Health and Safety
General safety in Vietnam
Vietnam is an reasonably safe country. Please remember when you are traveling within Vietnam to use the same common sense you would use at home. It is very easy to let down your normal guard while you are here in Vietnam enjoying the street food and vibrant city vibes, but it is important to take normal safety precautions. The most common crime in Vietnam is petty theft so be diligent in watching over your personal items. Use your hotel safe at all times. Do not leave cameras, purses, Ipads, Ipods, and cellphones unattended on restaurant tables, pool lounges, or beach towels. Leave expensive watches and jewelry at home. We always recommend you bring a photocopy of the picture page of your passport as well.
Travel Insurance & Medical Services
A travel insurance policy that covers you for theft, loss, accidents and medical problems before you leave home is highly recommended. If you plan on participating in our adventure activities like hiking, ziplining or surfing, check that your policy fully covers these activities. Remember to bring your insurance policy details and emergency contact numbers with you.
Vietnamese hospitals provide good medical facilities and standards of care, both in private and public sector, and both constantly strive to be up-to-date with contemporary medicine. The hospital services are available at a low costs to the residents and tourists alike, 365 days a year on a 24 hour basis.
However, it is best to check your eligibility before you leave home and have appropriate travel insurance to cover your stay in Vietnam.
Vaccination & Medication
No special immunizations or vaccinations are required to visit Vietnam unless you have come from, or have visited a yellow fever infected country within six days of your arrival. However, regulations and medical advice can change at short notice, so check with your doctor and the relevant Vietnamese Government websites before you leave home.
Medicine brought into Vietnam for personal use is subject to controls and must be declared on your arrival. It is recommended you bring a prescription or letter from your doctor outlining your medical condition and the medicine you are carrying. If you need to obtain prescription medicine while you are here, the prescription must be written by a doctor in Vietnam.
Climate & Height
The climate in Vietnam can get very hot with a high air humidity in the summer. Be aware of this and think before booking the trip if you cannot deal with high temperatures. Also hiking in high regions such as Sapa in the North could be challenging as the air up there gets very thin. If you are not used to with the hot climate and different heights, your body could have some reactions like fainting or breathing problems. Drink a lot of water and know your limits.
Sun Protection
The sun in Vietnam is very strong and can burn your skin very quickly during summertime. It is important to protect yourself, even if it is a cloudy day. While travelling in Vietnam, be 'sun smart' and always protect yourself against sun. Especially when swimming apply a high-level water resistant sunscreen regularly, wearing a hat and sunglasses that provide good protection for the face, nose, neck, ears and eyes is recommended. Extra care should be taken in the middle of the day when UV radiation is most intense, and make sure you drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
Emergency Assistance
113Â is the number for all emergency services in Vietnam. An operator will connect you to police, ambulance or the fire brigade. You should only call 113Â in an emergency.