landscapes, slow river cruises, rare wildlife, and authentic cultural encounters, then eco adventure Vietnam is your next must-do journey. One of the richest regions in biodiversity and cultural heritage is none other than the Mekong Delta – a land of swaying coconut palms, floating markets, and countless hidden natural gems.
In this guide, we’ll unveil over 11 breathtaking eco tourism destinations across the Mekong Delta. These spots promise immersive experiences, whether you’re paddling through flooded forests or tasting tropical fruits straight from the orchard.
🌿 What Makes the Mekong Delta Perfect for Eco Adventure?
Located in southern Vietnam, the Mekong Delta is often called the “rice bowl” of the country. It’s a vast maze of rivers, swamps, and islands, where the Mekong River meets the sea. But beyond rice fields, the delta is home to a flourishing ecosystem of birds, aquatic plants, mangrove forests, and traditional floating life.
This region is a goldmine for eco adventure Vietnam seekers because:
- 🛶 It offers authentic river life and boat experiences
- 🌱 Its biodiversity is protected in national parks and nature reserves
- 🧑🌾 Visitors can interact with local farmers and learn sustainable practices
- 📸 It’s rich in scenic landscapes perfect for photography and nature observation
Trà Sư Cajuput Forest – An Giang Province
Nestled near the Cambodian border, the Trà Sư Cajuput Forest is a must-visit for any eco traveler. During flood season (September to November), visitors can glide on boats through emerald green duckweed-covered canals, surrounded by towering cajuput trees and exotic birds.
Highlights:
- Boat ride through flooded forest
- Birdwatching towers
- Butterfly gardens and nature trails
📍 Distance from Ho Chi Minh City: ~240 km
Cồn Phụng (Phoenix Islet) – Bến Tre Province
Cồn Phụng offers a classic eco experience in the heart of the Mekong Delta. Located in Bến Tre – Vietnam’s coconut kingdom – this small islet lets visitors explore traditional crafts, coconut candy workshops, and take boat rides under coconut palm tunnels.
Highlights:
- Rowing boat rides under nipa palms
- Visiting bee farms and fruit gardens
- Traditional music performances (Đờn ca tài tử)
📍 Distance from Ho Chi Minh City: ~90 km
Vàm Hồ Bird Sanctuary – Bến Tre Province
For bird lovers, Vàm Hồ Sanctuary is a peaceful haven with over 100 species of birds, especially during nesting season from May to October. Kayaking and birdwatching in the early morning here feels like a scene out of a nature documentary.
Highlights:
- Mangrove ecosystems
- Thousands of storks and herons
- Rustic footbridges and observation decks
Mỹ Khánh Tourist Village – Cần Thơ City
This village blends culture and ecology, offering eco adventures and folk activities in a resort-like setting. Perfect for families or couples, Mỹ Khánh lets you experience “a day as a Vietnamese farmer.”
Highlights:
- Fruit-picking in tropical orchards
- Fishing, boat rides, cooking local dishes
- Folk games like pig racing and rice grinding
📍 Distance from Ho Chi Minh City: ~170 km
Tràm Chim National Park – Đồng Tháp Province
One of Vietnam’s most important wetlands, Tràm Chim National Park spans over 7,000 hectares. It’s home to the rare Sarus Crane and a haven for biodiversity, particularly during the dry season (Dec–May).
Highlights:
- Birdwatching from 18m towers
- Boat rides through submerged grasslands
- Observing seasonal migration of rare species
📸 Best for photographers and ornithologists.
Làng Nổi Tân Lập (Tân Lập Floating Village) – Long An Province
This enchanting destination feels like a green maze, with a 5-kilometer trail winding through forested wetlands. Ideal for couples, backpackers, and drone photographers.
Highlights:
- Walking path through flooded cajuput forest
- Tall wooden lookout towers
- Sunrise and sunset photo ops over the water
📍 Only ~100 km from Ho Chi Minh City – a great weekend escape!
Xẻo Quýt Forest – Đồng Tháp Province
This 50-hectare forest is not only rich in biodiversity but also a historic war site from the Vietnam War era. The mix of ecology and history makes it unique among eco destinations.
Highlights:
- Wooden walkways through swamp forests
- Canoe tours
- War-era bunkers and relics
Gáo Giồng Bird Garden – Đồng Tháp Province
Often dubbed the “mini Tràm Chim,” Gáo Giồng is another wetland reserve perfect for nature immersion. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when birds return to their nests.
Highlights:
- Over 40 species of birds
- Peaceful boat tours
- Fish-based countryside meals
Lan Vương Eco Park – Bến Tre Province
Popular among local youth, Lan Vương offers a playground of eco activities. It’s perfect for groups of friends or companies looking for a team-building venue in a natural setting.
Highlights:
- Mud games, ziplining, bamboo bridges
- River fishing and fruit orchards
- Traditional Vietnamese folk games
Vinh Sang Tourist Area – Vĩnh Long Province
Vinh Sang sits on An Bình islet and offers an excellent combination of agricultural tourism and eco activities. Visitors can pick fruits, row sampans, and even ride ostriches!
Highlights:
- Ostrich riding and crocodile fishing
- Homestays in fruit gardens
- Folk music and food tasting
Đồng Sen Tháp Mười – Đồng Tháp Province
If you love flowers and calm waters, the Tháp Mười Lotus Field is your dream come true. Best visited during lotus season (June–September), the fields bloom pink as far as the eye can see.
Highlights:
- Boat rides in lotus lakes
- Lotus-infused dishes: tea, salad, steamed rice
- Instagram-worthy bamboo bridges and huts
Vạn Hương Mai Eco Park – An Giang Province
A relatively new eco tourism complex in An Giang, Vạn Hương Mai offers a modern take on nature and water play. It’s particularly great for families with children.
Highlights:
- Water park with pools and slides
- Cultural exhibitions
- Landscaped gardens and lakes
🧭 Travel Tips for Your Eco Adventure in Vietnam
✅ Best Time to Visit
- Dry Season (Dec–April): Clear skies, best for boat rides and birdwatching
- Lotus Season (June–Sept): Perfect for photography
- Flood Season (Sept–Nov): Rừng tràm and floating villages come alive
✅ What to Bring
- Mosquito repellent
- Sunscreen and hat
- Comfortable clothing and sandals
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Reusable water bottle (stay sustainable!)
✅ Getting Around
- Rent a car from Ho Chi Minh City for flexibility
- Join eco tours with local guides (available via tour companies)
- Public buses are available but slow and less frequent
🌍 Why Choose Eco Adventure Vietnam?
Eco adventure Vietnam offers a genuine, raw, and responsible way to discover the country. Unlike conventional city tours, eco tourism allows you to:
- Support local communities
- Preserve natural habitats
- Experience Vietnam like a true local
- Learn about sustainable farming and traditional crafts
Each destination in the Mekong Delta introduces a new facet of Vietnam’s soul – from floating fruit farms to hidden lotus ponds, from tranquil bird sanctuaries to vibrant folk villages.
📌 Final Thoughts
The Mekong Delta is not just a place, it’s an experience — a journey through culture, biodiversity, and humanity. Whether you’re kayaking in a forest, fishing with locals, or sipping tea in a lotus hut, every moment brings you closer to the heart of eco adventure Vietnam.
So, pack your gear, charge your camera, and head south. The rivers are calling!
👉 Want help booking eco tours in Vietnam? Need a custom itinerary?
Just let VietnamTour know and we’ll tailor an unforgettable eco adventure for you.
See more post: Vietnam backpacking route: The ultimate guide for independent travelers
