How has it been for your 2024? There is no better time than now to embark on a lifetime adventure in Vietnam that you and your loved ones will reminisce about for years to come!
There is still time to book a quick trip away from the hustle and bustle of city life but if planning does not get you excited or the idea of traveling with kids feels daunting, our local guides have got you covered!
From serene landscapes to cultural marvels, the allure of Vietnam's hidden gems awaits those searching for off-the-beaten-track adventures and authentic local experiences - plus the tranquility of knowing that all the details have already been sorted!
Read on for our guide to top destinations in Southern Vietnam that are currently in their best seasons (and under a 4-hour drive from HCMC).
Exploring Mekong Delta - Nature's Wonderland
Mekong Delta, the so-called Western Region (Miền Tây in Vietnamese), is home to unique ecosystems in which rice and fishery production contribute significantly to the country’s economy. Visiting in the dry season (until March) is the best time to visit with sunny, beautiful weather for pleasant outdoor activities.
The Mekong Delta presents an idyllic escape for nature enthusiasts seeking an authentic taste of local life. You can indulge in local delights and delicious tropical fruits, take a cycle tour through the craft villages, or witness the breathtaking sunrise and sunset over the delta. Even more, the cultural diversity of different minorities here will leave you in awe of their distinctive architecture and traditions.
Local Guide Tip: While it takes around 2-3 hours to drive from Saigon, don’t be a tourist who comes here for an afternoon and misses out on many authentic experiences with the locals - a rush itinerary will just exhaust your kids!
Must-Do Activities
Set off on picturesque cycling trails of 20 kilometers through charming villages, under tall palm tree lines, along endless rice fields and dragon fruit farms with our local guide who is a professional biker (road bikes and helmets are provided). There will be stops along the way to visit Traditional Handicraft Villages of conical hats or coconut products over decades and fruit farms. Always expect the unexpected, which will make your trip more memorable! Read more about Trupti's story here.
While Cái Răng Floating Market in Cần Thơ is known as a must-visit destination in the Mekong Delta, it can be filled with lots of tourists, dulling the overall experience. Therefore, we would recommend Mỏ Cày Market in Bến Tre as a great alternative to better experience the essence of local life. Your kids would not have to wake up too early to experience it either (a huge plus!). Add this bustling market to your upcoming journey to find the most unique local specialties or handicraft products as presents to bring back home.
Khmer Temples in Trà Vinh
The Mekong Delta is home to the largest population of the Khmer ethnic community outside of Cambodia, especially in Trà Vinh. It has a large system of over 100 antique Khmer Temples with phenomenal cultural and artistic architecture that dates back hundreds of years. For Khmer communities, temples are not only for Budhha worship but also act as community cultural houses where studying, practicing activities, and traditional festivals such as New Year celebrations (Chol Chnam Thmay) or Moon Ceremonies (Ok Om Bok) can be found.
With this 2 day 1 night adventure, you will take a private cruise from Cái Bè to Cần Thơ giving your family a relaxing ride through mangroves, palm tree-lined riverbanks, and local villages. This is also the most unique way to discover such diverse local life that can be found around the Mekong River - this is where kids can jump into the river for a swim, and you can spot local people with their giant fishing nets - there is rarely a dull moment!
The infamous vibrant Cái Răng floating market in Cần Thơ is worth waking up early the next morning where hundreds of vendors selling fruits, coffee, or hot bowls of Hủ Tiếu from boats to boats - what a one-of-a-kind experience in Vietnam, isn't it?
“Everything was exceptional with wonderful experiences. The cruise trip in the Mekong Delta far exceeded my expectations”
Eric & family (2 kids), Chom Chom Travelers in October 2023
* Travelers must book this trip three months in advance - a maximum of 6 people (Current slots are occupied until March 2024). If you're into cruising in the Mekong Delta, we also offer another route (3 days 2 nights) across the border into Cambodia and visit an incredible Wild Elephant Sanctuary here.
Tà Lài - Embracing Mạ Ethic Community Amidst Wilderness
Tà Lài, nestled in Đồng Nai province, is a serene haven amidst forests and wildlife near Cát Tiên National Park (2.5-drive from HCMC). It is the ideal spot for travelers seeking an immersion in ‘forest bathing', inspirational connections of the Mạ Ethnic Minorities, or a unique stay in traditional longhouses, which is truly an adventurous escapade worth cherishing.
Local Guide Tip: Involve your kids in forest trekking and cycling routes for an invaluable educational and engaging experience on rainforest biodiversity and wildlife conservation that they will remember for life.
Must-Do Activities
Trekking in Tà Lài's jungle
Be rest assured that this will be totally doable for your family as our local guides were born in the jungle and are experts in designing trekking routes that are suitable for kids of all ages. The trekking trails in this pristine jungle are made more beautiful by towering trees, exotic bird melodies filling the air, and even elephant footprints that will surely amaze you.
Visit Gibbons Rescue Center
Step into the realm of conservation and wildlife wonders at the ethically-run Gibbon Rescue Center nestled within Cát Tiên National Park where you can cycle a 12-kilometer route from Tà Lài to get here. This experience can spark great inspiration and empathy for a dedicated team that works tirelessly to rehabilitate and protect endangered gibbons in Vietnam.
An immersive journey with a local guide from a Mạ ethnicity who genuinely wants to share the culture and traditions of the Mạ people with our travelers. You can learn about their unique weaving techniques to make traditional colorful clothing, or gather together by the outdoor bonfire at night and listen to the Mạ’s beautiful voices singing their tribe’s songs. Getting to know more about this minority culture during this visit is definitely what makes this trip remarkable.
Bảo Lộc: Where Serenity Meets Adventure
Nestled amidst Vietnam's highlands, Bảo Lộc (a 4-hour drive from HCMC) emerges as a serene oasis, promising a haven for adventurous souls and families seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. It is a destination often overlooked yet brimming with tranquil and breathtaking landscapes, cultural richness, and untold stories of Mạ Ethnic Communities that offer more of an unforgettable experience than any luxury holiday you’ll find.
Local Guide Tip: Everyone should do a ‘Digital detox’ at least once a year, and there’s no better place than Bao Loc for you to refresh and reconnect with your family on a much deeper level with such physical activities as trekking and swimming. Families love to have our local guide K'Viện accompany them on their adventure - he genuinely loves kids and can play guitar!
“We had an incredible experience with K’Vien in Bảo Lộc and we couldn't do it without Chom Chom Travel. I would recommend this trip to anyone!”
Rachel & family (1 kid), Chom Chom Travelers in March 2023
Must-Do Activities
Trekking through the jungle
Follow our local guide as he will take you on the adventure of trekking for 10 kilometers, navigating through the rugged trails, greenery tea plantations, and coffee fields which makes the trek more fun and exciting along the way - it's relatively easy for kids!
Swim in hidden waterfalls
An exhilarating experience of swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Tam Hợp waterfall hidden inside the deep jungle awaits as a huge reward for your long trek. The roar of the rushing water becomes a soothing melody, inviting us to connect with the natural world in its purest form.
Discover ethnic minority cuisines
Picture this: an evening immersed in the rustic charm of the forest, a crackling bonfire casting dancing shadows, and the aroma of sizzling BBQ under the starlit sky, the sounds of nature serenading your dining experience - sounds like a dream right? You will get to feast on unique dishes of tender grilled meat with special Vietnamese spices served alongside vegetables that can only be found in the nearby forest.
Vibrant Saigon - History and Modernity Collide
Saigon, or Ho Chi Minh City, boasts a blend of historical significance and modern charm that has a lot to offer. Dive into the bustling streets, explore hidden gems, savor delectable street food in small alleys, and embrace the vibrant nightlife that you will love.
Local Guide Tip: Spend this holiday as an opportunity to experience Saigon out of the ordinary and out of your comfort zone. Follow our local guides to uncover the city's hidden gems that add an authentic touch to your urban adventures.
Must-Do Activities
Sit tight on the back of our local guides’ motorbikes as they will drive you into narrow alleys where the best local street food stalls in the city are located! The streets come alive at night with the sights and sounds of food sizzling on grills, locals bustling about, and the mingling scents that promise an unforgettable dining experience.
“It was an amazing night! Far beyond our expectations. Shout out to the food, the guides, and the drivers! The kids had a blast and the adults did too, everyone LOVED it. Thank you for EVERYTHING!”
Nanou & family (5 kids), Chom Chom Travelers in July 2023
Turn the city attractions into captivating quests
Embark on an exhilarating Scavenger Hunt which is tailored for little adventurers to engage in deciphering clues scattered across the iconic Central Post Office to the Independence Palace, bringing them a blend of fun, education, and cultural immersion in such a unique experience. What's more, the Saigon Art Tour allows your kids to experience a world of imagination and creativity through tailored games that stimulate curiosity and artistic expression.
“In the top! We discovered Ho Chi Minh City as a family through a treasure hunt which was very fun and interesting at the same time”
Elodie & family (2 kids), Chom Chom Travelers in August 2023
Let a local expert craft your holiday adventure in Vietnam
If you reached here, have we embarked on your adventurous spirit yet? Take this long summer break to transcend the ordinary, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting landscapes of Vietnam.
At Chôm Chôm Travel, we craft more than just itineraries; we create lifetime memories through the best Vietnam hidden gems, and meaningful connections with local communities while allowing you to be responsible travelers and make a positive impact on the destinations.
*Notes:
Our private city day tours in Hà Nội and HCMC (including the Củ Chi Boat Tour) must be booked 3 days in advance during our working hours from Mon-Fri.
To have your personalized itinerary crafted by our local experts, please let us know 10 days before your travel date (applicable for journeys from 2 days and above)
Our organized adventures to the Mekong Delta require a minimum of a 1-night stay.