Transfers in Quang Binh

If you’re planning to visit Quang Binh, you’re in for a treat – this province in central Vietnam is home to some of the country’s most breathtaking natural wonders and cultural treasures. However, getting around Quang Binh can be challenging, especially if you’re not familiar with the local transportation options or don’t speak the language. That’s where transfer services come in – these transportation services can provide a safe, reliable, and convenient way to explore all that Quang Binh has to offer.

In this article, we’ll be discussing everything you need to know about transfer services in Quang Binh. We’ll cover the different types of transfer services available, how much they cost, and tips for using them effectively. Whether you’re looking to get from the airport to your hotel, visit one of the province’s many attractions, or explore the local countryside, transfer services can help make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. So let’s dive in and learn more about transfer services in Quang Binh, Vietnam.

Types of transfer services in Quang Binh, Vietnam

When traveling in Quang Binh, Vietnam, there are several types of transfer services available for visitors to choose from. These services range from private cars to taxis, shuttle buses, and motorbikes. Each type of transfer service has its own benefits and drawbacks, and the right choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Private cars

Private car transfer services offer visitors the luxury of having a dedicated vehicle and driver at their disposal, providing a comfortable and convenient way to get around Quang Binh. These services are particularly useful for visitors who value privacy, comfort, and convenience and want to avoid the crowds and delays of public transportation.

One of the main benefits of private car transfer services is the flexibility they offer. With a private car, visitors can set their own itinerary and travel at their own pace. This means you can make spontaneous stops to explore local attractions, take a break at a scenic spot, or enjoy a meal at a local restaurant. Private cars are also a good choice for families or groups of friends who want to travel together and split the cost.

The cost of private car transfer services in Quang Binh will depend on factors such as the duration of the rental, the distance traveled, and the type of vehicle chosen. Car types can vary from 4 to 45 seaters. Generally, the cost of a full-day rental for a standard 4-seater car ranges from 1.2 to 1.5 million VND (about 50 to 65 USD), while larger vehicles such as a 7-seater car or a minivan can cost between 1.5 and 2.5 million VND (about 65 to 110 USD). If you’re traveling in a larger group, the cost per person can be quite reasonable. However, visitors should also be aware of potential additional costs such as toll fees and parking charges.

While private car transfer services offer many advantages, it’s important to note that they can be relatively expensive compared to other transfer services. Visitors who want to book a private car transfer service in Quang Binh are encouraged to compare prices and read reviews before choosing a service provider to ensure they get the best value for their money.

Here are some reliable providers of private car transfer services in Quang Binh:

– Phong Nha Explorer (+84 2326528869/ +84 935758884)

– Netin Travel (+84 914666873/ +84 911366567/ +84 2323850505)

– Oxalis Adventure (+84 919900357)

• Useful tip: As a foreigner, you may want to ask hotel/homestay staff to help you book a private car, deal with the price, and create an itinerary for you before starting the journey as they are more familiar with this. It’s important to note that many car drivers in Quang Binh may not speak foreign languages, so having someone who can communicate with them and help you plan your trip can be very helpful.

Taxis

Taxis are a common and convenient mode of transportation in Quang Binh. They are widely available and can be hailed on the street or booked through a taxi company or ride-hailing app. Taxis are an excellent option for visitors who require a fast and easy means of transport, particularly when traveling to or from the airport or train station. Additionally, they are beneficial for visitors who do not speak the local language or are not familiar with the local area, as taxi drivers are usually knowledgeable about the local roads and can offer suggestions for places to visit.

The cost of a taxi ride in Quang Binh depends on several factors such as the distance traveled, the time of day, and the type of taxi used. In general, the cost of a short taxi ride within a town or city in Quang Binh will range from 50,000 to 100,000 VND (about 2.5 to 5 USD). Longer rides, such as from Dong Hoi City to Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park might cost from 300,000 to 500,000 VND (about 13 to 22 USD) for a one-way trip.

Here are a few of the taxi companies you can contact in Quang Binh:

– Mai Linh Taxi (+842323858585)

– Sun Taxi (+842323535353)

– Tiên Sa Taxi (+842323797979)

• Useful tip: Visitors should be aware that taxi drivers may not always use the meter or may take longer routes to increase the fare. To avoid this issue, it’s best to choose reputable taxi companies or call a hotline to book a taxi. Visitors should also be prepared for potential traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours or holidays, which can significantly increase travel times and costs.

Motorbikes

Motorbikes are a popular and affordable way to travel in Quang Binh, especially among backpackers and the younger generations. Renting a motorbike allows you to explore the area easier and avoid the limitations of scheduled tours. There are several rental shops available throughout Quang Binh, and the prices can vary depending on the motorbike model and rental duration but expect to pay around 150,000-250,000 VND (approximately 6.5 to 11 USD) per day for a basic model.

However, it’s important to note that riding a motorbike can be risky, especially for inexperienced riders or those unfamiliar with local traffic regulations. The roads can be narrow and winding in some areas, and traffic accidents are common in Vietnam. Therefore, it’s essential to prioritize your safety by wearing a helmet, driving defensively, and adhering to traffic regulations.

If you’re not comfortable riding a motorbike yourself or want to experience the thrill without the responsibility of driving, you can book a ride through the Grab application. This option allows you to experience the freedom of motorbike travel without the added stress of navigating unfamiliar roads or dealing with traffic. Prices for booking a ride through Grab vary depending on the distance and time of day but expect to pay around 20,000-50,000 VND (about 1 to 2 USD) for a short ride within the city.

• Useful tip: Whether you’re renting a motorbike or booking a ride through an app, just remember to prioritize your safety at all times. Before embarking on your journey, bring a map, and familiarize yourself with the local gas stations to avoid running out of fuel. Additionally, avoid driving to areas with poor or no signal to prevent getting lost or encountering emergencies, and don’t forget to inspect the motorbike for damages and take photos before renting it. Also, note that some rental shops may offer you present your driver’s license, passport and require a deposit.

Bus and Shuttle buses

In addition to the aforementioned options of transportation, visitors to Quang Binh can also use regular buses or shuttle buses to get around. Regular buses are often used by locals for longer distances, while shuttle buses are a more convenient option for short trips. These services typically offer shared transportation between popular destinations such as hotels, attractions, and the airport or train station. They are more affordable than private cars or taxis and can be a good way to meet other travelers. For instance, bus fares are generally starting from around 10,000 VND (nearly 0.5 USD) for short journeys and increase for longer routes.

In case you are interested, these are some popular bus routes in Quang Binh:

1. Route B4: Dong Hoi City to Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park.

• Bus route: Quang Phu Commune / Truong Phap Street / Nguyen Du Street / Nhat Le 1 Bridge / Bao Ninh Peninsula / Nhat Le 1 Bridge / Tran Hung Dao Street / To Huu Street / Huu Nghi Street / National Highway 1 / Hoan Lao Town (Bo Trach District) / Ho Chi Minh Trail East / Phong Nha-Ke Bang Heritage Site (Bo Trach District).
• Tourist Attractions: Phong Nha Cave, Paradise Cave, Mooc Spring Eco Trail, Dark Cave, Botanic Garden, Ozo Treetop Park, and so on.

2. Route B2: Dong Hoi City to Kien Giang Town (Le Thuy district).

• Bus route: Phan Dinh Phung Street / Hoang Dieu Street / Tran Hung Dao Street / To Huu Street / Huu Nghi Street / Ly Thuong Kiet Street / Hung Vuong Street / Quang Trung Street (National Route 1) / Quan Hau Town (Quang Ninh district) / Kien Giang Town (Le Thuy district).
• Tourist Attractions: Memorial house of General Vo Nguyen Giap, Bang Onsen Spa & Resort, Chà Lòi Cave, Hoang Phuc Pagoda, Love Valley, Duong Cam Waterfall.

For bus tickets, there is no need to contact the company in advance to book a ticket. Simply find a bus stop and wait for the next bus, which usually arrives every 15 to 30 minutes. Once on the bus, the staff will come to you to ask for your destination and charge the appropriate fee.

It’s important to note, however, that the quality of the bus services in Quang Binh can vary widely. Some buses may offer modern, air-conditioned vehicles with comfortable seating while others may have older, less reliable buses with minimal amenities.

If regular buses do not meet your expectations in terms of quality or comfort, you can consider trying shuttle buses as an alternative. Shuttle bus transfer services are a good option for visitors who want to travel in a group. Some shuttle bus services are basic and offer only the essentials, such as air conditioning and comfortable seating, while others may provide more luxurious amenities, such as free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment.

Since shuttle buses are not as popular as regular buses in Quang Binh, when considering using shuttle buses, it’s important to keep in mind that it’s crucial to research the company and read reviews from previous customers to ensure that they are reliable and provide quality service. Doing so can help you avoid any potential issues or inconveniences during your travels. Additionally, visitors should also be prepared for potential delays or crowding, especially during peak travel periods.

• Useful tip: If you have already booked a tour with a tour operator, they will normally send a car to pick you up at the hotel or provide shuttle bus services with fixed stops. This can be a convenient option if you don’t want to worry about navigating the transportation system on your own.