Con Son, also called Son Islet, is a river island on the Hau River near Can Tho, reached by a short boat ride from the city. The title of this product calls it the precious gem of Can Tho, and the description is fair in one sense: it is one of the easiest places near the city to see the delta as farmers see it, without the crowds of the main floating market. The island has orchards, narrow paths, small bridges and houses built close to the water, and the surrounding river is dotted with floating fish farms, where families keep fish in cages beneath their living space. A visit usually mixes a short walk or ride around the island with a stop at a garden, a chance to taste fruit and time to watch how local people live with the river’s rhythm. During the wet season the water rises and some paths flood, which changes the island’s character from a place you walk through to a place you float past. It is a gentle day, rich in small details, and it appeals to people who like rural photography, plants and food.
How it works
This is a guided trip from Can Tho, with transport by boat to the island. Related Con Son trips exist, including one with fruit gardens and a floating fish farm and another that links the islet to a floating market on the Hau River. Check which activities your chosen departure includes, how long you spend on the island, and whether lunch is part of the plan. Most trips operate in the morning and early afternoon.
What to expect
The island is quiet compared with the city, with birdsong, dogs and motorbikes more noticeable than engines. Paths are often shaded, and in dry months you can walk or cycle on them without trouble. Guides may take you to a family garden where the household serves fruit, and to a floating fish farm, where you can see feeding time if you are lucky.
The fish are often catfish and similar river species, and the farm’s small boats and the houses on stilts show how the river is used as both pantry and road. Some trips include a short canoe ride along a narrow channel, which feels very different from the main river.
Making the most of it
Wear light clothing and walking shoes, bring sun protection, and carry cash for small purchases. Mosquitoes can be active near water, so repellent is worthwhile. If you are sensitive to boat motion, sit near the middle of the boat, though the Hau River is rarely rough.
The island is more atmospheric in the early part of the day, when the air is cooler and the light is soft. For anyone short of time, Con Son pairs well with a morning at Cai Rang, since both are on the same river system and operators sometimes combine them.
If you want to see even more of the countryside, combine it with a bicycle tour on another day. Take a moment to look at how houses are built: raised floors, open sides and boats tied at the door show how families plan for rising water, and a polite question to a host about flood season often leads to a surprisingly vivid story. Travellers who like birdwatching may spot herons and kingfishers along the quieter channels, particularly early in the day, so carry a small pair of binoculars if you have them.
What to expect
The experience
A guided boat trip to a river island with garden, fish farm and village stops.
Best time
Morning, in the drier months for easy walking; the wet season brings higher water.
How long
Around four to five hours.
Tips
Wear walking shoes, bring repellent and carry small notes for fruit and crafts.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors who want a quieter rural stop close to Can Tho.
- Families
- Easy paths and animals keep children engaged.
- Couples
- Peaceful, shaded and photogenic.
- Pair with
- A sunrise at Cai Rang or an evening on the waterfront.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
What is Con Son Islet?+
It is a river island on the Hau River near Can Tho with orchards, village houses and floating fish farms.
How do I get to Con Son?+
By boat from Can Tho. A guided tour handles the transfers and the island visit.
Is Con Son suitable for children?+
Yes. The paths are easy and the animals and boat rides are popular, though sun and mosquitoes need handling.
Can the island flood?+
In the wet season the water rises and some paths flood, so ask the operator how the route works then.
Can I combine it with a floating market?+
Many operators pair Con Son with a floating-market visit on the Hau River. Check the itinerary of your chosen tour.
