Ninh Thuan by Motorbike: Routes, Tips, and What to Watch Out For
A motorbike is the best way to see Ninh Thuan. Here's how to do it safely and efficiently.
Why Motorbike?
Ninh Thuan's highlights are spread across 60km of coastline and inland. Public transport is limited. Taxi costs add up fast. A motorbike gives you:
- Freedom to stop wherever you want
- Access to places taxis don't go (Vinh Hy, Hang Rai)
- Cost: 120-160k VND/day vs 300-500k VND for a car
If you can ride a motorbike, this is how to get around.
Renting
Where: Any guesthouse in Phan Rang can point you to a rental shop. The area near the bus station has several.
What to rent:
- Semi-automatic (xe số): Better for mountain roads (Vinh Hy road, Song Pha). More control on steep descents.
- Automatic (xe tay ga): Easier for beginners. Fine for flat areas. Can struggle on steep hills with a passenger.
Price: 120-160k VND/day. Includes basic insurance.
Always: Check brakes, horn, lights, and fuel level before leaving the shop. Take a photo of any existing scratches.
Main Routes
Route 1: Phan Rang → Vinh Hy (40km one way)
Road condition: Good tarmac for the first 20km, then narrow coastal road through Nui Chua National Park. Some steep sections. Time: 60-75 minutes without stops. Caution: The road between Vinh Hy and Ninh Chu has sharp curves. Take it slow, especially downhill.
Route 2: Phan Rang → Mui Dinh (40km one way)
Road condition: Beautiful coastal road, with harsh sun and strong wind in exposed sections. Time: 60-75 minutes if you stop for photos. Caution: The access roads near Mui Dinh can be sandy and exposed. Ride slowly, especially when the wind is strong.
Route 3: Phan Rang → Ca Na (60km one way)
Road condition: Highway 1. Straightforward. Time: 60-75 minutes. Caution: Long stretch with limited shade. Bring water.
Route 4: Phan Rang → Song Pha (45km via Highway 27 toward Da Lat)
Road condition: Mountain road. Steep and winding. Beautiful but demanding. Time: 60-90 minutes. Caution: Not recommended for first-time motorbike riders or automatic scooters with a passenger.
Road Rules to Know
- Ride on the right (Vietnam drives on the right)
- Helmet is mandatory — police checkpoint near Phan Rang regularly fines foreigners
- No drunk riding — zero tolerance, heavy fines
- International license: Technically required, rarely enforced for tourists but a liability if you have an accident without one
Safety Notes
The biggest hazard: Sand on the road. Common on coastal sections, the Mui Dinh access road, and after windy days. Sand looks like wet pavement but behaves like ice. Slow down on curves in sandy areas.
Night riding: Avoid it. Minimal street lighting outside the city, and large potholes appear without warning.
Rain: Stop and wait it out. Wet roads + motorbike + sand = high accident risk.
Fuel: Fill up in Phan Rang before heading to Vinh Hy, Mui Dinh, or Ca Na. Stations are few along those routes.
If You Don't Ride
Hire a motorbike taxi for the day: 400-600k VND. Ask your guesthouse to recommend a reliable driver. This is better than renting a car if you're solo.
