Phu Quoc Island, often called the “pearl of Vietnam,” is one of the most sought-after destinations in southern Vietnam travel. Known for its white sandy beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and the famous An Thoi archipelago, it attracts millions of visitors every year. But if you are starting your journey in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), you might be wondering the best way to get to this tropical paradise.
This guide explains in detail how to reach Phu Quoc from Ho Chi Minh City via flights, ferries, and border options, helping you choose the right method based on time, budget, and travel style.
Why Visit Phu Quoc Island?
Before planning transportation, it helps to understand why Phu Quoc is worth the journey:
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Pristine beaches like Long Beach and Bai Sao
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Lush national parks with hiking trails
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Rich seafood culture and night markets
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Accessible snorkeling and scuba diving
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Convenient connection from Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta
With growing interest in southern Vietnam tours, Phu Quoc offers both relaxation and adventure, making it the perfect island getaway.
Main Options: How to Reach Phu Quoc from Ho Chi Minh City
1. Flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc
The fastest and most popular way to travel is by air.
Flight duration & airlines
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Direct flights take only about 55 minutes.
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Carriers: Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Bamboo Airways.
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Frequency: Over 20 daily flights, ensuring flexibility.
Benefits of flying
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Time-saving (under 1 hour).
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Affordable fares if booked in advance.
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Convenient for families and short trips.
Travel tips
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Book early during peak season in Phu Quoc (November–April).
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Use morning flights to avoid afternoon weather delays.
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Combine with connecting flights if arriving internationally via Ho Chi Minh City.
2. Ferry & Bus Combination
For travelers who enjoy road trips and southern Vietnam tourism experiences, taking a bus and ferry offers a scenic alternative.
Step 1: Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Tien or Rach Gia
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Bus duration: 6–8 hours to Ha Tien; 7–9 hours to Rach Gia.
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Reputable companies: Phuong Trang (Futa Bus), Kumho Samco.
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Overnight buses available to save time.
Step 2: Ferry from Ha Tien or Rach Gia to Phu Quoc
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Ha Tien–Phu Quoc ferry: ~1.5 hours.
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Rach Gia–Phu Quoc ferry: ~2.5–3 hours.
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Operators: Superdong, Phu Quoc Express.
Benefits of the bus & ferry route
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Scenic journey through the Mekong Delta rice paddies and villages.
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Budget-friendly for backpackers.
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Flexible if you want to stop in Can Tho or Chau Doc before reaching the island.
3. Border Options for Overland Travelers
For those arriving from Cambodia or exploring cross-border Mekong Delta tours, Phu Quoc is accessible via border gates.
Popular entry points
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Ha Tien border crossing (Prek Chak from Cambodia).
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Phnom Den–Tinh Bien for those combining Phnom Penh with southern Vietnam.
Border to Phu Quoc connection
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After crossing at Ha Tien, it’s just a short transfer to the ferry port.
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Many tour operators arrange combined transport packages.
Benefits of border crossing routes
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Perfect for multi-country itineraries.
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Adds cultural depth by exploring both Cambodia and Vietnam before arriving on the island.
Comparing Travel Options: Flights vs Ferry vs Border Routes
| Factor | Flights | Bus + Ferry | Border Routes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 55 minutes | 7–12 hours total | Varies (depends on border crossing) |
| Cost | Moderate–high | Budget-friendly | Moderate |
| Comfort | High | Medium (bus + ferry) | Depends on travel package |
| Scenery | Limited | Scenic Mekong Delta & sea | Cross-cultural experiences |
| Best for | Families, short holidays | Backpackers, slow travelers | Multi-country travelers |
When Is the Best Time to Travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc?
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Dry season (Nov–April): Best weather, calm seas for ferries.
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Rainy season (May–Oct): Fewer crowds, cheaper flights, but ferries may face delays.
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Plan early if traveling during Vietnamese holidays like Tet.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey
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Always check ferry weather updates before booking.
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If flying, allow buffer time for connecting international flights in Ho Chi Minh City.
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For border crossings, prepare valid visa documents in advance.
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Travel light if you are combining multiple transport types.
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Book transport online or via reputable southern Vietnam tour operators.
FAQs (Based on People Also Ask)
How long does it take to get from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc?
Flights take under 1 hour. Bus + ferry journeys take 7–12 hours depending on the route.
Can you drive from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc?
You can drive to Ha Tien or Rach Gia, then take a ferry. Direct driving to the island isn’t possible.
Is flying to Phu Quoc cheaper than taking a ferry?
Flights are often cost-competitive, especially during promotions. Ferries can be cheaper if combined with buses, but take more time.
What’s the cheapest way to get to Phu Quoc?
The bus + ferry option via Ha Tien is the most budget-friendly, especially for backpackers.
Do you need a visa for Phu Quoc if you arrive by ferry or flight?
Most nationalities receive visa-free entry for stays up to 30 days when flying directly to Phu Quoc. If transiting via mainland Vietnam, visa rules apply.
Which is better: Rach Gia or Ha Tien ferry port?
Ha Tien is closer to Phu Quoc (shorter ferry ride). Rach Gia has more frequent departures.
Can you reach Phu Quoc from Cambodia?
Yes, via the Ha Tien border crossing, then ferry to Phu Quoc.
When is the best time for ferries to Phu Quoc?
During the dry season (Nov–April) when seas are calmer.
Whether you prefer a fast and comfortable flight, a scenic Mekong Delta bus and ferry route, or an adventurous cross-border journey, there are multiple ways to reach Phu Quoc from Ho Chi Minh City. Each option offers a different perspective of southern Vietnam’s landscapes and culture, making the journey part of the adventure itself.
Plan your perfect journey today with our curated Southern Vietnam tours. From Saigon to the Mekong Delta and Phu Quoc, we make your trip seamless, memorable, and filled with authentic experiences.
