3-day experience Ho Chi Minh (Saigon) & Mekong Delta

Ho Chi Minh City , Vietnam

3-day experience Ho Chi Minh (Saigon) & Mekong Delta

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About this experience

Highlights
-          Visit the must-see of the South Vietnam
-          Living the life of the guerrillas in Cu Chi Tunnels, a war site
-          Experience the daily life of the local people in Mekong Delta, enjoying the moving on the narrow canals by sampans.
-          Admiring the local artists in the traditional folk music and tasting the fresh tropical fruits in the lush garden.

Available options

Hotel 3*

accommodation 3*

What's included

Local guide

2 nights accommodation

Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch)

Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected)

Transport by air-conditioned minivan

What you'll see

Day1: Saigon Arrival

Pick up at the airport and transfer to hotel in Down Town of Sai Gon. If the time permits, there is the chance for you to join our 2 options of our half day tours:

Option 1: Cu Chi Tunnel – Ben Dinh Half Day

13:00 Pick up at your hotel. Heading to Cuchi, famous by a system of tunnels deeply underground, with 3floors, a labyrinth of intricate ways, and winding over 200 km long (~60 km, 1hour)

Upon arrival, watching a presentation video, Getting to see the tunnels and discover how these tunnels were constructed and how its habitats combat two forces: the invading troops and the tunnels itself. Visiting Hoang Cam’s smoke-less store, secret hide-outs, fighting bunkers, and many dangerous booby traps. Trying gun shooting with real bullets (fees not included). Tasting boiled tapioca, drinking hot tea. Visiting the rice paper village where you can try to make it by yourself. Drop off at your hotel.

Option 2: Ho Chi Minh City Half Day Tour

Pick up at hotel at 13:15. This half day city tour unravels Saigon’s turbulent past and also provides a glimpse into the fascinating variety the city has to offer.

The Reunification Palace: Here on April 30th 1975 the ‘American War’ officially ended when tank number 843 of the North Vietnamese Army crashed through the gates of what was, at the time the residence of the President of the Republic of Vietnam.

War Remnants Museum: Formerly known as the Museum of American War Crimes, this is a poignant display of the futility of war.

Notre Dame Cathedral and Old Post Office: Built between 1877 and 1883 this is one of the best examples of classical French colonial architecture.

Cholon & Thien Hau Pagoda: Cholon actually means Big Market – a claim that is well justified as Vietnam’s largest market, the Binh Tay is situated here. The district is home to the city’s 400,000 Chinese and has many beautiful temples and pagodas. the car will transport you back to your hotel.

Day 2: Mekong Delta My Tho – Ben Tre

8:00-8:30: Pick up at your hotel. Drive to My tho –Mekong Delta, known as the “bigger rice basket” in Vietnam (70km ~ 1,5hrs)

Upon arrival: Cruising through Mekong River, passing a fishing villages. Visiting some small islets as Turtle, Dragon, Phoenix Island,.. under a green canopy of water coconut trees. Walking through some villages to a fruit garden. Taste tropical fruits, while having live traditional music.

Short horse cart ride to a bee far, try honey tea. Short rowing boat ride. Lunch at tropical garden restaurant with countryside delicacies. On the way back to Saigon, visit Vinh Trang pagoda, an unique pagoda in Vietnam mixture of Vietnamese, Chinese and Cambodian architecture. Drop off at your hotel.

Day 3: Sai Gon departure (B)

Free till pick up and transfer to airport. End Trip.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option not selected)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Infant meals not included

About Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest metropolis, is a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity. Known for its rich history, bustling markets, and French colonial architecture, it offers a dynamic travel experience with its lively street food culture, historical landmarks, and energetic nightlife.

Top Attractions

War Remnants Museum

This museum provides a sobering look at the Vietnam War and its impact on the country. It houses a collection of war machinery, photographs, and artifacts.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations appreciated)

Cu Chi Tunnels

A network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the tunnels, learn about their history, and see various war relics.

Historical Half-day tour Moderate (tour prices vary)

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon

A beautiful example of French colonial architecture, this cathedral is a prominent landmark in the city. It is a peaceful place to visit and offers a glimpse into the city's religious heritage.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Ben Thanh Market

One of the most famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City, offering a wide variety of goods, including food, clothing, souvenirs, and handicrafts. It's a great place to experience local culture and shop for bargains.

Market 1-2 hours Budget to Moderate

Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck

Offers panoramic views of the city from the 49th floor. The Skydeck provides a unique perspective on Ho Chi Minh City's skyline and landmarks.

Observation Deck 1 hour Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pho

A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup made with beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and various toppings such as meat, herbs, and bean sprouts.

Dinner Vegetarian options available

Banh Mi

A Vietnamese sandwich made with a baguette, filled with various ingredients such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.

Lunch Vegetarian options available

Com Tam

Broken rice served with grilled pork, a fried egg, and various accompaniments like pickled vegetables and fish sauce.

Lunch Vegetarian options available

Goi Cuon

Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, pork, herbs, and rice vermicelli, served with a peanut or fish sauce dipping sauce.

Appetizer Vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Golfing at Long Thanh Golf Resort Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels Boat tours in the Mekong Delta Beach relaxation in Vung Tau Nature walks in Cần Giờ Mangrove Forest Spa and wellness treatments Visiting historical sites like the War Remnants Museum Exploring local markets and temples

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season with lower humidity and less rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is generally pleasant, though it can be quite hot.

25-35°C 77-95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Vietnamese
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night

Ho Chi Minh City is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and at night. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Bargain for better prices at markets

Getting there

By air

Tan Son Nhat International Airport • 7 km from city center

By train

Saigon Railway Station

By bus

Mien Dong Bus Station, Mien Tay Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are an affordable way to get around, but they can be crowded and slow due to traffic. Routes are numerous and well-marked.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

District 1 District 3 District 5 (Chinatown) District 7 Phu Nhuan District

Day trips

Mekong Delta

130 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Full day

The Mekong Delta is a vast network of rivers, canals, and islands known for its lush landscapes, floating markets, and traditional villages. It offers a unique glimpse into rural Vietnamese life.

Cu Chi Tunnels

60 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Half day

A network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the tunnels, learn about their history, and see various war relics.

Vung Tau

120 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Full day

A coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, seafood, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a popular destination for a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City.

Festivals

Tet Holiday (Vietnamese New Year) • January or February (varies each year) Ho Chi Minh City International Film Festival • December (varies each year) Mid-Autumn Festival • September or October (varies each year)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
Use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek for convenient and affordable transportation
Bargain for better prices at markets and street vendors, but do so politely and with a smile
Try street food and local eateries for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat