Cai Be, one of the many well-known floating markets in the western region of southern Vietnam was formed in the Nguyen Dynasty in the 19th century. It is always busy, bearing all the characteristics of the locals' life in the western region. All the goods are transported to the market by rafts and boats.
Cai Be floating market lies in the area where the Tien River shares the border between 3 provinces of Tien Giang, Vinh Long and Ben Tre. Mingling with the bustling vibe and chaotic atmosphere of the market, your mind seems to soak up the rhythm of brandishing water flow, while your soul seems to be daydreamt by the vastness of the Mekong River.
The market is divided into two parts: buying and selling places. Approximately 400 to 500 boats filled with fruits, vegetables, and other products are anchored along the banks of the river for kilometers. Like Cai Rang Market, the sample of the merchandise is also hung on a long pole in front of each boat to attract and help customers realize more easily. This seems to be a common and unique sign you only find in the floating markets in Mekong Delta.
Tourists who have never heard floating markets before are highly advised to set foot in Cai Be floating market once in their trip to Vietnam. This is a huge marketplace where both sellers and buyers make deals or purchases on the boats. The truth is that this kind of market is very common in the Mekong Delta region where the people’ lives are also closely attached to the waterway.
You are able to hire a motorboat to sail along the river as well as experience how animated and vibrant a floating market is. From the 3 am in the early morning, boats and sampans are busy and crowded. If you want to visit the market at the most exciting moment and catch the liveliest scenery, you have to get up early.
