Car Rental in Cam Ranh, Vietnam

Where to drive

• Drive to Nha Trang: A popular coastal city just north of Cam Ranh, approximately 45 km (≈1 hour drive) away, offering vibrant nightlife, mud baths, and historical sites.
• Explore Binh Ba Island: Head to Ba Ngoi Port (≈20 minutes drive from Cam Ranh Airport) and take a ferry to this picturesque island known for its fresh seafood and tranquil beaches.
• Visit Vinh Hy Bay: A stunning natural bay with clear waters and coral reefs, located approximately 80 km (≈1.5-2 hours drive) south of Cam Ranh, perfect for a scenic day trip.
• Journey to Dalat: For a cooler climate and mountain scenery, drive to the charming city of Dalat, roughly 180 km (≈3.5-4 hours drive) inland, known for its French colonial architecture and flower gardens.
• Discover Mui Ne: A popular destination for water sports and sand dunes, about 200 km (≈3-4 hours drive) south along the coast from Cam Ranh.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Vietnam, you will typically need a valid national driver's license from your home country, an International Driving Permit (IDP) which is mandatory, and your passport. The minimum driving age is generally 18, but most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 or 23 years old and to have held their license for at least 1-2 years.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Cam Ranh vary significantly by vehicle class and season. Economy cars can start from around 25-35 USD per day, while SUVs or larger family cars might range from 50-80 USD. Premium vehicles will naturally be more expensive. Prices tend to be higher during peak tourist seasons, especially from June to August and around public holidays.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Vietnam, traffic drives on the right. The approximate speed limits are 60 km/h in urban areas and 80-90 km/h on open roads, unless otherwise posted. The legal alcohol limit for drivers is very strict, effectively zero (0.00% BAC). Headlights should be used at night and in low visibility conditions. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are recommended for young children, although their availability can vary with rental companies.

Parking

In Cam Ranh and surrounding areas, parking availability varies. In more developed tourist areas and city centers, you may find designated paid parking lots or street parking with attendants. Outside these areas, especially near beaches or smaller attractions, free parking might be available, though often informal. Always ensure your vehicle is parked securely and legally to avoid issues.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available throughout Cam Ranh and along main routes. Unleaded gasoline ( xăng không chì) and diesel (dầu diesel) are standard. Fuel prices are regulated by the government and are generally consistent across stations, typically paid in Vietnamese Dong (VND) with cash being the most common payment method, though some larger stations may accept cards.

Which car to choose

For driving around Cam Ranh and to nearby coastal towns like Nha Trang, an economy or compact car with automatic transmission is generally sufficient and easier to navigate in traffic. If you plan to venture further to mountainous regions like Dalat or carry more luggage, an SUV or a mid-size sedan would offer more comfort and better handling on varied terrain. Manual transmission cars are less common for rent.

Frequently asked questions