If you’re looking for a low-budget solution to travel from Ho Chi Minh to Mekong Delta, choosing a bus will be the best option due to its low cost, frequent daily departures, and ease of booking. However, not all routes are the same at each destination. Let’s explore bus from Ho Chi Minh to Mekong Delta the details are in this article.
Is there a direct bus from Ho Chi Minh to Mekong Delta?
Yes, and because there are many routes and affordable fares, traveling by bus from Ho Chi Minh to Mekong Delta is also the most practical choice. By bus, the Mekong Delta is easily reachable.
You just come to Mien Tay Bus Station, and you’ll find a series of buses running continuously throughout the day to each province in the Mekong Delta. Each route goes directly to a specific place, such as My Tho, Ben Tre, Can Tho, etc.
The important thing is that there isn’t a single bus route for the entire Mekong Delta; you need to choose the specific city you want to go to and then board the bus directly there.
Popular bus routes from Ho Chi Minh to Mekong Delta
When looking for a bus from Ho Chi Minh to Mekong Delta, it’s best to compare routes not only by distance but also by price, frequency, and where buses actually stop. Below is more information.
Ho Chi Minh City → My Tho
This is the shortest and easiest route, it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Ticket prices are usually in the range of 80,000 – 100,000 VND. Buses run very frequently, typically every 30–60 minutes from early morning to late afternoon, so you seldom need to wait.
Most buses stop at My Tho Bus Station or along National Highway 1A, which is just a short ride from key attractions like Thoi Son Island and the Tien River boat piers. Because of this, it’s perfect for short Mekong Delta excursions or day getaways.
Ho Chi Minh City → Ben Tre
The bus frequency between these two locations is less frequent than that to My Tho, with a bus departing every 60-90 minutes. Travel time is spent from 2-2.5 hours, with ticket prices from 90,000 VND to 150,000 VND.
The main station is Ben Tre Bus Station, from which you can easily travel to coconut villages, hotels, homestays, and boating areas in just 10-20 minutes. This is a convenient and suitable route, allowing you to fully feel the beauty and authentic atmosphere of the Mekong Delta.
Ho Chi Minh City → Can Tho
If this is your first time looking for a bus from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta, you’ll likely choose this route. Can Tho is actually the “center” of the Mekong Delta, so buses run frequently throughout the day. Trip time is usually around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic conditions when leaving Ho Chi Minh City. The common fare is about 150,000 – 200,000 VND, but this may vary slightly depending on the company and type of bus you select.
The trips are quite frequent, especially during the day. You don’t necessarily need to time your travel precisely, as missing a bus usually doesn’t mean a long wait.
Upon arrival, the bus usually stops at the bus station or the company’s office in the city. From there, you can simply take a short Grab ride to reach the city center, such as Ninh Kieu Wharf. If you plan to visit Cai Rang Floating Market early in the morning, staying overnight in Can Tho is more practical than traveling for a day.
Ho Chi Minh City → Vinh Long
The journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Vinh Long takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, with ticket prices about 120,000 – 160,000 VND. Buses run often, but less usually than from Can Tho, with a bus departing every 1-2 hours.
The main bus station is Vinh Long Bus Station, which is not far from the ferry terminals and homestay accommodations along the Mekong River. This route brings you more convenient and quick access to local orchards and villages, making it ideal for those who prefer a peaceful and impression of nature-friendly experience.
Ho Chi Minh City → Chau Doc
This is the longest route, taking about 6 to 7 hours. Ticket prices range from 200,000 – 300,000 VND depending on the bus quality. There are fewer departures compared to other routes, usually 5–10 trips per day.
Buses typically arrive at Chau Doc Bus Station, which is close to the town center. From here, you can visit Sam Mountain, Ba Chua Xu Temple, or continue your journey toward Cambodia via river or land routes.
Most bus routes from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta depart from Mien Tay Bus Station, with frequent and easily accessible schedules. Simply identify your destination, and you can choose a suitable route quite quickly.
Bus companies operating these routes
Large companies like FUTA Bus Lines, Thanh Buoi, Kumho Samco, or Mai Linh are safe solutions if you prioritize stable prices, frequent travels, and straightforward booking. These are traditional passenger bus companies (seated or sleeper buses), suitable for most travelers.
Alternatively, limousine companies like Vu Linh Limousine, Thinh Phat, or Minh Tam are suitable if you want faster travel, fewer stops, and a more comfortable space. Prices will be slightly higher, but the experience is noticeably better.
Top bus companies by destination:
- Can Tho: FUTA Bus Lines (Phuong Trang), Vu Linh Limousine, Hoa Hiep.
- Ben Tre/Tien Giang (My Tho): Thinh Phat, Minh Tam, FUTA Bus Lines.
- Vinh Long: Phuong Trang (FUTA), Tri Nhan, Hoa Hiep, Nguyen An
Ticket prices & Travel time
The fee and travel time for bus from Ho Chi Minh to Mekong Delta depend primarily on the distance and the type of bus you choose. Generally, shorter trips are cheaper and faster, while longer trips take longer but offer a wider choice of higher-quality buses.
| Route | Travel time | Ticket price (VND) |
| Ho Chi Minh City → My Tho | ~1.5 hours | 80,000 – 100,000 |
| Ho Chi Minh City → Ben Tre | ~2 hours | 90,000 – 150,000 |
| Ho Chi Minh City → Can Tho | ~3.5 hours | 150,000 – 200,000 |
| Ho Chi Minh City → Vinh Long | ~2.5 – 3 hours | 120,000 – 160,000 |
| Ho Chi Minh City → Tra Vinh | ~2.5 – 3 hours | 150,000 – 170,000 |
All things considered, bus routes from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta are suitably priced, making them appropriate for both frequent daily travelers and those on a tight budget. If you select a limousine or high-quality bus, the price may be slightly higher, but the trip time usually doesn’t differ significantly.
Where to catch the bus in Ho Chi Minh City
If you’re traveling by bus from Ho Chi Minh to Mekong Delta, the main and easiest starting point is Mien Tay Bus Station. This is the largest bus station serving routes to the Mekong Delta, and almost all bus companies are located here.
At the train station, ticket counters are divided by route and train company, making it easier for you to book tickets quickly. You just need to go to the area corresponding to Can Tho, My Tho, or Ben Tre to buy tickets directly. You don’t need to order tickets in advance on weekdays, because you can buy tickets on the same day.
Besides Mien Tay Bus Station, some companies like FUTA Bus Lines or limousine companies also have their own offices in the city center (District 1, District 5). From there, they often have shuttle buses to the bus station or your destination, saving you travel time in the city.
How to book bus tickets
To order tickets by bus from Ho Chi Minh to Mekong Delta, you can select one of two regular methods: buying directly or booking online, depending on your convenience. And if you do not have experience, buying tickets at Mien Tay Bus Station is the easiest method.
The ideal way is to buy tickets directly at Mien Tay Bus Station. Simply go to the bus company’s counter, choose your route to Can Tho, My Tho, or Ben Tre, and buy your ticket. For popular routes, you can order tickets on the same day without prior booking, except during holidays or weekends.
There are famous platforms that you can buy tickets online with, like VeXeRe, MoMo, or VNPay, giving more flexibility and choices. When buying on these platforms, you can conveniently compare prices, choose departure times, and select the type of bus (seated, sleeper, or limousine) quickly. For more safety, you should book on official websites and apps and thoroughly research the information before making a reservation.
Typically, tickets can be booked several days in advance, but for the Ho Chi Minh City to Mekong Delta bus route, buying tickets on the same day is still quite easy if it’s not peak season.
Pros and cons of taking the bus
When selecting a bus from Ho Chi Minh to Mekong Delta, you should carefully consider the spend, trip time, and actual experience. Below is a more detailed table to help you make a view:
| Pros | Cons |
| Very affordable (from ~80,000 – 200,000 VND), much cheaper than taxis or private cars | Fixed schedules: you need to follow the bus timetable |
| Frequent departures, especially from Mien Tay Bus Station to Can Tho or My Tho | Can be fully booked during weekends or peak seasons if not reserved in advance |
| Multiple vehicle options: seated buses, sleeper buses, and limousine services | Bus quality varies between companies, especially with lower-cost options |
| Direct routes to major cities in the Mekong Delta, no transfers required | Drop-off points may not be at your hotel, requiring extra transport |
| Easy booking both offline and online via platforms like VeXeRe or MoMo | Some local operators have limited English support |
| Suitable for both tourists and locals, offering a more authentic travel experience | Possible multiple stops along the way, increasing travel time |
| No need to navigate or drive yourself | Not flexible if you want to stop for sightseeing along the route |
Overall, buses from Ho Chi Minh to Mekong Delta are a reasonable option if you prioritize affordability and ease of travel. However, if you need greater flexibility or are traveling in a small group, you might consider other options such as a private limousine or private transfer.
Tips for taking the bus from Ho Chi Minh to Mekong Delta
To make your bus from Ho Chi Minh to Mekong Delta smoother, keep the following points in mind, especially helpful if it’s your first time:
- Arrive early to avoid traffic jams: Choose buses between 6:00 and 9:00 AM, especially when going to Can Tho or My Tho, to save travel time.
- Order tickets in advance on weekends/holidays: Popular routes often sell out too fast, especially with large companies like FUTA Bus Lines.
- Go early to the bus station: If you are departing from Mien Tay Bus Station, arrive 20-30 minutes early to find the correct counter and gate.
- Choose the right type of bus: For long journeys (3-4 hours or more), prioritize sleeper buses or limousines to cause less fatigue.
- Prepare for the final leg of your trip: Buses usually stop at bus stations or company offices, so you may need to take a Grab/taxi to your hotel.
- Prepare your place’s address in advance: If you don’t speak Vietnamese, prepare the address or a picture to easily communicate with the driver.
- Bring water and light snacks: Some routes have stops, but these aren’t always convenient, especially on short routes.
These tips will help you travel by bus from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta more easily and avoid unnecessary problems.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about traveling by bus from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta that you should know before planning your trip:
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Not required. For popular routes like My Tho or Can Tho, you can buy tickets on the same day. However, on weekends or holidays, it’s advisable to book in advance to ensure availability.
Is it safe to travel by bus from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta?
Yes. Most major companies like FUTA Bus Lines operate reliably, with new buses and clear schedules, making it a safe and popular option.
Is it possible to do a day trip to the Mekong Delta by bus?
Yes, especially for routes closer to My Tho or Ben Tre. However, for a more immersive experience, you should stay at least one night in Can Tho.
Selecting a bus from Ho Chi Minh to Mekong Delta is the easy, most money-saving, and most accessible tip to travel. Simply choose the right route, bus company, and plan, and you can easily start your exploration of the Mekong Delta without too many impediments. If you want more complete travels without the hassle of detailed planning, you can check out Lily’s Travel’s Mekong Delta tours. These pre-designed itineraries combine travel, local experiences, and reasonable rest periods, an ideal choice for both first-time tourists and those wanting to discover further.
