Mekong Delta in December: Weather, Floating Markets & Travel Tips

---

The Mekong Delta in December is vibrant, cool, and lively. This month marks the start of the dry season, when the skies are clear, rainfall is low, and the rivers are bustling with trade. It’s also harvest season, so the delta is full of tropical fruits, flower markets, and colorful festivals leading up to Christmas and New Year. December is one of the best months to explore this lush river region.

---

Weather in the Mekong Delta in December

• Average daytime temperature: 24–31°C (75–88°F)
• Night temperature: 20–23°C (68–73°F)
• Rainfall: ~30–50 mm across 3–5 days (very low)
• Humidity: 65–70%

Weather verdict: December is dry, sunny, and comfortable, perfect for boat rides, cycling, and cultural tours.

---

Why Visit the Mekong Delta in December

• Dry season comfort – low humidity and plenty of sunshine.
• Harvest abundance – tropical fruits like mango, rambutan, and pomelo are plentiful.
• Floating markets at their best – bustling with festive energy.
• Festivals & flowers – markets prepare for Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year).

---

Best Things to Do in the Mekong Delta in December

Seasonal Highlights

1. Floating Markets – Cai Rang (Can Tho), Cai Be, and Phong Dien are at their busiest.
2. Fruit Orchards – Taste fresh seasonal produce in Ben Tre, Vinh Long, or Tien Giang.
3. Flower Villages – Sa Dec in Dong Thap grows thousands of flowers in preparation for Tet.

Year-Round Experiences

• Boat rides on small canals – Peaceful journeys through coconut groves.
• Visit local pagodas – Khmer and Chinese temples add cultural depth.
• Homestays – Stay with local families for authentic Mekong life.

---

Festivals & Events in December

• Christmas (Dec 24–25) – Celebrated in Catholic communities; churches and villages light up with decorations.
• New Year’s Eve (Dec 31) – While not as big as in cities, larger towns like Can Tho and My Tho host small parties.
• Flower Festival Preparations – Sa Dec begins gearing up for its famous Tet flower displays.

---

Where to Stay in the Mekong Delta in December

• Luxury: Azerai Can Tho – Peaceful riverside luxury retreat.
• Mid-range: Victoria Can Tho Resort – Classic colonial style.
• Budget: Local homestays in Vinh Long or Ben Tre for authentic experiences.

---

What to Eat in the Mekong Delta in December

• Hủ tiếu – Rice noodle soup, a breakfast staple.
• Coconut candy – Specialty of Ben Tre, perfect as a sweet snack.
• Fresh fruits – Mango, rambutan, and pomelo are in season.
• Grilled snakehead fish – A festive Mekong specialty.

---

Suggested Itinerary for December

2–3 Days in the Mekong Delta

• Day 1: Boat trip through Ben Tre’s coconut canals, cycling in orchards.
• Day 2: Visit Cai Rang floating market in Can Tho, explore local pagodas.
• Day 3: Sa Dec flower village or Vinh Long homestay.

4–5 Days (Extended Stay)

• Add Tra Vinh or Soc Trang for Khmer culture.
• Explore more remote provinces like Ca Mau (southernmost Vietnam).

---

Travel Tips for December in the Mekong Delta

• Book floating market tours early in the morning — busiest around sunrise.
• December nights are cooler — bring a light sweater.
• Expect larger crowds near Christmas and New Year in Can Tho.
• Homestays are best booked ahead — many fill up during the holiday season.

---

Related Guides (Internal Links)

• Vietnam in December – Weather & Best Places to Visit
• Ho Chi Minh City in December
• Phu Quoc in December
• Da Lat in December
• Full Mekong Delta Travel Guide

---