Vĩnh Long / Việt Nam
Vĩnh Long
Explore the Tranquil Waterways of Vĩnh Long
Nestled in the heart of the Mekong Delta, Vĩnh Long Province is renowned for its lush orchards, intricate network of rivers and canals, and welcoming rural communities. The province is strategically located between the Tien and Hau rivers, making it a key destination for those seeking authentic delta life and vibrant floating markets. Vĩnh Long’s landscape is defined by verdant fruit gardens, coconut palms, and tranquil islands, where visitors can immerse themselves in the rhythms of local life. Culturally, Vĩnh Long offers a blend of Kinh (Vietnamese), Khmer, and Hoa (Chinese) influences, reflected in its temples, festivals, and cuisine. The province is less commercialized than neighboring Can Tho, offering travelers a more intimate look at life on the water, from homestays on An Binh Island to bicycle rides through sleepy villages. With its slow pace, Vĩnh Long is ideal for those seeking relaxation, cultural immersion, and a taste of the Mekong’s natural bounty.
Safety
Vĩnh Long is generally considered safe for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals. Exercise standard precautions such as safeguarding valuables, especially in crowded market areas. Be cautious when traveling by boat, and always use life jackets.
Visas
Vĩnh Long follows Vietnam’s national entry requirements. Most travelers need a visa to enter Vietnam, which can be obtained online or on arrival for many nationalities.
Customs regulations
Dress modestly when visiting temples or rural homes, and always remove your shoes before entering someone’s house. Greet locals with a smile and a slight bow, and avoid public displays of affection.
Prices
Vĩnh Long is very budget-friendly, with meals at local markets costing just a few dollars and homestay accommodations starting from $10-20 USD per night. Private boat tours and entrance fees to attractions are affordable compared to more touristy destinations.
People and nationalities
Vĩnh Long’s population is predominantly ethnic Kinh, with significant Khmer and Hoa minorities. Locals are known for their hospitality and strong family traditions, and many residents make their living from agriculture and aquaculture. Visitors will notice communal lifestyles and a deep connection to the river.
Weather
The province has a tropical monsoon climate, with a rainy season from May to November and a dry season from December to April. Temperatures are warm year-round, typically ranging from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 89°F). The best time to visit is during the dry season for comfortable travel and plentiful fruit harvests.
Health
Healthcare facilities are basic; larger hospitals are found in Vĩnh Long City. Pharmacies are available in the main towns, but bring any essential medications with you.
Food
Bánh Xèo Vĩnh Long
This crispy rice flour pancake is filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, then folded and served with fresh herbs and a tangy dipping sauce. Local versions often use coconut milk and turmeric for extra flavor.
Cá Tai Tượng Chiên Xù
Deep-fried elephant ear fish, served whole and upright, is a Mekong Delta specialty. The flaky fish is eaten with rice paper, herbs, and sweet-and-sour fish sauce.
Lẩu Cá Linh Bông Điên Điển
A hotpot featuring cá linh (mud carp) and bright yellow điên điển flowers, cooked in a sour broth with vegetables and served with rice noodles—a seasonal treat during the flood season.
Bưởi Năm Roi
Năm Roi pomelo is a signature fruit of Vĩnh Long, prized for its sweet, juicy segments. Often eaten fresh or used in savory salads with shrimp or pork.
Chuối Nếp Nướng
Sticky rice-wrapped bananas grilled over charcoal and often topped with coconut cream, offering a sweet and smoky dessert popular at local markets.
Transport
Intercity Bus
Frequent bus services connect Vĩnh Long to Ho Chi Minh City, Can Tho, and other Mekong Delta provinces, with the main terminal in Vĩnh Long City.
Ferry and Boat Services
Ferries and local boats are essential for reaching islands like An Binh and for traveling between rural hamlets along the rivers and canals.
Bicycle Rental
Bicycles are a popular way to explore the flat countryside, available for rent at many homestays and guesthouses.
Motorbike Taxi (Xe ôm)
Motorbike taxis offer a flexible and inexpensive way to get around towns and rural areas, easily hailed on the street or arranged through your accommodation.
Regions
An Giang
Province
Bà Rịa - Vũng Tàu
Province
Bắc Giang
Province
Bắc Kạn
Province
Bạc Liêu
Province
Bắc Ninh
Province
Bến Tre
Province
Bình Định
Province
Bình Dương
Province
Bình Phước
Province
Bình Thuận
Province
Cà Mau
Province
Cần Thơ
Municipality
Cao Bằng
Province
Đà Nẵng
Municipality
Đắk Lắk
Province
Đắk Nông
Province
Điện Biên
Province
Ðồng Nai
Province
Ðồng Tháp
Province
Gia Lai
Province
Hà Giang
Province
Hà Nam
Province
Hà Nội
Municipality
Hà Tĩnh
Province
Hải Dương
Province
Hải Phòng
Municipality
Hậu Giang
Province
Hồ Chí Minh
Municipality
Hòa Bình
Province
Hưng Yên
Province
Khánh Hòa
Province
Kiến Giang
Province
Kon Tum
Province
Lai Châu
Province
Lâm Ðồng
Province
Lạng Sơn
Province
Lào Cai
Province
Long An
Province
Nam Ðịnh
Province
Namyit Island
Nghệ An
Province
Ninh Bình
Province
Ninh Thuận
Province
Phú Thọ
Province
Phú Yên
Province
Quảng Bình
Province
Quảng Nam
Province
Quảng Ngãi
Province
Quảng Ninh
Province
Quảng Trị
Province
Sóc Trăng
Province
Sơn La
Province
Tây Ninh
Province
Thái Bình
Province
Thái Nguyên
Province
Thanh Hóa
Province
Thừa Thiên-Huế
Province
Tiền Giang
Province
Trà Vinh
Province
Tuyên Quang
Province
Vĩnh Long
Province
Vĩnh Phúc
Province
Yên Bái
Province
What to visit?
History
Vĩnh Long was established as a province in the 18th century during the Nguyễn Lords’ expansion into the Mekong Delta.
French colonial forces captured Vĩnh Long, making it part of French Cochinchina and initiating a period of colonial administration.
The August Revolution saw local uprisings against French colonial rule, with Vĩnh Long contributing to national independence efforts.
After the Geneva Accords, Vĩnh Long became part of South Vietnam and was affected by land reforms and population shifts.
During the Tet Offensive, Vĩnh Long was a site of significant conflict between Viet Cong and South Vietnamese forces.
Vĩnh Long was reunified with the rest of Vietnam after the end of the Vietnam War.
The province continues to develop its agricultural economy and eco-tourism, focusing on sustainable development and cultural preservation.
Activities
Visit Cai Be Floating Market
Experience the bustling trade of fruits, vegetables, and local specialties from boats on the Mekong’s waterways, especially lively in the early morning.
Explore An Binh Island
Cycle or stroll through fruit orchards and rural villages, visit traditional brick kilns, and stay overnight in a riverside homestay.
Vinh Trang Pagoda Excursion
Tour this historic Buddhist temple known for its blend of Vietnamese, Khmer, Chinese, and European architectural styles.
Boat Tours on the Mekong
Take a sampan or motorboat ride through narrow canals and visit local craft villages for a close-up view of daily life.
Fruit Orchard Tours
Sample tropical fruits straight from the tree and learn about the region’s agricultural traditions in family-run orchards.