March is one of the best times to visit the Mekong Delta. The weather is pleasant, the landscapes are lush, and many outdoor activities are at their peak. This travel blog provides essential information on what to expect, the best things to do, and how to make the most of your trip to the Mekong Delta in March. Whether you’re looking for cultural experiences, food adventures, or scenic boat rides, this guide will help you plan the perfect visit.
Mekong Delta weather in March
March is one of the best months to visit the Mekong Delta due to its pleasant weather and comfortable travel conditions. Mekong Delta in March is an excellent destination for travelers looking to explore Vietnam’s southern countryside. Travelers can enjoy outdoor activities, boat trips, and fresh local fruits without worrying about heavy rains or extreme heat.
Temperature
March brings warm but manageable temperatures to the Mekong Delta. The average daily temperature ranges from 24°C to 34°C (75°F to 93°F). Mornings and evenings feel cooler, making them perfect for sightseeing or exploring floating markets. Afternoons can be hot, so light clothing and sunscreen are recommended.
Rainfall and Humidity
March is part of the dry season, meaning rain is rare. The average rainfall is around 10-20 mm, with only 2 to 4 rainy days in the entire month. Humidity levels are moderate, typically ranging from 65% to 75%. This is lower than in the wet season, making the air feel less heavy and more comfortable for travel.
Daylight hours and Sunshine
The Mekong Delta in March enjoys plenty of daylight, with an average of 12 hours of daylight per day. The sun rises around 6:00 AM and sets close to 6:00 PM. The region receives around 8 to 9 hours of sunshine daily, providing excellent conditions for exploring rivers, orchards, and rural villages.
Wind and Air Quality
The wind in March is generally light to moderate, with an average speed of 10-15 km/h (6-9 mph). The gentle breeze helps keep the air fresh, especially in open areas along the rivers. Air quality is usually good, as March falls outside the smoky burning season, which sometimes affects rural areas later in the year.
Other travel considerations
- Mosquitoes are not a big problem in March due to lower humidity and minimal rain, but insect repellent is still recommended, especially for evening activities.
- Water levels in the Mekong River are stable, making boat tours smooth and safe.
- Fruit season begins to pick up, with delicious tropical fruits like mangoes, coconuts, and pomelos widely available.
>>> Read more about Mekong Delta weather: Weather in Mekong Delta Vietnam: When is the best time to visit?
Cost and Crowd
Cost
March is the peak travel season in the Mekong Delta due to its ideal weather. Prices for accommodations, tours, and transportation tend to be higher compared to the low season. Travelers should expect to pay more for cruises, guided tours, and hotel stays.
Budget-friendly options are still available, but they may require early booking. Despite the higher prices, the experience is well worth it, as March offers some of the best conditions for exploring the region.
Crowd
Since March is a popular time to visit, the Mekong Delta sees an increase in tourists. Major attractions, such as floating markets and boat tours, tend to be busier, especially on weekends.
To avoid crowds, travelers should consider starting activities early in the morning or exploring lesser-known destinations. Despite the number of visitors, the region remains welcoming and offers plenty of peaceful spots away from the main tourist routes.
Best things to do in March in Mekong Delta
Take a Mekong cruise
A cruise along the Mekong River is one of the best ways to see the region. Travelers can choose from short-day trips or multi-day cruises. Cruising allows visitors to explore the natural beauty, visit riverside villages, and enjoy traditional performances. Some cruises also offer cooking classes and farm visits.
>>> If you want more cruise ideas, read this blog: Best Mekong River cruises for 2024-2025
Visit floating markets
Floating markets are an essential part of life in the Mekong Delta. These lively markets take place on rivers, where locals sell fresh produce, breakfast dishes, and handmade goods from their boats. Visiting early in the morning provides the best experience.
- Cai Rang Floating Market (Can Tho) – The largest and most famous floating market in the region.
- Phong Dien Floating Market (Can Tho) – Smaller and less crowded, offering a more local experience.
- Long Xuyen Floating Market (An Giang) – Less touristy, ideal for those wanting an authentic atmosphere.
Take a bike tour to discover local life
Cycling through the Mekong Delta is a great way to see the countryside up close. Quiet village roads take travelers past rice fields, coconut groves, and stilt houses. Many tours stop at local workshops, where visitors can learn about rice paper making, coconut candy production, and traditional fishing techniques.
Try local dishes
The Mekong Delta is famous for its fresh and flavorful cuisine. March is a great time to try seasonal specialties.
- Hu Tieu – A savory noodle soup with pork, shrimp, and a flavorful broth.
- Banh Xeo – A crispy Vietnamese pancake filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts.
- Ca Kho To – Braised fish cooked in a rich caramelized sauce.
- Bun Mam – A fermented fish noodle soup with fresh herbs and seafood.
- Che Troi Nuoc – Sweet sticky rice dumplings in ginger syrup.
Visit sacred sites in Mekong
Many temples and pagodas in the Mekong Delta offer insight into the spiritual traditions of the region. Notable sites include Vinh Trang Pagoda (My Tho) and Ba Chua Xu Temple (Chau Doc), both featuring stunning architecture and rich cultural significance.
Visit fruit orchards
March is the start of the fruit season in the Mekong Delta. Many orchards allow visitors to pick and taste fresh fruits such as mangoes, durians, and pomelos. Some popular orchards are located in Ben Tre, Vinh Long, and Tien Giang.
How to choose the best Mekong Cruise in March?
Cruise based on price
- Luxury Cruise – Offers high-end amenities, gourmet dining, and spacious cabins. Ideal for travelers looking for comfort and premium service.
- Deluxe Cruise – A balance between comfort and affordability, featuring well-appointed rooms and good dining options.
- Private & Charter Boat – Ideal for those who want a customized experience. These boats offer flexible schedules and exclusive service.
Cruise based on duration
- Day cruise – Perfect for those with limited time, covering key attractions in a few hours.
- Overnight cruise – A great option for travelers who want a more relaxed experience, including sunset views and cultural performances.
- Multi-day cruise – Recommended for those who want to explore deeper into the delta, including visits to remote villages.
Here are our best Mekong cruises for your perfect trip in March:
| Cruise | Type | Duration | Route | Features | Price from |
| Heritage Line Anouvong | Luxury Cruise | 4 days 3 nights, 8 days 7 nights, 10 days 9 nights | Houay Xay – Luang Prabang | eight spacious staterooms and two luxurious suites, All cabins feature floor-to-ceiling windows and open onto elegant French balconies, tucked-away spa, and the cozy and light-flooded Café-Bar & Lounge | $1,421 |
| Heritage Line Jahan | Luxury Cruise | 4 days 3 nights, 5 days 4 nights, 8 days 7 nights | Saigon – My Tho – Cai Be – Tan Chau – Border Crossing – Phnom Penh – Tonle Lake – Siem Reap | interior or exterior decorations, luxurious cabins, East India Club, Jacuzzi on the Pool Deck, Observatory Lounge, Apsara Spa, three decks | $1,243 |
| Mekong Eyes Explorer & Classic Cruise | Deluxe Cruise | 2 days 1 night, 3 days 2 nights, 4 days 3 nights | Saigon – Cai Be – Can Tho – Phu Quoc – Phnom Penh | boutique cruisers, 12 superior cabins that are all designed as outside cabins, with modern boutique style with traditional materials, 4 suites | $185 |
| Bassac Mekong River Cruise | Deluxe Cruise | 2 days 1 night, 3 days 2 nights | Cai Be – Sa Dec – Can Tho | a large covered upper deck, a lounge, and wide gangways | $208 |
| Song Xanh Sampan Cruises | Private and Charter Boats | 2 days 1 night, 3 days 2 nights | Cai Be – Sa Dec – Can Tho – Phu Quoc | two spacious spaces of 15 sqm each are equipped with beautiful bamboo and rattan furniture, attentive service is provided by a team of 4 crew members. | $277 |
| Mekong Gecko Eyes Cruise | Private and Charter Boats | 2 days 1 night, 3 days 2 nights | Cai Be – Sa Dec – Can Tho – Phu Quoc – Phnom Penh | fleet consists of three beautiful vessels, and the private houseboats are perfect for two people, French balcony, panorama lounge (convertible to a second bedroom), sundeck | $335 |
Travel tips for March in Mekong Delta
What to wear in Mekong Delta in March
- Light, breathable clothing to stay cool.
- Comfortable shoes for walking and cycling.
- Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen for sun protection.
- A light jacket for cooler evenings.
- Insect repellent for outdoor activities.
Local tips
- Start activities early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Carry cash, as many small vendors do not accept credit cards.
- Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to communicate with locals.
- Try seasonal fruits and fresh coconut water for a refreshing treat.
- Be respectful when visiting temples – wear appropriate clothing and follow local customs.
Suggested itinerary in March in Mekong Delta
- Day 1: Arrive in Can Tho, visit Cai Rang Floating Market, explore rice noodle workshops.
- Day 2: Take a boat tour in Ben Tre, visit coconut candy factories, enjoy a cycling tour.
- Day 3: Visit sacred sites like Vinh Trang Pagoda, explore fruit orchards, try local dishes.
- Day 4: Take a Can Gio mangrove tour or enjoy a Mekong cruise before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.
This is just a suggested itinerary for 4-day Mekong Delta tour. If you need a customized travel plan or more ideas for exploring the Mekong Delta in March, feel free to contact us. We can help you design the perfect trip to experience the best of Vietnam. Fill out our contact form or send us an email at resa@luxurycruisemekong.com for more details!
The Mekong Delta in March provides the ideal combination of pleasant weather, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. Whether you want to go to the market, ride your bike, or taste local cuisine, March is the perfect month to explore this distinct region. Remember to book ahead of time because it is a popular time to come, and be flexible with your plans to get the most out of your delta experience.
Mo Nguyen – From Luxury Cruise Mekong
