Myanmar Tour from the USA

To travel from the USA to the far away Myanmar in Southeast Asia, the only available way is to fly. And there are nonstop flights between the USA and Myanmar. Usually, you need to make a stopover in Bangkok, Changi (Singapore), Seoul, Tokyo, or Hong Kong, Taipei, etc. Most flights from the USA arrive at Yangon, the largest city of Myanmar.

The flight time and fare depend on where you depart from.

For example, the flight from Los Angeles to Yangon operated by Cathay Pacific and Myanmar National Airlines takes 24h 5m. The flight from San Francisco to Yangon operated by Singapore Changi Airport requires 22h 40m. The flight from New York City to Yangon operated by Korean Air and Myanmar Airways International takes 26h 50m.

Yes, US passport holders need a visa to enter Myanmar and an e-Visa is more convenient. You can apply online a tourist visa on evisa-myanmar.net within 1 to 3 working days. The requirements for US citizens to get a visa include your passport with at least 6 months of validity and a clear color photo for the online visa application form.

After the online application, you will receive your visa via email. When you arrive at Myanmar Arrival Checkpoint, get it stamped on your passports.

Your tourist visa allows you to stay in Myanmar for 28 days. You can enter and exit Myanmar via the international airports in Yangon, Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw. And most flights from the United States arrive at Yangon International Airport.

Travel Advisory by US Travel.State.Gov shows that travel in Burma should be cautious due to areas of civil unrest and armed conflict. US citizens are not advised to travel to the areas of Rakhine, Chin, Kachin, Kayah, Kayin, Sagaing, and northern parts of Shan States.

These areas are closed to tourists and far away from the major scenic spots. The grand majority of Myanmar is safe to visit. And in fact, tourism in Myanmar is booming. The most popular destinations including Yangon, Bago, Kyaiktiyo, Bagan, Mandalay, Inle Lake, Naypyitaw, and beach areas like Ngapali, Ngwe Saung, etc., are definitely secure enough.

People in Myanmar are simple and honest, maybe due to the affection of their religious beliefs. Buddhism tells that the way to end suffering is by overcoming ones’ desires.

The answer is YES. Actually, US dollars are the most widely accepted foreign currency in Myanmar. Large bills such as accommodation, overnight buses and guided tours are usually paid by USD. Pay much attention that your dollars must be crisp and brand new, without any slightest damage.

As for the payment of daily items like meals, bus tickets, trishaw, taxi rides, or bottles of water and beer, you can use Kyat, the official currency of Myanmar.

To exchange USD to Myanmar Kyat, you can head to the major airports, banks, hotels or exchange bureaus. Theoretically, the exchange rates are similar, but you can you can shop around to get the best value.