Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho: Best Stops & Drive Guide

On the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City, the Saigon River meets the northern edge of the Mekong Delta, a transition marked by the ancient Vam Sat ecological reserve. National Route 1A, the main artery south, is built on a natural levee that historically prevented flooding, giving the road a slightly elevated profile above the rice paddies.

This route is a 70-kilometer straight shot, but the true experience is in the slow reveal of the delta's water world. You'll cross the Rach Chiec Bridge, then the Ben Luc Bridge – the longest cable-stayed bridge in Vietnam, completed in 2019. The drive typically takes about 1.5 hours by car or 2 hours by motorbike, depending on traffic.

Known for its intricate canal system, the delta here is a mosaic of emerald fields and silver waterways. The climate is tropical monsoon, with a dry season from December to April and a rainy season from May to November – the latter painting the landscape in lush greens but demanding slow driving.

For a deeper dive into route planning, this guide on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities offers practical strategies.

The transition from urban sprawl to agricultural heartland begins around the Rach Chiec Bridge. Here, the landscape opens to orchards of dragon fruit and jackfruit, their vines trained over metal hoops. The delta's fertility is legendary: the Mekong River deposits 100 million tons of silt annually, sustaining a rice bowl that feeds millions.

Dotted along the highway are traditional thatched-roof stalls selling fresh coconut water and palm candy. The local commerce thrives on the river: you'll see boats ferrying produce, and in My Tho, the floating market of Cai Be (10 km south) is a chaos of color and commerce.

One of the region's hidden off-route spots is the Thoi Son Island (3 km by ferry from My Tho), where you can walk through bee farms and taste the local honey. For a rest, the Tan Long Temple (78 km) offers a quiet garden and a view of the Tien River.

The cuisine infrastructure is robust: from high-end riverside restaurants in My Tho to humble banh mi stalls along the way. Must-try dishes include hu tieu My Tho (a noodle soup) and fresh spring rolls with fish from the delta.

National Route 1A is generally well-paved, with two lanes in each direction for the first 30 kilometers. However, it intersects with local traffic at numerous points, so expect frequent speed changes. Fuel stations appear every 10-15 kilometers, but it's wise to fill up in HCMC to avoid higher prices in rural areas.

• Bridge tolls: Around 25,000 VND for cars, 15,000 VND for motorbikes at the Ben Luc Bridge.
• Driving on the right side; be cautious of motorbikes overtaking on both sides.
• Highway restrooms are scarce; plan to stop at local coffee shops or food stalls.

The easiest departure is from District 5, taking Vo Van Kiet Boulevard to National Route 1A. Google Maps estimates 70 km, but actual driving may be longer due to detours. For logistics, the best stops Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho include the Vam Sat Ecotourism Area (30 km) and the Cao Dai Temple in Ben Tre (60 km, slightly off the main road).

How long to drive Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho depends on your pace; but with a standard car, allow at least 1.5 hours of moving time. If you're wondering is it worth driving Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho, absolutely – the journey offers a glimpse of delta life you won't see from a tour bus.

Road infrastructure safety is a mixed bag: while the highway is in good condition, many side roads lack adequate lighting. The most dangerous stretch is the Phu My bridge (55 km), where traffic merges from local roads at high speed. Always use headlights, and when driving in the rainy season, be aware of slippery surfaces.

For families, the Vam Sat Ecotourism Area is a perfect break – it offers monkey sanctuary, paddle boat rides, and a chance to see crocodiles in their natural habitat. The park has clean facilities and is child-friendly, with wide paths and shade.

Pet-friendly travel is challenging: many restaurants won't allow animals, but the roadside cafes usually have outdoor seating where leashed pets are tolerated. Always carry water and a bowl for your pet.

Fatigue management: it's a short drive, but the monotony can lull you. Plan to stop every hour at rest zones like the Tan An plaza (45 km), which has a gas station, convenience store, and a shaded park. The best stops Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho are often the unexpected ones – a tiny bridge flanked by flowers, or a roadside game of Vietnamese chess.