If you are dreaming of the Mekong Delta, you are likely picturing one specific image: a small wooden boat drifting down a narrow canal, surrounded by lush green water coconut palms. That iconic scene? It happens right here on Thoi Son Island (also known as Thoi Son Islet or Thai Son Islet).
Located in the heart of the Tien River, Thoi Son is the largest of the four sacred islands representing the mythical quartet: Dragon, Unicorn, Turtle, and Phoenix. While many tourists rush through the Delta, the real magic lies in slowing down.
At Sunday Go, we have spent over 5 years guiding international guests through these waterways. Whether you are looking for a quick day trip or a deep cultural immersion, this guide covers everything you need to know about visiting the “Unicorn Islet.”
Where is Thoi Son Island?
Thoi Son Island is situated downstream of the Tien River, acting as a natural green bridge between My Tho City (Tien Giang Province) and Ben Tre Province. It covers about 1,200 hectares of lush fruit orchards and crisscrossing canals.
For travelers, its location is perfect. It sits just under the spectacular Rach Mieu Bridge, making it easily accessible for a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City without requiring an overnight stay.
How to Get to Thoi Son Island (From Ho Chi Minh City)
Getting to the island is part of the adventure. The distance is approximately 70-80 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Option 1: By Bus (The Budget Choice)
You can take a bus from the Mien Tay Bus Station in Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho. Companies like Phuong Trang (Futa Bus) run frequently.
- Pros: Cheap (approx. $3-5 USD).
- Cons: The bus drops you at the station, not the boat pier. You will still need to catch a taxi (Mai Linh or Grab) to the My Tho Tourist Wharf.
Option 2: Private Car Rental (The Comfortable Choice)
For families or groups aged 22-60 who prioritize comfort, renting a private car is the smartest move.
- Why choose this: You avoid the heat, enjoy door-to-door service from your hotel, and have the flexibility to stop for photos at the Rach Mieu Bridge.
- Sunday Go Service: We provide private car rentals with professional drivers who know the route perfectly, ensuring you arrive fresh and ready to explore.
Option 3: The All-Inclusive Tour Combo
Most international travelers prefer booking a Thoi Son island tour package. This typically includes round-trip transport, boat fees, lunch, and a guide.
- Sunday Go Solution: Our “Mekong Delta Discovery” combo takes care of all logistics so you can focus on the experience.
Top Things to Do on Thoi Son Island
Once you arrive at the islet, the world slows down. Here are the must-do activities for a complete Thoi Son island tourism experience.
The Hand-Rowed Sampan Ride
This is the highlight of the trip. You will hop into a small wooden sampan (a traditional flat-bottomed boat) steered by a local rower. They will paddle you through narrow, winding creeks shaded by thick nipa palm leaves. It is quiet, peaceful, and incredibly photogenic.
Tip: Please respect the rowers; a small tip (20,000 – 50,000 VND) is a kind gesture for their hard work.
Visit a Local Bee Farm
Thoi Son is famous for its longan orchards, which provide nectar for thousands of honeybee colonies. You can visit a farm to see how they harvest honey and enjoy a complimentary cup of honey tea mixed with kumquat and pollen.
Brave enough? You can hold a frame of bees or take a photo with a resident python (don’t worry, they are gentle!).
Enjoy Tropical Fruits and Folk Music
After a short walk through the village paths, you will stop at a garden house to taste seasonal fruits like rambutan, jackfruit, dragon fruit, and longan. While you eat, local artists perform Don Ca Tai Tu—a traditional form of Southern Vietnamese amateur music recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Coconut Candy Workshop
Cross over to the Ben Tre side or visit workshops on the island to see how the famous coconut candy (Keo Dua) is made. From grating the coconut flesh to stirring the pot over a wood fire, everything is done by hand. You can taste the warm, soft candy right off the cutting table.
“Ditch Fishing” (Tát mương bắt cá)
For a fun team-building activity, you can dress up in a traditional “Ba Ba” shirt (black farmers’ pajamas) and jump into a muddy ditch to catch fish with your bare hands. The reward? The fish you catch will be grilled for your lunch!
Thoi Son Island Tour: DIY vs. Sunday Go Package
Is it better to go alone or book a service? This comparison helps you decide.
| Feature | DIY (Do It Yourself) | Sunday Go Tour Package |
| Transport | Bus + Taxi + Walking (High effort) | Private Car / AC Van (Relaxed) |
| Boat Rental | Must haggle at the pier (Risk of overcharging) | Pre-booked private boat included |
| Lunch | Find your own restaurant | Elephant Ear Fish lunch included |
| Guide | No guide (Language barrier possible) | English-speaking local expert |
| Flexibility | High, but requires planning | Optimized itinerary |
Thoi Son Island Ferry & Logistics
If you are traveling independently, you cannot just swim to the island! You need to take a boat.
- Departure Point: Boats depart from the My Tho Tourist Wharf (30/4 Street, My Tho City).
- The “Scam” Warning: Do not buy tickets from random people on the street. Go inside the ticket hall or book in advance through a trusted agent like Sunday Go to ensure fair pricing.
- Crossing the River: The motorized boat ride across the Tien River takes about 15-20 minutes, offering grand views of the floating fish farms.
Best Time to Visit Thoi Son Island Vietnam
The Mekong Delta is beautiful year-round, but your experience depends on the season:
- Fruit Season (June – August): This is when the orchards are most vibrant. You can see trees heavy with durian, mangosteen, and rambutan.
- Floating Season (September – November): The water levels rise, bringing a unique atmosphere to the delta, though walking paths can be a bit muddy.
- Dry Season (December – April): The most comfortable weather for international tourists—sunny skies and lower humidity.
Essential Tips for Travelers
- Clothing: Wear comfortable walking shoes and light, breathable fabrics. You will be getting in and out of small boats.
- Sun Protection: A hat and sunscreen are mandatory. The Delta sun is strong!
- Visa Services: If you fall in love with Vietnam and want to extend your trip, Sunday Go also specializes in visa services and passport support to keep your travel plans smooth.
Conclusion
Thoi Son Island is more than just a tourist stop; it is a living, breathing example of the Mekong Delta’s river culture. From the taste of fresh honey tea to the sound of the wooden oars hitting the water, it offers a sensory escape from the city.
However, the logistics of ferries, boats, and transfers can be tricky for first-timers. Why stress over maps and bargaining?
