"Buses to the Vietnam border" Kunming Transportation Tip by kentishgirl

We took an overnight sleeper bus from Kunming to the border. It was not pleasant, but it got us where we needed to go! A few things to say about the bus journey, which I hope will prepare you!

Upon arrival at Kunming Bus Station we found chaos! We found the bay that our bus was supposed to be in and it was not there! Eventually we located the bus, behind numerous other buses - be prepared to ask around and arrive early enough to be able to do this.

The bus itself is basic. There are no toilet facilities at all. The bus will stop en route, but your toilet will be the roadside!

People smoke on the bus, so if you can make yourself understood - try and get a window bed. I smoke, not on buses - this was extreme.

The beds are tiny! Ok, I am above average size, but even being slightly smaller I still would have been uncomfortable. They are not only short but skinny too! Don't expect to get much sleep.

Don't be alarmed if in the middle of the night the bus stops, just get off (with your valuables) have some well earned fresh air :-) You'll probably need your passport; it's more than likely that it's an ID check.

As you approach the border in the morning, the roads turn to mud roads, if you don't like heights - don't look out of the window. The scenery is gorgeous though!

Upon arrival at the border town, walk to the bridge - it's not far, you don't need transport.

Have your Vietnamese visa!!

Mode: TO
Type: Bus