Planning a holiday to Hau Giang? Discover top reasons to go, best time to visit, tours and free itineraries, history and hidden gems with the official guide! Find out what to do, where to go, where to stay and what to eat in Hau Giang from the local travel experts who know it best. If you’re not able to visit just yet, plan ahead to make the most of your wish-lists.
By Thomas Vietnam at vemekong.com | Official Visitor Guide To Can Tho | Chau Doc | Soc Trang | Ben Tre | Cai Be | Vinh Long | My Tho | Tra Vinh | Sa Dec | Bac Lieu | Ca Mau | Hau Giang
Welcome to Hau Giang
If you want to stray off the tourist track and enjoy ordinary life in the Mekong Delta then Hau Giang can be good for your exploration. Hau Giang intrigues travellers with its unrivalled natural views of rolling rice fields, winding canals, nature and forest, peaceful pace of life and hospitable locals, making it one of the most unmissable destinations in Southern Vietnam. Hau Giang Province is located in the heart of the Mekong Delta, bordered to the north by Can Tho City (40 km away), to the south by Soc Trang Province (53 km away) and to the west by Kien Giang Province (83 km). The capital of Hau Giang Province is Vi Thanh Town, 208km south-west of Ho Chi Minh City.
Top Reasons to Go
Land of Canals
In the Mekong’s lower branches, Hau Giang Province is better known by its nickname, the “Land of Canals”. Hau Giang is located on a complicated network of rivers, springs, and canals such as: Hau, Cai Tu rivers, Quan Lo, Phung Hiep, Xa No, Xang Nang Mau canals. Boasting a flooded landscape and scenic countryside, the network of rivers and canals provides travelers with a unique habitat of grasslands, forests, and swamps to uncover. Bringing a sense of calm to the busy Mekong River Delta, Hau Giang (Hậu Giang) Province is an idyllic destination for both local and international travelers.
A Mekong Delta Now and Then
Hau Giang is also proud of the Historical Site of the Provincial Party Committee’s Base and Long My Historical Site. Long My preserve many interesting things about the glorious history in resistance war. There are also facilities for entertainment and recreation. In Long My, tourists enjoy seeing numerous storks of various types and 30 typical species of birds in the stork sanctuary.
Hau Giang Forest, Nature & Bird Sanctuary
Hau Giang Vietnam is another province in the Mekong Delta. Lung Ngoc Hoang forest & nature’s smile, in Hau Giang, is not only known as the “green lung” of the Mekong Delta But also one of the most unique biodiversity conservation areas of Vietnam. Nowadays, Lung Ngoc Hoang Nature Reserve, 2.805,37 ha, is located in Phuong Binh Commune, Phung Hiep District, Hau Giang province. This reserve also contributes to maintaining the ecological balance and increases coverage, ensures environmental security and sustainable development of the Mekong region. Additionally, Lung Ngoc Hoang wetland & flooded forest is an ideal destination for nature lovers. Exploring and weaving in the untouched wetland of Mekong delta by boat gives the best experience about wildlife and nature.
Getting here and around
Nowadays Hau Giang is getting easier for everyone to get there and get around. It also means that traveling to the town won’t take much sweat, especially when you get here by public bus, car via the highway. We will break this down in detail, so check the information below to choose your best vehicle option.
Air travel: Currently, there aren’t any direct flights to Hau Giang. The nearest one is Tan Son Nhat intl airport, Tra Noc intl (Can Tho) airport, Ca Mau airport.
Bus travel: From Ho Chi Minh city to Hau Giang. The best bus company for getting from Saigon to Hau Giang (Vi Thanh town) is the Futa Bus Lines company. You can catch a bus from the Western bus station (address: 395 Kinh Duong Vuong, An Lac Ward, Binh Tan District, Ho Chi Minh City) with the time to travel to Hau Giang is 5 hours, to buy tickets or contact system of specialized vehicles running Saigon – Hau Giang route such as: Phuong Trang (futa bus lines), add in Saigon: 272 De Tham, District 1. Tel for booking ticket: 19006067. Once you’ve arrived at the Vi Thanh Hau Giang Bus Station, take a taxi to your Hau Giang accommodation. Or, if taking the Futa bus line, take the complimentary transportation van which goes to certain areas in 10 km distance. For your return trip, you can pre-book your tickets or have your accommodation help reserve the tickets for you.
Bus travel: From Can Tho to Hau Giang. Take the public bus as Futa bus line. Super easy to have a ticket. These buses are great and new and AC and depart from Can Tho to Soc Trang. On the way, you just tell the driver to drop you off in Hau Giang. The bus ticket is about 120,000 VND.
Boat travel: Not a public boat yet.
Speed Boat travel: From HCMC to Hau Giang. Not yet
Speed Boat travel: From Can Tho to Hau Giang. Not yet
Cruises: Not yet.
Train travel: Not yet.
Bicycle and motorcycle travel: While it’s possible to rent a motorbike to explore the Hau Giang city, most visitors choose to utilize the free bicycles offered by most resorts and homestays. The roads are bumpy and occasionally muddy but the distances are relatively short. You’ll notice that many of the locals opt to travel by bike as well so you’ll be in good company. From HCMC you can find “Thanh Lam motorbike rental shop: Address at No.17C Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, contact: 0902 840 361” or “Style Motorbikes motorbike rental shop: Address at No.42/24 Tran Dinh Xu Street, Co Giang Ward, District 1, contact: 0915.139.796” and “Dragon Bikes motorbike rental shop: Address at No.182/5A De Tham Street, Cau Ong Lanh Ward, District 1, contact: 0909 283 280.
Ferry travel:
Best time to Visit Hau Giang
Hau Giang welcomes you in any season all year round, each of which will certainly offer you specifically different types of pleasure and satisfaction. However, the best time to visit Hau Giang is from September to March. The weather is cool and pretty comfortable, so you can join any activity that you like. Additionally, From June to August is the fruit season. Therefore, you will have the chance to admire the colorful orchards as well as enjoy delicious fruit in these months.
Floating season (September – December): It is the best time to visit Hau Giang and the Mekong Delta region in general. You can go fishing in our traditional wooden boats, discover pristine nature and spend time in some orchards and amazing outdoor farmer’s markets.
Rainy season (May – October): It is not a bad choice when traveling to Hau Giang during rainy seasons since the rains are short and will not affect your trip.
Dry season (January – April): It is hot and dry during this time, however, it is harvesting time here and you can enjoy fruit picking activities with the locals. Even visiting the Cau Duc pineapple feild during Tet holiday in January of the lunar month.
Hau Giang Tourist Attractions
Lung Ngoc Hoang Forest, Nature Reserve & Bird Sanctuary
Hau Giang Vietnam is another province in the Mekong Delta. Lung Ngoc Hoang forest & nature’s smile, in Hau Giang, is not only known as the “green lung” of the Mekong Delta But also one of the most unique biodiversity conservation areas of Vietnam. Nowadays, Lung Ngoc Hoang Nature Reserve, 2.805,37 ha, is located in Phuong Binh Commune, Phung Hiep District, Hau Giang province. This reserve also contributes to maintaining the ecological balance and increases coverage, ensures environmental security and sustainable development of the Mekong region. Additionally, Lung Ngoc Hoang wetland & flooded forest is an ideal destination for nature lovers. Exploring and weaving in the untouched wetland of Mekong delta by boat gives the best experience about wildlife and nature… Read more info & pictures
Kittyd & Minnied Amusement Park
Officially inaugurated in 2018, Kittyd & Minnied amusement park in Hau Giang became an amazing tourist attraction for all visitors. It somehow makes you feel like you are in a fantastic and mysterious world of a little “Disneyland Mekong Delta”. It is located on Highway 1A, Tan Phu Thanh, Chau Thanh A, Hau Giang (10 km from Can Tho city center). Apart from Vo Truong Toan University campus, Kittyd & Minnied Theme Park has 20 hectares and is designed according to a modern amusement park model, providing modern entertainment services and bringing new experiences for travelers. When the visitors can come and enjoy games, performances of parades, dancing, singing, musicals, and incarnated as characters in foreign fairy tales such as Princess Snow White, Cinderella, Aladin, Beauty and Monsters…According to the experience of Hau Giang tourism of many tourists, the package ticket price and the entrance fee of Kittyd & Minnied Park in the period from 8:00 to 16:30 fluctuate as follows: For guests with a height of 1.4m or more, the package fare is 125,000 – 250,000 VND, the price will be 40,000 – 80,000 VND if you only want to enter the gate and then choose to add the form of sightseeing. then buy more later. Kittyd & Minnied Park will be a great place to check-in some “Europe photos” styles… Read more info & pictures
Truc Lam Zen Monastery Hau Giang
Truc Lam Hau Giang Zen Monastery is a large-scale religious architectural complex that plays an important role in the religious activities of the people in the province in particular and tourists in the West in general. Truc Lam Zen Monastery in Hau Giang province, along with many other large Zen monasteries across the country, is a place to practice Zen Buddhism in Truc Lam Yen Tu. This is a Zen lineage opened and developed by King Tran Nhan Tong – the third king of the Tran Dynasty. Legend has it that after leading the country against the Yuan Mongols and building a peaceful and prosperous country, the King ceded the throne to his son and went to Yen Tu mountain to become a monk. After a long period of practice and enlightenment, from the previous three Zen lines, he merged and founded the Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen school. This is also a famous pilgrimage and religious tourist destination of the West River. The Truc Lam Zen Monastery Hau Giang was inaugurated in 2018 with a total construction period of 3 years on an area of more than 4 hectares. The main hall area is paved with red bricks. Wooden columns are placed on gray stone panels decorated with rattan patterns, carved with stylized lotus flowers. The space of the Zen Monastery is very spacious and airy, clean with a variety of ornamental plants that are carefully decorated and trimmed. Many rows of stone benches are arranged reasonably so that Buddhists and tourists have a place to rest and enjoy the scenery… Read more info & pictures
Vi Thanh Outdoor Farmers Market
One of the best highlights to see and do in Hau Giang is the authentic Hau Giang outdoor farmer’s market in the early morning. This 700 m2 market is just about the traditional and cultural life in the Mekong Delta now and then. It is only 50km away from Can Tho city. The local name of the market is “Chợ Chồm Hổm” which located inside Vi Thanh market in Hau Giang province. This market is easy to reach by car and scooters. The busiest time to see the market is from early morning to 7:30 a.m. The market will be closing around 9 a.m to 10 a.m. Top tip: You should come to the market soon and have a cup of coffee to feel the insights of the Vietnamese’s culture market… Read more info & pictures
Bo Tum Vong Say Khmer Pagoda
One of the most beautiful Khmer pagodas in Vietnam is Bo Tum Vong Say Khmer Pagoda located in Hau Giang province of Mekong Delta. Bo Tum Vong Say Khmer Pagoda located in Hau Giang province of Mekong Delta. This pagoda is not only famous for being mysterious and colorful at night but also for its unique architecture. It is said that Bo Tum Vong Say Khmer Pagoda was built in 1937 following Khmer traditional architectural practice and has been repaired many times. In 2020, the new and magnificent main hall was upgraded to the joy of thousands of Buddhists. It is sometimes also called Cai Tai Khmer pagoada, because its location is near Cai Tac fork junction
Ticket: Free
Spend-time: Half an hour (approx)
Hours: All day till 9pm
Address: It is located in Cai Tac, Chau Thanh, Hau Giang, Mekong Delta, Vietnam
Site beauties: There are many charming Khmer people selling their own farm products in this area. And perhaps, the most special thing in this pagoda is the night time and the nearby market… Read more info & pictures
Nga Bay – Phung Hiep floating market
As an official guide. We are talking again. The Nga Bay floating market is gone. No more Nga Bay – Phung Hiep floating market.
Nga Bay Floating Market is one of the busiest and most famous floating markets in the Mekong Delta. Hidden deep in the floating market is a deep layer of indigenous culture not only of Hau Giang but also the soul of the whole Mekong River region. The soul of the river is the floating market because it stores the footsteps of the ancestors. Connecting the past with the present, habits, customs, and spirituality. And is the creation of the economic culture of the forefathers of more than a century in the new land…Read more info & pictures
Vi Hung Church
The outstanding church is located next to the peaceful and romantic Xa No canal. Built in a spacious and airy campus with impressive architectural interference. Most are designed in the style of a classical Roman church, but the curved and prominent roof has the look of Vietnamese temples. Every weekend or Christmas, not only Catholics attend the ceremony but this tourist destination in Hau Giang also welcomes visitors to visit quite a lot. Address: Area 2, Ward 4, Vi Thanh City, Hau Giang…Read more info & pictures
Hau Giang Tours and Free itineraries
As a local travel expert in Hau Giang, here is some options for your Hau Giang discovery:
Itinerary 1: Hau Giang City Tour & Lung Ngoc Hoang Forest from Hau Giang (Full day)
Itinerary 2: Can Tho Floating Market and Wildlife Tour from Hau Giang (full day)
Itinerary 3: Soc Trang Bac Lieu Tour from Hau Giang 1 Day (full day)
Itinerary 4: From Hau Giang, Can Tho floating market tour and Drop off In HCMC (full day)
Itinerary 5: Ca Mau South Pole Tour From Hau Giang (2 day 1 night in Ca Mau forest homestay).
Itinerary 6: Ca Mau South Pole Tour From Hau Giang 1 Day (Full day, start at 5 AM with 10 hours drive).
Itinerary 7: Hau Giang to Ca Mau South Pole Tour 1 day (Full day, drop off in Ca Mau for the next day to Phu Quoc by speed boat).
If you do not have much time left, it is easy to check out spots in one full day by boat or with bike or with motorbike and car. But there are much more than tourist sites like these in Hau Giang. Make sure you have more time to feel and explore more about the hidden gems and the culture, food, night life, wildlife and forest as well. Top tip: Stay in a homestay nearby, so you have more chances to visit it and surroundings. If you are looking for the package Hau Giang daily tour with local, you can contact www.vemekong.com or Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559; email: hello@vemekong.com
Hau Giang Homestays and Hotels
The Homeland Homestay
The Homeland Homestay is Homestay Hau Giang providing comfortable accommodations with the ultimate design of bamboo walled houses, thatched roofs. Visitors to the homestay will be transformed into genuine Western farmers, blended with nature and experience many practical activities. The homestay has a large garden and many tropical fruits. You can visit the garden or pick the fruit yourself and enjoy it here. There are strangely peaceful things contained in this homestay address, that is the sincerity and hospitality of the homeowner and the attendants, which is the rustic taste of western rustic dishes. When coming to the Homeland Homestay, maybe you find yourself suitable in such a rural place rather than the bustle of the lavish city. Above all else, the homestay wants you to have comfortable moments to stop and rest after the rush that life forces you to try to chase. Address: Hamlet 2, Vinh Trung Commune, Vi Thuy District, Hau Giang Province. Reference price: 500,000 – 1,500,000 VND/night
Kim Lan Homestay
Kim Lan Homestay is designed as an eco-tourist resort with many attractive activities for tourists. You not only have the opportunity to relax in a comfortable, nature-friendly room, but also have many memorable experiences here. Kim Lan Homestay Hau Giang has a fruit garden where visitors can pick fruit and visit here. You can cook by yourself or have a picnic. Only about 2km from the city center, 40km from Can Tho airport, Kim Lan Homestay is quite convenient for moving but it will take quite a while if you come here for the first time. Ask the people often to avoid getting lost, the people here are very likable and ready to show you right away. Address: 196 Vi Binh hamlet, Vi Thuy district, Hau Giang province. Phone: 093 104 4688; Reference price: 500,000 – 1,200,000 VND/night
Xa No Night Hotel Vi Thanh City
Xa No Night Hotel is located in the center of Ward 1, Vi Thanh City, Hau Giang, Vietnam. The hotel features a restaurant, bar and free WiFi access and public parking. Each room at the hotel is air conditioned and features a flat-screen cable TV, wardrobe and minibar. The private bathroom comes with shower facilities, toiletries, slippers and a hairdryer. Room service is also provided. Xa No Night Hotel also supports tour booking and can arrange sightseeing for guests. Staff at the 24-hour front desk will assist with luggage storage, laundry and fax / photocopying services. Vi Thanh City is a great choice for travelers interested in friendly locals, street food and culture. Address: No. 5 – 7 Hai Thuong Lan Ong, Area 1, Ward 1, Vi Thanh City, Hau Giang. Hotline: 093 944 33 47; Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/DemXaNo/
Bong Sen Hotel
Bong Sen Hotel has a total of 51 bedrooms that are elegantly and elegantly decorated, from standard rooms to Vip rooms. The bedrooms are fully equipped with modern equipment, some rooms suitable for the whole family to help guests have a fully private space. Bong Sen Hotel provides the necessary amenities for customers when staying here such as: luxury bathtub, convenience, free Wi-Fi internet, IDD phone, 21 inch LCD TV, appliances Tea and coffee making, luxury bed, mini Bar, free drinks: 02 bottles of mineral water, fire alarm and automatic fire alarm. Address: 60 Tran Hung Dao, Area 4, Ward 5, Vi Thanh City, Hau Giang
Hotline: +84 711 3600 123; Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Khach-Shan-Bong-Sen/1387347931477047
Phuc Lam Hotel
Located in a prime location, this place is easy to find and convenient for you to move to nearby attractions. Here you can book parties or organize events. Phuc Lam Hotel also owns a diversified room system, luxurious and high-class design. Each room has free wifi, flat-screen TV and a variety of free personal belongings. Some rooms at the motel also have a balcony, guests can take advantage of the time to relax here. If you are wondering what to choose for a rest destination in Hau Giang, you can immediately contact the hotel’s hotline to book in advance. This is also one of the 3-star quality accommodation spaces. Address: No. 1 Nguyen Quoc Thanh, Long My town, Hau Giang province; Phone: 0293 3510 888; Reference price: 150,000 – 900,000 VND / night
Van Quang Hotel
Van Quang Hotel is one of the best hotels in Hau Giang that you can stop for your travel or business trip. The hotel has just been upgraded, so everything is very new and clean. Each room is fully equipped with necessary equipment for customers when staying here such as bathroom, wifi, television, other personal belongings. Located at 58 Nguyen Cong Tru, Vi Thanh City, from the hotel you can easily move to major venues and dining areas. Room rates only range from 250,000 VND / night. 24/24 service staff, will answer all questions of customers when needed. Good security, customers can rest assured to stay here. Address: 58 Nguyen Cong Tru, Ward 1, Vi Thanh City, Hau Giang; Hotline: 02933580212
Hau Giang Markets, Shopping and Souvenirs
Hau Giang Market
Hau Giang Night Market
Hau Giang Food and Drink
Like Coffee Shop in Hau Giang
The coffee shop on Le Hong Phong street, Nga Bay city, is decorated with more than 700 film cameras, hanging on the wall of the shop. Photography lovers can visit Like coffee & tea Coffee Shop to admire the collection of film cameras through the periods. The shop has spacious and airy space, featuring the main gray and black tones. On the ground floor, film cameras are displayed everywhere, from the bar counter to the shelves, even hanging on the walls. The shop owner, Mr. Nguyen Hoang Nam, 34 years old, who has collected more than 700 film cameras in 10 years, shared: “My passion for cameras started when I was a child, I saw the photographers holding the camera very interested. When I grow up, I have money, I accumulate to buy each one. I opened the shop a year ago, at that time there were 500 pieces, now I have bought about 200 more.” Mr. Nam added that film cameras have deep image colors, not too colorful like modern cameras today, the color of the image has its own and classic quality, so he loves it. In addition, each camera also keeps memories and stories of the owner attached to them. Mr. Nam’s collection includes branded film cameras such as Nikon, Canon, Pentax, Mamiya, Minolta, Ricoh, Yashica… Most cameras are several decades old, the highest in more than 10 years old. 80 years and some are still in good use. The cafe is open from 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, with parking, a diverse menu with coffees, smoothies, yogurt, milk tea, soda… priced from 17,000 to 38,000 VND/cup, without Air-conditioner, only the first floor has many trees, the shop is crowded in the morning and afternoon from 3 pm onwards.
An Coffee Shop in Hau Giang
An Coffee shop is always crowded with nostalgic spaces with ancient objects. Coffee An on Trung Nhi Street, Ward 1, Vi Thanh City of Mr. and Mrs. Dang Thi Nghe is a familiar meeting place for many tourists who love ancient space coffee. The patrons informally call the shop owner Mr. and Mrs. Tu. The shop is about 50 m2 wide, located in the house built in 1985 by the owner. The shop has deep tones, open space, and no air conditioning. The space displays antiques collected from many places such as dial-up phones, black and white TVs, typewriters, storm lights … and many antiques from the 50s-60s. In it, old family items such as bookshelves, amplifiers, cassettes are also decorated. Mrs. Nghi said that she and her husband both like antiques, but in the past, they did not have the conditions to collect like others. When the children are older and have common interests, the whole family comes up with the idea of designing a family cafe to look after and create joy for grandparents in old age.
Hau Giang Street Foods
Offering traditional Vietnamese food and Mekong favorites like fresh fish and fruit, some of the best restaurants in Vi Thanh can be found around the local market. More formal places to eat with dine-in options include Tiger Food, Quan Oc Say, Hu Tieu Nam Vang, Quan Doi Chung, and the Oc Trang.
Thac Lac Cuom Fish
Traveling to Hau Giang without eating Thac Lac Cuom fish is considered as not going. Served in most restaurants here. And people have long considered this dish to be a unique specialty in Hau Giang. The most popular dish from this fish is the fried lettuce. The sweet and spicy sweet taste makes the king never fade… Read more info & pictures
Vermicelli Chicken Salad
The food at first glance is very simple like a fish sauce dish. But the taste inside them is not simple at all. Vermicelli chicken salad cooked with tamarind, giving sweet and sour taste to eat forever without getting bored. When enjoying this dish, you must eat it with shrimp, water spinach, banana flower, the new flavor is perfect. This is the soul of Hau Giang cuisine.
Ngat Fish
Its delicious dishes, especially in Hau Giang, are very cunning. They only live in deep water where there are up to 2-3m. So catching them is very difficult. But contrary to the difficulty of catching, the taste of Ngat fish is very delicious. Fresh fish is processed into a lot of dishes. But the most delicious and attractive is still the Ngat fish on the banana peel, grilled on a charcoal stove. With this method, the fish retains its natural sweetness.
Phung Hiep Bamboo and Rattan Craft Village
The traditional handicraft villages are considered as the factors that have greatly contributed to increased income and reduced poverty in rural areas. In Mekong Delta, Vietnam, there are more than 200 traditional handicrafts villages that make various handicrafts, absorbing about 200,000 laborers. Phung Hiep bamboo and rattan craft village is one of them. It is located in Nga Bay, Phung Hiep, Hau Giang. Established in the 1950s, the village is famous for its beautiful and handmade bamboo and rattan products. It is also one of the hidden gems for tourists to see in Hau Giang. From many years ago, handicraft villages evolved as families used free time between harvests to create products for their daily needs and give the chance to earn money for a number of households, labors in the flood seasons by making the fishing nets and other fishing catching tools like bamboo fish traps and bamboo baskets. The bamboo and rattan craft has brought people here a more stable and prosperous life. The village has been creating regular jobs for local bamboo and rattan production households. Baskets have been the main products of Phung Hiep craft village for generations. Everyone in the village, young or old, man or woman, weaves rattan and bamboo. It has been in their blood for generations… Read more info & pictures
Xa No Canal & Xa No Park in Hau Giang
Conveniently located in the inner city of Vi Thanh, along the 15-kilometre banks of Xa No Canal, Xa No Park boasts a very special charm. It is not only covered with lush green trees, for instance, Java red areca, Filipino coconut and red willow, but it is also home to several white stone structures, making it the perfect blend of nature and architecture. When night falls, the park dazzles in bright lights which only enhance its beauty. Take a stroll around the paved streets in the evening and get an authentic taste of Hau Giang Province… Read more info & pictures
Tu Sang Bamboo Garden Hau Giang
Situated in Thanh Hoa Commune, Phung Hiep District, Hau Giang Province, the bamboo-lined walkway is a popular destination amongst travellers. Created by Mr. Dang Van Sang, an 83-year-old local farmer and spanning 500m through a verdant bamboo garden, the path embodies a rustic countryside charm. As you stroll through this lush bamboo forest, its striking tranquillity and soothing atmosphere will certainly win over your heart. This is the place where many types of bamboo are grown for more than 30 years in an area of more than 10,000 m2. Not only bamboo, there are also many kinds of green trees around and an arrangement of miniatures to recreate the Western countryside. This Hau Giang tourist destination is also extremely suitable for those who like to return to nature, live a rustic life, eat with relatives or friends, camp, picnic together… Read more info & pictures
Cau Duc Pineapple Fields
Aside from famous tourist attractions, Hau Giang Province intrigues many backpackers with the emerging Cau Duc pineapple fields, ideal for new adventures and unique Instagrammable pictures. Located between Tan Tien and Hoa Tien Communes, about 16km from Vi Thanh City and 80km from Can Tho Airport, Cau Duc pineapple fields is one of the largest pineapple fields in Hau Giang Province. If pineapples are your favourite fruit, then this site is definitely a must to add to your Hau Giang travel itinerary… Read more info & pictures
Tam Vu ecotourism area
The Tam Vu eco-tourism area, located in Chau Thanh A District, lies about an hour’s drive north of Vi Thanh Town. The big wall with carved images was built (January, 1991) in memorizing the national historical battles regarding the anti-French war in the past. Tam Vu is both a green scenic area and historical site. Not only will visitors get to enjoy a diverse ecosystem with many rare animals, but also learn about the bravery of locals during Vietnam’s war against the French colonists, as well as local culture and customs. Local leisure services include fishing from a wooden boat, trekking, and visiting the monkey island… Read more info & pictures
Cultural & historic district Long My
The site is located about 28 km from Vi Thanh Town. During the wars against the French and American invaders, the district was chosen as a base for the liberation army of Hau Giang Province, as well as the southwestern region. Within Long My District, there are many sites commemorating its rich history, including a small museum with photos and relics from the war, Uncle Ho (President Ho Chi Minh) Temple in Luong Tam Commune, built in 1969, and a 28 m tall sculpture depicting former Vietnamese soldiers. Alongside learning about history, visitors can also explore the stork garden, located in Xa Phien Commune. It is home to thousands of storks, as well as 30 other local bird species.
Vi Thuy cajuput forest
Located about 9 km from Vi Thanh Town, capital of Hau Giang, Vi Thuy cajuput forest in Vi Thuy District is the largest eco-tourism area in Hau Giang. Besides its tranquil and mesmerizing scenery, Vi Thuy forest represents the unique Mekong Delta wetland ecosystem, making it the great home to many freshwater species, as well as birds. The fertile soil here is great for growing fruit trees. Similar to Lung Ngoc Hoang, visitors can explore Vi Thuy by boat or trekking. Don’t forget to visit Kinh – Hoa (Chinese) – Khmer Cultural Museum located within the area… Read more info & pictures
Long My Stork Garden
Outside of the Xa Phien Commune in Long My District, Stork Garden is a famous attraction. Boasting a luscious garden that’s home t0 thousands of storks as well as 30 other bird species. Used for mating, nesting, and feeding for several months of the year, bird watchers will love this flooded landscape.
Ba Bai base
Ba Bai base, the base area of the Can Tho Provincial Party Committee, Hau Giang’s famous revolutionary base in particular and the West in general, where the history of the army and people was marked during the war years of liberation of the South to unify the country. Coming to this tourist destination, visitors can also learn some pictures and artefacts of Can Tho people in the period 1972 – 1975. The base of Can Tho Provincial Party Committee and many pictures of the war at that time. Mr Tran Van Thu in charge of the relic said that every year this historic site attracts more than 80,000 visitors. To serve for more development of tourism, the base area will be newly invested and embellish more items such as telegraph, clerical, reconstructing some such as cannon shelter, secret tunnel, secret bunkers … and construction add some items to visitors… Read more info & pictures
Cau Duc Pineapple Fields
Ticket:20,000 VND (children) – 30,000 VND (adult)
Spend-time: One hour (approx)
Hours: Dawn – Dusk
Food:Yes
Shop: Yes
Parking lot: Yes
Blog: https://vemekong.com/cau-duc-pineapple-fields-hau-giang/
Address: Thanh Thang hamlet, Hoa Tien commune, Vi Thanh city.
Added values: From the alkaline soil, the care of gardeners has turned this place into an ideal destination to rest and relax after stressful working hours. An interesting trip like returning to childhood, while enjoying typical country cuisine will bring you many good memories.
The unique feature of this pineapple variety is that the fruit has an elegant shape, short stalk, small core, protruding eyes, slightly deep eye pits, dark yellow flesh, little fiber, little water, crispy and sweet. In particular, Cau Duc pineapple can be left for 10-15 days without rot. Cau Duc pineapple tree is over 1 meter tall, with an average weight of 1.5-2kg/fruit.
According to local farmers, pineapples appeared on Vi Thanh land around 1930, Hoa Tien people saw a good variety and started to propagate and plant the banks of Cai Lon river. Since then, the pineapple tree has taken root and has stood firm to this day… Read more info & pictures
Chuong Thien Cultural & historic site
Ticket:Free
Spend-time: One hour (approx)
Hours: Mon – Fri (working time), Sat & Sun only open the yard.
Food:Yes
Shop: Yes
Parking lot: Yes
Blog: https://vemekong.com/chuong-thien-cultural-historic-hau-giang/
Address: Vi Thanh district, Hau Giang province
Added values: In addition, when traveling to Hau Giang, visitors can immerse themselves in nature, breathe in the fresh air of the countryside, enjoy fresh fruits picked in the garden, and listen to birdsong in Lung Ngoc Hoang forest.
During the wars against the French and American invaders, the district was chosen as a base for the liberation army of Hau Giang Province, as well as the southwestern region. Within Long My, Vi Thanh, there are many sites commemorating its rich history, including a museum with photos and relics from the war, tall sculpture depicting former Vietnamese soldiers in the park… Read more info & pictures
Hau Giang History and Culture
Hau Giang History
Prior to Hau Giang Province, the area was part of Can Tho (Cần Thơ) City and Chuong Thien (Chương Thiện) Province. At the end of the Vietnam War in 1975, the province was named Can Tho while the capital was named Can Tho City. In 2004, the government changed Can Tho City to become a municipality along with Thanh Pho (Thành Phố). The new division split Can Tho City, with the remainder becoming Hau Giang Province. Before the creation of the province, the area was heavily developed by the French beginning in the 19th century. Exploiting the local landscape for the brackish water, the French began building canals. Described as being “the civilization of canals”, by Vietnamese writer, Son Nam, the canals act as a “strategic punch” for the province helping the province’s local economy expand. Depending heavily on agriculture since the 19th century, rice is a major crop throughout, however, growing fruit and harvesting freshwater fish is also common. Products that can be found in Hau Giang include the Nam Roi pomelo, tangerines, mangos, pineapples, and snakehead fish. Besides developing an extensive history in agriculture, the province has been an important stronghold for ethnic culture too. Ethnic groups that live in the area include the Vietnamese and minorities, Hoa, Cham (Chăm), and Khmer.
Don Ca Tai Tu
The people of the Mekong Delta are known for their love of music. Don Ca Tai Tu, a Vietnamese style of folk opera originally from the Mekong Delta, is a mix of ballads and theatre accompanied by a musician playing a zither or, in modern renditions, a guitar. The amusing storylines are often set in Vietnam’s countryside and can be lighthearted, sorrowful, or both. Regardless of language barriers, it’s easy to enjoy Don Ca Tai Tu, thanks to expressive acting and melodious singing. Ben Tre gardens and homestays, Thoi Son Islet, are some of the places that perform Don Ca Tai Tu music throughout the day and at dinner time.
Hau Giang Museum
Hau Giang Nightlife
Hau Giang Festivals, Sports and Outdoor Activities
Hau Giang Health and Safety
Dos and Don’ts for Your Trip to Hau Giang
Practical tips: Ways to save, Internet, Water, Learn a little Vietnamese and pro Tips
Ways to save:
Stay somewhere with free breakfast. Many budget hotels offer free breakfast to guests.
Eat street food. Food stalls are cheap and plentiful and are a great place to try regional specialities.
Travel by bicycle/motorbike. These two-wheeled bikes are among the cheapest ways to get around Can Tho and Mekong Delta region.
Stick to free attractions. If you’re really tight for cash, attractions such as markets cost nothing.
Hau Giang group tours. If you want to see and learn as much as possible with your limited time.
Internet:
Free Wi-Fi can be found everywhere from hotels to coffee shops. If you are from the EU you should be able to use your own data plan too. Or contact the hotel for the sim card.
Water:
Tap water is supposed to be safe but I advise against drinking it. It’s just not worth the risk. My advice is to use bottled water and save yourself from unexpected stomach problems.
Learn a little Vietnamese:
Sure, you can get by with just speaking English, but trying to speak the local language opens you up to much more polite & meaningful interactions with people. Even if you are not perfect or you make a mistake, your effort is appreciated. At a bare minimum: Hello = xin chao (sin chow), yes = dạ vâng, no = không (khom), thank you = cám ơn (kahm uhn), I’m sorry = tôi xin lỗi (toy sin loy), no problem/you’re welcome = không có gì (khong koh zi), goodbye = tạm biệt (tarm byeet), I’m vegetarian = tôi ăn chay (toy an chayh), How much? = bao nhiêu? (baow nyew), spicy/hot (cay), Oh My God (ôi..choy…oi…).
Pro Tips:
You can stay in a homestay which is near the riverside, this will help you out the best option. Then you can hire a scooter, car or bike and explore it by yourself and I hope you have an amazing Mekong Delta river sunrise.
If you plan to extend your travel to Hau Giang homestay, do not forget to bring mosquito repellent cream.
Visit Hau Giang or do any customized tours, please choose reputable providers with boat trips equipped with lifebuoys, jackets, motorcycle and cycling tours with the helmets and. Safety is a priority! Choose Hau Giang responsible tours which help you give back while traveling. It’s a cliché, but it’s true.
Hau Giang food & drink guide ranges from street food, authentic, fancy to fusion foods. As a tropical land of many fresh vegetables and homegrown gardens, which always make Hau Giang cuisines fresh, close to nature and very traditional. If you are a food lover, don’t hesitate to put other bites onto your food lists such as Cau Duc pineapple, Hau Giang’s Bronze Featherback Fish Cake, Cai Tac’s Pork Organs Porridge…
Bring your hat, sunglasses, and sunblock, scarf to wear when visiting temples, pagodas, and the cathedral.
Bring the raincoat if you’re planning a trip to Hau Giang in the rainy season, as Hau Giang always looks fantastic in the full rain and full sun.
Hau Giang tourist attractions are magnificent itself, but if you have enough time, don’t forget to put other places onto your bucket lists such as Lung Ngoc Hoang Forest, Nature Reserve & Bird Sanctuary, Kittyd & Minnied Amusement Park, Truc Lam Zen Monastery Hau Giang, Vi Thanh Outdoor Farmers Market, Bo Tum Vong Say Khmer Pagoda, Like Coffee Shop in Hau Giang, Phung Hiep Bamboo and Rattan Craft Village, Tu Sang Bamboo Garden Hau Giang, Cau Duc Pineapple Fields, Tam Vu ecotourism area, Long My Stork Garden,Ba Bai Base, Chuong Thien Cultural & historic site, Vi Hung Church, Xa No Park – Xa No Canal…
Hopefully, the above tips will help you to come up with a great plan for your adventure in Hau Giang province, Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Have a safe trip!
“Sleep less, travel more, respect more” – Thomas Vietnam – Local travel expert.
Thank you
