Read this guide before you plan a trip to Vietnam

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination with authentic experiences Vietnam should be at the top of your list. This Southeast Asian country has a rugged charm that pulls you in.

It’s perfect if you’re looking to immerse yourself in the everyday life of its people, savouring delicious street food, and exploring its raw, natural beauty. And as a Nigerian traveler, we’ve got everything you need to know to make your journey seamless and memorable.

Overview of Vietnam

Geography and climate
Vietnam stretches along the eastern edge of Southeast Asia. It’s warm year-round, with a rainy season from May to October and a dry season from November to April. The north gets cooler in winter, especially in mountainous areas.

Culture and language
Vietnamese culture is deeply influenced by its history. The official language is Vietnamese, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, especially in major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang.

Currency
The local currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). The exchange rate means you’ll be holding wads of cash, but you’ll get the hang of it. 

Vietnam travel requirements for Nigerians

Visa requirements
Nigerian passport holders will need a visa to enter Vietnam. The good news is that Vietnam offers an e-visa system for Nigerian travelers, so you don’t have to head to an embassy.

Vietnam e-visa application process for Nigerians

• Complete the online visa application form.
• Upload your passport photo and a copy of your passport.
• Pay the visa processing fee of $25.
• Once approved, you’ll receive your e-visa via email. Print it out and bring it with you when traveling to Vietnam.

How long does the Vietnam e-Visa take?
A Vietnamese e-visa takes around 3 to 5 business days to process. However, during busy travel seasons, it’s a good idea to apply at least two weeks in advance to avoid delays.

How to get to Vietnam from Nigeria

There are no direct flights from Nigeria to Vietnam, but several airlines have connecting flights with one or two stops. Here’s how you can make the trip:

Popular airlines

1. Qatar Airways: Flies from Lagos to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City with a layover in Doha.
2. Ethiopian Airlines: Flies from Lagos to Ho Chi Minh City, usually with a stop in Addis Ababa.
3. Emirates: Flies from Lagos to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City with a stopover in Dubai.
4. Turkish Airlines: Flies from Lagos to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City via Istanbul.

Flight duration from Nigeria to Vietnam
The total flight time, including layovers, is typically around 16 to 22 hours, depending on the airline and route. Make sure to check for convenient layover durations when booking your flight.

Best time to visit Vietnam

Vietnam is a year-round destination, but when you visit can affect your experience:

Dry Season (November to April)
This is the best time to visit, especially if you want to explore the northern regions, where the weather is cooler and less humid.
Rainy Season (May to October)
While this season brings more rainfall, it’s still a great time to visit the southern regions like Ho Chi Minh City, where the rains are often short and followed by sunshine.

How long should you stay in Vietnam?

Vietnam can be done in 5 days, but if you want to see more of the country, we recommend at least 7 days. This will give you enough time to explore major cities, enjoy the beaches, and even take a day trip to iconic spots like Ha Long Bay or the Cu Chi Tunnels.

How much to budget for your trip to Vietnam

Here’s a rough breakdown of the costs you can expect:

Flights
Round-trip flights from Nigeria to Vietnam are around $2,400, depending on the season and airline.

Accommodation

• Budget hotels or hostels: $10 to $30 per night.
• Mid-range hotels: $50 to $100 per night.
• Luxury hotels: $150 and up per night.

Food and drinks
Vietnam is a foodie’s paradise, and you don’t need to spend much to eat well:

• Street food: $2 to $5 per meal.
• Mid-range restaurants: $10 to $20 per meal.
• Upscale dining: $30 and above per person.

Activities and tours

• Entrance fees to museums or historic sites: $1 to $5.
• Guided tours (e.g., Ha Long Bay cruises): $50 to $100 depending on the package.
  

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Must-see spots in Vietnam

While there’s so much to explore in Vietnam, here are a few highlights:

Hanoi
Vietnam’s capital, known for its ancient temples, street food scene, and Old Quarter.

Ha Long Bay
Famous for its emerald waters and limestone islands, best explored by boat.

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
A historic city with French colonial architecture and key sites like the War Remnants Museum and Cu Chi Tunnels.

Hoi An
A charming riverside town known for its lantern-lit streets, traditional markets, and nearby beaches.