Kien Giang, a province in Southern Vietnam, is a hidden gem for Vietnam travel. With its beautiful coastline and pristine islands, Kien Giang offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors. Whether you are exploring the floating markets, indulging in the fresh seafood, or relaxing on the stunning beaches, Kien Giang is sure to leave you enchanted with its natural beauty and warm hospitality.
1. Overview of Kien Giang Province
Kien Giang Province, located in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam, is the largest province in the Southwestern region and the second largest in Southern Vietnam. The province boasts three cities: Rach Gia, Ha Tien, and Phu Quoc. Its provincial capital, Rach Gia City, lies 250 kilometers away from Ho Chi Minh City.
This province borders the Cambodian province of Kampot to the north with a 56 km-long border, Ca Mau to the south, the Gulf of Thailand to the west with a 200 km-long coastline, and An Giang, Hau Giang, Bac Lieu, and Can Tho City to the east and southeast.
Kien Giang promises a memorable journey through its natural wonders and vibrant communities. Refer to the table below for a glimpse into this enchanting province:
Overview of Kien Giang Province | |
Location | Southern Vietnam |
Region | Mekong Delta |
Area | 6.348,78 square kilometers |
Population | 1,723,067 (2021 Census) |
Cities | Rach Gia (Capital) |
Districts | 12 districts |
Demographics | Vietnamese, Khmer, Hoa |
Telephone code | 297 |
2. The best time to visit Kien Giang
Kien Giang experiences two distinct seasons: rainy and dry. The rainy season typically lasts from April to September, while the dry season extends from October to March.
Due to its low latitude and proximity to the sea, Kien Giang has a tropical monsoon climate, hot and humid year-round, with an average temperature of 27°C. Kien Giang weather is characterized by its stability, rarely experiencing natural disasters such as storms and floods.
For easier exploration of the islands and beaches, it is advisable to visit during the dry months. During this period, the sunny weather allows for vibrant water activities, and the calm seas ensure safer and faster island excursions by boat. Kien Giang climate makes these dry months the ideal time for tourists to enjoy all that the province has to offer.
3. How to get to and get around in Kien Giang Vietnam?
Traveling to Kiên Giang, Vietnam is convenient, with multiple options available for both domestic and international visitors. The province is well-connected by road, sea, and air, allowing travelers to choose the mode of transport that best suits their needs.
3.1. By road
Road travel is a popular way to reach Kiên Giang, especially from Ho Chi Minh City. Buses depart from the Mien Tay Bus Station (Western Bus Station_, with one-way tickets priced between 200,000 VND and 300,000 VND, depending on the bus company and destination.
The journey to Rach Gia or Ha Tien typically takes 4.5 to 6.5 hours. Many travelers opt for night buses to save time and arrive in the morning. Recommended bus companies include Kumho, Hue Nghia, Tuan Nga, Phuong Trang, Hien Van, and Hoang Minh.
3.2. By sea
Kien Giang boasts a well-developed ferry network connecting its mainland cities, Rach Gia and Ha Tien, with nearby islands like Phu Quoc, Hon Son, Nam Du, and more. Ferries operated by companies such as Superdong and Phu Quoc Express run daily, with ticket prices ranging from 100,000 VND to 400,000 VND depending on the route and type of ferry. During peak travel seasons, ferry services are more frequent.
3.3. By air
Kien Giang is also accessible by air through Rach Gia Airport and Phu Quoc Airport. Rach Gia Airport handles smaller aircraft, offering limited flights from Ho Chi Minh City, with travel time of around 50 minutes.
Phu Quoc Airport, exclusively serving the pearl island, is an international airport capable of accommodating various types of aircraft. It operates dozens of daily flights to and from Phu Quoc. Round-trip domestic airfares to Phu Quoc range from 2.5 million VND to 8 million VND, depending on the season, airline, and point of departure.
4. Where to stay in Kien Giang?
Vinpearl Phu Quoc is a premier accommodation and entertainment complex on Phu Quoc Island, attracting numerous travelers from domestic and international destinations. If you are looking for the best option for your stay, Vinpearl Phu Quoc is definitely a perfect choice for your Kien Giang travel.
Thanks to its prime location on the pearl island, Vinpearl Phu Quoc allows visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding natural landscapes, including beautiful beaches and lush tropical forests. In addition, Vinpearl’s hotels and resorts boast world-class amenities, including spacious and elegantly designed rooms and top-notch services to ensure guests' utmost comfort and satisfaction.
Vinpearl also offers a wide range of recreational activities, from relaxing by the poolside to indulging in spa treatments, along with various dining options featuring both local and international cuisine. With its exceptional locations, luxurious accommodations, and impeccable services, Vinpearl Phu Quoc promises an extraordinary experience for all travelers.
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5. Famous destinations in Kien Giang
5.1. Phu Quoc Island
Phu Quoc Island, located in the Gulf of Thailand, is a tropical paradise known for its pristine beaches and awe-inspiring natural wonders. It lies 120 km from Rach Gia City and 45 km from Ha Tien City. The Phu Quoc archipelago consists of 22 large and small islands, with Phu Quoc Island being the largest, divided into North Island and South Island, with Duong Dong Town at its center.
As Vietnam’s most famous tourist island, Phu Quoc attracts both domestic and international visitors year-round with its diverse forms of tourism and rich marine, island, and forest resources. The island has been consistently ranked as an ideal destination for year-round vacations by many renowned international magazines.
Visitors to the island can enjoy a variety of activities, from exploring the enchanting Starfish Beach to immersing themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Phu Quoc Night Market. This island also offers visitors opportunities to delve into the local culture and history, with visits to Ham Ninh Fishing Village and Phu Quoc Prison.
In addition, nature enthusiasts can pay a visit to breathtaking landscapes within Phu Quoc National Park. Adventure seekers can experience exhilarating entertainment at Grand World Phu Quoc or VinWonders Phu Quoc. Meanwhile, animal lovers can indulge in a safari adventure at Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc, where they can get up close to exotic creatures.
Book tickets to VinWonders Phu Quoc
Book tickets to Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc
5.2. Ha Tien
Ha Tien is a picturesque city in Kien Giang with a rich blend of natural landscapes and cultural heritage. Situated 88 km from Rach Gia and 350 km from Ho Chi Minh City, Ha Tien shares a nearly 14 km-long border with Cambodia and boasts a 26 km stretch of coastline along the Gulf of Thailand.
The town's diverse geography includes bays, plains, mountains, rivers, caves, and islands, offering visitors a variety of stunning natural sights. It was once the provincial capital of the former Ha Tien Province and still retains much of its historical charm.
Additionally, the city is home to an international border gate that connects with the Prek Chak Border Gate in Cambodia's Kampot Province, making it an important gateway for cross-border travel and trade. The area's unique blend of coastal beauty, historical significance, and convenient border access makes Ha Tien a compelling destination for travelers exploring the southwestern region of Vietnam.
5.3. Hai Tac Island
Hai Tac Island is another name for Ha Tien Archipelago, which comprises over 18 islands, with the largest one being Hon Tre (Hon Doc) Island. Spanning 251 hectares in the Gulf of Thailand, this archipelago is steeped in history, once serving as a hideout for pirates who attacked merchant ships in the late 17th and early 18th centuries.
Today, Hai Tac Island attracts adventurers with its mysterious allure and offers unique experiences such as exploring the daily life of fishing villages, fishing, and savoring fresh seafood by the beach. Visitors can also enjoy activities like snorkeling and coral viewing.
The island is accessible from Hà Tiên City, with a boat ride taking nearly an hour. Ticket prices range from 70,000 to 90,000 VND, and travelers can bring motorbikes to explore the island.
5.4. Nam Du Island
Nam Du Islands consist of 21 islands of varying sizes and is the most remote cluster in the Kien Hai District, approximately 120 km from Rach Gia. Known for its pristine beauty, Nam Du features white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, with an increasing number of resorts enhancing its appeal.
To fully experience the island's charm, visitors should explore key spots like Hon Nom, Bai Cay Men, and Bai Ngu. These locations offer breathtaking landscapes and opportunities for relaxation. Additionally, savoring the fresh seafood and enjoying the clean, invigorating air are essential experiences on Nam Du.
5.5. Rach Gia City
Rach Gia, the administrative, economic, and cultural hub of Kien Giang Province, covers over 97 km² and has a population of nearly 250,000. It is divided into 11 wards and one commune. Situated on Vietnam's southwestern coast, Rach Gia extends along the eastern shore of the Gulf of Thailand, boasting a 20 km coastline that represents about one-tenth of the province’s total length.
The city’s strategic location facilitates convenient travel by road, inland waterways, sea, and air. It is 245 km southwest of Ho Chi Minh City, 115 km west of Can Tho, and 95 km southeast of the Ha Tien International Border Gate.
In recent years, Rach Gia has seen growth with new urban developments, including attractions such as the Love Bridge and Rainbow Bridge, along with various popular photo spots that enhance its appeal to visitors.
5.6. Ba Lua Island
Ba Lua Islands, located in the Kien Luong District of Kien Giang Province, cover an area of approximately 70 km². The name "Ba Lua" originates from a general who established a silk weaving workshop on the islands to support Nguyen Trung Truc's insurgents. The archipelago consists of around 40 islands, with about 10 inhabited. Known for its calm waters, stunning scenery, and fresh air, Ba Lua Islands offer a serene retreat.
The most beautiful islands in the archipelago are Hon Dam Duong, Hon Duc, and Hon Giang. Visitors typically travel to Ba Hon Pier and then take a canoe or wooden boat to the islands, with the journey taking about 20-30 minutes.
Ba Lua Islands are a must-visit destination, providing memorable experiences such as catching snails, clams, and oysters right on the beaches. Visitors can also enjoy breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, making it an ideal spot for capturing beautiful photos and creating lasting memories.
5.7. U Minh Thuong National Park
U Minh Thuong National Park is a renowned protected area in the Mekong Delta region. Designated a national park in January 2002, U Minh Thuong is celebrated for its unique and rare ecosystems, featuring extensive areas of pristine forest.
Situated about 60 km from Rach Gia City, U Minh Thuong is known for its rich biodiversity and lush landscapes. Visitors often come for day trips, exploring the park by renting leaf boats or motorized boats to navigate its intricate network of canals. The park offers opportunities for fishing and eco-tourism activities.
Key attractions include the bird sanctuary, bat colonies, wild boar habitats, and the Hoa Mai Fishing Area. The park provides a refreshing escape with its clean air and expansive natural surroundings, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking to experience the diverse wildlife of the Mekong Delta.
5.8. Tam Bao Pagoda
Tam Bao Pagoda, situated on Su Thien An Street in Rach Gia City, is a key Buddhist site in Kien Giang Province. Historically significant, it served as the headquarters of the Kien Giang Buddhist Association and played a crucial role in the region's Buddhist development.
The pagoda is set in a tranquil, elevated location with a lotus pond and a stone garden at the entrance. Its main hall features impressive Buddha statues and is designed with a distinctive upper hall and lower veranda.
The altars are ornately carved and gilded, reflecting exceptional artistic craftsmanship. As a prominent tourist attraction in Kien Giang Province, Tam Bao Pagoda offers visitors insight into the region’s rich Buddhist heritage and architectural splendor.
5.9. Kien Giang Museum
Kien Giang Museum, located at 27 Nguyen Van Troi in Rach Gia City, is a striking example of modern French architecture combined with traditional Southern Vietnamese elements. Originally a manor built in 1911 and completed in 1920, the museum spans around 2,000 square meters and features ornate wooden interiors with meticulous carvings.
It serves as a cultural and historical repository, presenting the heritage of Kien Giang through six thematic exhibitions. The museum is open daily, with an admission fee of 15,000 VND for adults and free entry for children, offering an accessible opportunity to explore the region's rich history and culture.
6. How about the cuisine in Kien Giang?
Located along the coast, Kien Giang offers a diverse range of fresh and flavorful seafood delicacies. The province is renowned for its delectable rice dishes and vibrant local cuisine. Here are three must-try dishes:
Ken noodles: A signature dish of Kien Giang, Ken noodles features rice noodles made from a blend of rice and tapioca flour, served in a fragrant, coconut-based broth with a variety of toppings such as fish, herbs, and crispy shallots. This dish is a true representation of the local flavors and should not be missed.
Herring salad: This dish is a delicious salad made with fresh herring fish, often marinated and mixed with herbs, vegetables, and a tangy dressing. It offers a refreshing and flavorful taste that highlights the region's abundant seafood.
Ha Tien sticky rice: A specialty from the Ha Tien area, this is a savory sticky rice dish topped with a variety of ingredients, including minced pork, dried shrimp, and crispy shallots. It is a satisfying and flavorful dish that captures the essence of local culinary traditions.
Beyond these signature dishes, visitors can indulge in some of the best Phu Quoc foods, especially fresh seafood dishes. Freshly grilled fish and seafood hotpot are local favorites, showcasing the region's rich marine resources. Additionally, dishes such as crab with tamarind sauce and various shellfish preparations reflect the area's emphasis on vibrant, oceanic flavors. Bun quay, a Phu Quoc - originated noodle dish, is another delicacy not to miss out in Kien Giang.
7. Specialty gifts from Kien Giang
Apart from sightseeings and exploring, don't forget to buy some gifts to bring back home for your beloved. Some of these gifts include:
- Phu Quoc fish sauce: Phu Quoc is renowned for its high-quality fish sauce, made from anchovies and aged in wooden barrels. This flavorful condiment is not only a staple ingredient in Vietnamese cuisine but also a remarkable and distinctive gift choice for food lovers.
- Sim wine Phu Quoc: Made from the rose myrtle fruit that grows abundantly in Phu Quoc, Sim wine has gained popularity among both locals and tourists for its unique fragrance and taste. Due to its popularity, this wine is available in numerous local markets and souvenir shops scattered across Phu Quoc Island.
- Palm sugar honeycomb cake (banh thot not): This is a must-try delicacy in Kien Giang and a delightful gift for friends and family. It can be easily found and purchased in the local markets or grocery stores.
Besides, visitors can find various items made from seashells or stone crafts, which include beautiful art and jewelry pieces. All of them will make for unique and memorable gifts that capture the essence of the province's culture and flavors.
From its picturesque islands and pristine beaches to its bustling markets and delicious seafood, Kien Giang is definitely a must-visit for those seeking an authentic and immersive Vietnamese adventure. Hopefully, this guide will help you enjoy a flawless trip.
