Welcome to Thoi Son Island—a symbol of the vibrant living heritage and resilient spirit of the Mekong Delta. Through the lens of Mekong Smile, this journey is more than just a sightseeing tour; it is a deep connection with sustainable cultural values. Here, you will experience the rhythmic dip of a xuồng ba lá (three-plank sampan) through water-coconut canals, visit traditional coconut candy workshops, taste fresh honey from longan orchards, and be moved by the soulful melodies of Don Ca Tai Tu folk music. This Thoi Son Island guide provides comprehensive information on location, logistics from Ho Chi Minh City, signature 1-day and 2-day itineraries, and frequently asked questions to ensure a perfect trip. Join us in discovering the timeless beauty of Southern Vietnam through the most genuine smiles.
Lastest update by Mr Jimmy at Mekong Smile | Official Tien Giang Travel Guide
Overview of Thoi Son Island
A Glance at Thoi Son Island
- Location: Tien River, My Tho City, Tien Giang Province, Mekong Delta (approx. 70km from Ho Chi Minh City).
- Island Type: Large-scale fruit orchard and artisan island (The largest of the four “Holy Animal” islands).
- Size: Over 1,200 hectares of fertile alluvial land.
- Key Highlights: Ancient wooden houses, honeybee apiaries, coconut candy workshops, and traditional rowing sampans.
- Best Visiting Time: Year-round (Peak fruit harvest: June–August; Dry season: December–April).
- Average Visit Duration: 3–5 hours.
- Access: Motorboat from My Tho’s 30/4 Pier (approx. 15–20 minutes).
Understanding Thoi Son Island: The Gateway to Mekong Traditions
Thoi Son is the largest of the four iconic “holy animal” islands—Dragon (Cồn Rồng), Unicorn (Cồn Lân), Tortoise (Cồn Quy), and Phoenix (Cồn Phụng)—situated in the lower reaches of the Tien River. Spanning over 1,200 hectares of alluvial soil, this island is a fertile paradise that has sustained generations of fruit farmers and river-folk.
The landscape is defined by a complex web of intricate canal systems and “Vàm” (creek mouths) that dictate the rhythm of daily life, where traditional wooden architecture remains beautifully preserved amidst vast, lush orchards.
For Mekong Smile, Thoi Son is not just a scenic stop but a living classroom for sustainable tourism; by choosing a heritage-focused visit, you directly support local families who prioritize traditional land-use practices and protect the artisan crafts that define Southern Vietnamese identity.
Video about Thoi Son Island
Take a moment to immerse yourself in the authentic beauty and rhythmic life of Thoi Son through this cinematic journey, showcasing the genuine smiles and hidden treasures of the Mekong.
Planning Your Visit: Logistics & Timing
Location on Google Map
- Destination: Thoi Son Island (Unicorn Island), My Tho City, Tien Giang Province.
- Geographic Pulse: Nestled in the Tien River (a major branch of the Mekong), providing a natural gateway to the Delta’s waterway systems.
- Proximity: Approximately 70km (1.5 to 2 hours) southwest of Ho Chi Minh City, making it an ideal destination for cultural day trips or immersive weekend escapes.
How to Get There
- Mekong Smile Full-Service Tours (From Ho Chi Minh City): We offer comprehensive, door-to-door tour packages departing directly from your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City. This is the most seamless way to explore Thoi Son:
- Private AC Transport: A comfortable 1.5 to 2-hour drive via the Trung Luong Highway (CT01), allowing you to watch the bustling city transition into the vibrant green rice paddies of Long An and Tien Giang.
- Priority Boarding: Upon arrival at My Tho, our team handles all logistics at the 30/4 Pier. You will board a private motorized boat for a 15-minute scenic cruise across the Tien River.
- Independent Travel (Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho):
- By Shuttle Bus: High-quality limousine vans or buses (like Phuong Trang or Thanh Buoi) depart frequently from the Western Bus Station (Bến Xe Miền Tây). The journey takes approximately 2 hours to reach My Tho City center.
- By Motorbike: For adventurous souls, following National Highway 1A (QL1A) offers a raw look at the Delta’s fringes, though traffic can be heavy.
- The Final River Crossing: Once in My Tho, you must head to the 30/4 Passenger Pier (Bến tàu du lịch 30/4). From here, you rent a boat to reach the island. We recommend booking with a heritage-focused guide as Mekong Smile to ensure you visit authentic artisan workshops rather than high-traffic commercial stops.
Best Time to Visit
The Mekong Delta offers a different charm in every season:
- The Fruit Harvest (June – August): This is the peak of the “vibrant” season. The orchards are heavy with fruit, and the island is filled with the fragrance of ripened longan and rambutan.
- The Dry Season (December – April): Ideal for those who enjoy exploring on two wheels. The paths are dry, and the weather is perfect for cycling tours through the interior of the island.
What to Pack for the Journey
- Sun & Rain Gear: A wide-brimmed hat, biodegradable sunscreen, and a light raincoat (for the sudden tropical showers).
- Footwear: Choose comfortable, non-slip sandals or walking shoes, as you will be stepping in and out of boats and walking on natural garden paths.
- Perspective: Bring an open mind and a camera to capture the “genuine smiles” and the timeless spirit of Southern Vietnam.
What to Do at Thoi Son Island
Rowing Sampans
Glide through the island’s hidden arroyos in a traditional xuồng ba lá (three-plank sampan). We bypass commercial tracks to take you under the “green cathedral” of water coconut fronds, where you can feel the natural rhythm of the Mekong. Guided by local rowers who have navigated these veins for decades, this silent journey offers a profound connection to the river’s tranquility that no motorboat can provide.
Authentic Honeybee Farms
Visit small-scale family apiaries nestled within emerald longan orchards. You’ll be invited to a traditional “honey party” to sample warm tea naturally sweetened with fresh honey and tart kumquat. This experience highlights regenerative beekeeping—a practice that supports the island’s biodiversity while providing sustainable, non-extractive livelihoods for local farming families.
The Sweet Art of Coconut Candy (Kẹo Dừa)
Witness the labor-intensive craft of making the Delta’s most famous treat in a family-run workshop. Watch as fresh coconut milk is hand-stirred in large bronze woks over husk-fired stoves until it reaches a perfect golden consistency. We invite you to try wrapping the candy yourself; tasting it while still warm reveals a smoky, authentic flavor far superior to any industrial version.
Mekong Smile invites you to try your hand at wrapping the candy in edible rice paper within our Mekong Delta 2 Day Tour from Ho Chi Minh City. Tasting a piece while it is still warm and soft is a revelation.
Don Ca Tai Tu (Southern Folk Music)
Relax in a shaded orchard with platters of seasonal tropical fruits while listening to Don Ca Tai Tu (Southern Folk Music). This UNESCO-recognized art form expresses the joys and resilience of river life through the delicate sounds of the moon lute and zither. It is a soulful performance that bridges generations, echoing the “genuine smiles” and timeless spirit of Southern Vietnam.
Suggested Thoi Son Island Itineraries
The “Living Heritage” Day Trip (Full-Day)
Explore the highlights of the Tien River region with our signature Mekong Delta Tour 1 Day
- 08:00 AM: Hotel pick-up and scenic transfer to Mỹ Tho.
- 10:00 AM: Cruise the Mekong past the four legendary islands and visit Bến Tre’s coconut and honey workshops.
- 11:30 AM: Enjoy a tranquil sampan ride, a joyful Xe Lôi village tour, and an authentic 5-course riverside lunch.
- 01:00 PM: Relax in a Mekong garden or cycle through charming village paths to meet locals.
- 03:00 PM: Visit the magnificent Vĩnh Tràng Pagoda before a comfortable return transfer to the city.
The “Mekong Pulse” Adventure (2 Days/1 Night)
For travelers seeking a complete immersion into the Delta’s soul, our signature Mekong Delta 2-Day Tour bridges the tranquil orchards of Thoi Son with the high-energy river commerce of Can Tho.
- Day 1: My Tho & Ben Tre Heritage: Start your journey by exploring the “Holy Animal” islands. Experience the serene rowing boat paths of Thoi Son and visit artisan workshops in Ben Tre.
- Day 2: The Vibrancy of Cai Rang: Rise with the sun to witness the spectacular trade at Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest of its kind. Afterward, visit a traditional rice noodle factory and explore the Fruit Gardens and Local Lunch before our private transport returns you comfortably to Ho Chi Minh City.
Sustainable Practices to Visit Thoi Son Island
At Mekong Smile, we align every journey with ESG principles and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). To protect the vibrant heritage of Thoi Son, we encourage our guests to:
- Support the Local Economy: Prioritize buying crafts, honey, and snacks directly from the families who produce them. This ensures that the economic benefits of tourism stay within the community.
- Minimize Environmental Footprint: We provide filtered water refills to discourage the use of single-use plastics. We ask guests to be mindful of waste, as the river ecosystem is highly sensitive.
- Cultural Etiquette: Thoi Son is a residential island. We move with mindfulness, respecting the privacy of local homes and the “quiet” of the orchards. A simple “Xin Chào” (Hello) and a smile go a long way in bridging cultures.
Nearby Attractions to Thoi Son
To complete your exploration of the Tien River region, consider adding these neighboring landmarks to your itinerary, each offering a unique perspective on the spiritual, historical, and ecological diversity of the Mekong. You can explore Vinh Trang Pagoda, a mid-19th-century masterpiece blending Asian and European styles with intricate ceramic mosaics; discover the Delta’s diverse wildlife and anti-venom research at Dong Tam Snake Farm; visit Con Phung (Phoenix Island) to uncover the colorful ruins and eccentric legacy of the “Coconut Religion”; honor national hero Nguyen Hue at the Rach Gam – Xoai Mut Monument, a riverside historical site commemorating a 1785 naval victory; and immerse yourself in daily river life at the bustling My Tho Market, the heart of local trade where you can witness the energetic spirit of the Delta’s traders..
Other Mekong Delta Tours from Ho Chi Minh City
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Half-day Cu Chi Tunnels Tour | Vietnam Underground History Expedition
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Authentic My Tho Mekong Delta Tour: Two Islands for Half a Day
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Mekong Delta 2 Day Tour from Ho Chi Minh City: My Tho – Ben Tre – Can Tho
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Attractions in Mekong Delta
An Binh Islet Tour | A Scenic Mekong River Escape from Can Tho
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Get an Advisor and Book Your Authentic Mekong Delta Tour
Get your free personalized Mekong itinerary - Leave your info and our local expert will respond within 5 minutes to help you design your most authentic trip:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Thoi Son Island suitable for children and seniors?
Yes, the terrain is mostly flat and the boat transfers are short and manageable. However, please note that boarding small sampans requires a bit of balance. Our team is always on hand to assist guests of all ages.
What should I do if I have dietary restrictions?
We take pride in our Mekong Delta Tour. Please inform us at least 24 hours in advance if you are vegetarian, vegan, or have any allergies. We can easily accommodate most requests with delicious, authentic alternatives.
Is there an entrance fee for Thoi Son Island?
Most experiences on the island are part of a broader tour package. If traveling independently, small fees may apply at specific workshops or for the rowing boat service. Booking with Mekong Smile ensures all fees are handled seamlessly.
What happens if it rains during the Thoi Son Island tour?
Tropical showers are common in the Delta but usually pass quickly. Our boats are covered, and we provide rain ponchos. We may adjust the itinerary slightly for your comfort and safety without missing the “heritage” highlights.
Can I buy souvenirs directly from the artisans at Thoi Son Island?
Absolutely. Supporting the local economy is a core part of our mission. You can purchase fresh honey, coconut candy, and local handicrafts directly from the families you visit.
