One Journey Two Nations
Traveling from Cambodia to Vietnam can be an exciting journey, as these neighboring countries offer diverse landscapes, cultures, and experiences. For travelers coming from Europe, America, Africa, Oceania, and also some from Asia, their journeys to Vietnam often transcends borders. Their itineraries span across countries, encompassing not just 1 Vietnam experience, but a broader exploration. Some commence their trips in Vietnam, then crossing to Cambodia, while others embark on the opposite route. Today, let’s delve into a journey from Vietnam to Cambodia.
From Vietnam, Cambodia can be accessed through multiple avenues-by air, overland, or via waterways.
1. Travel From Vietnam to Cambodia By Air
The fastest and most convenient way to travel between Vietnam and Cambodia is by air. There are several airports in both countries with international flights. In Vietnam we have various options like Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City, Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi, Da Nang International Airport (DAD) in Da Nang, or Phu Quoc International Airport on Phu Quoc Island. In Cambodia, 2 major airports include Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) and Siem Reap International Airport (REP).
Book Your Flights: Search for flights on various travel websites or through airlines’ official websites. Compare prices, flight durations, and departure times to find the best option for your travel dates and budget.
Check Your Visa Requirements: Depending on your nationality, you might need a visa to enter Vietnam. Check the visa requirements for Vietnam and make sure you have the necessary documentation before you travel.
Flight Journey: Relax and enjoy your flight. Most flights from Vietnam to Cambodia are relatively short, typically around 1-2 hours.
2. Travel from Vietnam to Cambodia By Bus
Traveling from Vietnam to Cambodia by bus is an adventurous and budget-friendly option, though it can be time-consuming due to the distances involved and border crossing procedures. There’re over 10 bus services that connect major cities in Vietnam and Cambodia. Some well-known companies include Mekong Express, Giant Ibis, Khai Nam, and Kumho Samco.
Look for reviews and recommendations to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.
There are over ten border checkpoints between Vietnam and Cambodia. Nevertheless, in this article let’s focus on two well-frequented border crossings that witness a significant number of tourists on a daily basis.
1. The Moc Bai-Bavet International Border: It connects Moc Bai-Vietnam and Bavet-Cambodia.
It is about 80 km from Ho Chi Minh City and it takes over 2 hour drive, and about 170 km from Phnom Penh and it takes over 3 hours drive.
Ticket Office & the Bus Stations: Several Reputable Bus Companies are located on Pham Ngu Lao Street, in back packer area over 200 meters from Ben Thanh market.
Book Your Ticket: Purchase your bus ticket in advance. You can usually book online through the bus company’s website or at their offices. Make sure to confirm the departure times and pickup locations.
Travel Time and Stops: Be prepared for a long journey. Depending on the route, road conditions, and border crossing times, the journey can take anywhere from 6 to 10+ hours or more
2. The Ha Tien International Border: Known as Xaxia-Prek Chak Border, serves as a link between Vietnam’s town of Ha Tien and Cambodia’s neighboring town of Kep-Kampot.
It’s 7 kilometers from Ha Tien’s central town and Ha Tien Speedboat Station, 17 kilometers away from Kep and 150 kilometers from Cambodia’s capital city, Phnom Penh.
Tourists choose this land border of Ha Tien to exit Vietnam, enter Cambodia usually following 2 itineraries from HCM city.
Option 1: After finishing 3-day Mekong Delta tour from Ho Chi Minh City
The typical itinerary might be
Day 1: Saigon-My Tho (or Ben Tre/Cai Be) –Can Tho. Overnight in Can Tho
Day 2: Can Tho-Floating Market-Ha Tien. Overnight in Ha Tien
Day 3: Ha Tien departure for Kep-Kampot, Cambodia
Option 2: After 2-day Mekong Delta tour from Ho Chi Minh City and Phu Quoc Island.
The typical itinerary might be
Day 1: Saigon-My Tho (or Ben Tre/Cai Be) –Can Tho. Overnight in Can Tho
Day 2: Can Tho-Floating Market-Rach Gia, then speedboat to Phu Quoc Island.
Having spent as much time as they desire on Phu Quoc Island, often referred to as the Pearl Island, their next step is to board a speedboat to depart the island and reach Ha Tien. From there, their journey continues into Cambodia.
Ha Tien is a charming town located in the Kien Giang Province of Vietnam, near Cambodia border. It’s known for its scenic landscapes, historical sites, and relaxed atmosphere.
Some highlights and things to do in Ha Tien: Thach Dong Cave, Mac Cuu Tombs, Mui Nai Beach, Night Market,..
Crossing the Border: Be prepared for a border crossing between Vietnam and Cambodia. The process may involve exiting Vietnam, entering Cambodia, and going through immigration and customs procedures on both sides. Keep your passport, visa, and any necessary documents handy.
Border Crossing Tips: Have passport-sized photos ready. They might be needed for visa applications and forms.
Be aware of any visa requirements for Cambodia based on your nationality. Some nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at the border, while others might need to arrange it in advance.
Understand the visa fees and local currency exchange rates for the border crossing.Travel Time and Stops: Be prepared for a long journey. Depending on the route, road conditions, and border crossing times, the journey can take anywhere from 6 to 10+ hours or more
Transportation in Cambodia: Depending on your arrival city, you can find taxis, ride-sharing services, or public transportation to reach your accommodation.
