Motorbike Journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Can Tho: Routes, Costs & Eco-Tours

Embarking on a motorbike journey from Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) to Can Tho City offers an exhilarating way to explore Vietnam’s vibrant landscapes, rural villages, and iconic Mekong Delta waterways. Following the merger of Soc Trang and Hau Giang, Can Tho has become Vietnam’s largest city by landmass, attracting adventurers to its floating markets, lush orchards, and cultural landmarks. Known as “Tây Đô” or the “Western Capital,” Can Tho is 169 km from HCMC, making it a perfect 3.5–5-hour ride for thrill-seekers craving freedom and scenic beauty. Aligned with Can Tho’s “Green Delta” sustainability initiatives, motorbike travel—especially with eco-friendly electric scooters or guided tours—supports local communities and minimizes environmental impact. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable motorbike tours offer curated routes and expert guidance—book your tour via the links throughout this guide!

Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, specializes in sustainable Southeast Asia adventures. Our Can Tho motorbike tours from HCMC feature eco-friendly electric scooters, high-quality rentals, and expert guides who share the Delta’s cultural and natural heritage. Supporting communities in Ninh Kieu, Cai Rang, and Phong Dien Wards, we align with Can Tho’s eco-vision. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless experience. Contact us at sales@legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp +84825862222 to book eco-tours and ride to Can Tho responsibly

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has merged Soc Trang and Hau Giang into Can Tho City, with Ninh Kieu as the central hub. District-level units are now wards or communes, enhancing road access to Can Tho’s attractions like Cai Rang Floating Market and Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary. Supported by improved highways, electric ferries, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project, Can Tho offers a smooth ride for motorbike travelers.

Riding a motorbike from HCMC to Can Tho City covers approximately 169 km, taking 3.5–5 hours depending on the route, stops, and traffic. The journey traverses bustling urban areas, serene rice paddies, and Mekong River crossings, offering a blend of adventure and cultural immersion. Can Tho’s tropical monsoon climate, with a dry season (December–April, 25–36°C or 77–96.8°F) and rainy season (May–November, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F), influences road conditions, with dry months ideal for riding. A valid Vietnamese driver’s license or International Driving Permit (IDP) converted for Vietnam is required to avoid fines ($20–$50 or 500,000–1,250,000 VND). Sustainable options like electric scooters and guided tours minimize emissions, aligning with Can Tho’s eco-friendly tourism goals, making this trip a thrilling yet responsible adventure.

Key Journey Features:

• Distance: 169 km from HCMC to Can Tho.

• Duration: 3.5–5 hours, depending on route and stops.

• Routes: National Route 1A or scenic backroads via Long An and Vinh Long.

• Sustainability: Electric scooters and local vendor support reduce environmental impact.

Tip: Start early (5:00–6:00 AM) to enjoy cool weather and avoid traffic, included in our Mekong Delta Motorbike Tour ($150–$250).

Riding from HCMC to Can Tho offers flexibility and adventure, with options for solo rentals or guided tours. Below are the main routes, rental details, costs, and tips for a safe, sustainable journey.

1. Motorbike Rental in Ho Chi Minh City

HCMC’s rental shops provide a range of motorbikes, from automatic scooters to eco-friendly electric models, ensuring durability for the 169 km trip. Rentals require a passport copy, deposit, and a valid Vietnamese driver’s license or converted IDP.

• Cost:

  • Automatic Scooter: $8–$15/day (200,000–375,000 VND), e.g., Honda Vision, Yamaha Janus.

  • Manual Motorbike: $6–$10/day (150,000–250,000 VND), e.g., Honda Wave.

  • Electric Scooter: $12–$20/day (300,000–500,000 VND), e.g., VinFast Klara.

  • Fuel: Petrol ~$1/liter (25,000 VND, ~10 liters for round trip); electric scooters charge free at shops or $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND) at stations.

  • Deposit: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND, refundable).

• Rental Locations:

  • District 1 (HCMC): Thanh Dat Motorbike (115/21 Le Van Sy, Phu Nhuan, +84 909 269 732) or Tigit Motorbikes (+84 934 533 686).

  • District 3: Shops near Pham Ngoc Thach Street.

• Eco-Friendly Option: Electric scooters reduce emissions; charging stations available in HCMC, Long An, and Can Tho.

• How to Rent: Book via shops, hotels, or Legend Travel Group for quality-assured bikes. Confirm insurance, helmet (included), and return terms.

• Pros: Affordable, flexible, eco-options available.

• Cons: Requires valid license; deposit needed; inexperienced riders face traffic risks.

• Safety Tips: Check brakes, lights, and tires; carry a repair kit ($1 or 25,000 VND); wear helmets (mandatory).

• Tip: Rent an electric scooter for sustainability, included in our Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

2. Guided Motorbike Tours to Can Tho

Guided tours eliminate licensing concerns, offering safe, curated routes with expert drivers or guides, ideal for first-time riders or those seeking cultural insights. Legend Travel Group provides eco-friendly tours with English-speaking guides.

• Cost:

  • 1-Day Tour: $50–$80/person (1,250,000–2,000,000 VND), including bike, driver/guide, fuel, and lunch.

  • 2-Day Tour: $150–$250/person (3,750,000–6,250,000 VND), including bike, guide, homestay ($10–$35/night or 250,000–875,000 VND), meals, and entry fees.

• Popular Tours:

  • HCMC–Can Tho (1 Day): Visit Cai Rang Floating Market, rice fields, and noodle factories.

  • HCMC–Long An–Can Tho (2 Days): Includes Cần Được Market, My Loi Ferry, and homestay in Cai Rang.

• Eco-Friendly Option: Electric scooters and stops at local, sustainable vendors.

• Providers: Legend Travel Group, Saigon Adventure (+84 977 123 244), Vietnam Motorbike Tours (+84 934 533 686).

• Pros: Safe for unlicensed riders, cultural insights, eco-friendly, no navigation stress.

• Cons: Less flexibility; higher cost than solo rentals.

• Safety Tips: Wear provided helmets, follow guide instructions, secure valuables.

• Tip: Book a 2-day tour for an overnight homestay, included in our Mekong Delta Immersion Tour ($250–$400).

3. Recommended Routes from HCMC to Can Tho

Two main routes connect HCMC to Can Tho, offering different experiences based on speed, scenery, and stops. Both are well-maintained but require caution due to traffic and ferry crossings.

• Route 1: National Route 1A (Fastest, 169 km, 3.5–4 hours)

  • Path: HCMC → Trung Luong Expressway → My Thuan Bridge → Vinh Long → Can Tho (Ninh Kieu Ward).

  • Highlights:

    • Cần Được Market (Long An, 40 km): Rural market for snacks ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND).

    • Vinh Trang Pagoda (My Tho, 70 km): Historic Buddhist temple (free entry).

  • Pros: Fastest route, modern highways, minimal ferries (My Thuan Bridge).

  • Cons: Heavy traffic near HCMC; less scenic.

  • Cost: Fuel $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) round trip; food stops $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Eco-Friendly Tip: Use electric scooters to reduce emissions.

• Route 2: Scenic Backroads via Long An–Vinh Long (185 km, 4–5 hours)

  • Path: HCMC → Provincial Road 10 (Long An) → My Loi Ferry → Sa Dec → Van Cai Ferry → Can Tho.

  • Highlights:

    • My Loi Ferry (Long An): Short river crossing ($0.50 or 12,500 VND).

    • Sa Dec Flower Village: Vibrant gardens ($1 or 25,000 VND entry).

    • Vinh Long Orchards: Fruit tastings ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).

  • Pros: Scenic rice paddies, rural villages, cultural stops.

  • Cons: Multiple ferries; slower due to narrow roads.

  • Cost: Fuel $4–$6 (100,000–150,000 VND) round trip; ferry fees $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); food stops $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Eco-Friendly Tip: Stop at local, farm-to-table eateries.

• Navigation: Use Maps.me or Google Maps (offline mode); save landmarks like My Thuan Bridge or Ninh Kieu Wharf.

• Tip: Take Route 2 for scenery, included in our Mekong Delta Motorbike Tour ($150–$250).

4. What to Pay Attention to When Riding

Riding from HCMC to Can Tho requires preparation to ensure safety, compliance, and enjoyment. Here are key considerations:

• Start Early: Depart 5:00–6:00 AM to avoid HCMC’s peak traffic (7–8 AM) and enjoy cooler weather (22–28°C or 71.6–82.4°F).

• Licensing: Carry a Vietnamese driver’s license or converted IDP; fines for non-compliance are $20–$50 (500,000–1,250,000 VND). Convert IDP at HCMC’s Department of Transport ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND).

• Safety Gear: Wear helmets (mandatory, included); use reflective vests ($1 or 25,000 VND) for dusk; carry rain gear in rainy season ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).

• Road Conditions: National Route 1A is wide but busy; backroads are narrow with occasional potholes. Watch for trucks and pedestrians.

• Traffic Rules: Obey speed limits (40–60 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on highways); avoid riding after dark due to poor lighting.

• Bike Maintenance: Check brakes, tires, and lights; carry a repair kit ($1 or 25,000 VND) and rental shop contacts for roadside assistance.

• Health and Hydration: Carry bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), mosquito repellent ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND), and SPF 50+ sunscreen ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND).

• Sustainability: Use electric scooters, stop at local vendors, and avoid plastic waste with reusable bottles.

• Emergency Contacts: Save Legend Travel Group (+84825862222), HCMC Police (+84 28 3829 1111), and Can Tho Police (+84 292 382 1123).

• Tip: Plan stops every 1–2 hours to rest, included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

• Distance and Time: 169–185 km, 3.5–5 hours one-way.

• Total Cost (Solo, 1 Day):

  • Rental: $8–$20/day (200,000–500,000 VND).

  • Fuel/Ferries: $3–$8 (75,000–200,000 VND).

  • Food/Drinks: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

  • Total: $16–$43/day (400,000–1,075,000 VND).

• Total Cost (Guided, 2 Days): $150–$250/person (3,750,000–6,250,000 VND), including bike, guide, homestay, meals, and fees.

• Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND); carry small notes (50,000–500,000 VND) for ferries and vendors.

• Internet: Tourist SIM ($6–$10 or 150,000–250,000 VND for 30 days, 1–2 GB/day) for navigation; free Wi-Fi at rest stops.

• Safety: Secure valuables; use a phone mount for navigation; avoid riding in heavy rain (May–November).

• Climate: Dry season (December–April) for clear roads; rainy season (May–November) for lush scenery but slippery conditions.

• Dry Season (December–April): Sunny weather (25–36°C or 77–96.8°F) ensures clear roads and safe riding; ideal for March–April’s mild temperatures (25–32°C or 77–89.6°F).

• Rainy Season (May–November): Cooler temperatures (22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F) and lush scenery; September–November offers fewer showers but requires rain gear ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).

• Daily Timing: Depart 5:00–6:00 AM to avoid traffic and heat; arrive by noon for market visits.

• Tip: Ride in March for optimal weather, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).

Our sustainable motorbike tours from HCMC to Can Tho offer curated adventures:

• Mekong Sunrise Motorbike Tour ($55–$75/person, 1 Day): Ride to Cai Rang Floating Market, explore canals via electric boat, and visit rice fields. Includes electric scooter, guide, and breakfast.

• Can Tho Foodie Motorbike Tour ($65–$85/person, 1 Day): Motor to Cai Rang market, taste Bánh Xèo, and join a cooking class. Includes electric scooter, meals, and guide.

• Can Tho Heritage Motorbike Tour ($50–$70/person, 1 Day): Ride to Binh Thuy Ancient House, Vinh Trang Pagoda, and local markets. Includes electric scooter, lunch, and guide.

• Mekong Delta Motorbike Immersion ($150–$250/person, 2 Days): HCMC to Can Tho via Long An, with homestay ($10–$35/night or 250,000–875,000 VND), Cai Rang market, and orchards. Includes electric scooter, meals, and activities.

• Can Tho Explorer Motorbike Tour ($45–$65/person, 1 Day): Ride to Tay Do Night Market, Ninh Kieu Wharf, and local farms. Includes electric scooter, snacks, and guide.

• Tra Su Eco-Motorbike Tour ($60–$80/person, 1 Day): Motor to Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary and My Khanh Eco-Village. Includes electric scooter, boat ride, and guide.

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

Riding a motorbike from Ho Chi Minh City to Can Tho City is a thrilling adventure through the Mekong Delta’s heart, offering scenic routes, cultural stops, and vibrant markets. With sustainable options like electric scooters and guided tours, this journey aligns with Can Tho’s eco-friendly tourism vision, supporting local communities and preserving the Delta’s beauty. Legend Travel Group’s Can Tho Tours ensure a safe, authentic Can Tho Travel experience, blending motorbike adventures with Can Tho’s riverine wonders. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Can Tho adventure today!
Ready to cruise the Delta’s roads? Reserve your eco-friendly motorbike tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on a sustainable journey to Can Tho’s riverine wonders!

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

Sources: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group