Renting a motorbike in Phong Nha is one of the best ways to explore the national park and its surrounding attractions. With quiet roads, stunning scenery, and easy access to popular spots like Mooc Spring, Phong Nha Cave, and the Botanic Garden, driving a motorbike allows you to discover the area at your own pace. Whether you rent a motorbike from your hotel or a local rental shop, the process is straightforward and affordable. However, before you hit the road, it’s essential to understand the safety, legal requirements, and rental options available.
Is Phong Nha safe to drive motorbike?
Yes, Phong Nha is considered a very safe place to drive a motorbike. The area has very little traffic, and there are no large trucks or heavy vehicles passing through the national park. The roads are generally well-maintained, with smooth pavement and clearly marked paths.
One of the best features of driving in Phong Nha is that it’s nearly impossible to get lost—there’s essentially one main road that loops through the park, passing by the most accessible caves, Mooc Spring, and the Botanic Garden. For unexperienced motorbike riders or travelers who want a relaxing ride, Phong Nha offers an ideal environment.
Is it allowed to drive motorbike in Phong Nha?
The law
Vietnamese law requires anyone driving a motorbike with an engine over 50cc to have a valid driver’s license. For foreign travelers, this means having an International Driving Permit (IDP) that is recognized in Vietnam.
The practice
In practice, it’s very common for travelers to rent motorbikes in Phong Nha without a local or international license. Most rental shops and accommodations don’t ask for proof of a license, and police presence in the national park is minimal. You’re unlikely to encounter police checks while driving in Phong Nha, and even in rare cases when you do, the authorities typically don’t actively check foreign drivers. That said, it’s always important to consider the risks, as driving without a license can lead to complications in the event of an accident.
What is recommended
While you may not face legal issues driving without a license in Phong Nha, it’s still a good idea to have an IDP if possible. For those who prefer not to drive themselves or don’t feel comfortable on a motorbike, Easy Rider tours offer a great alternative.
Easy Riders
Easy Riders are local guides who take you on the back of their motorbikes for scenic trips. Though Easy Riders originated in Da Lat (Central Highlands), they operate across central Vietnam, including Phong Nha National Park. Most Easy Rider tours in Phong Nha involve multi-day trips that go beyond the national park, often combining visits to the DMZ, Ho Chi Minh Trail, and destinations like Hue or Hoi An, via the Hai Van Pass and Marble Mountains. There are some Easy Riders that offer tours that just cover Phong Nha, they provide an adventurous and safe way to explore the region.
Best motorbike rental in Phong Nha
Though Phong Nha is primarily a national park, the nearby village of Son Trach is the main tourist hub, offering a few places to rent motorbikes. While the options are limited, there are still enough motorbikes available to meet the needs of travelers. Whether you rent from a local shop or your accommodation, you’ll find that prices are affordable and the process is straightforward.
Renting a motorbike through your hotel or homestay
Many travelers choose to rent motorbikes directly through their accommodation. Hotels and homestays, especially those catering to backpackers, often have motorbikes available for rent. If your hotel doesn’t have bikes on-site, they can usually help you arrange a rental through a local shop. This is one of the most convenient ways to rent a motorbike in Phong Nha, as you can simply pick it up from your accommodation and start exploring.
Motorbike rentals in Phong Nha
There are two main motorbike rental shops in Son Trach Town, both located on the same street. These are the most popular options for travelers: The first one in this list is the most popular motorbike rental in Phong Nha National Park and has the better reviews.
- Thang’s Phong Nha Riders
- Hai’s Phong Nha Motorbike
Renting a motorbike in Dong Hoi
If you’re arriving in Dong Hoi by domestic flight or train, you also have the option of renting a motorbike there and driving to Phong Nha. The ride takes about an hour, and the road between Dong Hoi and Phong Nha is quiet and scenic, passing through rural areas. Keep in mind that you’ll need to return the motorbike to Dong Hoi, which limits your ability to take a direct bus from Phong Nha to your next destination. However, renting in Dong Hoi can be a good option if you plan to return there to catch another flight or train.
Options & prices
When renting a motorbike in Phong Nha, you’ll typically have a choice between automatic, semi-automatic, and, in rare cases, dirt or big bikes. Prices are very reasonable, and most rental shops or accommodations offer daily rentals.
Automatic motorbikes
Automatic motorbikes are the most popular choice for travelers in Phong Nha due to their ease of use. These bikes are great for exploring the main roads of the national park, and they don’t require any shifting gears.
- Popular models: Honda Air Blade, Yamaha Nouvo
- Price range: 120,000 – 150,000 VND per day (5 – 6.5 USD)
Semi-automatic motorbikes
For those who prefer a bit more control over their ride, semi-automatic motorbikes are a good option. These bikes offer manual gear shifting without the need for a clutch, providing a smoother ride on the hilly terrain in Phong Nha.
- Popular models: Honda Wave, Yamaha Sirius
- Price range: 100,000 – 130,000 VND per day (4.5 – 5.5 USD)
Big bikes and dirt bikes
While big bikes and dirt bikes are harder to find in Phong Nha, they may be available if you contact rental shops in advance. However, for the main roads and routes within the national park, a standard motorbike is sufficient. If you plan to go off-road or venture further, renting a dirt bike might be a better option.
Price range: 300,000 – 500,000 VND per day (12 – 21 USD)
Gass station in Phong Nha
When you rent a motorbike, it’s common for the bike to have little to no gas in the tank. The first thing you should do after renting is fill up at the nearest gas station, which is located at the entrance to Son Trach Town, near the turnoff to the main highway. There are no gas stations inside the national park itself, so make sure to fill up before heading out.
Typically, you can ask the attendant for a specific amount of gas. For most automatic or semi-automatic motorbikes, 70,000 VND should be enough to explore the park comfortably. Be sure to check that the attendant resets the meter to 0 VND before they begin pumping.
Tips for driving and renting motorbike
Before renting a motorbike, it’s important to inspect it to ensure it’s in good condition. Here’s a quick checklist of things to check before you start your ride:
Motorbike renting checklist
- Brakes: Test both the front and rear brakes to make sure they’re responsive.
- Lights and signals: Check that the headlights, taillights, and turn signals are working properly.
- Tires: Inspect the tires for any signs of wear or damage. Good tire grip is essential, especially on wet roads.
- Mirrors: Ensure both side mirrors are attached and positioned correctly.
- Horn: Make sure the horn is functional, as it’s an essential tool for signaling to other drivers.
Make photos & videos
Before you leave, take photos or videos of the motorbike, especially any existing damage. This will protect you from being charged for damage that wasn’t your fault when returning the bike.
Check gas before you leave
Double-check the gas level before leaving the rental shop. As mentioned, you’ll likely need to head straight to the gas station to fill up.
Get a Vietnamese SIM card
Having a local SIM card is highly recommended for navigation and communication. You’ll be able to use Google Maps or other apps to get around more easily. Download offline maps as a backup in case you lose signal while exploring the national park.
Check the weather
Weather conditions in Phong Nha can change quickly, especially during the rainy season. Rain makes roads slippery, and in some cases, high winds can cause branches or debris to fall onto the road. Always drive more slowly when it’s raining, and consider postponing your ride if the weather seems too dangerous.
Drive defensively
While the roads in Phong Nha are generally quiet, it’s important to stay alert. Always be prepared for unexpected obstacles, such as buffaloes or cows crossing the road, or a car overtaking another vehicle on a narrow bend. Defensive driving will keep you safe.
Always wear a helmet
Wearing a helmet is not only required by law but is essential for your safety. Opt for a high-quality helmet that provides full coverage, especially around the sides of your face.
No alcohol
Avoid drinking alcohol before or during your motorbike ride. Not only is it illegal to drive under the influence in Vietnam, but it’s also extremely dangerous.
