Long An: A Perfect Nature Escape in the Heart of the Mekong Delta

Nestled in the heart of the Mekong Delta, Long An province is a treasure for nature lovers and those curious about the real ways of life in Southern Vietnam. Only a few hours away from Ho Chi Minh City, the journey to Long An offers spectacular landscapes of a rich ecosystem and serene villages. Among Long An’s captivating attractions, the Tan Lap Floating Village and the Endless Field are the most well-known.

Tan Lap: A village that floats between land and water

100 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City (about 2 hours of driving), the Tan Lap Floating Village is one of Long An's most picturesque destinations. Located in the Moc Hoa district, this village is surrounded by a vast 135-hectare cajeput forest that forms a unique ecosystem. At Tan Lap Floating Village, visitors will be treated to pristine nature, winding canals lined with lush vegetation, and a traditional village where fishing and farming play the central role. 

Known as Long An’s must-visit attraction for nature lovers, Tan Lap Floating Village boasts a variety of relaxing and rewarding activities that, at the same time, allow visitors to explore the region’s natural beauty.

Rowing boat trip through the canals: Embark on a tranquil boat trip to explore the canals, surrounded by dense vegetation and mystical landscapes. Gliding through the cajeput forests offers an opportunity to discover local wildlife, including exotic birds and fishes.

Forest bathing: If you are looking for a way to relax and reconnect with nature, try forest bathing. Forest bathing is recognized for its beneficial effects on mental and physical health, reducing stress and promoting a deep sense of well-being. Take a slow walk on a 5-kilometer trail through the forest and let yourself be soaked in the sound of nature, as well as the silence of this magical place.

Cultural exploration: A visit to the Tan Lap Floating Village offers an opportunity to interact with the locals and learn about their authentic ways of life. The farmers and fishermen of Tan Lap will gladly share their ancestral skills. You can observe traditional farming techniques, such as rice cultivation and angling, and taste local specialties like grilled catfish or fish soup with rice paste.

Endless Field: A Cinematic Landscape 

Only 13 kilometers from Tan Lap Floating Village, the Endless Field is another of Long An’s spectacular sites. The vast fields are covered with aquatic plants, namely lotuses and water lilies, creating a sea of flowers, especially during the flood season. The Endless Field gained even more attention after it appeared as a setting for a Vietnamese film that attracted international fame, entitled The Floating Lives. The beauty of the landscape, lush green fields, and sparkling canals make it the perfect place for photography enthusiasts and those in search of an exceptional natural setting. 

Visitors can take a boat tour along the narrow canals, surrounded by flowers and lush vegetation. The calm and serene ambiance enables you to reconnect with nature while admiring the idyllic setting.

Nature photography: The Endless Field is a paradise for all photographers, either beginners or professionals. Lotus and water lilies, birds in flight, and reflections in the canals offer a multitude of impressive frames to capture. And the moment when the gentle light of sunrise illuminates the flowers is simply breathtaking. 

Forest bathing and wellness: As well as boat trips, forest bathing is also a famous thing to do in the Endless Field. Walking through the cajeput forest and unwinding in the heart of nature, with birdsong and the scent of medicinal plants, is an excellent way to recharge your batteries and relieve stress.

Helpful information for your visit to Long An

Long An offers an opportunity to discover the authentic and unspoiled facet of Vietnam, where natural scenery forms a magical atmosphere. 

Best time to visit Long An

The ideal time for the trip to Long An is during the flood season, starting from July to October. Unique to the Mekong Delta, the flood season brings a significant transformation of the region’s landscape. During this period, the waters of the Mekong River tumble down from the mountains and flood the vast rice fields, creating a magical setting. This phenomenon offers travelers a spectacular perspective of the region, with endless horizons and the colors of the water changing with the passing days.

The flooded fields become the ideal habitats for lotus and water lily flowers. These magnificent flowers, often bright pink or pure white, symbolize purity and tranquility, thriving in the canals and creating a stunning spectacle. The scene of these lotus-covered fields, backdropped by blue skies, is a feast for the eyes.

How to get to Long An

Tourists can easily get to Long An from Ho Chi Minh City. Owing to a relatively short travel time, the province is an ideal choice for a quick getaway from the bustle of Ho Chi Minh City. To travel to Long An from Ho Chi Minh City, travelers can choose among several modes of transportation.

By Car

The most convenient and flexible way to travel to Long An is by private car. The travel time takes about 2 hours, depending on traffic. The National Route 1A promises a pleasant journey through picturesque landscapes. Moreover, traveling by private car allows travelers to decide whenever to stop during the trip at local villages and take pictures of the typical Mekong Delta landscapes. Once you arrive, you can easily get to the province’s important tourist sites, such as the Tan Lap Floating Village and the Endless Field.

By Bus

For travelers who prefer a more economical option, several bus companies operate regular services between Ho Chi Minh City and Long An. The bus usually departs from the Mien Tay Bus Station, which is close to the city center. The journey takes around 2 hours, and the buses are well-equipped to ensure optimum comfort. Once you arrive at Long An Bus Station, you can take a taxi or motorbike taxi to reach the main tourist attractions.

By motorbike

For adventurous travelers, motorbikes are a popular option. Traveling by motorbike is a pleasant way to discover the surrounding villages and landscapes at your own pace. However, it is advisable to be well prepared and to wear a helmet for safety, especially if you are not used to driving in Vietnam.

How to get to Long An’s tourist sites

Long An’s star attractions are all easy to access. For example, the Tan Lap Floating Village is around 20 kilometers from Tan An City, the capital city of Long An Province. To get to the popular village, you simply need to take the secondary roads that wind through rice paddies and marshes. The Endless Field, with its spectacular expanse of lush green rice paddies and swamps, is also nearby and can be reached by either car or motorbike.

Not-to-be-missed activities while in Long An

- Cruising through the canals in the Tan Lap Floating Village and the Endless Field

- Forest bathing inside the cajeput forest

- Explore the local culture through visits to farms and traditional houses

- Taste local specialties such as grilled snakehead fish, fresh fruits from orchards,  and dishes from rice and vegetables.

Why visit Long An

Long An, a province in the southern part of Vietnam, is ideal for visitors looking for an authentic experience, far away from mainstream tourism.
Impressive landscape

One of the main reasons why travelers choose to visit Long An is its nature. The province, situated in the Mekong Delta, is a haven of peace, featuring lush green rice paddies as far as the eye can see, winding canals lined with lotuses and idyllic villages. 

An environment favorable to ecotourism 

If you are passionate about ecotourism, Long An is a destination that deserves your full attention. As part of the veritable natural laboratory called the Mekong Delta, Long An is home to an exceptional range of plant and animal species, including rare birds and aquatic plants. 

Authentic and immersive experiences

Stunning natural scenery is only one of what Long An has to offer. Visits to the villages of the province offer opportunities to meet friendly locals, as well as discover customs and traditions that have been preserved over the centuries. Visiting bustling local markets, sampling the region’s culinary specialties, and taking part in traditional festivals are the best ways to learn about the local culture.

A perfect place to unwind

Whether you're a photography enthusiast, a keen hiker, or simply looking for a relaxing break in the great outdoors, Long An offers a multitude of activities to suit all types of travelers. If you like photography, the region's varied landscapes offer exceptional opportunities to capture the beauty of the surroundings. The rice paddies and lotus flowers in particular, during the flood season, are perfect subjects for unforgettable shots. If you're more active, you can enjoy outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, or even birdwatching in the protected areas. For those simply looking for a quiet, relaxing place to recharge their batteries, Long An is a haven of peace. Far from the crowds of tourists and the noise of the big cities, this province offers a soothing atmosphere, ideal for relaxing and reconnecting with yourself. The natural setting and tranquillity of the area invite you to take a well-deserved break, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the slow pace of rural life.

TOLUNHA

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