Travel

The Ultimate Guide to Crossing Borders: Is Cambodia Just 16km from Saigon?

If you can get to Cambodia in just a few dozen minutes from Saigon, then it's definitely a must to explore our neighboring country immediately. However, things are not as simple as they seem.

Administrator

3 September, 2024

There has been a buzz among travel enthusiasts about the famous tourist spots in Cambodia, with mixed reviews pouring in from the online community. Some netizens have expressed skepticism about this ultra-short overseas trip.

Is it true that it’s just 16km from Saigon to Cambodia?

What’s the truth behind this claim?

According to several netizens, they have been living in Saigon for a long time but have never heard of this route. Many responses suggest that this is just a clickbait tactic to attract attention, and the actual distance is much longer.

Research from various media sources indicates that the distance from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh, Cambodia, is approximately 230-250km. Therefore, it would take at least five hours to travel between these two cities. The distance may vary slightly depending on the specific destination in Cambodia, but it certainly isn’t 16km.

Online debate about the 16km claim from Saigon to Cambodia

Several netizens shared that the 16km distance doesn’t start from the center of Saigon but from Cu Chi district, a suburban area located about 35km northwest of the city. Indeed, the distance from Cu Chi to the Moc Bai International Border Gate (in Tay Ninh province, leading to Cambodia) is approximately 16km.

If you wish to experience this route, you can start from Thai My commune in Cu Chi district and head west to the Vietnam-Cambodia border at the Moc Bai International Border Gate. After completing the entry procedures, you will have officially entered Cambodia.

Moc Bai International Border Gate

What makes Cambodia such an appealing destination?

Cambodia has long been a popular tourist destination, attracting a large number of visitors, including those from Vietnam. This beautiful country is renowned for its ancient sites such as the Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom complexes, Tonle Sap Lake, and the Mekong River, along with its fascinating culture and cuisine.

When traveling to Cambodia, a must-visit site is the Royal Palace of Cambodia, where you can admire the unique and exquisite architecture, especially the distinctive style of Cambodian temple architecture.

If you’re a history buff interested in exploring the cultural stories and way of life of Cambodia’s glorious past, don’t miss the Angkor archaeological site.

Especially when visiting Siem Reap, known as the “land of monuments,” you’ll have the opportunity to discover the traditional crafts of the Khmer people, featuring unique artistic and ancient skills.

A visit to the ancient capital of Oudong will immerse you in its ancient beauty, with statues covered in peaceful, serene moss, reflecting the very nature of the locals. The ups and downs of time have endowed Oudong with a majestic yet mysterious allure.

In the coastal city of Kep, you can enjoy nature, admire the sunset over the sea, and indulge in delicious seafood, especially the famous crab, which is a symbol of the city.

Travel options from Saigon to Cambodia

As a neighboring country to Vietnam, Cambodia is easily accessible from Saigon by various means of transportation. You can travel by plane, open bus, regular bus, or even by personal vehicle if you’re up for a road trip.

Depending on your choice of transportation and specific destination in Cambodia, the travel time will vary. The distance from the center of Saigon to the Cambodian capital is approximately 250km, and you can expect a minimum of five hours of travel time.

Huynh Hoang Huy (28 years old) took his mother on a 1,000km motorcycle trip to Cambodia (Photo: VNN)

Exploring Cambodia is undoubtedly an exciting experience, but travelers need to be aware of the actual distances and travel times to plan their trips accordingly. It’s essential to have the necessary paperwork, suitable clothing, and a means of communication to avoid any potential hassles during your overseas adventure.

Frequently asked questions

Cambodia is just 16km from Saigon, making it a popular and easily accessible destination for many.

There are several border crossings between the two countries. The most popular and convenient option is the Moc Bai – Bavet land border crossing, which is open to foreigners and easily accessible by bus or private car. Other options include the Vinh Xuong – Kaom Samnor crossing by boat, and the Xa Xia – Prek Chak crossing, which is a quieter alternative.

A valid passport and visa are required for most nationalities. Visas can be obtained on arrival at the border, but it is recommended to have the necessary funds and documentation ready, including proof of a negative COVID-19 test if required.

It is recommended to have appropriate travel insurance and to be up-to-date with routine vaccinations. Additionally, malaria prevention medication may be considered for certain areas of Cambodia.

Be prepared for potential scams or overcharging by taxi drivers and money changers. It is advisable to have small denominations of US dollars and Vietnamese dong, and to be aware of the current exchange rates. Also, ensure you have a valid visa and that your passport is stamped on both sides of the border.