BEST of SHORE EXCURSION 2 Days: Saigon and Mekong Delta Tour

The "Best of Shore Excursion 2 Days: Saigon and Mekong Delta Tour" offers travelers an immersive experience that blends the vibrant culture of Ho Chi Minh City with the serene beauty of the Mekong Delta. Priced from $225 per person, this two-day journey promises a well-rounded exploration, from iconic Saigon landmarks to engaging activities in the rural delta region. With a focus on authentic experiences, the tour provides a unique opportunity to discover the intricate coconut processing workshops, take a leisurely horse cart ride, and savor the flavors of traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Intrigued? There’s more to uncover about this captivating tour that might just be the highlight of your Vietnam adventure.

Good To Know

• This 2-day tour offers an immersive cultural exploration of Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta region, showcasing iconic landmarks and traditional Vietnamese experiences.

• On the first day, visitors will discover the Mekong Delta’s coconut processing workshops, partake in a horse-drawn cart ride, and engage with local communities.

• The second day focuses on exploring Saigon’s historical and architectural highlights, including the Saigon City Hall, Central Post Office, and Notre Dame Cathedral.

• Travelers can savor the flavors of traditional Vietnamese cuisine through a lunch featuring local dishes and accompaniments.

• The tour also includes opportunities to explore bustling local markets, providing an authentic glimpse into the daily life and culture of Saigon.

Overview of the Tour

The tour, titled "Best of Shore Excursion 2 Days: Saigon and Mekong Delta Tour," offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Ho Chi Minh City and the picturesque Mekong Delta region.

Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars from 3 reviews, the tour provides an immersive cultural experience at a price starting from $225 per person.

Highlights include a visit to My Tho City and Ben Tre Town, where travelers can explore coconut workshops and sample local products.

On the second day, the tour takes guests to iconic Saigon landmarks such as the Reunification Palace and Notre Dame Cathedral, as well as a traditional Vietnamese lunch.

Day 1: Exploring the Mekong Delta

On the first day, visitors embark on an exploration of the picturesque Mekong Delta region. The tour starts with a pickup at the cruise port, followed by a journey to My Tho City and Ben Tre Town in the Tien Giang province. Along the way, they’ll discover coconut processing workshops, sample fresh coconut, and local products. Travelers then board a horse cart to explore the rural roads, seeing the delta’s tranquil atmosphere. After the day’s activities, the tour returns to the cruise port or hotel in Saigon.

Activity	Description
Visiting My Tho City and Ben Tre Town	Explore the Mekong Delta’s charming riverside towns
Coconut Processing Workshops	Witness the traditional methods of coconut processing
Sampling Local Products	Taste the fresh coconut and other regional delicacies
Horse Cart Ride	Experience rural life along the delta’s winding roads

Discovering Coconut Processing Workshops

As visitors explore the Mekong Delta, they’re invited to discover the intricate process of coconut processing.

At local workshops, they’ll witness skilled artisans transform raw coconuts into a variety of useful products. From extracting the coconut meat and milk to weaving coconut leaves into baskets, the process showcases the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Delta’s people.

Guests can sample fresh coconut water and taste locally made coconut candies, providing a flavorful insight into the region’s culinary traditions.

These workshops not only offer a glimpse into the Delta’s thriving cottage industries but also highlight the sustainable practices that have sustained communities for generations.

Experiencing Rural Transportation

Traveling by horse-drawn carts along the rural roads of the Mekong Delta, visitors enjoy the region’s traditional modes of transportation.

This unique experience offers a glimpse into the everyday lives of local residents. Gliding through the lush, verdant landscapes, travelers witness:

• The gentle pace of the horse-drawn carts, allowing for a leisurely exploration of the countryside
• The quaint villages and bustling markets that dot the riverbanks, showcasing the vibrant local culture
• The opportunity to interact with the friendly, hospitable people who call this Delta region home

This mode of rural transportation provides a captivating and authentic connection to the Mekong Delta’s rich heritage.

Day 2: Saigon City Highlights

The second day of the tour focuses on showcasing the vibrant city of Saigon, where travelers will explore its iconic landmarks and enjoy the local culture.

The day begins with a visit to Saigon City Hall, Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Saigon Opera House, providing a glimpse into the city’s French colonial heritage.

Next, the group tours the Reunification Palace, a significant historical site. Guests then enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch before visiting Thien Hau Temple and exploring a local wet market.

The tour concludes with a return to the cruise port in the afternoon, allowing ample time for further independent exploration.

Visiting Iconic Landmarks

Saigon’s iconic landmarks serve as a captivating introduction to the city’s rich history and French colonial past.

The tour takes visitors to several renowned sites, including:

• The grand Saigon City Hall, an impressive example of French architecture from the late 19th century.

• The Central Post Office, a stunning building designed by renowned French architect Gustave Eiffel.

• The iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, a neo-Romanesque cathedral constructed entirely of materials imported from France.

• The Saigon Opera House, a beautifully preserved opera house that showcases the city’s cultural heritage.

These landmarks provide a glimpse into Saigon’s past and offer a rich cultural experience for visitors.

Savoring Vietnamese Cuisine

Delectable local cuisine is a highlight of the Saigon city tour, offering visitors a chance to savor the vibrant flavors of traditional Vietnamese fare.

During the tour, guests will enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch, seeing the country’s culinary heritage. The meal typically features a variety of dishes, including rice, noodles, and an assortment of grilled, steamed, or stir-fried meats and vegetables.

Complementing the main course are fragrant herbs, zesty dipping sauces, and refreshing beverages, such as Vietnamese iced coffee or fresh tropical juices.

This culinary experience provides a genuine taste of Vietnam, allowing travelers to appreciate the country’s rich gastronomic culture.

Exploring Local Markets

After savoring the delectable local cuisine during the traditional Vietnamese lunch, the Saigon city tour leads visitors to explore the vibrant local markets.

These bustling marketplaces offer a glimpse into the daily life of the city’s residents. Visitors can wander through the stalls, browsing an array of fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts.

The experience isn’t just about shopping – it’s an immersive cultural encounter, where the sights, sounds, and aromas of the market create a truly memorable experience.

Some highlights of the local market visit include:

• Witnessing the energetic bargaining between vendors and customers
• Discovering unique Vietnamese ingredients and delicacies
• Interacting with friendly local merchants and gaining insights into their way of life

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Be Customized to Fit My Interests?

The tour can be customized to fit the traveler’s interests. The tour provider offers flexibility to adjust the itinerary based on the tourist’s preferences, ensuring a personalized experience during the Mekong Delta and Saigon city tour.

Are There Any Health or Fitness Requirements for the Tour?

The tour has a moderate physical fitness level requirement. It’s not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions. Participants should be able to walk, explore outdoor sites, and navigate rural areas.

How Long Is the Drive Between the Cruise Port and Starting Point?

The itinerary mentions that the tour starts with pickup from the cruise port, which is a 7 to 10 minute walk from the ship. This short transfer ensures a convenient start to the Mekong Delta excursion.

Can I Book Hotel Accommodation Through the Tour Operator?

Yes, hotel accommodation can be arranged upon request through the tour operator. They offer the flexibility to customize the tour package to include hotel stays as per the traveler’s preferences.

Is There a Discount for Booking the Tour as Part of a Group?

The tour pricing varies based on group size, so booking as a larger group may provide a discount. The tour operator can provide specific pricing details and group size requirements when making the booking.

Sum Up

The "Best of Shore Excursion 2 Days: Saigon and Mekong Delta Tour" offers an immersive experience that blends the vibrant culture of Ho Chi Minh City with the serene beauty of the Mekong Delta. Priced from $225 per person, this two-day journey provides a unique opportunity to explore iconic landmarks, engage in local activities, and savor the flavors of traditional Vietnamese cuisine, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking an enriching and memorable tour.