Suburban Ho Chi Minh City: Top Sightseeing Spots Near Saigon

Nature and Culture Beyond the City
Saigon’s suburban wards offer a refreshing escape from Ho Chi Minh City’s urban pulse, blending lush landscapes, cultural sites, and eco-friendly adventures. Just a short ride from Ward 1, attractions like Suoi Mo Park’s cascading streams, Buu Long’s serene cliffs, and Tre Viet Tourism Village’s bamboo-crafted charm provide tranquility and immersive experiences. These destinations, now part of the expanded Ho Chi Minh City, are perfect for weekend getaways, family picnics, or cultural exploration. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours, using bicycles and low-emission vehicles, guide you to these suburban gems sustainably, supporting local communities. Start your adventure—book our tours via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or sales@legendtravelgroup.com! TripAdvisor Ho Chi Minh City

Administrative Update
Vietnam recently merged Binh Duong and Ba Ria-Vung Tau into Ho Chi Minh City, creating a 6,772 sq.km megacity with 13.7 million residents across 168 wards, such as District 7 now Ward 7 and Tan Phu now Ward Tan Phu (web:4). This reorganization enhances suburban access via cycling paths, electric buses, and a VND1 trillion flood control project, connecting rural retreats to Ward 1’s urban hubs and Can Gio’s eco-attractions. The political center remains at 86 Le Thanh Ton, Ward 1.

Legend Travel Group, a premier Southeast Asia tour operator, offers curated, eco-conscious tours to Ho Chi Minh City’s suburbs. Our tours use bicycles and low-emission vehicles, guided by local experts sharing the region’s natural and cultural stories. Supporting communities in Ward Tan Phu, Ward Nhon Trach, and Ward Bien Hoa, we align with the city’s “Green Metropolis” vision. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless getaway. Book our eco-tours via links on this page and explore sustainably! TripAdvisor Reviews

Located 1,730 km south of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City’s suburbs, now integrated wards like Nhon Trach and Tan Phu, thrive in a tropical monsoon climate: dry season (December–April, 25–35°C or 77–95°F) and rainy season (May–November, 23–32°C or 73.4–89.6°F), with peak rainfall in June–September (150–400 mm). These areas offer natural beauty, from Suoi Mo’s streams to Buu Long’s cliffs, and cultural experiences like Tre Viet’s bamboo workshops. Enhanced by electric buses and cycling paths, the suburbs are ideal for relaxation and adventure, with attractions 15–100 km from Ward 1.

Ho Chi Minh City’s transport hub connects easily to suburban wards:

• By Air: Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), in Tan Binh Ward, serves 40 million passengers annually via Terminal T3 (Vietnam Airlines domestic) and T1/T2. Round-trip costs:

  • Hanoi: $80–$150 (2,000,000–3,750,000 VND).

  • Da Nang: $60–$120 (1,500,000–3,000,000 VND).

  • Bangkok/Singapore: $200–$500.

  • Taxis/Grab to Ward 1 (7 km): $5–$8 (120,000–200,000 VND).

• By Bus: From Hanoi (30–34 hours, $35–$60 or 875,000–1,500,000 VND), Da Nang (18–20 hours, $20–$40 or 500,000–1,000,000 VND), or Can Tho (3–4 hours, $5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND). Local buses to suburbs: $0.30–$0.80 (7,500–20,000 VND).

• By Train: Saigon Railway Station in Ward 7 connects to Hanoi (30–34 hours, $40–$80 or 1,000,000–2,000,000 VND). A high-speed rail is planned for 2030.

Getting to Key Suburban Attractions:

• Suoi Mo Park (Ward Tan Phu, 100 km): Bus #602 to Dinh Quan ($2 or 50,000 VND), then Grab ($2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND). Motorbike rental ($6–$12/day or 150,000–300,000 VND) via National Highway 20.

• Buu Long Culture and Tourism Center (Ward Bien Hoa, 27 km): Bus #12 to Bien Hoa ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), then Grab ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND). Taxi from Ward 1: $6–$8 (150,000–200,000 VND).

• Tre Viet Tourism Village (Ward Nhon Trach, 15 km): Bus #68 to Cat Lai Ferry ($0.30 or 7,500 VND), then cycle (10 minutes). Grab from Ward 1: $4–$6 (100,000–150,000 VND).

Tip: Use bicycles for eco-friendly travel; book our Saigon Suburban Escape ($50–$70) for guided transport to these attractions.

The dry season (December–April) offers sunny weather (25–35°C or 77–95°F), ideal for outdoor activities like camping at Suoi Mo or boating at Buu Long. Tet (January–February) adds cultural vibrancy but busier roads. The rainy season (May–November) brings cooler temperatures (23–32°C or 73.4–89.6°F), lush greenery, and 15–25% tour discounts. Indoor activities like Tre Viet’s workshops suit brief showers, with evening visits enhancing scenic views.

Tip: Book tours 3–5 weeks ahead for December–April; visit early mornings for cooler exploration. Check AccuWeather for rainy season updates.

Pack these essentials for a comfortable trip:

• Clothing: Lightweight outfits for dry season; waterproof jackets for rainy season. Comfortable attire for outdoor activities.

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

• Footwear: Sturdy shoes for hiking; sandals for warm days; waterproof shoes for rainy season.

• Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella, mosquito repellent.

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with Grab app, Maps.me, portable charger, camera for photos.

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

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

Tip: Carry small VND notes for tickets; bring a backpack for picnic essentials.

Ho Chi Minh City’s suburbs offer a serene contrast to Saigon’s urban energy, blending natural beauty with cultural richness. Suoi Mo Park’s streams and forests create a “sea in the forest” paradise, while Buu Long’s cliffs and temple evoke historical charm. Tre Viet’s bamboo-crafted village immerses visitors in eco-friendly traditions. These wards, now part of the expanded city, provide affordable, accessible escapes with activities like zip-lining, swan boating, and cultural workshops, all enhanced by sustainable transport options.

1. Suoi Mo Park (Ward Tan Phu, 100 km)

Enjoy streams, zip-lining, and camping in this forest oasis.

• Cost: Adults $2 (50,000 VND); children $1.50 (37,500 VND). Meals: $3–$12 (75,000–300,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Tip: Join our Saigon Suburban Escape ($50–$70) for guided zip-lining.

2. Buu Long Culture and Tourism Center (Ward Bien Hoa, 27 km)

Explore cliffs, swan boats, and Buu Long Temple’s cultural festivals.

• Cost: Weekdays: Adults $2.50 (62,500 VND), children $1 (25,000 VND); holidays: Adults $3 (75,000 VND), children $1.50 (37,500 VND). Boat rentals: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).

• Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM; weekends until last visitor.

• Tip: Included in our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70) with temple visits.

3. Tre Viet Tourism Village (Ward Nhon Trach, 15 km)

Experience bamboo workshops, kayaking, and buffet dining.

• Cost: Entry $2 (50,000 VND); combo tickets $15–$20 (375,000–500,000 VND) for pool, buffet, activities.

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Tip: Join our Saigon Eco Tour ($50–$70) for bamboo crafting.

4. Cu Chi Tunnels (Ward Cu Chi, 50 km)

Crawl through historic Vietnam War tunnels and explore rural trails.

• Cost: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: Included in our Saigon Heritage Tour ($55–$75).

5. Hoang Phap Pagoda (Ward Hoc Mon, 20 km)

Meditate in this serene Buddhist temple, known for teen retreats.

• Cost: Free; donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Tip: Included in our Saigon Spiritual Tour ($45–$65).

Attraction Costs

• Suoi Mo Park: $2 (50,000 VND) adults; meals $3–$12 (75,000–300,000 VND).

• Buu Long: $2.50–$3 (62,500–75,000 VND) adults; boats $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).

• Tre Viet: $2–$20 (50,000–500,000 VND) depending on combo.

• Cu Chi Tunnels: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Hoang Phap Pagoda: Free; donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

Transportation

• Bus: $0.30–$0.80 (7,500–20,000 VND).

• Grab/Taxi: $4–$10 (100,000–250,000 VND) from Ward 1.

• Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Motorbike Rental: $6–$12/day (150,000–300,000 VND).

Dining (Nearby)

• Street food: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Restaurants: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

Accommodation (Suburban Wards or Ward 1)

• Hostels: $8–$15/night (200,000–375,000 VND).

• Hotels: $20–$50/night (500,000–1,250,000 VND).

• Resorts: $80–$200/night (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost

• Budget: $15–$40 (includes entry, bus, street food).

• Mid-range: $40–$80 (includes tours, Grab, dining).

• Luxury: $100–$300 (includes private tours, upscale lodging).

Tip: Carry VND for tickets; ATMs are available in suburban wards.

• Book Early: Reserve tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222, sales@legendtravelgroup.com) 3–5 weeks ahead, especially for December–April or Tet.

• Seasonal Tips:

  • Dry Season: Use sunscreen; explore early for cooler weather.

  • Rainy Season: Carry raincoats ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND); opt for indoor activities.

• Sustainability: Use bicycles; support local vendors at attractions.

• Navigation: Download Maps.me, Grab; save key sites (e.g., Suoi Mo Park, Ward Tan Phu) as landmarks.

• Safety: Secure valuables in crowded parks; avoid isolated areas at night.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly at pagodas; say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip guides $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); apply mosquito repellent outdoors.

Our sustainable tours showcase Ho Chi Minh City’s suburban treasures:

• Saigon Suburban Escape ($50–$70/person): Suoi Mo Park, Buu Long, zip-lining, and boating. Includes bike rentals, guide, snacks.

• Saigon Eco Tour ($50–$70/person): Tre Viet Village, bamboo workshops, Ho Ban Nguyet Park. Includes eco-transfers, guide, lunch.

• Saigon Heritage Tour ($55–$75/person): Cu Chi Tunnels, Hoang Phap Pagoda, rural cycling. Includes eco-transfers, guide, meals.

• Mekong Delta Adventure ($200–$350/person, 2–3 days): Suburban sites, Mekong Delta eco-villages, homestays. 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 on this page! TripAdvisor Reviews

Ho Chi Minh City’s suburbs, from Suoi Mo’s natural streams to Tre Viet’s cultural charm, offer serene escapes just beyond Saigon’s skyline. Legend Travel Group’s Ho Chi Minh City Tours guide you through these hidden gems, ensuring a sustainable Ho Chi Minh City Travel experience that supports local communities. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your suburban Saigon adventure today!
Ready to discover Ho Chi Minh City’s suburban wonders? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and experience Saigon’s natural and cultural treasures!

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.