Home Vietnam ToursHo Chi Minh Tour 5 Days: Con Dao Island - Mekong Delta - Tunnels

Ho Chi Minh Tour 5 Days: Con Dao Island – Mekong Delta – Tunnels

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Overview

Discover the highlights of southern Vietnam with our Ho Chi Minh tour 5 days. Start in bustling Ho Chi Minh City, explore the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, and enjoy a traditional water puppet show. Journey through the serene Mekong Delta with My Tho & Ben Tre tour, explore unique Cai Rang floating markets, then relax and snorkel in the pristine waters of the Con Dao Islands. The best experience tour 5 days from Ho Chi Minh itinerary blends cultural immersion, historical exploration, and natural beauty for an unforgettable adventure.

Trip highlights

Day 1: Explore Cu Chi Tunnels, Half-day City Tour and Water Puppet Show

Day 2: Visit Mekong Delta My Tho & Ben Tre tour includes Vinh Trang Pagoda, Mekong River boat trip and Ben Tre.

Day 3: Cantho tour includes Cai Rang Floating Market, Visit the fruit garden and Binh Thuy Ancient House.

Day 4: Con Dao Islands includes boat tour and snorkeling Tour

Day 5: Con Dao Museum and Con Dao Prison

Tour details

07h00am: Depart for Cu Chi Tunnels

Our driver & tour guide from Vietnam Trails Travels will pick you up and transfer you to Cu Chi Tunnels.

The Cu Chi Tunnels are situated about 44 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, and the journey typically takes around 1 hour and 17 minutes by car. To maximize your day, you will advisable to leave early to dodge the traffic. This way, you can fully experience the Cu Chi Tunnels and partake in an all-encompassing Cu Chi  Tunnels & Ho Chi Minh Full Tour.

08h30am: Arrive Cu Chi Tunnels and explore

These tunnels are an extensive network of underground passages that played a significant role during the Vietnam War. As you explore the tunnels, you will learn about their historical significance and the challenges faced by the soldiers who lived and fought here.

Ho Chi Minh City Tour Full Day includes a visit to the tunnel systems, underground kitchens, and weapon factories, providing a vivid insight into wartime conditions.

You even get the chance to crawl through some of the tunnels yourself, offering a firsthand experience of the harsh realities of life underground.

11h30am: Leave Cu Chi Tunnels to city center

At noon you will move faster to city center because it is not rush hour in the city. It takes 1hr to drive.

12h30pm: Lunch Break

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese meal at a restaurant.

Secret Garden Restaurant

  • Address: 158 Pasteur Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
  • Price Range: 150,000 - 300,000 VND

Noir. Dining in the Dark

  • Address: 178 Hai Ba Trung Street, Da Kao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
  • Price Range: 300,000 - 700,000 VND

The Refinery Bar and Restaurant

  • Address: 74/7C Hai Ba Trung Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
  • Price Range: 100,000 - 600,000 VND

13h30pm: Half day Ho Chi Minh City Tour

You will start your journey at the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, a beautiful building from the French colonial period. The cathedral, with its tall twin towers and colorful stained glass windows, is a sight to behold. Inside, you can admire the detailed architecture and feel the history that fills the space.

Next, you will visit the Saigon Central Post Office, another historic building designed by Gustave Eiffel. This post office, with its mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and French styles, is a lively place where you can send postcards to your loved ones. The busy atmosphere adds to the charm of this unique stop.

The tour then takes you to the Reunification Palace, an important site during the fall of Saigon. Here, you can explore the rooms, see the war command center, and view the famous tank that broke through the gates in 1975.

This palace gives you a closer look at Vietnam's history and the significant events that occurred here.

This tour allows you to see the beauty of Saigon's architecture and learn about its rich history, making it a memorable and educational experience.

17h00pm: Watch a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show

Water puppetry is an ancient art form that originated in the rice paddies of Northern Vietnam. The show features wooden puppets that dance on water, telling stories of rural life and Vietnamese folklore.

The performances are accompanied by traditional music and offer a unique glimpse into Vietnam's rich cultural heritage.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh

18h00pm: Come back to your hotel

The day's activities end, allowing you to return to your hotel to relax and prepare for the next day’s Mekong Delta tours.

08h00am: Departure to My Tho after having breakfast

On the second day, at 07h00am, you depart for My Tho, a charming city that serves as the gateway to the Mekong Delta. The distance from Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho is approximately 70 kilometers (about 43 miles) and takes around 1hr 30 minutes.

The highlight of My Tho is a boat trip on the Mekong River, where you can explore the river's islands.

10h00am: Visit Vinh Trang Pagoda

You will visit the Vinh Trang Pagoda, a beautiful Buddhist temple that showcases a blend of architectural styles. This serene location offers a peaceful respite and a glimpse into the spiritual life of the locals.

12h00pm: Lunch time

Take a break to enjoy a traditional Mekong Delta lunch at a local riverside restaurant. Here, you can savor traditional Vietnamese cuisine made with fresh local ingredients from the Mekong Delta region.

The meal will feature a variety of dishes that highlight the unique flavors and culinary traditions of this fertile area, giving you a taste of authentic Vietnamese cooking.

Some restaurants:

Ben Tre Floating Restaurant

  • Address: Hung Vuong, Ward 5, Ben Tre
  • Price Range: 50,000 VND - 500,000 VND

Mekong Taste Restaurant

  • Address: 52-53/18 Hamlet 3, Tan Thach Commune, Chau Thanh District, Ben Tre Province
  • Price Range: 100,000 VND - 500,000 VND

Mien Tay Riverside Restaurant

  • Address: 52-53/18 Hamlet 3, Tan Thach Commune, Chau Thanh District, Ben Tre Province
  • Price Range: 100,000 VND - 500,000 VND

13h30pm: Visit Ben Tre

In HCM tour 5 days includes a stop at a local coconut candy workshop in Ben Tre, where you can see the candy-making process and sample some delicious treats. You will also visit local fruit orchards, where you can taste fresh tropical fruits and enjoy traditional folk music performed by local artists.

At 16h00pm, after My Tho & Ben Tre Tour From Ho Chi Minh - Mekong Delta tour of exploring, you will depart for Cantho.

The drive offers scenic views of the lush landscapes and bustling river life of the delta. 

Overnight in Cantho

18h30pm: Arrive Cantho, you will check into your hotel and have the evening free to relax and explore the city at your own pace. End day 2 of Great Saigon tour in 5 days.

06h30am: Cai Rang Floating Market tour

Day 3 in Ho Chi Minh tour 5 days begins early at 06h30am with a visit to the Cai Rang Floating Market, one of the largest and most vibrant floating markets in the Mekong Delta. The market is bustling with activity as local vendors sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and other goods directly from their boats.

As you navigate through the market by boat, you'll witness the unique way of life on the water and have the opportunity to sample fresh produce and local delicacies.

09h00am: Visit the fruit garden

After the market visit, you will head to a nearby fruit garden to explore the diverse variety of tropical fruits grown in the region.

You can walk through the orchards, learn about the different types of fruits grown in the region, including mangoes, longans, durians, and jackfruits, and understand the techniques local farmers use to cultivate these crops.

10h30am: Visit Binh Thuy Ancient House

You will visit the Bình Thủy Ancient House, a beautifully preserved example of 19th-century architecture in Can Tho. This house is famous for its harmonious blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles.

It was built in 1870 by the Dương family and has been featured in various films, including the French movie "The Lover."

As you explore the house, you will marvel at the intricate woodwork, antique furniture, and historical artefacts that reflect the lifestyle and culture of the affluent families of the time.

The house is set in a picturesque garden, providing a peaceful and beautiful environment to learn about the history and heritage of the region.

12h00pm: Have lunch

You will head to a local restaurant for lunch at 12h00pm. The meal will feature traditional dishes of the Mekong Delta, allowing you to enjoy the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.

13h00pm, the day's activities conclude, giving you the afternoon free to explore Cantho at your leisure. Visit local markets, stroll along the riverside, or simply relax at your hotel.

Overnight in Cantho

The fourth day starts very early at 05h00am as you depart from Can Tho and head to Tran De Port in Soc Trang. The distance is 80km for 2hrs to transfer.

07h00am: Arrive Tran De port in Soc Trang

From here, you will take a speedboat to the Con Dao Islands, depart 8h00am, a group of islands known for their natural beauty and historical significance. The journey by speedboat is an adventure, offering stunning views of the ocean and surrounding islands.

Around 10h30am, you will embark on a canoe tour, one of the best ways to explore the scenic beauty of Con Dao. The tour takes you around islands like Dam Trau Bay + Hon Trung or Bay Canh Island,... allowing you to appreciate the stunning coastline, hidden coves, and diverse marine ecosystems.

Paddling through the crystal-clear waters, you can see abundant marine life, including colorful fish and corals.

13h00pm: Lunchtime

You will enjoy a lunch break at a beachside restaurant, where you can savor fresh seafood and other local dishes. The restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere with breathtaking ocean views, making it an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy your meal.

The menu typically includes various seafood options, such as grilled fish, shrimp, and squid, all freshly caught and prepared in traditional Vietnamese style.

14h00pm: Following lunch, you will set off on a Con Dao snorkeling tour. The waters around Con Dao are home to vibrant coral reefs and a diverse array of marine species, making it a prime location for snorkeling.

This underwater adventure allows you to explore the rich aquatic biodiversity, including colorful corals and various species of fish.

The clear visibility and warm waters provide perfect conditions for snorkeling, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

After snorkeling, you will have more time to relax and enjoy the beautiful beaches of Con Dao. Whether you choose to sunbathe, swim, or simply stroll along the shore, the beaches offer a tranquil escape and breathtaking scenery.

16h00pm: Visit to Con Dao National Park

You can explore the lush forests, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters that make this park a haven for nature lovers.

A highlight of the visit is the sea turtle sanctuary. This sanctuary protects and nurtures rare species of sea turtles, ensuring they have a safe and natural habitat.

You will have the unique opportunity to participate in the turtle release activity, an emotional and meaningful experience. Watching the tiny turtles make their way to the ocean, you will feel the magic of nature and a deep sense of environmental stewardship.

Overnight in Con Dao

18h00pm: You will return to your hotel and rest after an exciting day of exploration.

The final day of your itinerary is dedicated to exploring the natural and historical wonders of Con Dao. The day begins at 07h00am with breakfast at your hotel, allowing you to enjoy a relaxed morning in this beautiful island setting.

08h00am: you will start your day’s activities by visiting some of Con Dao’s historical sites. The Con Dao Museum is a must-visit, offering a comprehensive overview of the island's history.

The museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that detail Con Dao's past, from its time as a penal colony to its role in the Vietnam War. This visit provides valuable insights into the island’s complex history and its significance in Vietnam’s heritage.

You will head to the infamous Con Dao Prison, the "Tiger Cages." This prison complex, built by the French and later used by the Americans, housed thousands of political prisoners under harsh conditions.

A guided tour will take you through the various cells and prison blocks, offering a sobering glimpse into the brutal treatment of prisoners and the resilience of those who fought for independence.

11h30pm: You will have lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Con Dao one last time before departure. This meal offers a chance to enjoy the island's fresh seafood and other local specialties.

13h30pm: You will be boarded a speedboat at Ben Dam port to return to Tran De port, Soc Trang. The boat ride back offers another opportunity to enjoy the stunning coastal views.

15h15pm: Once you arrive at Tran De Port, you will transfer back to Ho Chi Minh, arriving at your hotel by 20h00pm. The distance from Tran De port to Ho Chi Minh city is 225km for 4hrs 25 minutes.

Note: Good itinerary tour 5 days Ho Chi Minh  program and pickup times may change according to your schedule.

This tour itinerary is not fixed. You may please confirm your schedule after the booking.

Tour cost

Code tourVNTS SGCCSGMKMTBTCTCD5D4N
JourneySaigon - Cu Chi Tunnels + Ho Chi Minh city tour + Water Puppet Show - My Tho - Ben Tre - Cantho - Con Dao Islands and Snorkeling Tour (2 days) - Saigon
Group Size1 - 23 - 55 - 77 - 10Other requires
Tour Cost (USD)/pax509$423$340$280$Contact

Notes: We may tailor- this private tour service to your specific needs. Chat with us now.

Tour included : Private vehicles + parking fees, entrance fees as program, lunch, English tour guide, mineral water.

Tour Excluded : Flight tickets, travel insurance, accommodation, person expense, tips and another service not clear mention above.

Photos & Video

Underground tunnels at Cu Chi

Best time to visit

If you are planning a Cu Chi Tunnels + City Tour + Water Puppet Show – My Tho – Ben Tre – Cantho – Con Dao Islands, you should visit during the dry season from December to April. During this period, the weather is stable, with less rainfall and more sunshine, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Climate and Weather

The climate in the regions you plan to visit is generally tropical with distinct wet and dry seasons.

  • Ho Chi Minh City and Cu Chi Tunnels: The weather is hot and humid year-round with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. The dry season runs from December to April, making it the best time to visit. The wet season from May to November brings heavy rainfall, which can disrupt travel plans.
  • Mekong Delta (My Tho, Ben Tre, Can Tho): Similar to Ho Chi Minh City, this region experiences a tropical climate with temperatures between 24°C and 30°C. The dry season (December to April) is ideal for exploring the lush landscapes and river systems. The wet season (May to November) can lead to flooding, making travel less enjoyable.
  • Con Dao Islands: This island group has a tropical maritime climate. The best time to visit is during the dry season from November to April, when the weather is sunny and the sea is calm, perfect for snorkeling and beach activities. The rainy season from May to October can bring rough seas and storms, challenging outdoor activities.

Seasons to Avoid

  • Ho Chi Minh City and Cu Chi Tunnels: Avoid visiting during the rainy season (May to November) due to heavy rains that can make outdoor activities difficult.
  • Mekong Delta: The rainy season (May to November) is not ideal due to potential flooding and heavy rainfall.
  • Con Dao Islands: Avoid the rainy season (May to October) as rough seas and storms can disrupt travel and water activities.

Local Cuisine and Specialties

Regarding culinary delights, each destination offers unique local specialties that are a must-try. In Ho Chi Minh City, indulge in Banh Mi, Pho, Bun Thit Nuong, Com Tam, and Goi Cuon, with specialties like Hu Tieu Nam Vang and Banh Xeo adding to the diverse flavors.

My Tho invites you to savor Hu Tieu My Tho and grilled snakehead fish, while Ben Tre tempts with Banh Xeo Hen and Ca Keo Kho To, along with its famous coconut candy and worms.

In Can Tho, relish Lau Mam and Nem Nuong Cai Rang, with Banh Tet La Cam and Cha Cua as local favorites. The Con Dao Islands has fresh seafood, including Goi Ca Nham and Moon Crab, with unique dishes like Oc Vu Nang and Tom Hum.

Transportation

For transportation, taxis are widely available in major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Cantho, offering convenient and direct travel options.

Buses provide an economical way to move between cities and within regions, while boats are essential for navigating the Mekong Delta and reaching islands.

Besides, airplanes are the fastest means to get to Con Dao Islands and Cantho if you want save time.

Travel Tips

  • Cu Chi Tunnels: Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes for walking and crawling through tunnels. Bring water and a hat to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
  • City Tour: Light, breathable clothing is recommended. Don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen.
  • Mekong Delta: Comfortable, easy-to-move-in clothing and insect repellent are essential. Because the area is prone to mosquitoes.
  • Con Dao Islands: Bring swimwear, snorkeling gear, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Be prepared for outdoor activities with appropriate clothing and gear.

Considering these tips and information, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip across these diverse and fascinating regions.

Read more: HCM tour 3 days

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FAQs

As travel agents, we frequently receive a variety of questions before the trip-planning process even begins. Everything from the best period to book to determining if travel insurance is worth it. We love being able to share our professional expertise and personal experience with our clients, offering them confidence that their holiday will be nothing less than exciting.

While it may seem too early to plan a holiday, it's always a good idea to research travel tour prices ahead of time and book as soon as a suitable offer has been identified. "When it comes to the winter holidays from October to February in the next year—the priciest time of the year—your best bet is to book the tour service before this period," according to my own experience. "Look to book between one to two months ahead for domestic travel and two to 6 months ahead for international travel."

Travel insurance might provide financial protection if you need to cancel an expensive, nonrefundable vacation for an accepted cause.

Travel insurance can also cover health care costs if you experience a medical emergency while overseas.My advice is to get travel insurance.

It is a good idea to check if you need a visa for Vietnam before applying for one, since this will save you both time and money, especially in times of crisis.

According to official announcements, residents of 25 countries will be able to travel to Vietnam and stay for 14 to 45 days (depending on nationality) without requiring a visa beginning in 2024.

To enter Vietnam, such citizens just require a valid passport with at least two black pages. The complete list of these countries can be found this link : https://www.vietnam-visa.com/vietnam-visa-exemption/

Traveling to Vietnam is an amazing experience! The people are generous, getting around is easy, and the food is great.

Plus, a holiday in Vietnam is really affordable! Surprised about the cost of a trip to Vietnam?

In this piece, I'll reveal our Vietnam holiday budget and provide a thorough breakdown of our Vietnam costs, which begin at $999 US per person.

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Advance payments are sometimes required by sellers; there is no extra payment on peak season or *last minutes of cancel service.

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