Vietnam’s Mekong Delta: A Tranquil Escape from Modern City Chaos

Hi, I’m Sebastiaan, an avid traveler constantly in search of those rare pockets of serenity amidst bustling adventures. This time, my journey led me from Cambodia’s vibrant Phnom Penh to the mesmerizing Mekong Delta in Vietnam—a route less traveled by many, but absolutely worth the effort.

When you think of Vietnam, what comes to mind? Perhaps the chaotic streets of Hanoi or the neon-lit bustle of Ho Chi Minh City? Let me tell you, the Mekong Delta is an entirely different experience. This lush expanse of waterways and rice fields is often called the “rice bowl” of Vietnam, and it lives up to its nickname with its endless green and peaceful ambiance.

Crossing the Border by River

I had already explored the grandeur of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, and it felt natural to continue my Southeast Asian adventure by heading south into Vietnam. Rather than taking a flight, I chose the scenic route—a boat ride along the Mekong River. Traveling by river isn’t just environmentally friendly; it’s a far more tranquil way to witness the slow rhythms of life in this fertile region.

The journey began in Phnom Penh, where I booked a boat with Blue Cruiser. Other companies like Hang Chau Tourist and Mandarin Cruises also operate on this route, though their availability post-COVID can vary, so check online before planning. The ticket prices ranged from $35 to $55, and I strongly recommend booking ahead of time.

The boat ride took about five hours, meandering through the Bassac River, one of the Mekong’s northern branches. The scenery was a mix of peaceful villages, kids waving from the riverbanks, and the occasional water buffalo lounging in the midday sun. It was a calm, relaxing way to transition from Cambodia to Vietnam, though parts of the river were quiet with little to see.

Navigating the Border and Visa Requirements

If you’re planning to travel this route, don’t forget to organize your Vietnam visa in advance! The Visa on Arrival system doesn’t apply to river border crossings, so I opted for an e-visa. The river border checkpoint, Song Tien Landport, was straightforward. Stamping out of Cambodia at Khoorm Som Nor and into Vietnam at Song Tien took less time than expected.

Pro tip: Don’t mix up passports like my friend did (Cambodian stamps in one, Vietnamese visa in another) unless you enjoy lengthy border debates!

Arriving in Chau Doc: A Hidden Gem

As the sun dipped below the horizon, we arrived in Chau Doc, a charming riverside town that feels untouched by heavy tourism. Instead of staying at the popular Victoria Chau Doc Hotel, my group opted for Victoria Núi Sam Lodge, a short ride away. Perched on a hill, this lodge offered sweeping views of rice fields and a serene atmosphere. The infinity pool overlooking the fields was the perfect way to start the day.

Chau Doc is a town where life moves at its own pace. We spent our mornings meditating at a nearby Buddhist temple, surrounded by the gentle hum of nature. Later, we explored floating villages, which were far less commercialized than other parts of the Mekong Delta. Here, boats loaded with fruits, flowers, and fish moved between houses on stilts, a vibrant reminder of how intertwined life is with the river.

Exploring the Mekong Delta

From Chau Doc, the journey naturally flowed towards Ho Chi Minh City, but we made a few stops along the way. My Tho and its surrounding islands, like Turtle Island, are more touristic but still worth visiting. The coconut candy workshops, colorful markets, and boat rides under arching canopies of greenery made for picture-perfect moments, even if they felt a bit staged compared to the authenticity of Chau Doc.

A Journey to Remember

As I left the peaceful waterways of the Mekong for the buzz of Ho Chi Minh City, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the slower moments this trip had gifted me. The Mekong Delta offers more than just a route to Vietnam; it’s a place that invites you to pause, breathe, and truly connect with the rhythm of life on the river.

If you’re planning a Southeast Asian adventure, don’t skip this scenic crossing into Vietnam. It’s not just a journey—it’s an experience you’ll carry with you long after you’ve moved on to your next destination.

Safe travels,
Sebastiaan