Tour operator
XO Tours
Vietnam's self-described first all-female motorbike tour company, running food, night, sightseeing and photography tours of Saigon since 2010 with guides in ao dai.
Back of the Bike Tours
A Saigon motorbike food tour company whose local drivers take guests to street food stalls on afternoon, night and private chef-led tours.
At a glance
- Type
- Motorbike food tours
- Area
- District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Official site
- backofthebiketours.com
Good to know
- Hotel pickup in Districts 1
- 3 and 4
- Helmets and ponchos provided
- Private Chef's Tour
Why we recommend it
Back of the Bike Tours runs food tours of Ho Chi Minh City by motorbike, with local guides doing the driving while guests ride pillion and concentrate on the eating. It focuses entirely on Saigon, and for food tours in Hanoi it recommends a partner company. Its tagline promises unforgettable tours, easy booking and an excellent reputation.
There are three main tours. Big Eats Small Seats is a four-hour afternoon tour from 13:00 to 17:00. Taste of Vietnam is a four-hour night tour from 18:00 to 22:00 that runs every evening. The Chef's Tour is a private five-hour tour from 17:00 to 22:00, for those who want a private experience. Food and drink are included, with beer and cider available, along with an English-speaking guide, the motorbike, a helmet, a rain poncho and photos of the experience.
The company picks up and drops off at central hotels in Districts 1, 3 and 4, and car options are available when booking for anyone who prefers not to ride. It says safety is its top priority and that its drivers are trained. Children over seven ride with a driver, and while there is no weight limit, guests over 100 kilograms are asked to let the company know in advance. Youth and child prices are offered, which makes it a realistic option for families.
If you can only fit in one tour, the nightly Taste of Vietnam is the most flexible, as it runs every evening, while the afternoon Big Eats Small Seats suits those who prefer to be back at the hotel by dinner time. Contact the company by landline or WhatsApp with any questions before booking.
Some practical points apply to all motorbike and food tours in Ho Chi Minh City. Tell the company about allergies and dietary requirements when you book, so the guides can plan the stops. Wear comfortable clothes and closed shoes, carry a light rain jacket in the rainy season from around May to November, and bring a little cash for drinks or souvenirs. Riding pillion is easier than it looks, but sit still, keep your feet on the footrests and follow your driver's instructions, especially when getting on and off.
Back of the Bike Tours FAQs
What tours does Back of the Bike offer?
Big Eats Small Seats in the afternoon, Taste of Vietnam at night and a private Chef's Tour.
How long are the tours?
Big Eats Small Seats and Taste of Vietnam last four hours; the Chef's Tour lasts five.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, from central hotels in Districts 1, 3 and 4.
Can I go by car instead of motorbike?
Yes, car options are available when booking.
What is included?
Food and drinks, an English-speaking guide, the motorbike, a helmet, a rain poncho and photos.
Can children join?
Yes, children over seven ride with a driver, and youth and child prices are available.
Is there a weight limit?
No, but guests over 100 kilograms should let the company know.
Does it run tours in Hanoi?
No, it recommends a partner company for Hanoi food tours.