Renting Cars and Motorbikes in Ho Chi Minh City: Your Guide to Exploring the Mekong Delta

Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) is the gateway to the Mekong Delta, including Dong Thap Ward, now part of Tien Giang Province, a region famed for its lotus fields, historical relics, and eco-tourism, attracting over 100,000 visitors annually. Renting a car or motorbike in HCMC offers flexibility to explore Dong Thap’s attractions like Tram Chim National Park and Sa Dec Flower Village at your own pace. Legend Travel Group, a leading sustainable tour operator, complements your rental with eco-friendly tours, ensuring a responsible journey to Dong Thap. 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 appeal is stronger than ever, supported by upgraded infrastructure like well-maintained roads, cycling paths, and a VND600 billion flood control project, making it an ideal destination for car or motorbike travel from HCMC.

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 combine car or motorbike travel with eco-friendly transport like electric boats and bicycles, 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 a seamless, eco-conscious adventure!

HCMC, Vietnam’s bustling economic hub, offers a wide range of car and motorbike rental services, ideal for reaching Dong Thap (160 km southwest, 3–4 hours). The city’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). Renting a car or motorbike provides flexibility to explore Dong Thap’s attractions, but Vietnam’s traffic can be chaotic, so preparation is key. Below, we detail how to rent, top providers, costs, and tips for a safe, sustainable journey to Dong Thap.

Renting a car in HCMC is ideal for comfortable travel to Dong Thap, especially for families or groups. Most rentals include a driver due to Vietnam’s complex traffic and licensing requirements.

• Costs:

  • Self-drive car: $30–$60/day (750,000–1,500,000 VND).

  • Car with driver: $50–$100/day (1,250,000–2,500,000 VND), includes fuel, parking, and driver’s meals.

• Requirements:

  • International Driving Permit (IDP) for self-drive (must be from a Vienna Convention 1968 country; U.S. IDPs may not be recognized).

  • Valid passport; deposit ($50–$100 or 1,250,000–2,500,000 VND, cash or card).

  • Minimum age: 21, with at least 1 year of driving experience.

• Where to Rent:

  • Mekong Car Rentals: 45 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, District 1. Tel: (+84) 938 456 789. Offers 4–7-seat cars (Toyota, Hyundai).

  • Saigon Travel Hub: 123 Ly Tu Trong, District 1. Tel: (+84) 936 123 456. Specializes in driver-inclusive rentals.

  • Avis Vietnam: Tan Son Nhat Airport, District 1. Tel: (+84) 903 123 456. International provider with premium vehicles.

  • Grab App: Book driver-inclusive cars for city-to-city trips.

• Tips:

  • Book in advance during peak season (December–April) or Tet holidays.

  • Inspect car condition (brakes, tires, AC); take photos before driving.

  • Opt for fuel-efficient or hybrid cars to reduce environmental impact.

  • Self-driving is not recommended due to chaotic traffic; hire a driver for safety.

  • Included in our Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450) for seamless transfers to Dong Thap.

Why Rent a Car? Offers comfort and flexibility for families or groups, with drivers navigating Vietnam’s challenging traffic for a stress-free trip to Dong Thap.

Motorbikes are a popular, adventurous option for reaching Dong Thap, suitable for experienced riders comfortable with Vietnam’s busy roads.

• Costs: $6–$12/day (150,000–300,000 VND) for scooters; $15–$30/day (375,000–750,000 VND) for manual bikes (e.g., Honda XR150).

• Requirements:

  • International Driving Permit (IDP) for bikes over 50cc (recommended but not always enforced).

  • Valid passport; deposit ($20–$50 or 500,000–1,250,000 VND, cash preferred; avoid leaving original passport).

  • Helmet (mandatory, provided; fines up to $20 or 500,000 VND).

• Where to Rent:

  • Mekong Moto Rentals: 45 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, District 1. Tel: (+84) 938 456 789. Offers scooters and manual bikes.

  • Dung Motorbikes: 50 Bui Thi Xuan, District 1. Tel: (+84) 937 252 509. Reliable for long-distance travel.

  • Saigon Bike Hub: 123 Ly Tu Trong, District 1. Tel: (+84) 936 123 456. Specializes in well-maintained Honda/Yamaha bikes.

  • The Extra Mile: 30 Nguyen Van Troi, Phu Nhuan District. Tel: (+84) 912 345 678. Premium bikes for expats and tourists.

• Tips:

  • Choose scooters for flat terrain (e.g., HCMC to Dong Thap); manual bikes for experienced riders.

  • Inspect brakes, lights, and tires; take photos of bike condition.

  • Avoid cheap rentals with poor maintenance to prevent breakdowns.

  • Use Google Maps’ “motorbike mode” or Maps.me for navigation.

  • Included in our Dong Thap Eco-Tour ($70–$90) for guided motorbike routes.

Why Rent a Motorbike? Offers freedom and an adventurous way to reach Dong Thap, ideal for solo travelers or couples, though caution is needed in traffic.

• Distance and Time: 160 km, 3–4 hours by car or motorbike.

• Route:

  • Take Ho Chi Minh City–Trung Luong Expressway (50 km).

  • Merge onto National Highway 1A to My Tho (5 km).

  • Follow Highway 30 via An Huu T-junction to Sa Dec or Cao Lanh (33 km).

• Tips:

  • Avoid rush hours (7:00–9:00 AM, 4:00–6:00 PM) in HCMC.

  • Refuel in My Tho ($1–$2/liter or 25,000–50,000 VND); gas stations are frequent.

  • Check road conditions in rainy season (May–November) to avoid floods.

Explore these must-visit sites, easily reachable by car or motorbike:

• Tram Chim National Park: 7,313-hectare Ramsar wetland with over 230 bird species. Entry: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND). Boat tours: $10–$25 (250,000–625,000 VND).

• Sa Dec Flower Village: Century-old floral hub, vibrant during Tet. Free entry; guided tours: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House: 1895 architectural gem tied to The Lover. Entry: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND).

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

Tip: Park at designated lots ($0.20–$0.50 or 5,000–12,500 VND); included in our Dong Thap Cultural Tour ($60–$80).

• Hotels and Homestays:

  • 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): 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. 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.

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

Pack these essentials for a safe, sustainable journey:

• Clothing: Lightweight attire for dry season; waterproof jacket ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND) for rainy season. Modest clothing for historical sites.

• Safety Gear (Motorbike): Helmet (provided); sunglasses for dust protection.

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

• Tech Gear: Smartphone for GPS/Maps.me; portable charger; camera for scenic routes.

• Documents: Driver’s license, IDP, passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (50,000–200,000 notes).

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

Tip: Use a waterproof backpack for rainy season; secure valuables in a crossbody bag or under-seat storage (motorbike).

• Car Rental:

  • Self-drive: $30–$60/day (750,000–1,500,000 VND).

  • With driver: $50–$100/day (1,250,000–2,500,000 VND).

• Motorbike Rental: $6–$12/day (150,000–300,000 VND); premium bikes $15–$30/day (375,000–750,000 VND).

• Fuel: $1–$2/liter (25,000–50,000 VND); ~10 liters (car) or 3 liters (motorbike) for HCMC to Dong Thap round trip.

• 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).

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

Total Daily Cost (Including Rental):

• Budget: $15–$40 (motorbike, meals, free attractions).

• Mid-range: $40–$100 (car with driver, paid attractions, dining).

• Luxury: $100–$200 (premium car, upscale lodging, guided tours).

Tip: Carry VND for fuel and parking; ATMs are available in HCMC and Sa Dec.

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

• Rental Tips:

  • Verify rental agency reputation; avoid low-cost, poorly maintained vehicles.

  • Negotiate deposits (use cash instead of passport); keep rental contracts.

  • Choose fuel-efficient vehicles to support sustainability.

• Seasonal Tips:

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

  • Rainy Season (May–November): Watch for flooded roads; bring waterproof gear.

• Safety:

  • Motorbike: Wear helmets (mandatory; fines up to $20 or 500,000 VND); avoid night riding.

  • Car: Hire a driver to navigate chaotic traffic; secure valuables.

• Navigation: Use Google Maps’ “motorbike mode” or Maps.me; save Tram Chim National Park as a landmark.

• 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 enhance your car or motorbike journey to Dong Thap:

• Dong Thap Eco-Tour ($70–$90/person): Motorbike or car 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): Car to Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House, boat to Xeo Quyt Relic, festival visits. Includes eco-transfers, lunch, guide.

• Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Motorbike or car 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): Car/motorbike 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!

Dong Thap Province, a Mekong Delta gem 130 km from Ho Chi Minh City, unlocks the freedom to explore its lotus fields, historical sites, and natural wonders through renting a car ($30–$50/day, 750,000–1,250,000 VND, 2–3h drive via National Highway 62) or motorbike ($5–$10/day, 125,000–250,000 VND, 3–4h), drawing adventure seekers yearly. Visit Sa Dec Flower Village (free entry) for vibrant blooms, Tram Chim National Park ($2–$5 entry, 50,000–125,000 VND) for 230 bird species, or Nguyen Sinh Sac Tomb ($1 entry, 25,000 VND) for historical insights. Supported by sustainable practices like low-emission rentals and community-led conservation, Legend Travel Group’s Dong Thap Tours ensure an eco-conscious Dong Thap Travel experience, blending flexible travel with visits to Gao Giong Eco-Tourism Area and culinary delights like hủ tiếu Sa Đéc ($1–$2, 25,000–50,000 VND). Contact Legend Travel Group at www.legendtravelgroup.com, info@legendtravelgroup.com, or (+84) 825862222 to browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to explore Dong Thap by car or motorbike? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and discover 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.

Sources:

• Dong Thap Travel Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, mekong-delta-tours.com, vietnamamazingtours.com, scootersaigontour.com, tripadvisor.com