Are you an Australian seeking to embark on an extraordinary adventure that transcends the ordinary? Look no further than the captivating countries of Vietnam and Cambodia. This comprehensive travel guide will be your trusted companion as you explore the breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable experiences that await.
Flights to Vietnam and Cambodia from Australia
Traveling to Vietnam and Cambodia from Australia is relatively straightforward, as there are numerous flight options available. The most convenient way to reach these destinations is by air, with several major airlines offering regular services.
Australia’s major international airports, such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth, all have direct flights to Vietnam’s primary airports in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon). The flight time from the east coast of Australia to Vietnam is approximately 8-9 hours, with the shortest route being from Melbourne to Ho Chi Minh City, which takes around 8 hours and 35 minutes.
However, it’s important to note that there are no direct flights from Australia to Cambodia. Travelers will need to first fly to Vietnam and then take a connecting flight or land transportation to reach Cambodia. This can be easily arranged as part of a comprehensive Vietnam and Cambodia tour package.
Visa for Australian Travelers
Vietnam Visa for Australian
Australian citizens are required to obtain a visa to enter Vietnam. There are several options available for Australian travelers to acquire a Vietnamese visa:
- E-Visa: This is the most convenient option, as it allows you to apply and pay for your visa online prior to your trip. The e-visa is valid for up to 30 days and can be obtained through the official Vietnamese government website.
- Visa on Arrival: Australians can also obtain a visa upon arrival at major international airports in Vietnam, such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. This requires pre-arranging an approval letter and paying the visa fee in cash at the airport.
- Visa Application at the Embassy: Alternatively, you can apply for a Vietnamese visa at the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in Australia. This option may take longer processing time, so it’s recommended to apply well in advance of your travel dates.
Cambodia Visa for Australian
Similar to Vietnam, Australian citizens also require a visa to enter Cambodia. The most popular options for Australians are:
- E-Visa: The Cambodian e-visa can be obtained online prior to your trip. This is the easiest and most convenient option, as the e-visa is valid for up to 30 days.
- Visa on Arrival: Australians can also obtain a visa upon arrival at major Cambodian international airports, such as Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. This requires having a valid passport, passport photos, and cash for the visa fee.
- Visa Application at the Embassy: As with Vietnam, you can apply for a Cambodian visa at the Cambodian embassy or consulate in Australia. This may take longer processing time, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance.
What Can You Expect in Vietnam and Cambodia Tours?
Vietnam and Cambodia are two of the most captivating and diverse destinations in Southeast Asia, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the charming Hanoi Old Quarter with significant Heritage of the World Halong Bay of Vietnam to the marvelous Angkor Complex in Siem Reap of Cambodia, both of these countries are the perfect choice for a holiday!
Vietnam Highlights
Hanoi: The vibrant capital, a captivating blend of French colonial architecture and traditional Vietnamese elements. Explore the lively Old Quarter, the tranquil Temple of Literature, and the serene Hoan Kiem Lake.
Ha Long Bay: A UNESCO-listed natural wonder, with its emerald waters and otherworldly limestone formations. Embark on a cruise to experience the breathtaking scenery.
Ninh Binh: The “Ha Long Bay on land,” offering stunning karst landscapes and the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. Take a boat tour through the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex and hike to the top of Mua Cave.
Sapa: The picturesque northern highland town, known for its lush rice terraces, peaceful villages, and the opportunity to interact with vibrant ethnic minority communities.
Hue: The imperial city, with its ancient citadel, royal tombs, and the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, provides a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Hoi An: The charming, UNESCO-listed town with its well-preserved historic center, traditional architecture, and vibrant lantern-lit streets.
Danang: The coastal city offering stunning beaches and the opportunity to explore the Marble Mountains, a unique geological formation.
Nha Trang: The central coastal city famous for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and lively nightlife.
Phu Quoc: The island destination with its pristine sand and turquoise waters, offering a relaxed beach experience.
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): The dynamic and vibrant metropolis, with its diverse culinary scene, bustling markets, and historical landmarks such as the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum.
Cambodia Highlights
Siem Reap: Own the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world and a testament to the impressive Khmer civilization.
Phnom Penh: The capital city of Cambodia, with its blend of French colonial architecture, bustling markets, and poignant historical sites like the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.
Sihanoukville: Where you can immerse in the coastal town, known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back island vibes.
Tonle Sap Lake: The largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, with its floating villages and diverse wildlife.
FYI: Vietnam and Cambodia Family Tour: Is It The Best Holiday Vacation?
Vietnam and Cambodia Tours from Australia
When planning a Vietnam and Cambodia tour from Australia, there are numerous itinerary options to consider, each offering a unique perspective and experience. A popular route is to start in Vietnam, exploring the highlights of the country, and then travel to Cambodia to visit Angkor Wat and other attractions.
Perfect Itineraries
A typical 10-14 day or longer is about 3 weeks for Vietnam and Cambodia tour from Australia would provide ample time to visit the key highlights in both countries, while also allowing for some flexibility and leisure time, here is our suggestion:
Day 1-2: Hanoi: Spend 2 days exploring Vietnam’s dynamic capital, including a half-day city tour to see highlights like the Old Quarter, Temple of Literature, and Hoan Kiem Lake.
Day 3-4: Ha Long Bay: Take a 2-day cruise through the stunning limestone formations and emerald waters of Ha Long Bay.
Day 5-7: Sapa: Travel to the northern highlands and spend 3 days in the picturesque town of Sapa, hiking through rice terraces and visiting ethnic minority villages.
Day 8: Hue: Fly from Hanoi to Hue, the former imperial capital, and spend the day exploring the ancient citadel and royal tombs.
Day 9: Danang: Travel from Hue to Danang, stopping to see the Marble Mountains along the way.
Day 10-12: Hoi An: Spend 3 days in the charming, UNESCO-listed town of Hoi An, known for its historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
Day 13-14: Siem Reap & Tonle Sap Lake: Fly from Danang to Siem Reap, Cambodia and spend 4 days exploring the magnificent Angkor Wat temples and taking a boat tour of Tonle Sap Lake.
For more details of the itinerary above, let’s visit our best-seller Vietnam and Cambodia Vietnam tours for Australians:
Vietnam & Cambodia Family Holiday 15 Days
Hanoi – Halong – Sapa – Hue – Danang – Hoi An – My Son – Siem Reap – Angkor Thom – Angkor Wat
- Cruise UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay
- Trek Sapa’s stunning landscapes and culture
- Discover Hue’s historic Imperial Citadel
- Explore charming, reminiscent Hoi An
- Marvel at Angkor Wat’s legendary ruins
Splendors Of Vietnam & Cambodia 17 Days
Hanoi – Halong – Hue – Hoi An – HCMC – Mekong – Phnom Penh – Siem Reap
- Immerse in charming Hanoi’s street food
- Cruise UNESCO-listed Halong Bay
- Admire Hue’s historic imperial treasures
- Explore quaint, reminiscent Hoi An
- Visit dynamic Ho Chi Minh City
- Discover the Mekong’s unique Waterworld
- Marvel at the wonders of Angkor Wat
Discovery Southern Vietnam & Cambodia 13 days
Sai Gon – Cu Chi – Mekong Delta – Phnom Penh – Battambang – Siem Reap
- Experience dynamic Saigon
- Tour Cu Chi Tunnels, visit the Caodaism temple
- Cruise the Mekong, speedboat to Cambodia
- Explore Phnom Penh and Killing Fields
- Ride the bamboo train in Battambang
- Marvel at the Angkor temple complex
With these tours above, you can absolutely customize your tour with us till it suits you best!
Maybe you want to read more for tips to have the best 2 weeks Vietnam and Cambodia tour: Vietnam and Cambodia 2 Weeks: Perfect Itinerary & Complete Travel Guide
Cost
The cost of a Vietnam and Cambodia tour from Australia can vary significantly depending on various factors, such as the length of the trip, the level of accommodation, and the activities included in the itinerary.
Generally, a 10-14 days tour package, including accommodation, some meals, and a range of activities, can range from $1,500 to $5,000 per person (due to your level of budget). This price range can be influenced by the time of year, the level of luxury in the accommodations, and the inclusion of special experiences or private transportation.
It’s important to note that budget-conscious travelers may be able to find more affordable options, while those seeking a more luxurious or customized experience can expect to pay a higher price. Especially, you can absolutely enjoy a private tour at a reasonable price when traveling to Vietnam and Cambodia.
Specific Travel Information for Australian Travelers
Weather in Vietnam and Cambodia
Both Vietnam and Cambodia have a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The best time to visit these countries is typically during the dry season, which runs from November to April.
During the dry season, Australian travelers can expect sunny skies, lower rainfall, and more comfortable temperatures, often ranging from the mid-20s to the low 30s Celsius. The summer months, from May to October, can be hot and humid, with the potential for heavy rainfall, particularly during the monsoon season.
Regardless of the time of year, Australian travelers should be prepared for the tropical climate and pack accordingly, with lightweight, breathable clothing, sun protection, and rain gear. It’s also important to stay hydrated and take measures to avoid heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
Currency
The official currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND), while in Cambodia, it is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), updated to 2024:
- 1 AUD = 16,831 VND
- 1 AUD = 2702.41 KHR
It’s recommended for Australian travelers to have a mix of local currency and Australian dollars on hand. Local currency can be obtained by exchanging money at banks, authorized money changers, or airport currency exchange counters. Credit and debit cards are also widely accepted, particularly in urban areas, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and incidental expenses.
Electricity
In both Vietnam and Cambodia, the standard electrical voltage is 220-240V, and the plug type is a two-pin, round-prong connector. This is different from the Australian standard of 240V with a three-pin, flat-blade plug.
Australian travelers will need to bring a universal adapter and possibly a voltage converter to ensure their electronic devices, such as smartphones, laptops, and hair dryers, can be charged and used safely. It’s important to check the voltage and plug requirements of your devices before your trip to avoid any issues with the local electrical system.
Transportation
Getting around Vietnam and Cambodia is relatively easy for Australian travelers, with a range of transportation options available.
In Vietnam, popular modes of transportation include:
- Taxis: Widely available in major cities and can be hailed on the street or booked through ride-sharing apps.
- Buses: An affordable and efficient way to travel between cities, with a well-developed bus network.
- Trains: Vietnam has an extensive train system, including the famous Reunification Express, which connects the north and south of the country.
- Ride-sharing services: Apps like Grab and Be offer convenient ride-hailing services in many Vietnamese
In Cambodia, popular modes of transportation include:
- Tuk-tuks: Ubiquitous three-wheeled motorized rickshaws, great for short hops around cities.
- Buses: A budget-friendly way to travel between major destinations, with a developing intercity bus network.
- Boats: Traveling by boat is popular, especially for exploring the Mekong River and Tonle Sap Lake.
- Rental Motorcycles: Renting a motorbike or scooter is a common way for independent travelers to explore Cambodia.
- Taxi and Ride-sharing: Taxi and services like PassApp offer convenient transportation in larger cities.
Hope after this travel guide blog, you will have the best information for preparing your journey to Vietnam and Cambodia from Australia.
Whether you’re drawn to historic Hue, quaint Hoi An, or the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, these countries promise to ignite your senses. With convenient flights and tour packages, the opportunity to immerse yourself has never been more accessible.
Start planning your journey today and unlock the magic. Let this guide be your compass as you embark on an unforgettable adventure, filled with cultural discoveries and lasting memories.
Thuy Dang – From Indochina Voyages Team
