What is the main city/town to stay in Hau Giang?

Vi Thanh City is the provincial capital and the main base, offering the widest range of accommodation, dining, and transport links.

How do I get to Hau Giang from Ho Chi Minh City?

Take a bus (3-4 hours) or drive to Can Tho City, then a shorter bus/taxi ride (about 45 mins) to Vi Thanh, Hau Giang. There is no airport or train station in the province.

Are the floating markets active every day?

Yes, major markets like Nga Bay (Phung Hiep) operate daily, but they are most vibrant and start very early, typically from 5:00 AM to 8:00 AM.

Is English widely spoken in Hau Giang?

No, English proficiency is limited, especially outside Vi Thanh. Learning basic Vietnamese phrases or traveling with a guide is highly recommended.

What are the must-try local foods?

Don't miss hu tieu (noodle soup), bun nuoc leo (a regional vermicelli soup), fresh river fish, and an abundance of tropical fruits like mango, rambutan, and mangosteen.

Varies by nationality. Many countries get 15-30 day visa exemption. Check with Vietnamese embassy.

What language is spoken?

Vietnamese. English is limited; learn basic phrases or use translation apps.

Is tap water safe to drink?

No. Drink bottled or boiled water.

What currency is used?

Vietnamese Dong (VND). Cash is king; ATMs available in towns.

Can I use credit cards?

Only in larger hotels and restaurants in Vi Thanh. Carry cash for markets and rural areas.

Light clothing, rain jacket (May-Nov), insect repellent, sunscreen, hat, comfortable walking shoes.

Are there any cultural taboos?

Avoid pointing feet at people or religious objects. Don't touch monks or their robes.

Is it safe to eat street food?

Yes, choose busy stalls with high turnover. Avoid raw vegetables if unsure of water source.

How do I get to Hau Giang?

Fly to Can Tho (VCA), then 1-hour bus/taxi. Or bus from Ho Chi Minh City (4-5 hours).

What is the internet like?

Good in towns; 4G coverage is reliable. Rural areas may have slower speeds.

Are there English-speaking guides?

Few. Arrange through Can Tho agencies or hire a translator.

What is the tipping etiquette?

Not expected, but rounding up taxi fares or leaving small change at restaurants is appreciated.

Hau Giang

ProvinceVietnam, Asia

Hau Giang is a STATE in Vietnam, Asia.

Hau Giang, nestled in Vietnam's Mekong Delta, is a hidden gem where authentic riverine life unfolds at a gentle pace. This young province, established in 2004, offers travelers an unfiltered glimpse into the soul of the delta, far from the well-trodden tourist paths. Its landscape is a mesmerizing tapestry of emerald rice paddies, intricate canal networks, and lush orchards bursting with tropical fruits. The heart of Hau Giang beats in its floating markets, like Nga Bay (Phung Hiep), where boats laden with produce create a vibrant, floating bazaar at dawn. Cultural richness is showcased in the ancient Khmer pagodas, such as Xa Lon Pagoda with its stunning Khmer architecture, and in the traditional craft villages where locals weave intricate mats and create rice paper. Nature lovers can explore the serene Lung Ngoc Hoang Nature Reserve, a wetland sanctuary teeming with birdlife. What makes Hau Giang truly special is its profound tranquility and the genuine warmth of its people, offering a deeply immersive experience into the agricultural rhythms and watery ways of life that define the Mekong Delta.

Best time to visit Hau Giang

The dry season from December to April is ideal, with sunny days, lower humidity, and minimal rain, perfect for exploring canals and markets. The flooding season (August-November) offers a unique perspective as the delta swells, creating 'floating street' scenes, but travel can be wetter. Avoid peak rainy months of September and October if you prefer drier conditions. Key festivals like the Khmer Chol Chnam Thmay (New Year in April) and Ok Om Bok (Moon Worship Festival in November) provide rich cultural experiences.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Rainy, 24-30°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Harvest season

Know before you go

Getting there

VCA

Can Tho International Airport

International

40 km away

SGN

Tan Son Nhat International Airport

International

200 km away

Getting around

"Motorbike taxis (xe om) and cyclos are common for short trips in towns. Taxis (Mai Linh, Vinasun are reliable) are available in Vi Thanh. For a true delta experience, hire a local boat with a guide to explore canals and floating markets. Bicycles can be rented for exploring rural paths. Inter-province travel relies on buses connecting to Can Tho and other delta hubs. Ride-hailing apps like Grab operate in Vi Thanh. Renting a car with a driver is recommended for comfort and navigation."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

20 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in hotels and cafes in towns

Local SIM

Local SIM available at Can Tho airport from $3

Calling code

+84

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Generally safe; watch for pickpockets in markets.

Night safety

7/10

Generally safe; watch for pickpockets in markets.

Transport

8/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Hau Giang is generally safe with low violent crime. Petty theft (snatch-and-grab) can occur in crowded markets; secure valuables. Be cautious on boats and near waterways. Road safety is a significant concern: traffic can be chaotic, with many motorbikes; exercise extreme caution when crossing roads or if driving/riding. Scams are rare but be wary of overcharging for boat tours or taxis; agree on prices beforehand. Avoid remote areas alone at night. Political demonstrations should be avoided."

Police

113

Ambulance

115

Fire

114

Tourist Police

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical facilities in Hau Giang are basic. For serious conditions, travel to Can Tho or Ho Chi Minh City is advised. Hau Giang General Hospital in Vi Thanh city is the main public facility. Common health concerns include mosquito-borne diseases (dengue, Zika), food/waterborne illnesses, and heat-related ailments. Vaccinations for Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and Tetanus are recommended. Malaria prophylaxis is generally not needed for the delta, but dengue prevention (repellent, clothing) is crucial. Drink only bottled or boiled water and eat well-cooked food. Travel health insurance is essential."

Culture

Local customs

"Dress modestly, especially when visiting pagodas (cover shoulders and knees). Remove shoes before entering homes and religious sites. A slight bow with hands together is a respectful greeting. Tipping is not customary but appreciated for good service in tourism. Always use both hands or your right hand when giving/receiving items, especially money. Avoid public displays of affection. When on a boat, be respectful of the boatman's instructions. It's polite to accept small offers of tea or fruit from hosts."

VietnameseKhmerHoa

Costs and practicals

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND) · ₫

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$2-5 | a local meal costs $2-5

Hotels

$15-40 | budget hotels range $15-40/night

Local transport

$1-2 | local bus ride ~$1-2

Cost notes

Hau Giang is very affordable; luxury options limited.

Timezone

Asia/Ho_Chi_Minh +07:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

750,000

Area

1,601 km²

Government

Provincial People's Committee (a local administrative body under the central government of Vietnam)

ISO code

Type

Province

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Tỉnh Chương Thiện, محافظة هو زانغ, ハウザン, Вилояти Хау Гианг, استان هاوجانگ, ہآو جانگ صوبہ, Hậu Giang, Хау Жјанг, Province de Hậu Giang, Provinsi Hau Giang, 後江省, Хаузянг, Prowincja Hậu Giang, Tỉnh Hậu Giang, Provinz Hậu Giang, VN-73, Mkoa wa Hậu Giang, Hậu Giang Province, Provincia di Hau Giang, 하우장성, Хау Жианг, Hau Giang, 后江省, Vinh Thuan, Vĩnh Thuận

Major HubRuralFloating MarketsFruit OrchardsCanalsBirdwatchingCulturalFamily-FriendlyBudget-Friendly