Ben Tre Vietnam: Essential information for your trip

Contents

Ben Tre is nestled within the captivating landscapes of the Mekong Delta (Source: Collected)

Explore the charm of Ben Tre in your Vietnam travel, which is nestled within the captivating landscapes of the Mekong Delta. With its verdant orchards and serene waterways, Ben Tre offers an authentic glimpse into rural Vietnamese life.

1. About Ben Tre Vietnam: Location and weather

Ben Tre is a province of South Vietnam, located in the Mekong Delta region. It borders Tien Giang, Vinh Long, Tra Vinh, and Bien Dong. Situated 85 kilometers west of Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Tre is influenced by a tropical monsoon climate year-round, which is characterized by hot and humid conditions. Ben Tre weather experiences relatively high temperatures with an average of 27°C. The average air humidity ranges from 83 to 90%. 

Typical of South Vietnam, the climate of Ben Tre is divided into two distinct seasons: the rainy season from May to November and the dry season from December to April. The average annual rainfall ranges from 1,210 to 1,500 millimeters, with uneven distribution among the months.

Where is Ben Tre? – It is 85 kilometers away from Ho Chi Minh City (Source: Collected)

>>> More on: Weather in Mekong Delta, Vietnam: The comprehensive guide

2. Places to visit and things to do in Ben Tre

Is Ben Tre worth visiting? It is a magnet for tourists in the Mekong Delta region, offering numerous potentials for tourism, ranging from ecotourism to spiritual tourism.

2.1. Turtle Islet (Con Quy)

Visiting Ben Tre, tourists should take an ecotourism trip to floating islets amidst the rivers. Among these islets, Con Quy stands out, showcasing beautiful natural scenery and many exciting experiences. The allure of Con Quy lies in its pristine beauty, representing the untouched charm of the Southern region, with lush coconut trees and abundant fruit orchards. Here, tourists can immerse themselves in nature, converse with friendly locals, and savor tropical fruits like rambutan, coconut, and mango.

2.2. Phoenix Islet (Con Phung)

Con Phung serves as another beautiful islet in Ben Tre, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the essence of Vietnam nature. Visitors to Con Phung can experience a wide range of fascinating activities, such as strolling along coconut-shaded village paths, rowing boats on the river amidst verdant fruit trees, learning to make coconut candies, and hand-picking fruits. Moreover, visitors can admire hundreds of exquisite handicrafts made from coconut, which can also be purchased as souvenirs.

Enjoy a Ben Tre boat tour amidst nature to find inner peace (Source: Collected)

2.3. Vam Ho Bird Sanctuary

Vam Ho Bird Sanctuary is another must-see attraction for nature lovers, offering the opportunity to observe various bird species, including storks. Visitors can embark on boat trips along the Mekong River to witness these flocks or venture into the jungle for wildlife sightings. Other experiences at Vam Ho include trying on “ao ba ba,” the traditional attire of Southern Vietnamese farmers, learning to cook and indulging in delicious local dishes, as well as participating in folk games.

2.4. Nguyen Dinh Chieu Mausoleum

For those interested in cultural exploration, a visit to Nguyen Dinh Chieu Mausoleum offers insight into the life and legacy of the patriotic poet Nguyen Dinh Chieu. The mausoleum comprises graves, shrines, and exhibitions showcasing Nguyen Dinh Chieu’s notable works such as “Luc Van Tien” and “Van te nghia si Can Giuoc.” Visitors will gain a deeper understanding of a patriotic poet who used his literary talents to resist French colonialism, along with his resilience and profound compassion.

A visit to Nguyen Dinh Chieu Mausoleum is a must for culture lovers (Source: Collected)

2.5. Cai Mon Fruit Orchard

Blessed with a gentle climate and fertile soil, Ben Tre Vietnam is endowed with lush fruit orchards that have attracted many visitors to explore. Among these, Cai Mon Fruit Orchard in Cho Lach stands out as a must-visit. Some of the most interesting experiences for visitors to Cai Mon Fruit Orchard are strolling or cycling to enjoy the cool green space of the orchard and savoring freshly picked fruits. These experiences ensure an unforgettable immersion in nature, which is a prominent highlight of Ben Tre.

2.6. Thua Duc Beach

Beyond beautiful fruit orchards and islets, Ben Tre also captivates tourists with Thua Duc Beach, which boasts the pristine beauty of fine white sand against a backdrop of swaying green trees. This beach offers a refreshingly ideal setting for leisure and relaxation. Walking along the sandy beach, listening to the sound of the waves, bathing in the sea, or indulging in the richness of seafood such as clams, mussels, snails, and crabs, are experiences not to be missed for all visitors here.

What to do in Ben Tre? – Relax on the white sand of Thua Duc Beach and enjoy seafood (Source: Collected)

2.7. La Ma Church

La Ma Church in Ben Tre, with a history of over half a century, is one of Vietnam’s three pilgrimage centers, attracting considerable attention from believers and tourists alike. Visitors here can not only admire impressive architecture but also hear sacred stories about Our Lady of Perpetual Help – who has blessed and granted favors to many people. Moreover, visitors also have a chance to admire the revered image of Our Lady, a symbol of sanctity and reverence within the church.

2.8. Phu Le Craft Village

Phu Le, a centuries-old craft village in Ben Tre, entices visitors with unique cultural experiences. Here, visitors can learn about the “sac bua” singing tradition originating from the 18th century, where people sing while working. Additionally, visitors can discover the intricate craft of weaving bamboo as well as the traditional rice wine-making craft. During the time of festivals, visitors can enjoy “hat boi” performances at the village temple, experiencing the tranquility of rural life.

Learn about the interesting folk culture of Ben Tre at Phu Le village (Source: Collected)

2.9. Phuoc Tuy Craft Village

Phuoc Tuy Craft Village, specializing in bamboo weaving, is one of the unique craft villages in Ben Tre Vietnam that visitors should not miss out on. Coming to this craft village, visitors will be truly captivated by the skilled hands of artisans swiftly weaving bamboo fibers into exquisite handmade products, combining high aesthetics with a rustic charm. Visitors can also listen to the genuine stories of the local people, learn to make woven bamboo products, and purchase souvenirs.

2.10. Van Phuoc Pagoda

Van Phuoc Pagoda is the largest pagoda in Ben Tre, attracting visitors with its majestic architecture blended with tranquility. Within its vast space, points of interest for visitors to immerse themselves in Buddhist teachings include a triple-arched gate, a lotus pond, a statue of Maitreya, a garden filled with fragrant flowers, a memorial house of President Ho Chi Minh, Dai Hung Bao Dien – the main building for Buddhist worship, and Lien Hoa That Bao – a tower with impressive architecture.

It is recommended to include Van Phuoc Pagoda in your Ben Tre day tour (Source: Collected)

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3. The best food to enjoy during your Ben Tre tour

Visiting this province, you should visit some local Ben Tre restaurants and indulge in the diverse specialties they offer, such as:

• Coconut-based specialties: Delicious dishes such as coconut rice, coconut porridge, roasted coconut shrimp, coconut milk candy, Giong Luong coconut cake, etc.
• Sour fish soup: A famous speciality made from local fish and vegetables, combined with a sweet and sour broth.
• Vietnamese thick noodle soup: Made from rice flour, cooked in a rich broth with duck meat, and enjoyed with ginger fish sauce.
• Fruits: A wide variety of fruits such as durian, rambutan, lychee, and mangosteen offered at reasonable prices.
• Pomelo sweet soup: Made from pomelo skin, green beans, coconut milk, and durian for a creamy taste.
• Grilled snakehead fish: Found in various Ben Tre restaurants, featuring the sweet aroma of grilled snakehead fish, chili garlic sauce, vermicelli, and fresh greens.
• Vietnamese pancake with snail: A crispy crust from rice flour mixed with coconut milk, sautéed vegetables, and snails.
• Giant river prawn: A beloved specialty known for its sweetness and firmness, which can be prepared by grilling, steaming, or boiling.

The delicious Ben Tre food (Source: Collected)

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4. Guide for a perfect trip to Ben Tre Vietnam

To have a wonderful journey to Ben Tre, don’t forget to research transportation options, Ben Tre restaurants to eat, Ben Tre hotels to stay, the best times to visit, and more.

4.1. When is the best time to visit Ben Tre?

Ben Tre belongs to the Southern region of Vietnam, with warm sunshine throughout the year. Visitors can come at any time, but the ideal time is during the summer months of June, July, and August. This is when you can admire the colorful natural scenery and enjoy freshly picked fruits like mangosteen, durian, and rambutan.

4.2. How to get to Ben Tre from Ho Chi Minh City?

From Ho Chi Minh City, you can easily travel to Ben Tre by various means:

• Coach: There are many interprovincial coaches that go from Mien Tay Bus Station to Ben Tre Bus Station. Ticket prices range from 85,000 to 140,000 VND. The travel time is 1.5 – 2 hours.
• Rented car or motorbike: This option offers freedom and flexibility in your journey. You should depart early in the morning to avoid traffic congestion. Follow National Road 1A to My Tho City, cross Rach Mieu Bridge, then turn right to Ben Tre. If you drive by yourself, you will need a Ben Tre map to easily navigate among the top Ben Tre attractions.
• Tour: You can also take tours offered by travel companies in Ho Chi Minh City for a convenient trip.

4.3. What to bring home after your trip?

Coconut candy is among the most popular food souvenirs in Ben Tre (Source: Collected)

If you are looking for Vietnamese food souvenirs to bring back for friends and family after your trip to Ben Tre, here are some suggestions:

• Candied young coconut: Made from sugar and young coconut, featuring a sweet, fragrant, chewy, and rich taste.
• Ben Tre coconut candy: A famous specialty with many varieties such as coconut peanut candy, coconut taro candy, coconut cocoa candy, etc.
• Son Doc rice cracker: Featuring a fragrant, crispy, and crunchy taste, especially enjoyable when paired with tea.
• Rice cakes wrapped in coconut leaves: A simple specialty with glutinous rice, creamy coconut milk, chewy white beans, and sweet bananas.

Additionally, tourists can purchase many other unique specialties such as coconut wine, My Long rice paper, banana cakes, sesame candies, etc.

Ben Tre stands as a testament to Vietnam’s natural splendor and cultural richness. Amidst the verdant landscapes of the Mekong Delta, this province offers a tapestry of experiences, from leisurely boat rides along winding waterways to immersive encounters with local traditions in craft villages. Every moment spent here unveils a new facet of its charm, leaving an indelible mark on your travel memories.

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