unicorn island mekong delta is a highlight for travelers exploring Southern Vietnam. This guide covers its riverfront location near My Tho, the island’s vibrant craft villages and fruit gardens, and why it’s a standout in the Delta. If you’re planning a visit, get clear advice on logistics so your excursion is rewarding and stress-free.
Overview of Unicorn Island: Location, Attractions & Significance in the Mekong Delta
Where is Unicorn Island?
Unicorn Island, known locally as Thoi Son Islet, is found in the Mekong Delta, positioned on the Tien River near My Tho city. It is one of the Delta’s four sacred islets: Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Turtle. 
What Makes Unicorn Island Special?
The island is famous for expansive coconut gardens, flourishing fruit orchards, and locally run cottage industries. These provide opportunities to experience rural Vietnamese culture up-close, including visits to craft villages specializing in coconut candy, rice paper, honey, and wine production.
Unicorn Island’s Role in the Mekong Delta
Often considered a precious jewel of the Mekong Delta, Unicorn Island exemplifies the region’s abundant natural resources and traditional lifestyle. It is a must-stop on Mekong River tours, offering an authentic glimpse into agricultural life and folk traditions.
How to Get to Unicorn Island
Most travelers visit Unicorn Island as part of guided tours departing from Ho Chi Minh City. These trips generally involve a drive to My Tho city, followed by a boat or wooden ferry ride to the islet. 
Tour packages can be booked online or with travel agents and often include hotel pick-up, meals, and multi-islet itineraries. After reaching My Tho, visitors transfer to a boat crossing the Mekong River to Unicorn Island.
Top Activities and Sights on Unicorn Island
Take boat rides along the coconut palm-lined canals for picturesque river views. 
Enjoy horse cart or bicycle rides through the scenic island villages.
Sample regional products like coconut candy, honey, rice wine, and banana wine.
Tour craft villages to watch demonstrations of coconut candy, rice paper, and sleeping mat production. 
Pick and taste tropical fruits straight from the orchard. 
Experience ‘Don Ca Tai Tu’—traditional folk music designated by UNESCO—performed live by local musicians. 
Savor a local lunch featuring Southern Vietnamese specialties, with some menus including vegan dishes.
Take leisurely nature walks through fruit gardens and coconut groves, or relax on hammocks nestled in village gardens. 
Best Time to Visit
The most suitable period to explore Unicorn Island is during the dry season, from December through April, when the weather is cooler and less rainy. The wet season (May to November) brings heavier rains, but the lush greenery and plentiful fruit can also enhance your visit.
Entry Fees & Tour Costs
Entry fees to Unicorn Island vary by tour operator and package type. Generally, all sightseeing and activity costs are included in the tour price, and individual entry fees are rarely charged separately.
Day trips typically cost between $20–$50 USD per person and cover transport, meals, and guided activities.
Photos & Videos of Unicorn Island
Visuals typically feature vibrant green landscapes, boats on canals fringed with water coconut trees, visitors enjoying exotic fruits, and artisans demonstrating local crafts. Online videos offer glimpses of canal cruises, folk music performances, and the lively village atmosphere. 
Travel Tips & Visitor Impressions
Many travelers praise the genuine rural experiences, warm locals, and peaceful boat rides. Guided tours are often recommended for convenience and deeper cultural insights.
Suggested essentials include sunscreen, insect repellent, and light clothing. Weekends or public holidays can be busy, so consider visiting on weekdays for a more tranquil experience.
While some attractions are tailored for tourists, highlights such as music performances, fruit tastings, and craft demos are generally appreciated by both families and solo travelers alike.
Visiting Other Islets
Unicorn Island is commonly visited along with the other sacred islets—Dragon, Turtle, and Phoenix—for a well-rounded Mekong Delta exploration.
Is Unicorn Island Mekong Delta Right for You?
Traveler Types Who Will Enjoy the Island
Unicorn Island Mekong Delta appeals to a wide range of visitors. Nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers will love the boat trips along narrow canals and the opportunity to explore lush landscapes. Families with kids benefit from the hands-on experiences, such as fruit tasting, craft making, and gentle rides through the countryside. Solo travelers enjoy the relaxed pace and friendly atmosphere, while culture lovers are drawn to traditional music shows and the chance to see local life up close.
Ideal Trip Duration
A half-day or full-day trip is ideal for experiencing the highlights of Unicorn Island Mekong Delta. Most guided tours allocate several hours for canal rides, music, lunch, and visits to craft villages and orchards, making it a perfectly manageable day trip from Ho Chi Minh City or the greater Mekong Delta region.
Accessibility for Different Visitors
The experience on Unicorn Island Mekong Delta is generally accessible for families, seniors, and visitors with moderate mobility. The main village paths are flat but can be uneven or muddy after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Some boat landings may have steps or require group boarding, so those with significant mobility challenges should check tour details in advance to ensure a comfortable visit.
Packing & Preparation Tips for Unicorn Island
What to Bring for a Day Trip
Prepare for your Unicorn Island Mekong Delta excursion by packing sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, comfortable shoes or sandals suitable for walking on rural paths, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and light snacks. Don’t forget a camera to capture the beautiful landscapes, and a raincoat or poncho, especially during the wet season.
Weather-Related Preparation
Plan your clothing according to the weather. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are ideal for the humid dry season. If visiting between May and November, bring an umbrella or rain jacket for occasional downpours. Even in the dry season, a light jacket can be useful for boat rides in the breeze.
Health & Safety Considerations
Stay hydrated by bringing plenty of water, especially during sunny days on Unicorn Island Mekong Delta. Use insect repellent to protect against mosquitos, and apply sunscreen regularly. While sampling local foods is a highlight, ensure hands are clean before eating and avoid ice in drinks if you have a sensitive stomach.
