Top 5 Local Experiences for Your Chau Doc Trip

Located in the heart of the Mekong Delta, Chau Doc – An Giang is a land where nature, culture, and spirituality come together in harmony. Known as the gateway between Vietnam and Cambodia, this riverside town captivates visitors with its stunning landscapes, sacred mountains, floating villages, and rich culinary traditions. A visit here is not just about sightseeing—it’s about immersing yourself in the authentic rhythms of the Southwest.

During a Mekong Delta tour to Chau Doc, here are the 5 experiences you should not miss:

1. Conquer Sam Mountain

Sam Mountain (Núi Sam), about 284m high, is the most iconic landmark of Chau Doc. From afar, it stands alone in the vast rice fields, creating a striking silhouette in the Mekong countryside.

Climbing Sam Mountain rewards you with panoramic views of green paddies, scattered villages, and even the Cambodian border on clear days. You’ll not only enjoy the fresh, peaceful space, but also listen to the birds chirping around. Along the slopes, you’ll discover sacred temples and pagodas such as:

• Ba Chua Xu Temple – the most revered pilgrimage site in Southern Vietnam.
• Tay An Pagoda – a unique mix of Indian and Vietnamese design.
• Hang Pagoda – a cave temple with hidden Buddha statues.

Both a scenic hike and a cultural journey, Sam Mountain is an unmissable highlight of Chau Doc.

2. Take a Boat Trip on the Rivers

Life in Chau Doc flows along its rivers and canals, and the best way to experience it is by boat. As you drift through the waterways, you’ll witness the floating markets, where locals trade fruits, vegetables, and daily goods.

Highlights include:

• Visiting floating fishing villages, where families raise fish in cages under their homes.
• Crossing to the Cham villages of Chau Giang, where you’ll stroll through stilt houses, admire colorful mosques, and learn about Cham Muslim traditions.

A boat trip here is more than sightseeing—it’s a window into the authentic daily life of the Mekong people, experience the familiar living pace of the local people and enjoy relaxing moments when drifting gently on the river.

3. Join a Cooking Class

Chau Doc’s cuisine is as diverse as its culture. Joining a local cooking class gives you the chance to shop for fresh ingredients in the market, learn traditional recipes, and cook alongside Cham or Vietnamese chefs.

Typical dishes include:

• Cà ri cá (fish curry) flavored with Cham spices.
• Cơm nị & cà púa – aromatic rice dishes with beef or curry.
• Palm sugar desserts from nearby Tri Tôn.

Cooking and tasting your own dishes is a fun and delicious way to connect with the traditions of An Giang.

4. Discover Tra Su Melaleuca Forest

Just 30 km from Chau Doc lies the magical Tra Su Melaleuca Forest, an ecological reserve best explored by sampan boat. The waterways, often carpeted in bright green duckweed, are shaded by cajuput trees and alive with the songs of countless birds. The forest shelters around 70 species of birds, including rare storks and herons and 140 plant species, creating a lush wetland ecosystem; and diverse wildlife such as reptiles and freshwater fish.

Visitors can explore by boat, walk along wooden bridges, or climb observation towers for sweeping views. Tra Su is a paradise for photographers and nature lovers alike.

5. Taste Chau Doc Specialties

No trip to Chau Doc is complete without indulging in its food. The city is famous for its fermented fish sauces (mắm Châu Đốc), used in countless Mekong Delta dishes. You’ll also find Bún cá (fish noodle soup) – a local favorite; Sticky rice vermicelli dishes, flavored with herbs; Palm sugar sweets and jaggery cakes, unique to An Giang. The delicious taste of each dish not only helps tourists to be full of energy but also makes you remember the culture of Chau Doc.

Wander through Chau Doc Central Market or the lively night stalls near Sam Mountain to savor authentic flavors and shop for culinary souvenirs.

Why Visit Chau Doc?

From climbing sacred mountains and cruising riverside villages, to exploring lush wetlands and tasting distinctive cuisine, Chau Doc offers an authentic slice of the Mekong Delta that few other places can match. It is a destination where culture, spirituality, and nature blend seamlessly—perfect for travelers seeking both adventure and connection.

✨ Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a foodie, a journey to Chau Doc – An Giang promises memories that linger long after you’ve left the rivers behind.