Lai Vung District

Located in the southern part of Dong Thap Province, Lai Vung District has long been known as the “land of pink tangerines” a fertile and peaceful area that perfectly embodies the charm of the Mekong Delta.
Only about 17 km from Cao Lanh City and less than 40 km from Can Tho City, Lai Vung is not only an abundant agricultural region but also an increasingly popular destination for eco tourism and orchard experiences.

A trip to Lai Vung offers visitors the chance to admire golden-orange tangerine gardens, immerse themselves in the tranquil life of local farmers, taste authentic southern dishes, and discover the cultural richness of the riverine countryside.

Best Time to Visit Lai Vung

Lai Vung enjoys a tropical monsoon climate with warm sunshine and gentle rain throughout the year. However, the most beautiful time to visit is from November to February, when the pink tangerine orchards are in full bloom, covering the countryside with a stunning golden hue.

Outside of tangerine season, visitors can still explore Lai Vung all year round to experience its eco tourism activities, visit traditional craft villages, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Mekong Delta.

How to Get to Lai Vung District

From Ho Chi Minh City, it’s easy to reach Lai Vung by several means of transport:

• By coach: Regular buses depart from Mien Tay Bus Station to Cao Lanh or Sa Dec, with stops in Lai Vung.
• By car or motorbike: Take the Trung Luong My Thuan Expressway, then follow the direction towards Lai Vung 
• From Can Tho City: Lai Vung is only about 40 km away. Follow National Highway 80 across the Can Tho Vam Cong ferry to reach the district.

Top Attractions in Lai Vung District

Lai Vung Tangerine Gardens The Golden Symbol of the South

When speaking of Lai Vung, one cannot miss its iconic pink tangerine gardens the pride of the locals. During harvest season, the communes of Tan Thanh, Tan Phuoc, Long Hau, and Vinh Thoi are filled with vibrant shades of orange and gold.

Visitors can stroll through the orchards, pick tangerines straight from the trees, capture beautiful photos, and enjoy products made from the fruit such as fresh tangerine juice, candied tangerine peel, and tangerine wine.
Some of the most popular orchards include:

• Ba Ton Garden
• Sau Duong Garden
• Hai Hung Garden 

Tan Long Islet Ecotourism Area

Located on a lush green islet in the Hau River, Tan Long Islet is a peaceful hideaway perfect for nature lovers. Here, visitors can take boat trips along the river, visit fruit orchards, enjoy traditional “don ca tai tu” folk music, and sample delicious Mekong Delta dishes such as grilled snakehead fish, fish hotpot, and crispy pancakes.

Lai Vung Fermented Pork Roll Village a Famous Local Craft

The Lai Vung fermented pork roll is a well known specialty throughout southern Vietnam, loved for its tangy yet savoury taste.
At the Lai Vung nem village in Tan Thanh Commune, visitors can observe the traditional production process from selecting fresh pork, wrapping in banana leaves, to fermenting naturally.
You can even try making your own rolls and purchase neatly packed nem as gifts for friends and family.

Ba Co Hy Temple a Spiritual Landmark

Situated in Long Hau Commune, Ba Co Hy Temple is a long-standing spiritual site that holds great significance for the locals. Every year, on the 12th–13th of the third lunar month, the Ba Co Hy Festival takes place, attracting visitors from across the region who come to pray for peace, prosperity, and good fortune.

Lai Vung Market a Glimpse into Local Life

For an authentic experience of the daily life and culture of the Mekong Delta, visit Lai Vung Market early in the morning. You’ll see women carrying baskets of fresh tangerines, stalls filled with fish, vegetables, and tropical fruit, and hear the cheerful sounds of vendors calling out a true slice of southern Vietnamese life.

Culinary Delights in Lai Vung

Beyond its tangerines, Lai Vung captivates visitors with its distinctive and rustic southern cuisine, rich in local flavours and stories:

• Lai Vung fermented pork roll: The district’s signature dish made from minced pork, naturally fermented, wrapped in banana leaves, and served with garlic, chilli, and herbs.
• Candied tangerine peel and tangerine wine: Unique sweet treats with a fragrant aroma, ideal as gifts.
• Local specialities: Try chicken rice with lime leaves, crispy pancakes with mussels, or the famous served with wild flowers and vegetables.
• Fresh coconut water and tropical fruit: Refreshing choices that perfectly complement the laid-back pace of rural life.

Suggested One Day Itinerary in Lai Vung

Morning:

• Depart from Can Tho or Cao Lanh to Lai Vung.
• Visit a pink tangerine orchard, experience fruit picking, and enjoy freshly pressed juice.

Midday:

• Have lunch at a local garden restaurant, tasting authentic Mekong dishes such as grilled fish and hotpot.
• Rest under shady fruit trees while listening to southern folk music.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Lai Vung fermented pork roll village to learn and shop for souvenirs.
• Stop by Ba Co Hy Temple for a spiritual visit, then explore Lai Vung Market before returning.

Lai Vung A Peaceful and Authentic Mekong Experience

Lai Vung District truly embodies the essence of the Mekong Delta lush nature, kind hearted people, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine.
A journey here is not just about sightseeing; it’s about slowing down, connecting with local life, and embracing the tranquillity of the southern countryside.

If you’re seeking an authentic destination that blends nature, culture, and flavour, then Lai Vung the land of pink tangerines in Dong Thap is a place you simply must visit.