The floating markets of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta are a living expression of daily life where locals come to shop as they travel from boat to boat. Although they have become mainly tourist markets, they remain a testament to local culture.
What is the history of the Mekong Delta’s floating markets? What are the main floating markets and how best to discover them?
A little history: The origins of floating markets
The floating markets of the Mekong Delta date back several centuries. They were born of the unique geography of the region, where rivers and canals are the main communication routes. Inhabitants used boats to trade agricultural produce, mainly tropical fruit, rice, fish and spices.
More than just a place for bartering, these markets have long been a place for exchanges and meetings, helping to strengthen ties between local communities. During French colonisation, these gatherings were banned. So the locals got into the habit of gathering very early in the morning before dispersing at dawn.
Nowadays, the floating markets are mainly touristy and have lost their authenticity. However, the development of tourism is helping to preserve them, because with the development of roads, these markets have lost their appeal.
What is the Mekong Delta?
Located in southern Vietnam, the Mekong Delta is the area where the Mekong River splits into several branches, forming a very dense hydrographic network.
This part of the country is particularly verdant. It concentrates a quarter of Vietnam’s cultivated land. It is the country’s rice granary, with half of the country’s total production coming from the Mekong Delta! The region also produces a wide range of fruit (bananas, mangoes, coconuts, pineapples, etc.) and there is a huge amount of fishing.
In video: the floating markets of the Mekong Delta
Get a glimpse of floating markets with this video, made at the Cài Răng floating market near the town of Cân Thơ :
The Mekong Delta’s main floating markets
1. Cài Răng
Located near the town of Cân Thơ, the Cài Răng floating market is one of the most famous and accessible. It focuses on wholesale fruit and vegetables. The boats often display a pole with the available produce hanging from the top, a veritable ” floating menu “.
- Schedules: 6.30am to 9.30am (arrive early to enjoy the morning atmosphere).
- Access: 6 km from Cân Thơ, about 30 minutes by boat.
- Price: Private boat trips start at VND200,000 (~€8) per person but are offered on average between €15 and €40. Prices vary according to the size of the boat, the number of passengers and whether you take the services of a guide.
2. Phụng Hiệp
Phụng Hiệp, in Hậu Giang, is a less-frequented but equally fascinating floating market. Here, local produce coexists with… animals! You can buy lizards, tortoises, snakes…
- Hours: 4am to 8am.
- Access: Approximately 1h30 drive from Cân Thơ.
3. Cài Bè
Cài Bè floating market in Tiền Giang is ideal for those seeking a more peaceful experience. Abandoned in favour of the city market, this floating market is no longer very busy, so it’s advisable to get there early, as early as 6am because by 8am it will all be over.
- Hours: 6am to 8am
- Access: about 2 hours’ drive from Ho Chi Minh City.
Practical tips for visiting the floating markets
- Plan an early morning excursion: The markets are at their best at sunrise. Not only is the atmosphere magical, but the vendors start putting away their wares mid-morning.
- Negotiate the price of excursions: Prices for boat trips can vary. Don’t hesitate to compare offers before booking.
- Bring change: Most transactions are cash-based.
- Be respectful.
Why visit the floating markets?
Floating markets don’t just delight the eyes and taste buds. They tell the story of a region that has adapted to its unique ecosystem. By visiting these markets, you are also supporting the local economy and helping to preserve this tradition, as long as you are respectful.
The floating markets of the Mekong Delta are a must-see on any trip to Vietnam.
All photographs illustrating this article are the property of Antoine Vitek / Culturez-vous and may not be reused without written permission.
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