U Minh Thuong Forest and Pineapple Villages

Can Tho , Vietnam

U Minh Thuong Forest and Pineapple Villages

Active

9h - 10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Our guide will warmly welcome you for a scenic three-hour drive to U Minh Thuong National Park, passing endless rice paddies that showcase Vietnam’s agricultural success. Once a poverty-stricken area, it now contributes 90% of the nation’s rice exports, ranking Vietnam among the top three rice exporters worldwide.

At the park, start with a peaceful boat ride through tranquil canals, where you’ll spot colorful birds like black coucals, kingfishers, and purple swamphens. The forest, blanketed in water ferns, immerses you in nature, while playful monkeys add charm. A climb to the observation tower offers stunning panoramic views.

Next, explore the hidden Pineapple Villages. A 12-km bike ride reveals farmers growing pineapples, rice, and coconuts, while crossing rivers on monkey bridges and traveling by boat. This authentic journey offers a glimpse into rural life and will be a highlight of your trip.

Available options

U Minh Thuong Forest and Pineapple Villages

What's included

Bottled water

Drinks: coffee, coconut, etc.

Lunch

Coffee and/or Tea

Fruits: pineapple, mango, jackfruit.

An local tour guide

Detailed itinerary

Our guide will warmly welcome you for a scenic three-hour drive to U Minh Thuong National National Park. Along the way, you’ll see thousands hectares of rice paddy, a vibrant symbol of Vietnam’s agricultural success. Once a poverty-stricken region before 2000, this area now helps Vietnam rank among the world’s top three rice exporters, contributing 90% of the nation’s exported rice.
At the park, your adventure begins with a peaceful boat ride through tranquil canals covered in duckweed and water lettuce. Deeper into the forest, you’ll spot colorful birds like black coucal, king fisher and purple swamphens thriving in their natural habitat. A soft carpet of water ferns surrounds you, immersing you in pristine wilderness. Playful monkeys swinging through the trees and a panoramic view from the observation tower add to the unforgettable experience.

Next, we’ll arrive at the stunning Pineapple Villages, spanning thousands of hectares of lush green fields. We’ll hop on bikes to explore these peaceful, picturesque villages, untouched by tourism, where farmers grow pineapples, rice, coconuts, and areca palms, while caring for buffalo and cows. As we ride, you’ll marvel at villagers skillfully crossing rivers on monkey bridges and navigating waterways by boat, preserving age-old traditions. This authentic journey into rural Vietnam will be a highlight of your trip. We’ll conclude with a relaxing two-hour drive back, reflecting on this unforgettable experience.

What's not included

Expenses out of the program.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Wheelchair accessible

Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults

Infant meals not included

Refunds will not be issued if tour/activity is missed due to late or non-arrival of cruise ship

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

About Can Tho

Can Tho is the largest city in the Mekong Delta, known for its vibrant floating markets, lush landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. The city offers a unique blend of traditional and modern Vietnamese life, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic experience.

Top Attractions

Cai Rang Floating Market

One of the largest and most famous floating markets in the Mekong Delta, Cai Rang is a bustling hub of activity where vendors sell goods from their boats.

Cultural Half day Free to enter, boat tours around 100,000 VND (5 USD)

Ninh Kieu Night Market

A vibrant night market located along the riverfront, offering a variety of local food, souvenirs, and handmade crafts.

Market 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for food and souvenirs

Binh Thuy Ancient House

A beautifully preserved 19th-century house that showcases traditional Vietnamese architecture and history.

Historical 1 hour 10,000 VND (0.5 USD)

Mekong Delta Rice Fields

Explore the lush, green rice fields that are the lifeblood of the Mekong Delta, offering a glimpse into the region's agricultural heritage.

Nature Half day to full day Free to explore, guided tours available

Must-Try Local Dishes

Banh Xeo

A crispy Vietnamese pancake made with rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk, filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and pork, can be made vegetarian

Che

A sweet, colorful dessert made with a variety of ingredients such as beans, jelly, fruit, and coconut milk

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan options available

Bun Ca

A noodle soup made with fish, herbs, and a tangy tamarind broth

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish, can be made vegetarian

Popular Activities

Boat tours Hiking in the Mekong Delta Cycling through rural villages Riverfront dining Spa and wellness treatments Gardens and parks Temple visits Local markets and street food

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season with lower humidity and less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Vietnamese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Can Tho is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas. Exercise caution and common sense to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and guides
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs and exchanging money

Getting there

By air

Can Tho International Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Can Tho Railway Station

By bus

Can Tho Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and convenient for getting around Can Tho. Buses are often crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Ninh Kieu District Binh Thuy District Cai Rang District

Day trips

Chau Doc

120 km from Can Tho • Full day

A charming town near the Cambodian border, known for its floating villages, historic temples, and the iconic Sam Mountain.

Vinh Long

50 km from Can Tho • Half day to full day

A peaceful town in the Mekong Delta, known for its lush gardens, historic pagodas, and scenic boat tours.

Soc Trang

80 km from Can Tho • Full day

A town known for its vibrant Khmer community, historic temples, and unique cultural experiences.

Festivals

Cai Rang Floating Market Festival • Annual, typically in August Can Tho Flower Festival • Annual, typically in January Tet Holiday (Lunar New Year) • Annual, typically in January or February

Pro tips

Visit the Cai Rang Floating Market early in the morning to experience the bustling atmosphere and fresh produce
Hire a local guide or join a tour to fully experience the floating markets and learn about the local way of life
Try local street food and snacks, such as banh xeo (Vietnamese pancake) and che (sweet dessert)
Explore the lush rice fields and rural villages of the Mekong Delta on a guided tour or by bicycle
Visit the historic Binh Thuy Ancient House to learn about the region's rich history and cultural heritage