Overview
Highlights
- Ride through the historic streets of Saigon on a traditional cyclo for a unique, slow-paced perspective of the city.
- Inhale the scents of thousands of blooms at Ho Thi Ky, the city’s largest and most vibrant wholesale flower market.
- Discover the spiritual heritage and intricate 19th-century architecture of Thien Hau Temple in District 5.
- Explore the iconic Binh Tay Market, a masterpiece of Chinese-style design and the bustling heart of Chinatown’s commerce.
- Wander through hidden alleys and local rhythms that define the authentic character of Cho Lon.
Itinerary
Morning or Afternoon Session (Flexible Scheduling)
We offer two departure times daily to perfectly suit your travel rhythm. Choose between the Morning Session (09:00 AM – 12:30 PM) or the Afternoon Session (13:00 PM – 16:30 PM).09:00 – 09:30 (or 13:00 – 13:30) | Departure & Relaxed Cyclo Ride
- Pickup Schedule: We pick up guests from several central hotels between 09:00 AM – 09:30 AM (morning) or 13:00 PM – 13:30 PM (afternoon).
09:30 (or 13:30) | Vibrant Colors at Ho Thi Ky Flower Market
Your guide and cyclo driver will lead you through bustling local markets filled with color and rhythm. During this journey, you will stop at several authentic and lively places that define the spirit of District 5. Walk through Ho Thi Ky Flower Market - the narrow, flower-lined alleys of the city’s most famous wholesale floral hub. Experience the local energy as vendors prepare thousands of blossoms for delivery across the city, creating a breathtaking tapestry of colors and scents.
Scenic Cyclo Journey to Chinatown
Enjoy a charming and breezy ride toward the historic District 5. As you sit back, watch the cityscape transform from modern urban streets into the historic, character-filled architecture of Cho Lon, the oldest Chinatown in the world.
Spiritual Heritage at Thien Hau Temple
Discover Thien Hau Temple - the unique Chinese-Vietnamese cultural and spiritual traditions at this 19th-century temple dedicated to the Lady of the Sea. Admire the intricate porcelain dioramas on the roof and the massive incense coils that create a peaceful, ethereal atmosphere.
Commerce & Culture at Binh Tay Market
Explore Binh Tay Market - the bustling wholesale heart of Chinatown. Marvel at the market’s iconic Chinese-style architecture, including its central clock tower and courtyard, while wandering through stalls overflowing with everything from traditional herbs to local handicrafts.
12:00 – 12:30 (or 16:00 – 16:30) | Return Journey
At the end of the tour, your cyclo will provide a comfortable ride back to your original pick-up point or any central location of your choice within Ho Chi Minh City.
Things to Know
Includes
Tour Included
- Central hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Transfer by private cyclo with a dedicated driver.
- Professional Vietnamese-English speaking expert tour guide.
- A light meal (Banh Mi or traditional noodles).
- A local drink (Vietnamese coffee or herbal drink).
- Bottled drinking water.
- Travel insurance.
- VAT.
Tour Excluded
- Personal expenses and shopping at the markets.
- Tips and gratuities for the guide and cyclo drivers (recommended).
- Additional drinks (beer, soft drinks, etc.)
Additional Info
Note
- All prices are quoted per person in Vietnamese Dong (VND).
- The itinerary may be adjusted without prior notice due to weather, tide levels, or other operational factors.
- Standard refund terms and conditions apply to all bookings.
- Special requests (diet or vegetarian…) must be submitted before your departure date.
- For the fastest processing, please select the payment method that best suits your needs.
Child regulations
- Free of charge for 01 kid under 5 years old. Parents are requested to pay the incurred costs themselves.
- Two adults can only accompany 01 child. The second child accompanying will be charged at the Child rate.
Cancellation policy
- Due to weather conditions, a full refund.
- Due to personal reasons from customers, no refund.
- The following charges will be levied on any cancellation if you cancel your trip at any time, provided you notify the company in writing:
- 30 days or more before the departure: 30% of the deposit
- 15 – 30 days before the departure: 50% of the deposit
- 8 – 15 days before the departure: 80% of the tour cost
- 1 – 07 days before the departure: 100% of the tour cost
- The tour cancellation time is on working days, excluding Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays.
Pricing & Packages
| Group Tour (min 2 persons) | Adult | Child (06-10) | Kid (01-05) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price/person | 35 USD (875,000 VND) | 27 USD (660,000 VND) | FOC |
Meeting & Pickup
FAQ
Is the cyclo ride safe for this Ho Chi Minh Cyclo Tour?
+Yes, Mekong Smile only works with experienced, professional cyclo drivers who are well-versed in navigating Saigon's traffic safely. It is a very relaxed and secure way to see the city.
What is the capacity of a cyclo for the Ho Chi Minh Cyclo Tour?
+Each cyclo is designed for one adult passenger to ensure safety and comfort. For families with small children, Mekong Smile can arrange for a child to sit with an adult, but we generally recommend one vehicle per person for the best view and experience.
What should I wear for the Ho Chi Minh Cyclo Tour in Chinatown?
+When visiting Thien Hau Temple with Mekong Smile, we recommend modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Comfortable, breathable fabrics are best for the tropical weather.
Are the entrance fees included in this Ho Chi Minh Cyclo Tour?
+Yes, Mekong Smile includes all entrance fees to Thien Hau Temple and other sites listed in the itinerary, ensuring you have a seamless experience without any hidden costs.
Can I take photos while the vehicle is moving during the Ho Chi Minh Cyclo Tour?
+Absolutely! The slow and steady pace of the cyclo is perfect for photography. Your Mekong Smile guide and driver will also stop at iconic spots or slow down whenever you want to capture a special moment.
How does Mekong Smile handle the heat or sun during the Ho Chi Minh Cyclo Tour?
+Our cyclos are equipped with retractable sunshades to keep you cool. Additionally, Mekong Smile provides cold bottled water throughout the journey and uses a modern A/C vehicle for longer transfers to ensure your comfort.
What happens if it rains during the Ho Chi Minh Cyclo Tour?
+The tour proceeds as scheduled. Mekong Smile provides high-quality rain ponchos and our cyclos have waterproof covers. Most stops in Chinatown, like temples and Binh Tay Market, offer indoor shelter during heavy showers.
Do the guides for the Ho Chi Minh Cyclo Tour speak fluent English?
+Yes, our professional guides at Mekong Smile are fully licensed and speak fluent English. They are experts in the history of Chinatown and are happy to share local stories with you.
Can I customize the Ho Chi Minh Cyclo Tour itinerary for a private group?
+Yes! If you book a private tour, Mekong Smile can adjust the stops based on your interests. Feel free to contact us in advance to personalize your perfect Saigon experience.
Samuel Peters Verified booking
Ho Thi Ky Flower Market was insanely colorful, smells, sounds, everything just alive.
Jacob Anderson Verified booking
Ho Thi Ky market = absolute photo heaven, so many colors everywhere, I could’ve stayed there for hours just taking pictures.
Benjamin Carter Verified booking
The guide made sure we understood the history behind every stop, really added depth to the experience.
thomas.greenwood_72 Verified booking
The flower market smells were intense but in a good way, very unique experience that wakes you up instantly.
Benjamin Williams Verified booking
I liked how the tour wasn’t rushed, you can actually take your time at each stop and really absorb the atmosphere.
Noah Evans Verified booking
The flower market stop was my favorite, it felt like walking through a rainbow of colors and chaos, super vibrant and unforgettable.
Lily Thompson Verified booking
Thien Hau Temple was peaceful and beautifully preserved, one of the highlights for me personally.
Alexander Turner Verified booking
Riding through Saigon in a cyclo felt like stepping back in time, super chill and surprisingly immersive.