Climate and region of Mekong Delta
The Mekong Delta, located in southern Vietnam, is a vast and fertile region where the Mekong River branches out into hundreds of waterways before flowing into the sea. Known for its floating markets, rice paddies, and tropical fruit orchards, the area includes major destinations such as Can Tho, My Tho, Ben Tre, Chau Doc, Soc Trang, and Ca Mau. Each of these destinations offers unique landscapes, cultural experiences, and traditional riverside life.
This region has a tropical monsoon climate, meaning it is divided into two distinct seasons:
- Dry season: December – April
- Rainy season: May – November
During the dry season, rainfall is minimal, and temperatures remain warm, making it the most popular time for travel. The rainy season brings heavier showers, often in short bursts, but the Mekong Delta remains lush and vibrant throughout the year.
Travel Tip: If you’re visiting Vietnam on a longer trip, be aware that different regions have different climates. In March, the Mekong Delta is in the dry season, while central Vietnam starts to warm up with some lingering rain, and northern Vietnam is entering spring, with rising temperatures but still cool mornings and evenings, especially in the mountains.
Weather in Mekong Delta in March
March is a warm and dry month in the Mekong Delta, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Daytime temperatures typically range from 24°C (75°F) in the early morning and evening to around 33°C (91°F) during the hottest part of the day.
Humidity levels remain moderate, though they start to increase slightly compared to earlier months. Rain is still rare, with an average monthly precipitation of 10–20 mm (0.4–0.8 inches), spread over only a few short showers. You can expect 8–10 hours of sunshine per day, ensuring plenty of daylight for exploring.
March is considered the late dry season, meaning water levels in some smaller canals may start to lower slightly, but boat trips and floating markets still operate as usual. There is no risk of flooding or heavy downpours this month.
Is Mekong Delta worth visiting in March?
Yes, March is a great time to visit the Mekong Delta. The combination of dry weather, warm temperatures, and sunny days makes it ideal for exploring the region’s rivers, villages, and markets without worrying about rain.
As March falls toward the end of the dry season, the landscapes remain lush, and fruit orchards are still thriving. This is also a good time for cycling tours, nature reserves, and boat trips, as the weather is pleasant for extended outdoor activities.
Since March is a popular month for travel in Vietnam, booking accommodations and tours in advance is a good idea to secure the best options.
Travel tips & best things to do in March
March is an excellent time to visit the Mekong Delta, as it falls in the middle of the dry season, offering warm weather, minimal rain, and plenty of sunshine. This makes it an ideal month for boat trips, cycling through the countryside, and exploring floating markets. The landscapes are still lush from previous months, birdwatching is still possible, and the region is buzzing with local life. Here’s what makes March special and what you should experience this month.
Floating Markets – Peak Season for a Scenic Boat Trip
March is a great month for floating market tours, with clear skies and stable water levels making boat trips smooth and enjoyable. Markets like Cai Rang (Can Tho), Phong Dien (Can Tho), and Long Xuyen (An Giang) are at their best during this time, with vendors selling fresh tropical fruits, seafood, and hot noodle soup directly from their boats.
Why March is Ideal for Floating Markets:
- The cool, dry mornings are perfect for early boat trips, making the experience comfortable.
- Fewer tourists than peak months like December and January, offering a more authentic atmosphere.
Travel Tip:
- Arrive before sunrise (around 5:30–6:00 AM) to see the markets at their busiest and enjoy the most scenic views of boats filled with colorful produce.
- Bring sunglasses and sunscreen, as the sun gets stronger later in the morning.
Birdwatching – End of the Migration Season
While February is the peak season for birdwatching, March is one of the last months to see migratory birds in the Mekong Delta before they begin their journey north. If birdwatching is on your list, visit:
- Tram Chim National Park (Dong Thap Province) – Best for spotting the rare Sarus Crane, which is still present in March.
- Bang Lang Stork Garden (Can Tho Province) – A beautiful location to see thousands of storks and herons nesting in the treetops.
Travel Tip:
- Visit bird sanctuaries early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when birds are most active.
- Wear lightweight, breathable clothing, as midday can get quite warm.
Cycling – One of the Best Months for Exploring by Bike
March is one of the best months for cycling in the Mekong Delta, with dry roads, pleasant temperatures, and little chance of rain. Areas like Ben Tre, Vinh Long, and An Binh Island offer scenic routes through coconut groves, fruit orchards, and peaceful village roads.
Best cycling routes in March:
- Ben Tre’s countryside roads – Cycle through coconut plantations and quiet rural paths.
- Vinh Long & An Binh Island – Cross small bridges over waterways and stop at family-run orchards for fresh fruit tastings.
Travel Tip:
- Mornings are best for cycling, as midday temperatures can be hot.
- Carry water and sun protection—hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential.
A Perfect Time to Combine with Phu Quoc or Con Dao
March is one of the best months to combine a Mekong Delta trip with Phu Quoc or Con Dao. The islands enjoy dry, sunny weather and calm seas, making them ideal for relaxing on the beach after exploring the Delta’s waterways.
How to get there:
- Can Tho → Phu Quoc: Direct flights are available (1 hour).
- Rach Gia or Ha Tien → Phu Quoc: Ferries run daily, though seas can still be slightly rough at times.
- Can Tho → Con Dao: Direct flights operate, offering an easy escape to this remote island paradise.
Seasonal fruits in March
While March isn’t peak fruit season, there are still plenty of delicious fruits to try, including:
- Coconut (especially in Ben Tre, Vietnam’s coconut capital)
- Star apple (a unique, creamy fruit known as “Vú Sữa”)
- Mango (early-season varieties start appearing in the markets)
Visiting a fruit orchard in Vinh Long or Tien Giang allows travelers to taste fresh-picked produce and see how local farmers cultivate their crops.
Travel tips for March in the Mekong Delta
- Book accommodation and tours in advance, as March is a popular travel month.
- Start outdoor activities early in the day to avoid midday heat.
- Pack light clothing and sun protection, as temperatures rise toward the end of the month.
