Mekong Delta Vietnam
The Cai Rang Market in the Mekong Delta
The Mekong Delta got its nickname because it is one of the most fertile areas in the world. Nutrients flow into the soil from the mighty Mekong River, which starts in Tibet and flows all the way through Southeast Asia into southern Vietnam before ending up in the ocean.
The delta is also known as Cuu Long or Nine Dragons referring to the nine tributaries of the Mekong River. It´s along the Mekong River that all the farms and fishing communities are located. Environmental conditions allows for many different fruits, vegetables and rice to grow. Every morning, before sunrise, fishermen and farmers take their boats to the floating markets to trade their daily catch, fresh vegetables and tropical fruit. If you visit this area of Vietnam it´s a must to visit one of the floating markets in the Mekong Delta.
Mekong Delta, Cai Rang Market. Photo: Merete Moen
Cai Rang famous floating market Mekong
I went to the biggest floating market in the Mekong Delta, the Chi Rang, just 6 km from Can Tho. This market is a wholesale market. If you interested in shopping something then look at what is tied to the long pole above the boat to figure out what they are selling to smaller traders.
The floating markets starts at 4 or 5 in the morning and ends when the sun rises high at 9 or 10. The market is best around 6 to 7, and it´s well worth getting here early to beat the tourists and the heat. Fruits such as pineapple, dragon fruit, water melon and vegetables as yam and cabbage are sold at the market but also garden tools, crafts and food.
Watermelons on Cai Rang´s famous floating market in the Mekong Delta. Photo: Merete Moen
The locals are extremely friendly in Vietnam. Photo: Merete Moen
The Cai Rang Market, in Can Tho is entertaining to visit. Photo: Merete Moen
Discover Mekong – Stay for the Night
The Mekong Delta is a place to truly immerse yourself. A day trip from the south of Vietnam will give you a quick glimpse of this iconic region. On the other hand, spending at least one night along the banks of the Mekong River is, without a doubt, a much better choice. If time allows on your trip, and if you’re seeking a deeper connection to the region, I wholeheartedly recommend doing as I did. Staying overnight by the Mekong Delta. By spending the night, you can genuinely experience the essence of Vietnam’s “rice bowl.”
You’ll find that you are able to witness the daily rhythms of life on the water. You will experience the way of living. A day trip will not be the same. For instance, you can wake up to the soft hum of boats gliding across the river. The locals begin their day at the vibrant floating markets early. The delta feels alive and dynamic, and it is a place where waterways function not only as roads but also as lifelines, seamlessly connecting land and river.
As Lonely Planet so aptly puts it, “the delta is the water world that moves to the rhythms of the mighty Mekong, where boats, houses, and markets float upon innumerable rivers, canals, and streams that criss-cross the landscape like arteries.” Therefore, it is clear that this unique destination deserves not just a fleeting visit but rather an extended stay, so that you can fully appreciate its beauty and authenticity.
Enjoying my day at the Cai Rang floating market and life by the riverside in the Mekong Delta. Photo: Merete Moen
Floating Markets is a way of life
Cai Rang Floating Market is a cultural gem of Can Tho. The market was originally established to meet the local community´s trading needs. Today the market is considered as the best floating market in the Mekong Delta. It is charming, fun and full of life. A great experience. I suggest to use the Travel Guide that I used to plan my trip from Lonely Planet. Click here to visit Mekong Lonely Planet.
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