Is Long An worth visiting for a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City?

Yes, it's an excellent day trip to experience the Mekong Delta's quieter side, with boat tours, historical sites, and rural landscapes just 1-2 hours away.

What is the main city in Long An?

Tan An is the capital and main administrative city, but it's small. Most tourist activities are in the surrounding rural districts and waterways.

Can I see floating markets in Long An?

Long An has smaller, local floating markets, not the large tourist-oriented ones like Cai Rang. They offer a more authentic, less crowded experience.

What is a must-try local dish?

Bánh phồng tôm (shrimp crackers) from Long An are renowned. Also try local river fish dishes and tropical fruits from orchard gardens.

Do I need a visa for Vietnam to visit Long An?

Yes, most foreign nationals require a visa for Vietnam. Check requirements based on your nationality before travel; e-visas are available for many.

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

What currency is used?

Vietnamese Dong (VND). US dollars are accepted in some tourist spots.

Is English widely spoken?

Limited. Basic English in hotels and tourist areas; learn a few Vietnamese phrases.

What is the local cuisine like?

Fresh seafood, rice dishes, and tropical fruits. Try 'bánh tét' and 'hủ tiếu'.

Can I use credit cards?

Major hotels and restaurants accept cards, but cash is king in local markets.

Is it safe to eat street food?

Yes, choose busy stalls with high turnover. Avoid raw or undercooked items.

Lightweight clothing, rain jacket (if rainy season), insect repellent, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes.

Yes, in Tân An and larger towns. Carry cash for rural areas.

How do I get to Long An from Ho Chi Minh City?

By bus (1-2 hours) or taxi. Frequent services from Mien Tay bus station.

What souvenirs to buy?

Dried longan, local honey, rice paper, and handmade crafts.

Long An

ProvinceVietnam, Asia

Long An is a STATE in Vietnam, Asia.

Long An, the 'Gateway to the Mekong Delta,' offers a captivating blend of riverine landscapes, historical intrigue, and authentic southern Vietnamese culture. Located just southwest of Ho Chi Minh City, this province serves as a perfect introduction to the delta's unique way of life. Travelers are drawn to its vast rice paddies, lush orchards, and intricate network of canals, best explored by boat. Key destinations include the historic Rach Cat Fortress, a relic of French colonial architecture, and the Dong Thap Muoi (Plain of Reeds) ecoregion, a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, especially at the Lang Sen Wetland Reserve. The province is famed for its traditional crafts, such as the intricate pottery of Tan Lap village and the production of fragrant 'Long An' rice. Culinary adventures await with local specialties like 'bánh phồng tôm' (shrimp crackers) and 'cá lóc nướng trui' (grilled snakehead fish). Long An's charm lies in its serene, rural atmosphere and its role as a living museum of Mekong Delta traditions, providing a more tranquil and less touristy experience compared to its bustling neighbor, Ho Chi Minh City.

Best time to visit Long An

December to April (dry season). This period offers sunny days, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall, ideal for exploring canals, rice fields, and outdoor sites. The weather is pleasant, and water levels are suitable for boat trips. Avoid the rainy season (May-November) when flooding can disrupt travel to rural areas.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Overcast
Temperature: 26°
Feels like: 31°
Humidity: 90%
Wind: 8 km/h
Precipitation: 0 mm

Typical for October

Weather: Warm 27-32°C, rain easing

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Transition month

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

SGN

Tan Son Nhat International Airport

International

50 km away

VCA

Can Tho International Airport

Domestic

120 km away

Getting around

"Primary options include motorbike taxis ('xe ôm') and taxis (Mai Linh, Vinasun) in towns. For rural areas, renting a motorbike (with an international permit) is popular but requires confidence in chaotic traffic. Buses connect Tan An to Ho Chi Minh City and other provinces. The best way to explore the waterways is by hiring a local boat or joining a tour. Ride-hailing apps like Grab operate in Tan An city."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

20 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in hotels and cafes in towns

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport or stores from $3

Calling code

+84

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Low crime but watch for petty theft and traffic.

Night safety

7/10

Low crime but watch for petty theft and traffic.

Transport

8/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Long An is generally safe. Exercise normal precautions: secure valuables, avoid isolated areas at night. Traffic can be chaotic; exercise extreme caution when walking or driving. Be wary of petty theft in crowded markets. Common scams are rare but be cautious with unsolicited guides or overpriced boat tours. Stick to reputable transport providers. Rural roads may be poorly lit after dark."

Police

113

Ambulance

115

Fire

114

Tourist Police

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical facilities in Long An are basic; for serious conditions, travel to Ho Chi Minh City is recommended. Common concerns include mosquito-borne diseases (dengue, Zika), so use repellent and bed nets. Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date; Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus are advised. Drink only bottled or boiled water. The provincial hospital in Tan An city provides general care. Private clinics are limited. Travel health insurance is essential."

Culture

Local customs

"Dress modestly, especially at temples and rural villages. Remove shoes before entering homes. A slight bow with hands together is a respectful greeting. Tipping is not customary but appreciated in tourism services. Always use both hands when giving or receiving items. Avoid public displays of affection. When visiting Khmer communities, be respectful of their distinct Buddhist traditions."

VietnameseKhmer (minority)

Costs and practicals

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND) · ₫

Cost level

Budget

Meals

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

Hotels

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

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Long An is very affordable for travelers.

Timezone

Asia/Ho_Chi_Minh +07:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

1,700,000

Area

4,491.9 km²

Government

Provincial People's Committee (single-party socialist republic)

ISO code

Type

Province

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Khu phố Long An, 隆安, Long An, لونگ‌آن, Trang Bom, Trảng Bom, Xa Trang Bom, Xã Trảng Bôm

Major HubRuralMekong DeltaFruit OrchardsFloating MarketsCyclingCultural