North Central Vietnam, Vietnam
Navigating visa and entry requirements for Vietnam is straightforward with proper preparation. Rules can change, so always check the latest regulations from official Vietnamese government sources or your country’s embassy before your trip.
Citizens of many countries, including the UK, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Belarus, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Russia, and Sweden, qualify for visa-free entry for a limited duration, typically 15 to 45 days. The E-visa option is popular for citizens of 80 countries, valid for up to 90 days. For those not eligible for e-visa or exemption, a Visa on Arrival (VOA) pre-approval letter is an option, secured from a licensed Vietnamese travel agency before departure. Traditional embassy/consulate visas are also available.
The e-visa fee is paid online during the application process (e.g., $25 USD for a single entry). No additional fee is required upon arrival. For Visa on Arrival, a stamping fee applies at the airport, typically $25 USD for single entry or $50 USD for multiple entry, payable in cash.
No special permits are typically required for general tourism within Tam Coc or the wider Trang An Complex. As of early 2024, Vietnam has no mandatory health-related entry requirements.
Trusted services for visa applications
Essential items for your well-being
LifeStraw for water filtration products. Adventure Medical Kits for first aid supplies.
Pacsafe offers anti-theft bags and travel security products.
Protection for your journey
World Nomads for adventurous travelers. SafetyWing for digital nomads.
Insubuy covers medical and travel for foreigners visiting the US.
The official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). ATMs are widely available, but most charge a transaction fee (20,000-50,000 VND). Credit cards are accepted at larger establishments, but cash is king for local vendors and transport. US Dollars are sometimes accepted for larger purchases.
Tipping is not customary in Vietnam, especially for street food. In higher-end places, a service charge may be included. For guides, drivers, and boat rowers, a small tip is a kind gesture (e.g., 50,000-100,000 VND for a boat rower). Eat local, rent bicycles, stay in homestays, and politely bargain for souvenirs.
$16-32 per day (dorm/basic room, street food, bicycle rental).
$42-108 per day (comfortable hotel, local restaurants, motorbike/Grab).
$172+ per day (high-end resort, fine dining, private car).
Hostel: $6-10; Guesthouse: $10-28; Mid-range: $28-60; Luxury: $60+.
Tam Coc boat: $6.80; Trang An boat: $10; Mua Cave: $4; Hoa Lu: $0.80.
Preparedness for common health concerns and understanding local services contribute to a healthy journey.
Ensure all routine vaccinations are current. Additional vaccinations are recommended for Vietnam travel.
Awareness and prevention minimize common travel-related health concerns.
A comprehensive Travel insurance policy is a wise addition for your trip.
Vietnam presents good value for money, but costs vary based on your preferences. Smart choices extend your budget.
Eating local is the most effective way to save money on food. Prioritize street food stalls and small, family-run local eateries over restaurants catering mainly to tourists. The food is often more authentic and significantly more affordable.
Rent a bicycle; it's the most cost-effective and enjoyable way to explore Tam Coc. Many homestays offer bicycles for free or a very low daily rate. Stay in homestays for excellent value and an authentic cultural experience. Travel during shoulder or low season for reduced prices on flights and accommodation.
A dormitory bed or a basic private room in a simple guesthouse typically ranges from 150,000 - 300,000 VND ($6-12).
Many homestays offer comfortable private rooms, often with breakfast.
Limited luxury options at this price point.
Your food budget can be as low as 100,000 - 200,000 VND ($4-8) per day, allowing for delicious street food and local eateries.
A bowl of pho or a banh mi sandwich costs very little.
Fine dining options are not available at this price.
Plan for 50,000 - 100,000 VND ($2-4) per day for transport (bicycle rental, local bus). Activities are around 100,000 - 200,000 VND ($4-8) for one main attraction.
Bicycle rentals are often free from homestays.
Private car services are outside this budget.
| Category | Local Price (VND) | Approx. USD |
|---|---|---|
| Street Food Meal | 30,000 - 80,000 | $1.20 - $3.20 |
| Bicycle Rental (daily) | 30,000 - 50,000 | $1.20 - $2 |
| Tam Coc Boat Trip | 170,000 | $6.80 |
