Traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Can Tho, the heart of the Mekong Delta, offers a range of transportation options. Whether you want comfort, convenience, or a scenic tour through the Delta, there’s an option for everyone.
Route: Saigon – Can Tho
Can Tho
Can Tho is the largest city in the Mekong Delta, famous for its bustling floating markets, especially Cai Rang, and as a gateway to exploring the surrounding countryside. It is well-connected with multiple transportation options, including numerous bus routes from major cities and even a domestic airport offering flights to and from Hanoi, Da Nang, and Phu Quoc.
Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, commonly referred to as Saigon, is the transportation hub of southern Vietnam. It offers a wide array of travel options, from flights to buses, and is the starting point for any journey into the Mekong Delta. With its efficient highways and express routes, travel times between Ho Chi Minh City and Can Tho have significantly shortened in recent years.
Overview
The development of highways, including an express route, has made the journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Can Tho much faster. It now takes around 3 hours to travel between these two cities, and there are several convenient options to choose from, which we will explore in the following sections.
Option 1: Limousine van
For comfort and convenience, taking a limousine van is one of the best choices for traveling between Ho Chi Minh City and Can Tho. Limousine vans are typically equipped with just 9 seats, providing extra legroom and a more luxurious experience compared to standard buses. Many also come with amenities like USB charging ports, reclining seats, and sometimes even Wifi.
In Ho Chi Minh City, these vans usually have pick-up points in District 1 or depart from bus stations. Once in Can Tho, they can drop you off directly at your accommodation, making the entire trip very convenient.
Schedule: Over 10 daily departures
Price: 200,000 VND (approximately 8 EUR)
Option 2: Sleeper bus
If you’re traveling on a budget, the sleeper bus is a cost-effective option. While sleeper buses are designed for overnight journeys, they also operate during the day on this route. The seats recline, offering more comfort than regular buses, although you won’t necessarily be sleeping if you’re traveling during the day. It’s a practical option for those who are looking to save money but still travel comfortably.
While sleeper buses are less comfortable than limousine vans, they are still a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Schedule: Multiple daily departures
Price: 100,000 VND – 150,000 VND (approximately 4 – 6 EUR)
Option 3: Private car
For the most flexibility and convenience, hiring a private car with a driver is an excellent choice. Unlike taxis, private cars are booked at a fixed price beforehand, which means no worries about the meter running. This option allows you to set your schedule, offering the freedom to make stops along the way, such as visiting the Ben Tre area for a boat tour. You can also decide where you want to be picked up and dropped off, making it the most customizable option.
Additionally, if you prefer a more scenic route, a private car can turn your journey into a Mekong Delta road trip, stopping in places like Ben Tre or My Tho to explore the local countryside. These plans need to be arranged in advance with the driver or through a travel agency.
Car Options:
- 4-seat car
- 7-seat car
- 9-seat car
- 16-seat minivan
Price: From 70 EUR
Option 4: Mekong Delta Tour
A Mekong Delta tour is not only a great way to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Can Tho but also the most convenient option for those who want to explore the region without worrying about transportation logistics. These tours typically include visits to famous floating markets, boat rides through smaller canals, and cycling through the countryside. Some tours even include overnight stays in local homestays, giving you a more immersive experience of the Mekong Delta.
There are different types of tours available. Larger group tours tend to use 16-seater buses, while smaller group tours (which are more recommended for a personalized experience) use 9-seater limousine vans. Private tours offer the most flexibility, allowing you to customize your itinerary, activities, and stops along the way. You can also extend your trip to islands like Phu Quoc or Con Dao.
Tour Options:
- Larger group tours
- Small group tours
- Private tours (with full customization)
Inclusions:
- Transfers between Ho Chi Minh City and Can Tho
- Local transportation within Can Tho
- Activities such as boat rides, cycling, and visits to floating markets
- Meals, guide, and accommodation (usually homestays or hotels)
