Cu Chi Tunnels
Topping the list of famous day trips from Ho Chi Minh City is the Cu Chi Tunnels experience. It is about 70 km northwest from the Ho Chi Minh City center. This historic site holds great significance as a remnant of the Vietnam War. Over time, Cu Chi Tunnels became one of six special man-made structures in the world.
Cu Chi Tunnels - a special man-made structure
How to get Cu Chi Tunnels from Ho Chi Minh City
Cu Chi is about 70 km northwest of Saigon center so you can go there by bus, taxi or motorbike and car rental:
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Bus. Price: 10.000 VND (~ 0.42 USD) per ticket.
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Taxi. Price: 500.000 VND (~ 21.15 USD) - 600.000 VND (~ 25.38 USD) per way.
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Motorbike rental. Price: 150.000 VND (~ 6.34 USD) – 200.000 VND (~ 8.46 USD) per day.
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Car Rental. Price: 500.000 VND (~ 21.15 USD) - 1.400.000 VND (~ 59.22 USD) per day.
Best time to visit
I recommend planning your trip to Cu Chi between December and May of the following year. Besides, it is advisable to avoid going on the weekends as Cu Chi tends to be crowded with tourists.
Amazing experiences in Cu Chi Tunnel
The Cu Chi Tunnels, entrance priced at 90,000 VND (~3.81 USD) - 100,000 VND (~4.23 USD) per person, promise to be the highlight of your day trip from Ho Chi Minh City. These ingeniously designed tunnels were calculated to suit the size of Vietnamese people, making it incredibly challenging for larger Western enemies to gain entry.
The tunnel available for foreign visitors has been expanded to provide a more comfortable experience for tourists. Now, you can explore the tunnels and gain a deeper understanding of their historical significance.
Foreign guests try to enter Cu Chi Tunnels
Local dishes you must try
After going through the tunnel, you’re served the dishes that soldiers ate during the war such as Dioscorea hamiltonii (Khoai mài) and cassava (Củ sắn) with sesame salt in Cu Chi Tunnels campus. Besides, there are some Cu Chi local dishes you can refer to.
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Heifer
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Pork vermicelli
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Bitter gourd porridge
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Durian cane juice
International tourists are served local dishes
Mekong Delta
Traveling the Mekong Delta is one of the fascinating day trips from Ho Chi Minh City. It is about 50 km east of the Saigon center. This destination blends natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil countryside retreat or an adventure-filled exploration, the Mekong Delta is sure to make a lasting impression on your journey through Vietnam.
A couple of tourists enjoy the natural beauty of the Mekong River
How to get Mekong Delta from Ho Chi Minh City
To get to the Mekong Delta, you have several transportation options. Here are the most common ways:
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Coach: 90.000 VND (~ 3.81 USD) - 250.000 VND (~ 10.57 USD) per ticket.
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Taxi: 800.000 VND (~ 33.84 USD) - 1.500.000 VND (~ 63.45 USD) per way.
You also can travel between destinations by motorbike rental. Price: 100.000 VND (~ 4.23 USD) - 150.000 VND (~ 6.34 USD) per vehicle.
The best time to visit
The temperature in the West is stable at 26-28℃ all year round, making it a popular destination in each period.
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December to February: Discover the customs and traditions of year-end activities and welcome the Tet holiday.
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May to August: Witness the fruit harvesting process, where you can pick and enjoy the ripe and juicy berries.
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August to November: Relax as you float along the river, and admire the breathtaking natural scenery and serene landscape.
Tourists pick fruit in Cai Be Garden
Amazing experiences in the Mekong Delta
Travelers to the Mekong Delta can explore activities and discover many fascinating things, including:
Shopping at the floating market
One of the most interesting experiences for tourists to explore life in the West is the bustling floating markets every morning. It is an important part of culture and commerce in the Mekong Delta region that seems to have remained unchanged since the 1800s.
Cai Rang floating market
Visiting Tan Lap Floating Village, Long An
Tan Lap Village is one of the famous ecotourism destinations of Vietnam visited by the most discerning tourists. Nestled between a mysterious floating forest and swampy rivers, Tan Lap floating village is a peaceful place with tropical beauty and not too influenced by tourists.
The small path in Tan Lap floating village
Exploring Tra Su reserve in Chau Doc, An Giang
If possible, you should visit Tra Su forest in a dinghy that is driven by locals surfing through the green mangrove forests, in addition to discovering attractions.
Tra Su Forest, Vietnam
Local dishes you must try
Not known for its sumptuous feast, this area is enticing for its unique local cuisine that is unmatched anywhere in Asia. What makes the dishes in the Mekong Delta different is the use of ingredients derived from nature.
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Coconut worm (Đuông dừa)
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Vietnamese tomato noodle soup (Bún riêu)
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Pia cake (Bánh pía)
Coconut worm - a unique Mekong Delta food
Discover additional information in our article on Vietnam travel guide!
Vung Tau - A Coastal City
In addition to the list of day trips from Ho Chi Minh City, we recommend you visit Vung Tau City, about 125 km southeast from Saigon Center. The 42 km stretch of coastline surrounding the city with clear blue sea, a wide view of the sea are outstanding advantages for developing marine tourism here. You will freely explore, experience countless poetic and majestic tourist attractions.
Travelers in Vung Tau City
How to get Vung Tau City from Ho Chi Minh City
Below are the common ways to experience a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau City. Depending on your preferences and available transportation options, you can choose the one that suits you best.
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Coach: 80.000 VND (~ 3.38 USD) - 160.000 VND (~ 6.77 USD) per person.
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High-speed ship: 100.000 VND (~ 4.23 USD) - 200.000 VND (~ 8.46 USD) per person.
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Hydrofoil (fast ferry): 270.000 VND (~ 11.42 USD) - 350.000 VND (~ 14.80 USD) per person.
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Taxi: 1.500.000 VND (~ 63.45 USD) - 2.000.000 VND (~ 84.59 USD) per way.
Best time to visit
I suggest you go during the dry season from November to April. At this time, the weather is clear, no rain and wind so traveling will be more convenient. If you want to go sightseeing on roads with blossoms, the most ideal time is before and after Lunar New Year.
Amazing experiences in Vung Tau
As I said, Vung Tau is a coastal city located in South Vietnam and has many special spots for international visitors. Here are some notable experiences in Vung Tau.
Wakeboarding, kitesurfing and water-skiing
With its windy conditions and beautiful coastline, it offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy this exhilarating water sport. You can play water sports in Back Beach (Bãi Sau) and Front Beach (Bãi Trước).
Kitesurfing in Front Beach
Trekking
The trek usually takes around 3-4 hours to complete round-trip and it’s advisable to start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat. You must–try trekking in Big Mountain (Núi Lớn), Ho May Park Trek, Bai Dau Park Trek and Con Dao National Park Trek.
Visiting ships and drilling rigs
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Price: 170.000 VND (~ 7.19 USD) per person.
Visitors will have a panoramic view of the modern oil and gas industry, the largest in the country, including seaports, shipyards and rig-base factories.
Foreign tourists can visit drilling rigs in Vung Tau
Local dishes you must try
The dishes in Vung Tau often harmoniously combine seafood with other ingredients such as fresh vegetables, herbs and traditional sauces. Thanks to this combination, the dishes here are known for fresh and unique flavors. There are some Vung Tau famous dishes:
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Hotpot Stingray
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Vietnamese white sardine salad (Gỏi cá mai)
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Vietnamese mini pancake (Bánh khọt)
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Banh xeo
Hotpot Stingray with many ingredients
Can Gio Biosphere Reserve
Can Gio Biosphere Reserve was recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2000 so it’s a must-visit destination for nature lovers’ day trip from Ho Chi Minh City. This destination is approximately 50 kilometers away from the Saigon center. It offers a unique and immersive experience in Vietnam’s diverse ecosystem.
Visitor explore day trip from Ho Chi Minh to Can Gio Biosphere Reserve
How to get Can Gio Biosphere Reserve from Ho Chi Minh City
To get to Can Gio, there are 2 common methods:
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Motorbike rental: 150.000 VND (~ 6.34 USD) - 200.000 VND (~ 8.46 USD) per day.
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Car rental: 500.000 VND (~ 21.15 USD) - 1.400.000 VND (~ 59.22 USD) per day.
You should fill up fuel in the Ho Chi Minh center before moving to Can Gio because there are no gas stations on the way.
Best time to visit
The optimal time to explore Can Gio is during its dry season, which usually extends from December through April. This period is characterized by more consistent weather patterns and reduced rainfall, facilitating convenient exploration of the reserve.
Amazing experiences in Can Gio Biosphere Reserve
In addition to being a place to discover extraordinary natural surroundings, Can Gio Biosphere Reserve provides numerous thrilling activities for foreign tourists. Below are several experiences available that you must-try.
Sightseeing the mangrove forest
You can take a walk on a wooden trail or sail through the canals for sightseeing, learn about the unique ecosystem and observe the variety of animals that live in this area.
Foreigner immerse himself in the ecosystem at Can Gio Mangroves
Fishing and enjoying a peaceful view
With coastal beaches and mangrove canal systems, you can join fishing or rent a boat to go at sea and enjoy the views . You can enjoy the quiet space and learn about the life of local fishermen.
Fishing activity in Can Gio Biosphere Reserve
Visit Can Gio Monkey Island
You can take pictures and interact with natural flocks of monkeys. Remember you shouldn't wear sparkling costumes and items that pay attention to the island monkeys. The island also has activities such as visiting the zoo and watching monkey performances.
Local dishes you must try
Don’t pass up the opportunity to try the local specialties available here.
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Sam grilled egg with onion fat
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Nipa palm
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Giant mudskipper salad
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Grilled shrimp
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Dried pineapple fish
Nipa palm contains cool and sweet coconut water
Black Virgin Mountain
Black Virgin Mountain (or Ba Den Mountain) is a prominent mountain located in Tay Ninh Province, Vietnam. It is about 110 km southwest from Ho Chi Minh downtown. When choosing to experience the Black Virgin Mountain day trip from Ho Chi Minh City, you can be overwhelmed by its stunning natural beauty with lush forests, granite rock formations and diverse wildlife.
How to get Black Virgin Mountain from Ho Chi Minh City
Like the journey to Can Gio Biosphere Reserve above, I recommend renting a motorbike or car with self-sufficient travel.
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Motorbike rental: 150.000 VND (~ 6.34 USD) - 200.000 VND (~ 8.46 USD) per day.
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Car rental: 500.000 VND (~ 21.15 USD) - 1.400.000 VND (~ 59.22 USD) per day.
Best time to visit
The ideal time for you to visit Black Virgin Mountain tourist area is from November to May of the following year. During this time, the weather is sunny with less rainfall, making it suitable for outdoor sightseeing and exploration activities.
Amazing experiences in Black Virgin Mountain
The entrance fee: 10.000 VND (~ 0.42 USD) per person. After entering the campus, you will experience the following activities.
Spiritual exploration
Black Virgin Mountain is considered a sacred site, attracting pilgrims and spiritual seekers. You can explore the various pagodas and temples across the mountain such as Linh Son historic pagoda, and Ba Temple.
Scenic cable car ride
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Price: 250.000 VND(~ 10.57 USD) - 550.000 VND (~ 23.26 USD) per way.
Taking a cable car ride to the peak of Black Virgin Mountain, you can enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views, including lush forests, winding rivers and rolling hills. The cable car ride offers a unique perspective of the mountain and its surroundings.
Trekking and Nature walks
Embark on a trekking adventure through the mountain's trails and immerse yourself in nature. Explore the dense forests, encounter unique flora and fauna, and witness the rock formations. The mountain's trails offer opportunities for nature walks, providing a tranquil and serene experience.
You should trekking to immerse yourself in nature
Local dishes you must try
After a day of exploration, it is highly recommended to treat yourself to the delectable local cuisine. You can indulge in some mouthwatering regional specialities listed below.
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Dried mountain gecko
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Tay Ninh heifers
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Pomelo spring rolls
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Vietnamese thick noodle soup (Bánh canh)
Some tips for your trip
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Determine your interests and prioritize the attractions or activities you wish to experience during the day trip from Ho Chi Minh.
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Opting for a guided tour can save you time and help you provide valuable insights into the destinations you're visiting.
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Begin your day trip from Ho Chi Minh in the early morning to avoid traffic jams and crowds at popular attractions.
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Carry essentials such as sunscreen, hats, insect repellent and comfortable walking shoes to prepare for the weather conditions and the activities you plan to engage in during the day.
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Remember to stay hydrated throughout the day, especially if you're visiting outdoor destinations.
It’s great to see that you keep reading the top 5 day trips from Ho Chi Minh City. In this post, we provide information about the best time to visit these destinations and highlight their attractions. Remember to take note of our tips to ensure a well-planned and unforgettable journey on your upcoming vacation. And if you are looking for best Vietnam package tour, feel free to contact New Asia Tours for more details!
