The dense system of crisscrossing rivers of the Mekong Delta has a major influence on the lives of locals there. One of the unique features that it created are floating markets. Among these, Cai Rang Floating Market is the most famous and a major hotspot that every tourist has to visit in the Mekong Delta.
Where is the Cai Rang Floating Market?
Cai Rang Floating Market is one of the best attractions in Can Tho
Situated in Cai Rang District, Can Tho City, Cai Rang Floating Market is perhaps the most famous floating market of the Mekong Delta region. The market sits on Can Tho River, near Cai Rang Bridge. It is about 6 km from the center of Can Tho City, and it takes 30 minutes to get there by boat from Ninh Kieu Wharf.
When Should You Visit Cai Rang Floating Market?
Early morning at Cai Rang Floating Market
While Cai Rang Floating Market opens all day, the best time to visit is in the early morning around 6 – 7 AM. During this time, the atmosphere is still fresh, and you also get the chance to witness the trading scene here at its liveliest. It is also a fantastic opportunity to watch the sunrise over Can Tho River.
How to Get to Cai Rang Floating Market?
To Get to Can Tho
By Bus
Traveling by bus is an excellent economical option to get to Can Tho. It takes about 3 – 4 hours from Ho Chi Minh City by bus, and the price ranges from VND 90,000 – VND 130,000/ticket. There are many brands of buses to choose from, and the tickets can be bought at local bus agencies or the Western Bus Terminal (Ben Xe Mien Tay).
An alternative is to use a booking website like 12Go Asia
By Motorbike
If you are an experienced traveler who is looking for an adventure, traveling to Can Tho by motorbike is a good option. However, it can be dangerous to those unfamiliar with the traffic, so always be careful.
By Airplane
Can Tho International Airport
Traveling by airplane is a good option if you are coming from other destinations beside Ho Chi Minh City. You can find many cheap domestic flights from airlines such as Vietjet Air, Jetstar, and Vietnam Airlines.
By Private Transfer
Undoubtedly this is the best option as it entails the most ease and comfort as well as time flexibility. A Mekong Delta Tour will not only provide you with private vehicles that can accommodate all your needs but also insurance that will guarantee a stress-free travel experience.
Look for quality hotels to stay in Can Tho:
Traveling around Cai Rang Floating Market
Navigating Cai Rang Floating Market by boat
To navigate Cai Rang Floating Market, you don’t have any other option than traveling by boats or sampans. A boat ticket for a two-hour ride cost around VND 60,000 – VND 80,000. For a large group, you can also rent a local fishing boat for VND 600,000 – VND 1,200,000.
Though remember that renting a boat can be a hassle, and you might have to wait for other guests. That’s why booking a private Mekong Delta Tour with local guides is usually considered as the most comfortable way to experience Cai Rang Floating Market.
Get a travel insurance plan from World Nomads:
What to Do at the Cai Rang Floating Market?
Shop for Local Products
Cai Rang Floating market is the number one place for local products of Can Tho
Cai Rang Floating Market specializes in the trading of agricultural products, tropical fruits, personal goods as well as food and drink. At the market, you can surely find unusual fresh tropical fruits such as rambutans, longans, or even local specialties, namely coconut candy, fish sauce, or rice paper at very reasonable prices.
Identify what products each boat sells by looking at what is hanging on the bamboo pole
With its busy atmosphere and unconventional location, you may find that the way locals operate their business at Cai Rang Floating Market is surprisingly calm and smooth.
Each boat has a bamboo pole where they hang their products on to notify customers and other merchants. Shopping at Cai Rang Floating Market is truly a unique experience that every tourist should expect from a Mekong Delta Tour.
Try Delicious Food
Eating at Cai Rang Floating Market is truly an experience that visitors should not miss out on, as the dishes are prepared and eaten right on the boats. You can find all sorts of local dishes here from noodles to desserts and drinks that will surely satisfy your hunger.
Bun Rieu is one of the most popular dishes to try at Cai Rang Floating Market
Among the many delicious local dishes, Bun Rieu is an incredible stable that you should try at the Mekong Delta. With just VND 25,000 (USD 1), you can enjoy a hearty dish made from fresh local ingredients. Top it up with a cup of coffee, and you’ll have a filling and tasty breakfast for just under USD 2.
You can have a delicious cup of coffee for just VND 10,000
Immerse in The Bustling Atmosphere of The Trading Scene
The bustling trading scene of Cai Rang Floating Market
Even just going around Cai Rang Floating Market, passing from boat to boat, is a unique experience in itself. In the past, floating markets were formed due to the lack of infrastructure and underdeveloped roads and vehicles. With the rising demand for trading goods, locals gathered on the river and started their business on boats and sampans.
Until today when traffic has dramatically improved, Cai Rang Floating Market is still as busiest as ever. It has grown to become a popular tourist hotspot in Can Tho as well as a unique cultural symbol of the Mekong Delta Region.
Book a Mekong Delta tour for the best traveling experience
Summary of the Cai Rang Floating Market in The Mekong Delta – A Travel Guide
Cai Rang Floating Market is undoubtedly a must-visit destination for all tourists in the Mekong Delta region. We hope that our travel guide will help you plan your next trip and enjoy this one-of-a-kind marketplace.
Looking to explore the Mekong Delta? Book a private Mekong Delta Tour with us today for the best authentic experience with our local professional guides.