Climate and region of Mekong Delta
The Mekong Delta, located in southern Vietnam, is a region defined by its vast waterways, lush countryside, and unique cultural heritage. With the Mekong River feeding an intricate system of canals and rice fields, life here revolves around agriculture, fishing, and trade. Key destinations include Can Tho, Ben Tre, My Tho, Chau Doc, Vinh Long, and Ca Mau, each offering a different perspective of rural Vietnam.
This region experiences a tropical monsoon climate, which is divided into two main seasons:
- Dry season: December – April
- Rainy season: May – November
May marks the beginning of the rainy season, bringing increased humidity and occasional showers. While the dry season offers consistent sunshine, the rainy season introduces a mix of clear skies and tropical downpours, keeping the region’s landscapes vibrant and fertile.
Travel Tip: If you’re visiting Vietnam on a broader trip, keep in mind that the seasons vary across regions. In May, the Mekong Delta enters its early rainy season, while central Vietnam begins experiencing hot and dry conditions, and northern Vietnam shifts into warmer spring temperatures with occasional rain showers.
Weather in Mekong Delta in May
May is a transitional month in the Mekong Delta, as the dry season fades and the rainy season begins. Temperatures are high, typically ranging from 26°C (79°F) in the early morning and evening to around 34°C (93°F) at midday.
Humidity levels rise significantly, making the air feel hotter and heavier. Rainfall becomes more frequent, with an average of 100–150 mm (4–6 inches) throughout the month, spread over 10–15 rainy days. However, most rain showers are short and occur in the afternoon or evening, rather than all-day downpours. Sunshine is still abundant, with 6–8 hours of daylight per day, ensuring plenty of time for sightseeing.
Since May is the start of the rainy season, river and canal water levels begin to rise, making boat trips easier in some areas. However, sudden showers and occasional thunderstorms can affect outdoor plans, so flexibility is key.
Is Mekong Delta worth visiting in May?
Yes, May is still a decent time to visit the Mekong Delta, but it comes with a mix of advantages and challenges. The landscape becomes greener, and river travel remains smooth, but humidity and occasional rain showers can make outdoor exploration more demanding.
One benefit of visiting in May is the reduced number of tourists, meaning popular attractions and floating markets are less crowded. Additionally, the arrival of the rainy season enhances the beauty of the countryside, with rice fields and fruit orchards flourishing.
For those who don’t mind occasional tropical showers, May can still be a rewarding time to visit, especially for those looking for a quieter, more authentic experience.
Travel tips & best things to do in May
May marks the start of the rainy season in the Mekong Delta, bringing higher humidity, hotter temperatures, and occasional showers. While it’s still possible to enjoy boat trips, floating markets, and rural exploration, travelers should be prepared for afternoon downpours and plan activities accordingly. This is also the beginning of fruit season, making it an exciting time to visit orchards and taste freshly harvested tropical fruits.
Early morning floating market visits
With the increase in humidity and occasional rain showers, it’s best to visit floating markets early in the morning before the midday heat sets in. Markets like Cai Rang (Can Tho), Phong Dien (Can Tho), and Long Xuyen (An Giang) are still bustling with activity, with vendors selling fresh produce, tropical fruits, and hot noodle soups directly from their boats.
Why floating markets are still a must in May:
- Mornings are cooler and drier, making boat trips more comfortable.
- The markets remain lively and colorful, with an abundance of fruits coming into season.
Travel Tip:
- Start your boat tour at 5:30–6:00 AM to avoid the intense humidity later in the day.
- Bring a light rain jacket, as occasional light showers may occur in the early morning.
Fruit season begins – A paradise for food lovers
May is the start of the Mekong Delta’s peak fruit season, with many tropical fruits ripening and becoming available in local markets and orchards. This makes it an excellent time for a fruit-tasting tour, where visitors can sample fruits straight from the trees.
Fruits in Season in May:
- Mango – Juicy and sweet, at its peak during this month.
- Durian – A strong-smelling but highly prized fruit for those who dare to try it.
- Rambutan – A delicious, lychee-like fruit with a hairy red shell.
- Mangosteen – Sweet and tangy, known as the “queen of fruits.”
The best places to visit for a fruit-picking experience include:
- Cai Be Fruit Orchards (Tien Giang Province) – A great place to sample mangoes, durians, and rambutans.
- Vinh Long & An Binh Island – Small, family-run orchards where visitors can taste fruits directly from the trees.
Travel Tip:
- If you want to try durian, visit Can Tho’s local markets, as it’s one of the best places to taste fresh, high-quality durian.
- Bring cash, as many small orchards only accept local currency for fruit tastings.
Cycling – Still Possible, But Beating the Heat is Key
May is hot and humid, but cycling is still possible in the early morning or late afternoon. Shaded paths and shorter routes are ideal for exploring by bike.
Best cycling routes for May:
- Ben Tre’s coconut plantations – The many shaded roads make this one of the most comfortable places to cycle.
- Vinh Long & An Binh Island – Ride along the riverbanks, passing fruit orchards and small village homes.
Travel Tip:
- Avoid midday cycling, as temperatures can reach 35°C (95°F) with high humidity.
- Carry plenty of water and wear a hat and sunscreen.
Combining the Mekong Delta with a beach destination
While the Mekong Delta itself isn’t a beach destination, May is still a great time to combine a visit with Phu Quoc or Con Dao before the rainy season intensifies.
How to get there:
- Can Tho → Phu Quoc: Direct flights (1 hour).
- Rach Gia or Ha Tien → Phu Quoc: Ferries are an option, but sea conditions can be unpredictable.
- Can Tho → Con Dao: Direct flights make this an easy connection.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for better beach conditions, you can take a direct flight from Can Tho to Da Nang, where the beaches in Hoi An and Da Nang are entering their peak dry season.
Travel tips for May in the Mekong Delta
- Plan activities for the morning, as afternoons are often hot and humid, with possible rain showers.
- Pack light rain gear, as sudden showers can occur, but they’re usually short-lived.
- Try fresh tropical fruits, as May is the start of mango, rambutan, and durian season.
