Where to go and what to eat during flood season in the West? Full suggestions for you

The flood season in the West is the ideal time to experience the immense beauty of the rivers and the simple life of the people here. When floodwaters flow from upstream, the entire delta seems to put on a new coat: rich, lush and full of life. At this time, visitors have the opportunity to weave through the cajuput forest by sampan, admire the wild natural scenery and enjoy a series of specialties only available during the flood season.

Việt Nam•11/09/2025

So what makes the Mekong Delta during the flood season so special that everyone should experience it at least once? Let's find out in the article below.

The Mekong Delta during the flood season – Where to go to fully appreciate the beauty of its waterways?

Notable destinations in the Mekong Delta during the flood season that you shouldn't miss. (Photo: Huynh Phuc Hau)

The Mekong Delta during the flood season offers visitors a colorful journey amidst abundant nature and rustic life. No need to search far; right here in An Giang, Dong Thap, Can Tho, or Long An , you'll easily find images of vast waterways, flooded forests, bustling floating markets, and dishes that bear the distinctive mark of the flood season. Below are some must-see destinations if you want to fully enjoy the beauty of the Mekong Delta during the flood season.

An Giang – The vibrant flood season in Tra Su Melaleuca Forest

Tra Su is one of the iconic destinations during the flood season. (Photo: Collected)

An Giang is one of the places that best showcases the beauty of the Mekong Delta during the flood season. At Tra Su Melaleuca Forest, paths covered in lush green water hyacinths and rows of straight melaleuca trees reflecting on the water create a picturesque scene. Sitting in a small boat weaving through the forest, you can watch birds soaring, and enjoy the fresh, peaceful air. In addition, Chau Doc floating village and the natural fish farms are also memorable stops.

Dong Thap – Lotus fields and birds of the Tram Chim National Park

The flood season in Dong Thap attracts tens of thousands of migratory birds, creating a spectacular sight. (Photo: Collected)

Dong Thap is not only famous for its lotus flowers but also for preserving the pristine beauty of the Mekong Delta during the flood season. At Tram Chim National Park in Tam Nong, you can enjoy a boat ride while watching flocks of birds fly across the flooded sky, feeling close to nature and completely relaxing. Visiting Sa Dec, a city of vibrant flowers all year round, you will experience the charming and poetic beauty of this land.

Can Tho – The rhythm of life at the floating market during the high water season.

The Cai Rang floating market becomes more vibrant than ever during the flood season. (Photo: Collected)

Can Tho, the "capital" of the Mekong Delta, becomes even more special during the flood season. The Cai Rang floating market is particularly bustling during high water days. Hundreds of boats are moored on the river, selling all kinds of agricultural products, fruits, and breakfast items right on the water. This is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the authentic life of the Mekong Delta people during the flood season – simple yet vibrant. Additionally, you can experience making traditional cakes, cooking Mekong Delta dishes, or staying in a riverside homestay.

Long An – Tan Lap floating village, enchanting in the early morning mist.

Tan Lap is a destination that is gradually gaining popularity thanks to its dreamy, tranquil beauty amidst the flooded mangrove forest. (Photo: VNA)

Long An province cannot be overlooked, especially Tan Lap floating village – a popular destination for those exploring the Mekong Delta during the flood season. Wooden walkways winding through the melaleuca forest, a tall observation tower offering panoramic views of the flooded area, and a tranquil atmosphere make it a favorite check-in spot for those seeking peace and quiet.

Unmissable experiences during the flood season in the Mekong Delta.

Experiencing the flood season: floating in small boats, picking water hyacinth flowers, and catching small fish. (Photo: Collected)

One of the reasons why the Mekong Delta during the flood season is so special is the authentic, simple yet fascinating local experience. More than just sightseeing, a trip during the flood season is a journey to truly "slow down," fully enjoying the natural beauty and the lives of the people here.

Riding in a small boat, weaving through mangrove forests or fields of water hyacinths, is a truly unique experience. There are no car horns, no city noise, only the sound of oars splashing in the water, birdsong, and the endless green of the vegetation. If you go early in the morning, you might even see a light mist hanging over the water, creating a magical and breathtaking scene.

Many tourists choose to try their hand at the daily activities of the locals, such as picking lotus flowers, harvesting water hyacinths, setting fish traps, or making traditional cakes. These experiences not only help you understand more about life in the riverine region, but also provide an opportunity to connect with the culture of the Mekong Delta in a very authentic and intimate way.

One afternoon on a small boat amidst the flooded fields, enjoying a bowl of hot rice with fish stewed with water hyacinth flowers, watching the fiery red sun gradually disappear behind the mangrove trees – that's a moment anyone who has ever visited the Mekong Delta during the flood season will remember forever.

Specialties of the Mekong Delta during the flood season – Eat it once, remember it for a lifetime.

Cuisine during the flood season: snakehead fish, fermented fish hotpot, banh xeo (Vietnamese savory pancake), and unique seasonal specialties. (Photo: Collected)

The cuisine of the Mekong Delta during the flood season is a harmonious blend of seasonal ingredients and the rustic, creative cooking methods of the people living along the river. While not elaborate in presentation, the flavors are rich, authentic, and memorable.

Here are some delicious specialties you should try when visiting the Mekong Delta during the flood season:

Crispy fried snakehead fish with tamarind fish sauce: Early-season snakehead fish has tender flesh and few bones. When fried until crispy and served with sweet and sour tamarind fish sauce, it's delicious as a snack or with rice.
Sour fish soup with water hyacinth flowers: The harmonious combination of the refreshing sourness of tamarind, the rich and tender flavor of snakehead fish, and the crispness of water hyacinth flowers – this dish is almost the "soul" of the flood season.
Fish sauce hotpot: A steaming hotpot with broth made from fermented fish sauce (made from snakehead fish and other types of fish), served with a variety of wild vegetables, freshwater fish, shrimp, and meat... A rustic dish that can be addictive for anyone who loves rich flavors.
Western-style Vietnamese savory pancake (Bánh xèo): Large, crispy pancakes filled with shrimp, meat, bean sprouts, and sometimes Sesbania flowers, wrapped with fresh vegetables and dipped in sweet and sour fish sauce – a dish that is both familiar and unique.
Grilled field rat: A "curious" but very popular dish in the Mekong Delta during the flood season. The firm, flavorful field rat meat is thoroughly cleaned and then grilled over charcoal until golden brown.
Snakehead fish noodle soup: Noodles with a clear, sweet broth, shredded boiled snakehead fish, served with bitter herbs and banana blossom – an ideal breakfast dish for people in the Mekong Delta.
Water lily and freshwater shrimp salad: A refreshing salad with the characteristic crispness of water lilies, the sweetness of freshwater shrimp, and a harmonious sweet and sour dressing.

Each dish is not only made from fresh, seasonal ingredients but also embodies the hospitable and generous spirit of the people of the Mekong Delta. And it is only during the flood season in the Mekong Delta that these dishes reach their true freshness and rich flavor.

Travel tips for the Mekong Delta during the flood season: Prepare properly, enjoy to the fullest.

Suggestions for preparation, itinerary, timing, transportation, and things to note when traveling during the flood season. (Image: Collected)

The Mekong Delta during the flood season is beautiful in its own unique way, but it's also a time when nature undergoes dramatic changes. To have a perfect trip, you need to know a few small but important tips.

The ideal time to go

The flood season in the Mekong Delta usually lasts from the end of August to around the beginning of November. However, the most beautiful time is usually in September and October – when the water level is just right, the landscape is lush, the weather is pleasant, and there are plenty of exciting activities to enjoy.

How do we get there?

Depending on your starting point, you can:

From Ho Chi Minh City, take a bus or drive yourself to provinces such as An Giang, Dong Thap, and Can Tho (4–6 hours).
If you have ample time, combine the following route: Long An → Dong Thap → An Giang → Can Tho

The routes in the Mekong Delta are easy to navigate and have many rest stops. However, it's best to avoid traveling at night as many sections of the road lack sufficient lighting and are quite deserted.

Clothing and items to bring

Lightweight, breathable clothing that allows for easy movement in humid weather.
Waterproof slippers, sandals, or sneakers
You should bring a light jacket, a raincoat, and a waterproof bag for your phone and camera.
Prepare some insect repellent and sunscreen.

Accommodation and tour bookings

You can choose:

Riverside homestays offer an authentic experience of life in the Mekong Delta.
Centrally located hotels are ideal for easy access to transportation and dining.
Some places like Tra Su Melaleuca Forest, Tram Chim National Park, or Tan Lap offer all-inclusive tours including boat trips, guides, and meals – you can book 1-2 days in advance to avoid disappointment on weekends.

Things to note when traveling during the flood season.

High water levels can flood many small roads, so check your route beforehand.
Avoid traveling at night across narrow rivers or canals if you are unfamiliar with the terrain.
Respect nature, do not litter in the water, and do not pick lotus/water hyacinth flowers indiscriminately.
For unusual dishes like field mouse or early-season snakehead fish, it's advisable to ask locals for clarification before trying them, especially if you have sensitive constitutions.

The Mekong Delta during the flood season, though rustic, always leaves a deep impression on tourists – thanks to its natural beauty and the friendliness of its people. With proper preparation, you can have a trip that is both easy to travel and memorable.

Suggested travel itinerary for the Mekong Delta during the flood season.

Itineraries for exploring the Mekong Delta during the flood season: 2 days 1 night and 3 days 2 nights full of experiences. (Photo: Collected)

Below are suggested itineraries for two popular options, suitable for both independent travelers and tour groups:

2-Day 1-Night Itinerary – Travel quickly, yet fully enjoy

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City → Tra Su (An Giang)

Morning: Depart early from Ho Chi Minh City (5am–6am), have breakfast en route.
Lunch: Arrive in Chau Doc, have lunch with braised snakehead fish with sugarcane and sour soup with water hyacinth flowers.
Afternoon: Visit Tra Su Melaleuca Forest – by motorboat and rowboat.
Evening: Take a stroll around Chau Doc, enjoy Western-style banh xeo (Vietnamese savory pancake) or fish sauce hotpot.

Day 2: Chau Doc → Can Tho → Ho Chi Minh City