Ho Chi Minh: Day trip to Mui Ne With ATV Quad & Private Jeep

Ho Chi Minh: Day trip to Mui Ne With ATV Quad & Private Jeep
Location: Central Vietnam, Vietnam
Rating: 4.4/5 (8 reviews)
Price: $62 per person
Duration: 14 hours

Imagine leaving Ho Chi Minh City early in the morning and spending a full day exploring some of Vietnam’s most striking landscapes in Mui Ne — all for just $62. This tour is a well-rounded package that combines comfortable transportation, scenic stops, and a taste of adventure, making it an intriguing option for those craving a quick escape from the hectic city. It’s a long day, but the variety of sights and activities—like ATV riding on white sand dunes and catching a sunset from the red dunes—can make it feel surprisingly short.

Two aspects stand out for us: First, the private jeep tour offers flexibility and a more intimate experience compared to large group excursions, meaning you can linger longer at places that catch your eye. Second, the ATV quad bike rides at the white sand dunes provide a thrilling way to experience Mui Ne’s signature landscapes firsthand, even if you’ve never ridden before.

A possible drawback? The length of the day. With about four hours on the bus each way, you’ll spend a significant chunk of time in transit. If you’re not a fan of long journeys, this might feel a bit tiring, especially if traffic is heavy — which can happen during weekends or holidays. Still, for those eager to see multiple highlights in one day, the effort feels justified.

This tour suits travelers who love a mix of nature, adventure, and cultural sights, and those who don’t mind a long day on the road. It’s perfect for curious explorers who want to see iconic dunes, traditional fishing villages, and scenic beaches without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation with round-trip sleeper buses and WiFi provides a stress-free journey.
• Private jeep tour ensures a flexible, personalized experience at each stop.
• Adventure activities like ATV quad biking add excitement to scenic landscapes.
• Diverse stops include Fairy Stream, fishing villages, Hon Rom beach, and iconic sand dunes.
• Long travel time might be tiring for some travelers, but the scenic views make it worthwhile.
• Meals are not included, so packing snacks is recommended for the full day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from Your Mui Ne Day Trip

Early Start and Comfortable Transport

You’ll meet at the Nam Hai Travel Office around 7:50 am, exchanging your ticket — a simple process, often via email or WhatsApp. The journey begins with a roughly 40-minute bus ride to catch your sleeper bus, which departs sharply at 8:00 am. The buses are praised for their WiFi, air conditioning, and friendly drivers, making the long ride more pleasant. We loved the way the buses are modern and clean, offering a bit of comfort during those few hours on the road.

The trip takes about four hours each way, giving you a chance to see the countryside unfold beyond Ho Chi Minh’s busy streets. You’ll pass through rural areas, rice paddies, and small towns — a reminder of Vietnam’s evolving landscape beyond the urban sprawl. While some travelers find the journey long, the scenic views tend to make it feel less tedious. Plus, a 15-minute stop each way allows for stretching legs and some fresh air.

Arriving at Mui Ne and First Impressions

Once in Mui Ne, the day begins at the enchanting Fairy Stream — a gentle, shallow waterway lined with colorful sandstones and soft sand, perfect for barefoot strolling. We loved the chance to walk barefoot, cooling our feet in the stream, and snap photos of the landscape’s vibrant hues. The relaxing atmosphere here is a nice contrast to the bus ride, offering a tranquil start to your tour.

Exploring Mui Ne’s Coastal Charm

Next, you visit the Fishing Village, a lively area dotted with thousands of boats and local fishermen. This is a colorful, bustling scene that offers authentic glimpses into local life. The driver is happy to take photos of you amid the boats, capturing the essence of Mui Ne’s fishing tradition. Authenticity here is high — it’s a glimpse into a working community rather than a touristy spot.

A quick stop at Hon Rom Beach offers sweeping ocean views and a chance to snap some scenic photos. You’ll have a few minutes to enjoy the breeze and take selfies with the waves behind you. It’s a short but memorable moment that captures Mui Ne’s natural beauty.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Sand Dunes Adventure

The highlight for many visitors is the white sand dunes. Your jeep driver arranges tickets, and you hop onto ATV quad bikes for two stops at the dunes. This is often praised in reviews — the thrill of riding up the dunes and taking in the panoramic views. We agree: the photos from the top are spectacular, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light hits the dunes just right.

You’ll also visit Lotus Lake, a peaceful spot nearby, perfect for a quick walk and more photo opportunities. The ATV rides are included in the price, with two people sharing an ATV, and the driver acting as a pillion passenger. This adds a dash of adventure and a fun way to see the landscape without tiring your legs.

Red Sand Dunes and Sunset Views

Finally, the red sand dunes are often the closing highlight, especially if timing allows for a sunset. Climbing up the dunes offers sweeping views of the beach and the city — a fitting end to a day of exploration. Watching the sunset here is a popular choice, and some reviews mention that the weather often cooperates to give a beautiful display.

Afterward, your jeep driver will take you back to the bus station for the return trip, arriving back at the same meeting point around 10 pm. The journey home is a good time to rest and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Morning Departure and Transit

Starting around 7:50 am, travelers gather at the meeting point, exchanging tickets easily either via email or WhatsApp. The quick 40-minute transfer to the sleeper bus is smooth, and the bus itself is praised for its WiFi, air conditioning, and friendly drivers. This initial leg sets the tone for a comfortable journey, especially appreciated since the bus avoids city center congestion.

Scenic Drive to Mui Ne

The four-hour bus ride offers views of Vietnam’s countryside — lush rice paddies, small villages, and passing markets. It’s an opportunity to settle in, relax, and prepare for the day ahead. The stop halfway provides a brief break for stretching and refreshing.

Arrival and First Stop at Fairy Stream

The Fairy Stream is an ideal start point — its gentle waters and colorful sands provide an inviting landscape for barefoot exploring and picture-taking. The mellow pace here provides a gentle introduction to Mui Ne’s natural beauty.

Cultural and Coastal Stops

The fishing village offers a lively, authentic snapshot of local life, with boats and fishermen. It’s a short walk and photo opportunity, with plenty of chances to chat with local fishermen or snap candid shots.

Hon Rom beach is a quick, scenic stop. It’s a place to breathe in the salty air, get some photos, or just relax for a few minutes.

Sand Dunes and Adventure

The white sand dunes are the tour’s centerpiece — a place to ride ATV bikes, climb the dunes, and enjoy sweeping views. Multiple reviews mention the stunning scenery and the fun of ATV rides. The inclusion of the ATV experience adds a real sense of adventure, making it more than just sightseeing.

The Lotus Lake nearby is a peaceful respite, giving you a break from the dunes’ sand and offering more photo ops.

Sunset at Red Dunes

The day wraps up at the red dunes, where you can watch the sunset if timing aligns. Climbing to the top of the dunes is a memorable experience — the vast landscape stretching out below, with the setting sun casting long shadows and warm colors.

Return Journey

After the day’s exploration, the jeep takes you back to the bus station, and the comfortable sleeper bus returns you to Ho Chi Minh City, arriving around 10 pm. The journey gives you time to unwind and process the day’s impressions.

The Value of This Tour

At $62, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. The combination of transportation, private jeep tour, ATV rides, and scenic stops provides a comprehensive Mui Ne experience without the hassle of planning each detail yourself. The price also includes some thoughtful touches like complimentary drinks, which enhance the overall value.

You’ll spend about 4 hours on the bus each way, which might seem long, but the scenery and the variety of stops make it worthwhile. The tour’s private setup means fewer crowds and more flexibility, allowing you to linger at spots like the dunes or snap extra photos.

The inclusion of the ATV quad bike rides is a standout feature. Many travelers consider this a fun addition, offering a different perspective of the dunes and allowing you to actively participate rather than just observe. Plus, the scenic coastal stops are authentic and photogenic — perfect for capturing memories.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal if you’re looking for a full-day adventure that balances scenic beauty, cultural insights, and a touch of adrenaline. It suits travelers who don’t mind a long day but want to maximize their time and see multiple highlights in one go. It’s especially good for those eager to experience Mui Ne’s iconic sand dunes, traditional fishing villages, and coastal scenery without having to rent a vehicle or organize guides themselves.

However, it’s less suitable for travelers with limited mobility or those who prefer shorter, less intensive trips. The long bus rides and walking at dunes require a reasonable level of stamina. Pregnant women, wheelchair users, and older travelers over 95 might find the physical aspects challenging.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Ho Chi Minh to Mui Ne offers a well-rounded and authentic experience for those craving scenic landscapes, local culture, and adventure. The private jeep ensures a flexible, intimate experience, while the ATV rides inject fun into your exploration. It’s a long day, but the stunning views at Fairy Stream, Lotus Lake, and especially the sand dunes make it worthwhile.

The value for $62 is solid, considering transport, activities, and the opportunity to see some of Vietnam’s most distinctive natural features. Whether you’re a photo enthusiast, adventure lover, or simply seeking a change of scenery from Ho Chi Minh City, this tour provides a compelling way to do it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves ATV rides and a long bus journey, so it may be better suited for older children who can handle the physical activities and long hours. Check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a camera, sunscreen, light clothes, cash for meals or souvenirs, and a charged smartphone are recommended. Pack snacks if you want extra energy during the day.

Is the transportation comfortable?
Yes, the sleeper buses are equipped with WiFi and air conditioning, which makes the long ride more pleasant. The buses are praised for their modern amenities.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not part of the tour. The itinerary mentions a lunch stop near Fairy Stream, but you’ll need to bring cash or buy food separately.

Can I join the tour if I don’t speak Vietnamese?
Most guides don’t speak English, so bringing Google Translate or basic Vietnamese phrases can help. The private jeep driver may not speak English fluently but will be friendly and helpful.

How long is the total trip?
The entire experience lasts about 14 hours, with roughly 4 hours each way on the bus and around 5 hours of sightseeing and activities.

Is this tour available on weekends or holidays?
Yes, but note that travel times might be longer during weekends or holidays due to traffic, possibly adding 30-45 minutes.

What happens if it rains?
Raincoats are provided, so you can still enjoy most outdoor activities, but be aware that weather can affect the dunes and sunset views.

Whether you’re after the scenic beauty of sand dunes, the charm of fishing villages, or the thrill of ATV riding, this Mui Ne day trip offers a balanced and memorable experience. It’s a good choice for travelers who value authenticity, comfort, and a well-organized itinerary — all in one affordable package.

You can check availability for your dates here: