🚀 Planning a Trip from Vietnam to Cambodia? Here’s Everything You Need to Know!
Whether you’re looking for the cheapest, fastest, or most scenic way to travel from Vietnam to Cambodia, this guide covers all your options! We’ll break down bus, flight, boat, and border crossing routes, visa requirements, and tips on how to avoid common scams.
Let’s dive in! 👇
1️⃣ Best Ways to Travel from Vietnam to Cambodia
✈️ By Flight – The Fastest Option
Time: ~1 hour
Cost: $50-$150 (one-way)
Best for: Those who want comfort & speed
🔹 Direct flights operate between Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) and Phnom Penh (PNH) or Siem Reap (REP).
🔹 Airlines: Vietnam Airlines, Cambodia Angkor Air, VietJet Air.
🔹 Book early for cheaper fares—last-minute flights can be expensive!
🚌 By Bus – The Cheapest Option
Time: ~6-8 hours
Cost: $10-$20
Best for: Budget travelers
🔹 Buses run from Ho Chi Minh City, Can Tho, and Da Nang to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
🔹 Recommended operators: Giant Ibis, Mekong Express, Kumho Samco.
🔹 Be aware of border scams—avoid unofficial visa “helpers” and process your visa at the official counter.
⛴️ By Boat – The Most Scenic Route
Time: ~5-8 hours
Cost: $25-$40
Best for: Travelers who want a unique Mekong River experience
🔹 Phnom Penh ↔ Chau Doc (Vietnam) via speedboat.
🔹 A stunning journey along the Mekong River, passing floating villages.
🔹 Great option for those visiting the Mekong Delta.
2️⃣ Visa Requirements for Vietnam to Cambodia
🛂 Do You Need a Visa?
✅ Yes – Most nationalities need a Cambodian visa (except ASEAN travelers).
✅ Visa on Arrival (VOA): Available at all land borders and airports. Cost: $30 USD.
✅ E-Visa: Apply online at evisa.gov.kh. Cost: $36 USD. Processing: ~3 days.
🛑 Border Scam Warning! 🛑
🚨 At Bavet and other crossings, scammers may overcharge you for a visa. ONLY get your visa at the official immigration counter!
3️⃣ Best Border Crossings from Vietnam to Cambodia
🇻🇳 Moc Bai (Ho Chi Minh City) → 🇰🇭 Bavet (Phnom Penh)
🔹 Most popular for travelers taking a bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh.
🔹 Fast and reliable, but be mindful of visa scams.
🇻🇳 Chau Doc (Vietnam) → 🇰🇭 Phnom Penh (By Boat)
🔹 Best for a scenic Mekong River journey.
🔹 No major border hassles, but ensure you have the right visa.
🇻🇳 Ha Tien → 🇰🇭 Kep/Kampot
🔹 Great option for travelers heading to Cambodia’s beaches.
🔹 Quieter and less stressful than Bavet.
4️⃣ Cost Breakdown: How Much Does It Cost?
| Travel Method | Time | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight | 1 hour | $50-$150 | Speed & comfort |
| Bus | 6-8 hours | $10-$20 | Budget travelers |
| Boat | 5-8 hours | $25-$40 | Scenic travel |
5️⃣ Essential Travel Tips for a Hassle-Free Journey
✅ Carry small USD bills – Cambodia widely uses US dollars.
✅ Download offline maps – Google Maps or Maps.me for navigation.
✅ Avoid border scams – Get your visa at the official immigration counter only.
✅ Stay flexible – Delays are common, so plan for extra time.
✅ Book buses & flights in advance – Prices rise closer to departure dates.
6️⃣ FAQ – Quick Answers to Common Questions
Q: What is the best way to travel from Vietnam to Cambodia?
A: The best option depends on your budget and time. Buses are the cheapest (~$10), flights are the fastest (~1 hour), and boats offer a scenic experience (~5-8 hours).
Q: Can I cross from Vietnam to Cambodia without a visa?
A: No, unless you’re a citizen of an ASEAN country. Most travelers need a visa on arrival ($30) or an e-visa ($36).
Q: Is the Moc Bai border crossing safe?
A: Yes, but be cautious of scams. Never buy a visa from unofficial agents. Head directly to the Cambodian immigration office for processing.
Q: Can I take a boat from Vietnam to Cambodia?
A: Yes! The Chau Doc to Phnom Penh speedboat is a popular option for Mekong River travelers.
🚀 Final Thoughts: Which Option is Best for You?
If you want to save money, take the bus.
If you want speed, book a flight.
If you love adventure, go by boat.
With this guide, you’re now ready to travel from Vietnam to Cambodia like a pro! Have you made this trip before? Drop your experience in the comments! 👇
📌 For the latest visa updates, visit evisa.gov.kh.
🐘 Looking for an Ethical Wildlife Experience in Cambodia?
If you’re traveling to Cambodia, don’t miss the chance to visit the Mondulkiri Project Elephant Sanctuary! 🐘 Located in the stunning jungles of Mondulkiri, this ethical sanctuary provides a safe haven for rescued elephants. You can trek through the forest, observe elephants in their natural habitat, and support local communities. Book your visit now at www.mondulkiriproject.org.
