Cai Rang Floating Market in Can Tho has earned international recognition, being the only Southeast Asian destination featured in the list of the world’s 19 must-visit food hubs by the British travel publication, Rough Guides. As the largest of its kind in the Mekong Delta, this market has been a focal point of local commerce on the waterways for generations.
Contents
1. Discovering Cai Rang Floating Market in Can Tho
Location: Downstream of the Can Tho River, 46 Hai Ba Trung Street, Ninh Kieu District, Can Tho City
Cai Rang Floating Market boasts a history of nearly 100 years, making it one of the most iconic cultural landmarks in the Mekong Delta. Originally established to facilitate trade in a region where roads were non-existent, the floating market remains a thriving hub of commerce even as road networks have expanded.
The market is famous for its colorful boats packed with an array of fresh produce, handicrafts, and household essentials. From the early hours of the morning, the market springs to life as vendors gather to sell their goods. The liveliest time is between 5:30 a.m. and 6:30 a.m., with boats jostling for space on the river, creating a vibrant and busy atmosphere.
2. Getting to Cai Rang Floating Market
There are two primary ways to visit this bustling market:
Option 1: For independent travelers, getting to Cai Rang Market on your own offers a great sense of adventure. From Ho Chi Minh City, catch a flight to Can Tho, followed by a taxi ride to Ninh Kieu Wharf. From there, you can purchase a boat ticket to Cai Rang for about 2 to 4 USD per person, with discounts available for groups.
Option 2: Book a Tour If you prefer the ease of an organized trip, many travel agencies offer Mekong Delta tours with prices ranging from 30 to 200 USD. Be sure to review the tour itinerary carefully to ensure it aligns with your schedule.
3. What to Do at Cai Rang Floating Market
3.1. Witness the unique trading style
Unlike traditional markets where vendors call out their goods, traders at Cai Rang use an inventive method. Goods for sale are hung on tall poles attached to the boats, allowing buyers to identify products from afar. This simple yet effective system eliminates the need for shouting, making the market a more peaceful and scenic experience.
While you shop for local products, you’ll also get a glimpse of life along the river, passing by stilt houses and docked boats of various shapes and sizes.
3.2. Taste local food and drinks
Beyond the vibrant shopping scene, Cai Rang is a food lover’s paradise. Visitors can sample fresh fruits like durian, rambutan, and mangosteen, along with processed local specialties such as coconut candy and dried fish. For just 25,000 VND (about 1 USD), you can enjoy a hearty meal of “com tam” (broken rice), “pho,” “hu tieu,” or “bun rieu,” each offering a flavorful taste of Vietnam’s rich culinary heritage.
3.3. Experience Southern Vietnamese folk music
On weekends, Cai Rang Floating Market treats visitors to performances of a traditional form of Southern Vietnamese folk music. Performed from boats drifting along the river, this music reflects the resilience, kindness, and courage of the local people, making it a highlight for both domestic and international tourists.
3.4. Explore nearby attractions
While Cai Rang is the star attraction, other nearby sites are well worth a visit:
- Ba Cong Orchard Garden: Spanning 2 hectares, this orchard supplies fruits to local markets and is a perfect spot to immerse yourself in the lush greenery.
- Rice Noodle Factory: Here, you can observe the traditional noodle-making process and even try a “rice noodle pizza.”
- Coconut Candy Factory: Learn how local artisans craft the famous sticky coconut candy from scratch.
4. Tips for Visiting Cai Rang Floating Market
To make the most of your visit, keep the following tips in mind:
- Bring sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to stay comfortable in the heat.
- Have Vietnamese Dong (VND) on hand, as most sellers prefer cash transactions.
- Arrive early to catch the sunrise and enjoy the freshest food.
- For a more intimate experience, consider hiring a local fishing boat to avoid the crowds.
- Book your accommodation in advance, as Can Tho can get busy, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Beyond Cai Rang, Vietnam offers a wealth of travel experiences. From the serene beaches of Phu Quoc and Nha Trang to the cultural treasures of Hoi An and Ha Long Bay, the country’s unique blend of landscapes, traditions, and cuisine ensures a memorable journey for every traveler.