Tra Vinh’s Con Chim Island
Back to the Simple Life Among Waterways and Greenery
Con Chim is a picturesque island in Tra Vinh Province, deep in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, famed for its lush greenery, serene waterways, and ponds where shrimp, fish, and crab are cultivated.
I’ve always been drawn to the Mekong Delta, and when I heard about Con Chim Island, I knew I had to see it for myself.
Our guide, Mr. Nguyen Hoang Huy Tung, explained that islanders balance tourism and agriculture with respect for nature: no plastic waste, no fishing nets with mesh smaller than 1.8 cm, and no pesticides or chemicals in farming.
Only the Name Remains
Despite its name—“The Bird Island”—Con Chim today has few birds. Instead, it’s a tranquil village where most people make a living from aquaculture. Visitors can cycle along quiet village paths lined with ponds and enjoy specialties like banh xeo, a savory pancake filled with pork, shrimp, bean sprouts, and fresh herbs.
These pancakes are often cooked right in front of you, so you can enjoy them hot from the griddle. For drinks, coconut water is a favorite—sweet, refreshing, and naturally abundant here thanks to the many coconut palms.
Though its avian population has dwindled, the island still holds a rustic charm. The air is fresh, the scenery green and water-laced, making it an ideal retreat for anyone escaping the city’s noise.
The locals live by the motto: “The countryside people have only a warm heart.” Many are farmers or fishermen, dedicated to preserving their unique ecosystem for future generations.
Getting There
My journey began early from Ho Chi Minh City. After nearly four hours by bus, I reached Ba Tram Ferry Dock, then boarded a ferry for Con Chim.
The trip was a feast for the eyes—lush mangroves, green water hyacinths, and glimpses of the Mekong’s timeless lifestyle. The ferry ride itself took about 20 minutes, offering views of the mangrove forests that are vital to the delta’s biodiversity.
Stepping ashore, I was welcomed by the sight of ponds, rice paddies, and the whisper of wind in the trees. A bicycle seemed the perfect way to explore.
The dirt paths, flanked by fields and waterways, were well-kept and easy to ride. I stopped often to admire the endless green stretches and mirror-like ponds.
An Eye-Opening Day
Cycling past ponds, I watched farmers at work—an everyday scene that reminded me of the labor behind every meal. Fishermen tended their boats, and with their help, I even tried fishing, managing to catch a few small fish.
For lunch, I dined in a rustic restaurant using only local produce. The shrimp, crab, and fish were fresh and flavorful, the vegetables crisp—an authentic taste of traditional Mekong cooking.
As the sun sank over the paddies, I wandered the village once more, soaking in the peace. My day on Con Chim had been a rare chance to trade the city’s pace for a slower rhythm, and I left with a deep appreciation for this community’s harmony with nature.
Immerse Yourself in Nature
If you come to Con Chim to unwind, start by unplugging—turn off your phone and step away from your laptop. Spend your time reading, meditating, or simply absorbing the sights and sounds around you. The island is perfect for mindfulness: sit quietly, notice your breath, and let the water and wind become your soundtrack.
Walking or biking is the best way to experience Con Chim’s gentle beauty. You’ll find yourself discovering hidden corners and hearing stories from the people you meet along the way. Take time to connect with the locals—they’ll happily share their traditions and may even invite you to join community activities.
Stay with the Locals
A homestay here offers not only a bed but a window into daily life. At Mrs. Nguyen Thi Bich Van’s homestay, a room for two costs about 300,000 VND per night with breakfast. The rooms are simple but clean, equipped with private bathrooms and fans instead of air conditioning.
The setting—next to fish ponds—adds to the quiet charm. You’ll see firsthand how people farm and fish, and perhaps join in. Alternatively, you can stay in Tra Vinh City, about 15 km away, where homestays are similarly priced and offer a warm, relaxed atmosphere.
How to Get There from Ho Chi Minh City
From Ho Chi Minh City, buses to Tra Vinh cost about 150,000 VND one way from the Mien Tay Bus Station. From Tra Vinh, take a taxi to Ba Tram Ferry Dock (also called Phuong Vinh – Long Hung Ferry Dock) for around 200,000 VND. The ferry ride takes about 15 minutes and costs 10,000 VND.
If you prefer an easier option, tour agencies such as Tourista, Vietravel, and Ben Thanh Tourist offer one-day trips starting at 770,000 VND, departing at 6 a.m. and including breakfast en route.
Once on the island, the best way to get around is by bicycle, which you can rent for about 30,000 VND a day.
