If you are planning to visit Vietnam in April, the Mekong Delta is a fantastic destination to consider. April marks the transition from the dry season to the early rainy season, offering warm weather, lush landscapes, and plenty of exciting experiences. This travel blog will provide you with all the essential details, including costs, crowds, activities, travel tips, and a suggested itinerary for an unforgettable journey to the Mekong Delta in April.
What you will find in this travel blog:
- Weather in Mekong Delta in April
- Cost and Crowd in April
- Best things to do in April in the Mekong Delta
- Travel tips for April in the Mekong Delta
- Suggested itinerary in April in the Mekong Delta
Weather in Mekong Delta in April
April marks the transition from the dry season to the rainy season in the Mekong Delta. The weather remains warm, but humidity levels start to rise, and occasional showers begin to appear. If you are planning to visit the Mekong Delta in April, here’s what you can expect in terms of temperature, rainfall, and overall conditions.
Hot Temperatures with Increasing Humidity
April is one of the hottest months in the Mekong Delta, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 33°C to 36°C. Some inland areas, such as Long Xuyên and Cao Lãnh, may experience temperatures reaching 37°C on particularly hot days. At night, temperatures usually drop to around 26°C to 27°C, providing only slight relief from the daytime heat.
Humidity also starts to increase in April, making the air feel warmer and heavier, often ranging from 75% to 90%. The average relative humidity is around 85%. This change is noticeable, especially in the afternoon, when the combination of high temperatures and moisture in the air can make outdoor activities more tiring. Wearing lightweight, breathable clothing and drinking plenty of water can help visitors stay comfortable.
Occasional Rain Showers Begin
While the dry season is coming to an end, April still has more sunny days than rainy ones. Most areas in the Mekong Delta receive around 50 mm to 90 mm of rainfall during the month, with rain usually occurring in short but intense showers. Cities like Cần Thơ and Mỹ Tho may see about 5 to 10 rainy days in April, often in the late afternoon or evening.
These early rains help cool down the temperature slightly but also bring higher humidity. Unlike the heavy rains of the peak monsoon season, April showers are usually brief and do not last long. Travelers should be prepared for sudden rain by carrying a light rain jacket or umbrella when exploring the region.
Plenty of Sunshine with Longer Days
Despite the increasing chance of rain, April still offers plenty of sunshine. On average, the Mekong Delta gets around 220 to 250 hours of sunshine throughout the month. The sun rises early, around 5:45 AM, and sets close to 6:10 PM, giving visitors long hours of daylight to explore.
The strong sun can make outdoor activities feel hotter, especially in the midday hours. If you plan to visit floating markets, orchards, or river islands, starting early in the morning or going out in the late afternoon can be more comfortable. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are useful to protect against the strong UV rays.
Cost and Crowd in April
April is a favorable month to visit the Mekong Delta, with pleasant weather and fewer tourists compared to peak season. While it is not as crowded as the winter months, certain areas might still see visitors, especially during local holidays. Prices can vary depending on demand, but in general, it is possible to find good deals on accommodation and tours.
Cost
Since April is not the peak travel season, accommodation and tour prices are often more affordable than in the earlier months of the year. While luxury stays remain expensive, budget travelers can find great deals on homestays and guesthouses. Food and transportation costs remain reasonable, making it a great time for budget-conscious travelers to explore the region.
Crowd
April is considered a shoulder season in the Mekong Delta. While popular attractions such as floating markets and major cities like Can Tho or My Tho may see some tourists, they are generally less crowded than in previous months. However, if you visit during a national holiday like Hung Kings’ Festival (April 7), expect larger crowds at key sites and higher demand for accommodations.
Best things to do in April in the Mekong Delta
Festivals and early agricultural activities
April is a transitional month, but it is still a good time to experience the Mekong Delta’s culture. The Khmer people in the region celebrate Chol Chnam Thmay, their traditional New Year, usually in mid-April. This festival brings lively celebrations, traditional dances, and temple ceremonies, providing a unique cultural experience for visitors.
Farmers also begin preparing for the new planting season as the first rains arrive. The river landscape remains lush, and some fruits, such as mangoes and rambutans, start ripening, making it a great time to taste fresh produce from local orchards.
Visit floating markets
Floating markets are an iconic part of the Mekong Delta, and April is a great time to visit them as they remain lively without being overly crowded.
- Cai Rang Floating Market (Can Tho): One of the largest and busiest floating markets, famous for its vibrant trade of fruits, vegetables, and local specialties.
- Phong Dien Floating Market (Can Tho): A smaller, less touristy market where you can experience a more authentic shopping atmosphere.
- Long Xuyen Floating Market (An Giang): A lesser-known market, perfect for those looking to experience local life without the crowds.
Take a Mekong Cruise
A boat cruise along the Mekong River is a relaxing way to explore the region. Visitors can take traditional wooden boats or modern cruise vessels to see local life, visit craft villages, and enjoy the peaceful scenery of the waterways.
Visit sacred sites in the Mekong
The Mekong Delta is home to many important religious sites. Visitors can explore:
- Vinh Trang Pagoda (My Tho): A beautiful temple with a mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Khmer architectural influences.
- Ba Chua Xu Temple (Chau Doc): A sacred site where people pray for prosperity and good fortune.
- Hang Pagoda (An Giang): A peaceful Buddhist temple built inside a cave on Sam Mountain.
Ecotourism in the Mekong Delta
Nature lovers can explore ecotourism sites where they can enjoy birdwatching, boat rides, and peaceful landscapes.
- Tram Chim National Park (Dong Thap): Home to rare bird species, including the endangered sarus crane.
- U Minh Thuong National Park (Kien Giang): A lush forest with diverse wildlife and scenic waterways.
- Xeo Quyt Forest (Dong Thap): A historical site with beautiful natural surroundings and boat tours.
Travel tips for April in the Mekong Delta
- Check the weather forecast, as April may have occasional rains.
- Wear light, breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the heat.
- Bring insect repellent, especially when visiting orchards or ecotourism sites.
- Start your day early to avoid the midday heat.
- Try to book accommodations in advance if traveling during local holidays.
- Bring cash, as many rural areas do not accept credit cards.
Suggested itinerary in April in the Mekong Delta
This four-day itinerary provides a perfect balance of culture, nature, and local experiences:
Day 1: Saigon – My Tho – Xeo Quyt – Cao Lanh (Dong Thap)
You will begin your journey from Saigon to My Tho, where you can explore islands and visit Vinh Trang Pagoda. Continue to Xeo Quyt, a fascinating historical site surrounded by wetlands, before arriving in Cao Lanh for the night.
Day 2: Cao Lanh – Sa Dec – Can Tho
Visit Tram Chim National Park in the morning, then explore Sa Dec, known for its flower gardens and old French architecture. In the afternoon, travel to Can Tho, where you can enjoy a sunset walk along Ninh Kieu Wharf.
Day 3: Can Tho – Chau Doc
Start your day with an early morning visit to Cai Rang Floating Market. Later, travel to Chau Doc and visit Ba Chua Xu Temple and Sam Mountain for breathtaking views.
Day 4: Chau Doc – Phnom Penh
Take a scenic boat ride from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh, crossing the border into Cambodia while enjoying stunning views of the Mekong River.
This suggested itinerary is just a guide, and there are many more ways to experience the Mekong Delta in April. If you need more travel ideas or personalized trip planning for Vietnam in April, feel free to contact us by filling out our form or sending an email. Our team of travel experts will help you create an unforgettable journey!
April is a fantastic time to visit the Mekong Delta, with warm weather, fewer crowds, and plenty of exciting activities. Whether you’re interested in cultural experiences, nature, or food, this region has something for everyone. Start planning your trip today!
Mo Nguyen – From Vietnam Travel Online
