Things To Do
in Cà Mau
Cà Mau is Vietnam’s southernmost provincial capital, nestled at the edge of the Mekong Delta’s vast network of rivers and mangroves. It serves as a gateway to the Ca Mau Cape and the U Minh Ha mangrove forests, offering a unique blend of wetlands, waterway life, and coastal scenery. The city centers around bustling markets, friendly locals, and a growing seafood-inspired culinary scene.
Visiting reveals a laid-back pace, vibrant river life, and chances to glimpse rare coastal biodiversity.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a traditional Vietnamese breakfast at a local eatery, savoring dishes like pho or banh mi. After breakfast, embark on a boat tour through the lush waterways of the Mekong Delta, taking in the vibrant local life along the riverbanks. Stop at a floating market where you can witness the bustling trade of fruits and goods while tasting fresh tropical fruits.
Continue your boat journey to visit local villages known for their craftsmanship, where you can observe artisans creating traditional handicrafts. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a riverside restaurant, sampling regional specialties such as grilled fish wrapped in banana leaves. After lunch, explore the nearby coconut groves and learn about the importance of coconuts in the local economy.
Return to your accommodation and freshen up before heading out for dinner at a coastal seafood restaurant. Enjoy the catch of the day, prepared in various authentic Vietnamese styles while overlooking the tranquil waters. After dinner, take a stroll along the waterfront to enjoy the evening breeze and vibrant night market atmosphere.
Begin your adventure with an early breakfast before heading to Cà Mau National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Join a guided tour through the mangrove forests, where you will learn about the unique ecosystem and spot various wildlife, including birds and reptiles. Enjoy the serene surroundings while listening to the sounds of nature, which creates a peaceful ambiance.
After a morning of exploration, have a picnic lunch amidst the park, surrounded by the natural beauty of the mangroves. Post-lunch, continue your trek on one of the park's many trails, keeping an eye out for rare flora and fauna. Visit the park's observation tower for panoramic views of the lush landscape and inland waterways.
Return to Cà Mau city to unwind and enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant specializing in traditional Southern Vietnamese cuisine. Sample dishes like crab soup and shrimp spring rolls, which are local favorites. After your meal, visit a nearby coffee shop to soak in the local culture and perhaps enjoy a traditional Vietnamese coffee.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $0.5-2 |
| 🍜Street snack or small dish | $1-3 |
| 🚕Short local transport | $2-5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich mangrove scenery and biodiversity
- Friendly locals and seafood-centered cuisine
- Accessible from Can Tho and Rạch Giá via road and boat services
- Remote feel with limited international services
- English may be less common outside tourist-oriented spots
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is it?
- "Ở đây có món đặc sản không?" - Do you have a local specialty here?
- "Tôi muốn gọi món" - I would like to order
- "Bạn có thể giúp tôi không?" - Could you help me?
- "Làm ơn" - Please
- "Xin lỗi" - Sorry
Places to Visit in Cà Mau
Visit one of these nice places.
The southernmost point of Vietnam with a lighthouse and vast coastal views; ideal at sunrise or sunset for dramatic seascapes.
Elevated walkways through mangrove canals, offering opportunities to photograph wildlife and reflections in the water.
Historic river market scene with boats, trades, and colorful displays of fish and produce—great for candid portraits and market textures.
Golden-hour light over the winding river with silhouettes of boats and traditional activity along the quay.
Food in Cà Mau
Cà Mau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A noodle soup with a fermented fish broth, loaded with seafood and vegetables, reflecting the delta’s bold flavors.
Must-Try!
Fermented fish hotpot with an assortment of seafood, vegetables, and herbs—perfect for sharing.
Sour snakehead fish soup with tamarind, tomato, and okra—bright and tangy.
Crispy rice flour pancake filled with shrimp and pork, served with fresh greens and herbs.
Fresh spring rolls with herbs, shrimp or pork, and vermicelli, paired with a peanut or hoisin dipping sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning market on the river where boats sell seafood, fruit, and local snacks; ideal for atmosphere and photography.
Bustling daytime market with produce, spices, and ready-to-eat street bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake is common; address elders with appropriate honorifics; avoid touching someone’s head or pointing with a finger.
Dress modestly when visiting temples; remove hats indoors; speak calmly and avoid loud displays of anger or affection in public.
Safety
Tipping in Cà Mau
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; 5–10% in restaurants if service is not included.
Cash in Vietnamese dong is widely used; some larger hotels and venues may accept cards or mobile wallets, but many smaller establishments operate on cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Sunny days with lower rainfall; perfect for cape visits and river excursions, though it can be hot and humid—pack sun protection and stay hydrated.
Frequent rain showers and higher humidity; water levels rise, enhancing mangrove scenery but potentially delaying outdoor plans; carry a lightweight rain jacket.
Cà Mau at Night
Hiking in Cà Mau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy, nature-filled trails along mangrove wetlands with bird and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Cà Mau by plane.
A small domestic airport serving routes to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and nearby Mekong hubs; quick access to the city.
A larger regional airport about 170–200 km away; more flight options and international connections; accessible by road or longer bus routes.
Gateway for the western Mekong region with local connections; useful as an alternative access point to Ca Mau area when combined with a road journey.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population with significant Khmer and Hoa (ethnic Chinese) communities present in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed; local leagues and casual games are common in neighborhoods.
Popular in parks and community centers; often played in evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cà Mau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Navigate by asking for vegetable dishes or tofu-based options; request no fish sauce or meat in preparations; many spots can prepare meat-free dishes with local greens and tofu.