Cai Rang Floating Market: A 24-Hour Itinerary to Discover the Charm of Can Tho
Cai Rang Floating Market is one of the most iconic attractions in Can Tho and a must-see for any visitor. It’s a place where you can witness the vibrant commerce and culture of the Mekong Delta, as hundreds of boats gather to sell and buy fruits, vegetables, seafood, and other goods. This article will guide you through a 24-hour itinerary in Can Tho. Let’s follow me and my family to see what this vibrant city offers visitors!
Day 1: Serenity at Can Tho Ecolodge
With more members than a 7-seat SUV can fit, we booked a van to take us from Ho Chi Minh City to Can Tho. Starting from 7:30 a.m., our journey begins with a scenic drive from Ho Chi Minh City to Can Tho Ecolodge, a resort that offers a tranquil escape and a sustainable experience. Arriving around 11:00 a.m., we were greeted with a sumptuous lunch, offering a taste of local delicacies in an eco-friendly setting. Actually, we arrived at the resort a bit earlier than the check-in time. Thus, we had lunch first while waiting for our rooms to be ready.
Can Tho Ecolodge: A Haven of Sustainability
Can Tho Ecolodge is more than just a place to stay; it’s a place to experience the harmony between nature and culture. The resort is built with natural materials and traditional techniques, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with modern amenities and eco-friendly features. The resort also boasts a large swimming pool, a spa, and a restaurant, offering everything you need for a relaxing getaway.
But what makes Can Tho Ecolodge truly special is its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. The resort minimizes its waste of solar energy, natural water, and biomass energy to reduce its environmental impact. It also supports the local community by providing employment, education, and cultural exchange opportunities. By staying at Can Tho Ecolodge, you’re not only enjoying a luxurious retreat but also contributing to a greener and fairer future.
After lunch, at around 12:30 p.m., we checked into our rooms and spent the afternoon unwinding in Can Tho Ecolodge.
As evening approached, at 6:30 p.m., we headed to Ninh Kieu Wharf for a dinner cruise. We enjoyed the culinary delights as the ship sailed along the river, offering views of the city’s twinkling lights. After the cruise, the night market beckoned us. We strolled through the stalls, immersed ourselves in the local nightlife, and picked up some souvenirs.
We returned to the Ecolodge by 10:00 p.m. for a restful sleep, recharging for the next day’s adventures.
Day 2: The Bustle of Cai Rang Floating Market
When traveling, I always love to wake up early so I have more time for experiences. On the second day, we woke up early at 5:00 a.m. to take pictures in the resort when sunrise and get ready for the Cai Rang Floating Market tour. That morning turned out to be so beautiful with a clear sky and sunlight after a heavy rainy night. Hence, our family had many photos to save our happy memories together in Can Tho.
By 6:15 a.m., we embarked on a boat trip to Cai Rang Floating Market. We witnessed the vibrant trade activities and visited a local rice noodle (Hu Tieu) manufacturer to learn about this traditional craft. Definitely, the best and only way to explore the market is by boat. We booked the tour the day before from the Ecolodge’s receptionist.
Cai Rang Floating Market: A Slice of Life on the Water
Cai Rang Floating Market is one of the most iconic attractions in Can Tho and a must-see for any visitor. It’s a place where you can witness the vibrant commerce and culture of the Mekong Delta, as hundreds of boats gather to sell and buy fruits, vegetables, seafood, and other goods. The market starts at dawn and lasts until mid-morning, so you’ll need to wake up early to catch the action.
You can book a Cai Rang floating market tour from the Ecolodge or tour operators in the city. As you cruise along the river, you’ll see colorful boats of all sizes, displaying their products on poles or hanging baskets. You can also sample some of the local specialties, such as Hu Tieu (noodle soup), Banh mi (sandwich), Che (sweet soup), or drinks served on smaller boats. Don’t forget to visit a local rice noodle manufacturer, where you can learn how this staple food is made from rice flour and water.
Cai Rang Floating Market is more than just a tourist attraction; it’s a living museum of the Mekong Delta’s history and lifestyle. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the water world. Furthermore, you can get a glimpse of the daily lives of the people who call it home.
At 7:30 a.m., we returned for a buffet breakfast at Can Tho Ecolodge. We then spent the morning leisurely cycling or lounging by the pool before checking out. After lunch at 12:30 p.m., we bid farewell to Can Tho and returned to Ho Chi Minh City, carrying our memories of a lifetime.
That was a Great Family Trip!
Can Tho is more than just a stopover; it’s a destination that offers a glimpse into the soul of the Mekong Delta. From the peaceful Can Tho Ecolodge to the lively Cai Rang Floating Market, every moment spent here enriches our understanding and experience of Vietnam’s delta region. To me as a returning admirer and to my family as first-time visitors, Can Tho’s allure is undeniable.
Note:
This post contains affiliate links from which I can earn commissions if you use services or buy products from the blog’s partners. If you love the blog, please use the services or buy the products. In that way, you give me support for the blog’s maintenance and development. I appreciate it a lot and thank you for that!
Hey, I Have Travel Planning Resources Here to Help You Easily Plan Your TripEssential Items
Don't forget to bring the Travel Medicines, as well as your necessary Travel Kit. If Your Next Destination Requires a Visa
IVISA will help you with their speed, simple, and secured services with just a minimal chance of being rejected.
Find Your Flight and Transportation to The Destinations
You can read my travel tips to Find Cheap Flights.
You can also use 12Go to book buses, trains, ferries, or any transportation to places.
Book An Accommodation
I mostly use Booking.com to find a place for my trip. Sometimes I try to Get Free Credits on Airbnb to book homestays. Driving Yourself Will be More Enjoyable
You can easily compare prices and find great deals on Discover Cars.
Protect Yourself and Your Trip
Travel Insurance is Important, especially after COVID-19, there are more possible health issues and pandemics. Please don't forget to have a shield for yourself and your trips!
IF YOU ARE PLANNING A TRIP TO CAN THO, “PIN IT” NOW TO SAVE THE ITINERARY
Khoi Nguyen
Khoi Nguyen builds The Broad Life with a desire to inspire people go exploring the world and live a more interesting, experience, and adventurous life. This blog shares the stories, pictures, and experiences at destinations where he has traveled to.
12 Comments
-
Stephanie
What a glorious trip you had to Can Tho. Looks like a place we would enjoy visiting – the lodge looks great and the market would be wonderful to explore.
-
luna s
Looks like an amazing trip & visiting a flaoting market sounds like it would be a unique and fun experience. Thanks for sharing this, if I am ever in the area I will be sure to check it out.
-
Sonia Seivwright
It’s great to see that you and your family had such an amazing time exploring the city and trying out the delicious local cuisine. Your writing truly captured the beauty and energy of the floating market and highlighted why it’s such a must-see attraction in Can Tho. Thank you for sharing your travel experience with us!
-
Richard Lowe
This looks like a fantastic trip. I can tell you had a great time. The pictures are great also.
-
Khoi Nguyen
Thanks for your comment! That was truly a great trip to me and my family.
-
-
Ntensibe Edgar
Oh wow, being in this market will be a first, for me. i am not so big with water but this can’t be so bad. i look forward to trying it out.
-
Marysa
Staying in an eco-lodge sounds so cool! Looks like you had a great time on your trip. The floating market is a neat idea.
-
Zab Zaria
I can just imagine how much fun the whole family would have visiting this place! Thanks for sharing
-
Khoi Nguyen
Thanks for your comment!
-
-
ANGELICA
My friends travel here every few years. Ive asked them to take ne the next time they go.
-
Khoi Nguyen
Sounds like your friends love Can Tho so much, and I’m sure you will too.
-
jen schreiner
What a beautiful family trip. The ecolodge – JUST WOW! The room is so beautiful and spacious. I loved reading through your daily adventures and the floating market is certainly a unique experience.