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Whether you are heading to Dong Nai, Vung Tau or, once it opens, Long Thanh airport, most trips east of Ho Chi Minh City use this expressway while it is being widened.
The HCMC-Long Thanh-Dau Giay expressway is the main road east of Ho Chi Minh City, used for trips to Dong Nai, Long Thanh Airport and Vung Tau. Because it is being widened, this 2026 driving guide gives the key facts, realistic timing and practical tips for travellers and drivers.
Photo: Expressway lanes near Ho Chi Minh City by trungydang, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
Under normal traffic the drive from central Ho Chi Minh City to Long Thanh takes roughly 40 to 50 minutes (Vietnam.vn). While works continue, expect lane changes and slower stretches, so allow a buffer for flights and appointments.
If you would rather not manage tolls and lane changes yourself, book a car with a driver and enter your route in the quick quote form.
Imagine a family leaving District 7 at 6:30 for Vung Tau: they join the expressway before the morning peak and arrive with time to spare. The same family leaving at 8:30 on a Saturday meets works and weekend traffic, so a one-hour buffer is wise. For airport trips, build the buffer into your flight check-in time rather than hoping for a clear road.
Tip from Car Rental Vietnam: If you have a flight, give the departure time rather than the time you want to leave; the driver can work back from it and add a buffer for the work zones.
Yes, traffic continues, but expect lane changes and lower speeds near works. Follow the signs.
Roughly 40 to 50 minutes from central HCMC in normal traffic.
Yes, a rest area on this corridor is already operating.
Heading east on this expressway soon? Send your pickup point, group size and dates; quotes include the driver's wage and road tolls, and our team confirms everything with you before you book.
Check the ETC tag works, fuel up and set your exit in the map app. Keep to the lane rules and the posted speed.
If the car breaks down, move to the emergency lane, switch on hazard lights and stand behind the barrier.
See expressway checklist and Long Thanh airport roads.
Is there a service area? Check the route before you go.
Can I pay cash? Expressways use ETC.
Real cars at the Car Rental Vietnam depot
Travel guides for this trip
Private cars with driver from 4 to 45 seats, including Limousine vans and 29- and 45-seater coaches. Tolls, trip insurance and the driver's pay are included:
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