Things To Do
in An Phú

An Phú is a rural district in An Giang Province along the Mekong Delta’s Bassac River, near the Cambodian border. The area blends lush riverine scenery with bustling markets where fish, fruit, and produce are traded daily. Life centers on waterways, temples, and family-run farms that showcase traditional delta living.

Visitors find a quiet, authentic delta atmosphere with opportunities for boat rides, cycling, and Khmer-influenced culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Local Markets
morning
:

Start your day early by visiting the bustling local market in An Phú, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and interact with friendly vendors. Try some fresh tropical fruits and local delicacies like banh mi for breakfast. The rich colors and lively sounds will energize you for the adventures ahead.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon walking through the small streets lined with traditional homes and local shops. Stop for lunch at a quaint eatery, sampling regional specialties that reflect the rich culinary heritage of the Mekong Delta. As you explore, take the time to chat with locals and learn about their way of life.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy café along the riverbank to enjoy the twilight views over the water. Savor a refreshing drink while watching the local fishermen prepare for the night-time catch. The peaceful ambiance provides a perfect ending to your first day in An Phú.

day 2
River Cruise Adventure
morning
:

Wake up early and hop onto a boat for a scenic cruise along the beautiful Mekong River. Marvel at the lush green landscapes and traditional fishing villages as you glide past. Don’t forget your camera, as the unique sights will provide endless photo opportunities.

afternoon
:

After the cruise, spend the afternoon visiting a nearby fruit orchard where you can participate in fruit-picking and savor the local produce. Enjoy a picnic lunch under the shade of tropical trees, surrounded by the sweet aroma of ripe fruits. This hands-on experience will connect you with the agricultural roots of the region.

evening
:

Return to An Phú and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner at a family-run restaurant, learning about recipes that have been passed down through generations. Engage in conversation with the locals as they share stories about their culture and heritage. The warmth of Vietnamese hospitality will make your evening memorable.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant$3-6
Local coffee$0.5-2
🥤Fruit shake or smoothie$1-3
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$25-60
🚗Short taxi ride (within town)$2-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic delta experiences with strong river life and markets
  • Rich Khmer-Krom cultural influence and scenic boat routes
  • Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure outside major hubs
  • Heat and humidity can be challenging for some travelers
  • "Xin chào" - Hello
  • "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
  • "Xin lỗi" - Sorry
  • "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is it?
  • "Bạn có nói tiếng Anh không?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Ở đây có chỗ vệ sinh không?" - Is there a restroom here?
  • "Ăn chay được không?" - Is there a vegetarian option?
  • "Món đặc sản ở đây là gì?" - What is the specialty here?
  • "Giá bao nhiêu?" - What is the price?
  • "Bạn có thể giúp tôi?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in An Phú

Visit one of these nice places.

Bassac River Riverside, An Phú

Golden-hour reflections on the water with traditional stilt houses and boats making a tranquil delta scene.

Tra Su Cajuput Forest

Boardwalk routes through expansive wetlands; ideal for wide-angle wetlands, birds, and sunrise silhouettes.

Núi Sam (Sam Mountain)

Hillside temple complex with sweeping views of the delta; stair climbs and atmospheric sunset shots.

Khmer stilt houses along the Bassac

Colorful riverside architecture and daily life scenes—great for documentary-style photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in An Phú

Mekong Delta cuisine in An Giang is bright, herb-forward, and deeply river-inspired, reflecting Vietnamese, Khmer-Krom, and Hoa influences. Fresh seafood, coconut, river greens, and tangy tamarind underpin many dishes, often shared across family meals and market stalls.

An Phú Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bún cá Long Xuyên

River fish noodle soup with a tangy tamarind broth and fragrant herbs; best found at riverside eateries in An Phú and nearby Long Xuyên.

Must-Try!

Lẩu mắm

Fermented fish hotpot loaded with seafood, vegetables, and fresh herbs; a quintessential delta experience.

Cá kho tộ

Clay pot fish slow-cooked in coconut juice and garlic; rich, comforting, and widely available in local eateries.

Bánh xèo miền Tây

Crispy turmeric-infused rice flour pancake filled with shrimp and pork, served with herbs and a salty-sour dipping sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Chợ An Phú

A bustling morning market offering fresh river fish, tropical fruit, herbs, and prepared snacks—perfect for an authentic breakfast or lunch.

Street food along Bassac River

Casual stalls and mobile vendors offering phở bowls, bánh xèo, fresh fruit shakes, and small bites with river views.

Climate Guide

Weather

An Phú experiences a tropical monsoon climate with two main seasons: a hot, humid wet season and a cooler, drier dry season. Year-round temperatures typically range from the mid-20s to mid-30s Celsius, with high humidity. The wet season (May–Nov) brings heavy rains and higher river levels, while the dry season (Dec–Apr) offers clearer skies and more predictable sunshine.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Temple and cultural manners

Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees) when visiting temples; remove hats and speak softly; ask permission before taking photos of people.

Greetings and respect

A light handshake is common; address elders with courteous titles; avoid touching someone’s head or feet in casual settings.

River life and photography

Be respectful of locals’ privacy when photographing on boats or in homes; offer a quick explanation and ask for consent.

Safety Guide

Safety

Exercise typical delta precautions: stay aware of petty theft in crowded markets, avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas, and use licensed boat operators. Water safety is important on boats; wear life jackets when required. In border areas, follow local guidance and avoid unsupervised border crossings. Stay hydrated and use sun protection in the heat.

Tipping in An Phú

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in tourist-oriented spots; round up bills or leave small tips (5–10%) at nicer restaurants or guided tours.

Payment Methods

Cash in Vietnamese dong is widely used; many larger places accept card payments and digital wallets (Momo, ZaloPay); ATMs are common in Can Tho and Long Xuyên. In rural areas, carry enough cash for small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with tropical showers; expect high humidity and vibrant sunsets; good for river activities early morning or late afternoon.

Wet season

May–Nov brings heavier rainfall and higher river levels; lush greenery and migratory birds; some boat routes may be affected by flooding—check local conditions.

Dry season

Dec–Apr offers drier, cooler days with clearer skies; comfortable for outdoor exploration, though roads can be dusty.

Nightlife Guide

An Phú at Night

The nightlife in An Phú is relaxed and low-key, centered around riverside eateries, night markets, and casual cafes. Expect street food stalls, live music at some guesthouses, and intimate bars, rather than large-scale clubs. Most evenings revolve around sunset meals with family and friends, offering a quiet, social atmosphere rather than a party scene.

Hiking in An Phú

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tra Su Cajuput Forest

Wetland boardwalks and boat rides to explore a pristine cajeput forest and bird habitats; a gentle hike with rewarding viewpoints.

Núi Sam (Sam Mountain)

Accessible hill with temple complexes and stair climbs; provides panoramic delta views and a cultural aspect to a light hike.

Airports

How to reach An Phú by plane.

Can Tho International Airport

Major regional gateway with domestic and some international connections; about a 2.5–3.5 hour drive from An Phú depending on route and border checks.

Rạch Giá Airport

Gateway to the western delta; further than Can Tho but useful for regional connections; local transport to An Phú will require road travel by bus or private car.

Chau Doc Airport (nearby)

Smaller regional airport serving domestic flights; closest to Chau Doc and convenient for delta travelers seeking quick access to western An Giang.

Getting Around

Walkability

An Phú town is walkable in its core, with markets, the riverfront, and temples reachable on foot. Beyond the town center, most visitors rely on bicycles or motorbikes, as roads and sidewalks can be uneven. Riverfront paths offer pleasant strolls, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kinh (Vietnamese) majority

The largest group in the area, with a mix of Khmer-Krom communities and other minority groups contributing to a diverse cultural fabric.

Khmer-Krom

Significant minority with unique temples, language, and cultural practices impacting local markets and cuisine.

Chinese (Hoa) community

Smaller but present, contributing to commerce and family businesses in the delta region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Widely played and followed in towns and schools; local matches and informal games are common.

Badminton

Popular in community centers and guesthouses; easy to join for a quick game.

Fishing

A staple delta activity, both for sport and livelihood, with many local opportunities along riverbanks.

Boat racing

Traditional delta boat racing occurs during festival periods and showcases regional watercraft skills.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in An Phú is dominated by motorbikes and bicycles, with river transport playing a key role for longer trips. Roads can be busy near markets and during festivals; travel times may vary with weather and river levels. Public transit options are more limited than in big cities, so many travelers rely on taxis, private cars, or guided tours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting An Phú.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

In Vietnamese areas, request chay options (vegetarian dishes) and ensure broth is meat-free; ask for nước dùng chay and avoid fish sauce; many places will happily prepare tofu, mushrooms, and greens.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available in An Phú through local clinics and the district hospital; for more advanced care, travel to Long Xuyên or Can Tho where larger hospitals and specialists are located. Carry basic medications and travel with appropriate insurance; pharmacies are common in towns but stock may vary in rural areas. Emergency services can be reached by local ambulance or hospital contact numbers.

Discover Vietnam

Read more in our Vietnam 2025 Travel Guide.

Vietnam Travel Guide