Bus Travel to Dong Thap: Your Guide to Reaching the Mekong Delta’s Lotus Heart

Nestled in the vibrant Mekong Delta, now part of Tien Giang Province, Dong Thap Ward is a serene destination famed for its lotus fields, historical relics, and eco-tourism, attracting over 100,000 visitors annually. Bus travel from Ho Chi Minh City is an affordable, eco-conscious way to reach Dong Thap’s attractions, such as Sa Dec Flower Village and Tram Chim National Park. Legend Travel Group, a leading sustainable tour operator, enhances your journey with eco-friendly tours, ensuring you explore responsibly while supporting local communities. Start your adventure—book our tours via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Update

As of July 1, 2025, Dong Thap Province has merged into Tien Giang Province, with My Tho as the administrative center. Dong Thap is now a ward, but its tourism allure remains strong, supported by upgraded infrastructure like well-maintained roads, cycling paths, and a VND600 billion flood control project. These improvements ensure seamless bus access to Dong Thap’s cultural and natural treasures, making it a must-visit Mekong Delta destination.

With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group is Southeast Asia’s premier sustainable tourism operator, dedicated to preserving Vietnam’s cultural and environmental heritage. Our Dong Thap tours integrate bus transfers with eco-friendly transport like bicycles and electric boats, guided by local experts who share the region’s history and ecology. Supporting communities in Dong Thap, My Tho, and Sa Dec, we align with Tien Giang’s “Green Delta” initiative. Enjoy transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support. Book our tours via links on this page for an authentic, eco-conscious experience!

Located 160 km southwest of Ho Chi Minh City, Dong Thap Ward is easily accessible by bus from Mien Tay Bus Station, the primary hub for Mekong Delta routes. The region’s tropical monsoon climate features a dry season (December–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) and a rainy season (May–November, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F, with peak rainfall of 100–400 mm in August–October). Buses offer a budget-friendly, eco-conscious way to reach Dong Thap, with modern coaches and frequent departures. Below, we detail bus options, fares, schedules, and tips for a smooth, sustainable journey.

Bus travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Dong Thap is affordable, reliable, and eco-friendly, with frequent services to Sa Dec, Cao Lanh, and other key areas. Here’s everything you need to know:

Bus Details

• Distance and Travel Time: 160 km, 3–4 hours, depending on traffic and stops.

• Departure Point: Mien Tay Bus Station (395 Kinh Duong Vuong, An Lac Ward, Binh Tan District, Ho Chi Minh City).

• Arrival Points in Dong Thap: Sa Dec Bus Station, Cao Lanh Bus Station, or smaller stops like Tam Nong or Hong Ngu.

• Bus Types:

  • Seater buses: Standard 4-row seating, air-conditioned, ideal for daytime travel.

  • Sleeper buses: Reclining beds, perfect for longer routes or overnight trips.

  • VIP buses: Spacious seats, Wi-Fi, and onboard amenities for added comfort.

• Fares (One-Way):

  • Seater bus: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).

  • Sleeper bus: $12–$18 (300,000–450,000 VND).

  • VIP bus: $15–$22 (375,000–550,000 VND).

• Providers and Contacts:

  • Phuong Trang (Futa Bus): Frequent departures, reliable service. Tel: (+84) 1900 6067.

  • Thanh Buoi: Comfortable sleeper buses. Tel: (+84) 1900 969681.

  • Mai Linh: VIP and seater options. Tel: (+84) 2773 686 868.

  • Kim Cuong: Budget-friendly seater buses. Tel: (+84) 913 456 789.

• Schedule: Daily departures from 5:00 AM–11:00 PM, every 30–60 minutes. Peak times (morning and evening) may require pre-booking.

• Booking Options:

  • At Mien Tay Bus Station ticket counters.

  • Online via operator websites or apps like VeXeRe or Baolau.

  • Through hotels or travel agents (small commission may apply).

• Tips:

  • Arrive at Mien Tay Bus Station 30 minutes early; it’s 10.5 km from District 1 (taxi/Grab: $5–$8 or 125,000–200,000 VND).

  • Book tickets 1–2 days in advance during peak seasons (December–April, Tet holidays).

  • Keep valuables secure; use a crossbody bag for safety.

  • Bus transfers are included in our Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450) for seamless travel.

Why Bus? Affordable, eco-conscious, and comfortable, buses are ideal for budget travelers and those seeking a low-carbon footprint to explore Dong Thap’s attractions.

• By Taxi/Grab: From District 1 (Ben Thanh Market), 10.5 km, $5–$8 (125,000–200,000 VND), 20–30 minutes. Use Grab for transparent pricing.

• By City Bus: Routes #39, #102, or #139 from Ben Thanh Bus Station to Mien Tay. Fare: $0.30–$0.50 (7,000–12,000 VND), 30–40 minutes.

• By Motorbike Taxi (Xe Om): $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND); wear a helmet (mandatory).

• Tips:

  • Use the BusMap app for city bus routes and real-time schedules.

  • Avoid rush hours (7:00–9:00 AM, 4:00–6:00 PM) to minimize traffic delays.

  • Pre-book taxis via Grab or Mai Linh (+84) 2773 686 868 for reliability.

Once in Dong Thap, explore these must-visit sites, easily accessible by local transport or our eco-tours:

• Tram Chim National Park: A 7,000-hectare Ramsar wetland with over 230 bird species, including Sarus Cranes. Entry: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND). Boat tours: $10–$25 (250,000–625,000 VND).

• Sa Dec Flower Village: A century-old floral hub in Tan Quy Dong, vibrant during Tet (January–February). Free entry; guided tours: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House: A 1895 architectural gem in Sa Dec, tied to Marguerite Duras’ The Lover. Entry: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND).

• Xeo Quyt Relic: A 50-hectare historical site and cajuput forest, a former revolutionary base. Entry: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND); boat tours: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

Tip: Local taxis or bicycles ($2–$4/day or 50,000–100,000 VND) are ideal for getting around; included in our Dong Thap Eco-Tour ($70–$90).

• Hotels and Homestays (Sa Dec or Cao Lanh):

  • Lotus Haven Homestay: Tan Quy Dong, Sa Dec. $15–$30/night (375,000–750,000 VND). Tel: (+84) 939 123 456.

  • Mekong Charm Hotel: 120 Tran Hung Dao, Sa Dec. $25–$60/night (625,000–1,500,000 VND). Tel: (+84) 927 345 678.

  • Sen Vang Resort: Cao Lanh. $90–$180/night (2,250,000–4,500,000 VND). Tel: (+84) 913 789 123.

• Restaurants:

  • Nha Hang Sen Viet (Sa Dec): Lotus-based dishes, bánh xèo. $4–$15 (100,000–375,000 VND). Open: 10:00 AM–9:00 PM.

  • Pho Sa Dec (Sa Dec): Famous rice noodle soup. $3–$8 (75,000–200,000 VND). Open: 7:00 AM–8:00 PM.

• Cafes:

  • Sa Dec River Cafe: 45 Le Loi, Sa Dec. Riverside views, coffee $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND). Open: 7:00 AM–10:00 PM.

  • Lotus Bloom Cafe: Tan Quy Dong, Sa Dec. $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND). Open: 8:00 AM–9:00 PM.

• Pubs:

  • Mekong Moon Bar (Sa Dec): Local beers, cocktails. $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND). Open: 5:00 PM–11:00 PM.

Tip: Support local businesses to align with eco-tourism goals; carry VND for small vendors.

Pack these essentials for a comfortable, sustainable journey:

• Clothing: Lightweight attire for dry season; waterproof jacket for rainy season. Modest clothing (covered shoulders, long pants) for historical sites.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.

• Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella.

• Tech Gear: Smartphone for BusMap/Grab apps; portable charger; earphones for bus rides.

• Documents: Passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (50,000–200,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag, straw to support sustainability.

Tip: Keep valuables in a crossbody bag; carry a light jacket for air-conditioned buses.

• Bus Fares (Ho Chi Minh City to Dong Thap):

  • Seater bus: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).

  • Sleeper bus: $12–$18 (300,000–450,000 VND).

  • VIP bus: $15–$22 (375,000–550,000 VND).

• Transport to Mien Tay Bus Station: Taxi/Grab: $5–$8 (125,000–200,000 VND); city bus: $0.30–$0.50 (7,000–12,000 VND).

• Attractions:

  • Tram Chim National Park: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND).

  • Xeo Quyt Relic: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND).

  • Sa Dec Flower Village: Free.

• Dining: Meals: $4–$15 (100,000–375,000 VND); drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

• Accommodation:

  • Homestays: $15–$30/night (375,000–750,000 VND).

  • Hotels: $25–$60/night (625,000–1,500,000 VND).

  • Resorts: $90–$180/night (2,250,000–4,500,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Including Bus Travel):

• Budget: $20–$50 (bus, meals, free attractions).

• Mid-range: $50–$100 (VIP bus, paid attractions, dining).

• Luxury: $120–$250 (VIP bus, upscale lodging, guided tours).

Tip: Book bus tickets online for convenience; carry VND for fares and small purchases.

• Book Early: Reserve bus tickets and tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222, email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com) 3–4 weeks in advance, especially for December–April or Tet holidays.

• Bus Tips:

  • Confirm drop-off points (Sa Dec or Cao Lanh) when booking.

  • Arrive early at Mien Tay Bus Station to secure seats.

  • Use BusMap app for real-time schedules and city bus routes.

• Seasonal Tips:

  • Dry Season (December–April): Ideal for bus travel; pack sunscreen.

  • Rainy Season (May–November): Bring waterproof gear ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND); expect lush scenery.

• Sustainability: Choose buses over private cars; support local vendors to align with eco-tourism goals.

• Safety: Keep valuables secure; avoid flashy jewelry at busy stations.

• Cultural Respect: Greet locals with “xin chào” (hello); tip drivers/guides $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Health: Stay hydrated ($0.50 or 12,500 VND per bottle); apply mosquito repellent near waterways.

Our eco-friendly tours make your bus journey to Dong Thap seamless and enriching:

• Dong Thap Eco-Tour ($70–$90/person): Bus to Sa Dec Flower Village, electric boat tour in Tram Chim National Park, cycling through lotus fields. Includes transfers, snacks, guide.

• Dong Thap Cultural Tour ($60–$80/person): Bus to Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House, boat to Go Thap Relic, festival visits. Includes eco-transfers, lunch, guide.

• Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Bus to Sa Dec markets, boat to eateries, lotus-based cooking class. Includes eco-transfers, meals, guide.

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450/person, 2–3 days): Bus to Dong Thap, Cai Be, and homestays ($15–$30/night). Includes meals, activities, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Get 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book via links around this page!

Bus travel to Dong Thap’s lotus fields is an affordable, eco-conscious way to reach the Mekong Delta’s vibrant lotus fields, historical sites, and cultural treasures. Legend Travel Group’s Dong Thap Tours combine convenient bus transfers with immersive eco-friendly experiences, ensuring a sustainable Dong Thap Travel journey that supports local communities. Don’t miss out—plan your bus journey to the lotus fields with our guide and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to explore Dong Thap’s lotus fields by bus? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into the Mekong Delta’s timeless beauty!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Source: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group.