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How can Swiss Travelers apply for Myanmar visa? When is the best time to visit the country? How to find the best flight to Myanmar? Where to visit? or which tour packages will suit you most? Everything can be found below.

Myanmar TRAVEL TIPS FOR "SWISS TRAVELERS"

Best time to visit Myanmar

The best time to visit Burma is during the drier winter months of October to March. It's hot during the daytime, and lowland temperatures remain pleasant at night – although bring much warmer layers for the highlands and hill stations as they are chilly in the evenings. Bagan and Mandalay are the hottest, driest regions – temperatures can peak at over 40°C – but rainfall is still light here in the wetter season, and with more bearable temperatures this is the best time to visit Burma to avoid the winter crowds.

You can check the detailed guide to know exactly where and when to go in Myanmar throughout the year.

Myanmar Tourist Visa Policy for Swiss Travelers

Swiss passport holders will need a visa to enter Myanmar. However, you can find it as one of the easiest parts of your trip. You can either apply for visa at Myanmar embassy, upon arrival, or get it done online (e-Visa). 

Visa on arrival

Since 01 October 2019, Swiss passport holders may obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Yangon International Airport, Nay Pyi Taw International Airport, or Mandalay International Airport valid for 30 days, the visa fee is US$50.

Online Visa or eVisa

Swiss citizens can apply for Myanmar visa online through the official website of the immigration office: https://evisa.moip.gov.mm/

E-visas are currently valid for entry at:

  • Myanmar’s three main international airports: Yangon, Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw; and 
  • Overland travel to Myanmar via the Thai-Myanmar border points of Mae Sai/Tachileik, Mae Sot/Myawaddy and Ranong/Kawthaung as well as India-Myanmar border points of Moreh/Tamu and Zokhawtar/Rikhawdar (e-visa is not valid at Thailand Phunaron/Htee Kee entry point). 

Check more about Myanmar Visa Online (e-Visa) here.

Visa via Myanmar embassy in Geneva

  • Address: Avenue Blanc 47, 1202 Genève, Switzerland
  • Phone: +41 22 906-9870, +41 22 906-9871
  • Fax: +41 22 732-8919 
  • Email : [email protected]
  • Website: https://www.myanmargeneva.org/

Moreover, you can apply Myanmar visa via its embassy in Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, or Laos as long as it is convenient for your travel plan. For example, you plan to visit both Thailand and Myanmar in one trip, you can visit Thailand first, and during the time here (in Bangkok), you can apply for Myanmar visa via its embassy in Bangkok before boarding the flight to Myanmar.

Please notice that the requirement can be slightly different depending on the embassy that you visit.

Requirements

When you apply for a Myanmar Visa, you must have several documents to support your application. The Myanmar visa requirements depend on the type of visa you apply for, but include:

  • A passport, which has a validity of at least another six months
  • Photocopies of the personal information page
  • Two recent passport-size pictures, with 4.8 x 3.8 cm dimensions
  • A completed Myanmar Visa Application Form (which you can download
  • A copy of your flight itinerary
  • Payment of the Myanmar visa fee (in cheques, cash, or bank order, as requested by the Embassy/Consulate)
  • Any necessary additional documents that the Embassy or Consulate require you to submit

For more information, you can check our guide for Myanmar Tourist Visa Policy here.

How much does it cost to travel to Myanmar from Switzerland?

For the flight cost, check the information below in this article (Getting to Myanmar from Switzerland)

Our recommended spending for your journey in Myanmar is about $120-150/person/day (group of 2 people). Of course, you can either spend less at about $90-100/person/day (even $30-40/day - backpacker style) or you can spend much higher depending on the services you expect on spot.

Here is our detailed guide for Budget & Currency for travelling in Myanmar

Getting flight to Myanmar from Switzerland

You can find the flight to Myanmar from Switzerland at some popular airport in Zurich or Geneva.

Since there are no direct flights from Switzerland, if you want to visit Myanmar, the easiest way is to fly to a regional hub first, such as Bangkok, Hanoi, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur, and then take a connecting flight to Myanmar. 

Taking the flight to Myanmar will land you at one of the 3 main international airports including Yangon, Mandalay, and Naypyidaw. 

Yangon is the former capital city before the government decided to move it to Naypyidaw. Yangon at the moment is still the busiest airport in Myanmar; hence it is the most popular place to start your Myanmar exploration. 

Located in northern Myanmar, there’s more to Mandalay than first meets the eye. This is your gateway to explore the northern part of Myanmar.

Naypyidaw, the new capital of Myanmar, locates in the middle, is the promising destination in the very near future.

Flight FAQs

Q. When is the best time to book flights to Myanmar?

Aim to have your flight tickets secured at least four months in advance to give yourself a chance of finding the cheapest flights to Myanmar. If you can then book them even further ahead, especially if your dates coincide with a major event or the peak season. 

Once you’ve narrowed down your destination by choosing a city, usually either Yangon or Mandalay, you’ll be able to figure out what dates offer the cheapest flights to Myanmar and go from there. 

Flexibility is the key to securing discounted flight tickets so if you’re not governed by a particular set of weeks or to a specific location then you’ll give yourself the best chances of finding the cheapest flights to Myanmar. 

Don’t worry too much about which side of the plane to sit on as each has their benefits and offer equally impressive view through your flight.

Q. How long is the flight to Myanmar?

An average nonstop flight from Zurich, Switzerland to Yangon, Myanmar takes about 12h, covering the distance of 5,256 miles or 8,459 km. However, as there is no direct flight, your total travel time will take about 15-18 hours or more depending on the number of transiting airports you take along the way.

Q. Can I get a nonstop flight to Myanmar from the Switzerland?

Unfortunately, there are no nonstop flights available from any airports in the Switzerland to Myanmar. The best way is to take the flight to its neighboring countries (i.e. Vietnam and Thailand), then take the onward flight to Myanmar.

Q. What are the most popular routes from Switzerland to Myanmar?

You can choose 1 from 4 popular routes as below:

  • Zurich to Yangon 
  • Geneva to Yangon 
  • Zurich to Mandalay
  • Geneva to Mandalay

Q. What are the most popular airlines that fly from Switzerland to Myanmar?

The most popular airlines flying from Switzerland to Myanmar are Thai Smile, Emirates, FlyDubai and nine other airlines offer flights from Zurich Airport to Yangon Airport. Something to consider prior to booking your flight.

Q. How much does it cost to fly from Switzerland to Myanmar?

Compared to Thailand and Vietnam, the price ticket to Myanmar is a little bit higher ranging from $450 to $750 depending on your flight route and date. It is because you need to add up the cost for the onward flight from those countries.

We recommend using some online ticket booking platform (Kayak, Cheapflights, or SkyScanner) to look for the cheapest flight possible according to your travel plan. They do have alert system when there is the price change on your travel date

Here is how to get the cheapest flight possible to Myanmar

Getting around in Myanmar

The four best ways of travelling around Myanmar are by air, boat, bus, or rail. Flying between cities is popular among westerners, while cruising is enjoyable. Buses are cheaper, simpler and faster than trains. Train travel may be exciting for younger travelers; both terrific and (possibly) terrifying.

Check How to get around in Myanmar here

Other FAQs

1. Do I need vaccines for Myanmar?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Myanmar. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Myanmar: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza

Here is the article for recommended vaccinations for Myanmar.

2. How safe is Myanmar?

For the vast majority of visitors, travel in Myanmar is safe and should pose no serious problems.

  • Some areas of the country remain off limits due to ongoing civil war and/or landmines.
  • In off-the-beaten-track places, where authorities are less used to seeing foreigners, local officials may ask you what you are up to. Saying you're a tourist normally satisfies them.
  • If you have any tattoos of Buddha on your body, keep them covered up.

Here is our guide for Safety and Precautions in Myanmar

3. Do I need a travel insurance for Myanmar?

Travel insurance for Myanmar is an absolute must!

Take into consideration that road safety is poor and the country is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes and flooding. Crime rates are generally low, but poverty is very high and there are always a few opportunistic thieves around. You should also look into getting coverage if you plan to take domestic flights as they can be unreliable. Last minute time changes and cancellations aren’t uncommon, which may make you miss your connecting flight back home.

Check the detailed article for Myanmar travel insurance here

4. What should I take to Myanmar?

Burma has different temperatures depending on the time of year. Light, airy modest clothing will keep you cool and comfortable during the hottest months.

During the colder months, and in the evenings, a jacket and some extra layers will keep you warm. Be sure to bring a rain jacket and an umbrella if you are visiting during the rainy season.

Because of the humidity and moisture, particularly during the rainy season, Burma is home to mosquitoes that may carry malaria. Antimalarials are highly recommended.

Here is the detailed guide for what to pack for Myanmar

5. Are you supposed to tip in Myanmar?

Having only opened up to tourists relatively recently, there’s a nascent culture of tipping in Myanmar. We’d encourage tipping for particularly good service; wages are low so they’ll certainly be appreciated. That being said, do only tip on a merit basis and don’t feel obliged to do it. 

Check out the Myanmar tipping guide & other local etiquettes here

6. Do I need to buy a Myanmar SIM Card? And where can I buy it?

It is recommended to buy a local SIM card why travelling in Myanmar as it surely has a stable connection and also the cheaper price for calling & data usage.

You can buy the SIM Card almost everywhere in Myanmar, especially inside the big cities like Yangon or Mandalay

Check out the detailed guide for Internet & phone in Myanmar here

7. Do I need to bargain while shopping in Myanmar?

In general, you do not need to bargain a lot, less than in some other countries such as Vietnam, Cambodia, or Thailand.

One thing you need to negotiate a price is transport: taxis, tuk-tuks, motorbikes, horse carts... Taxis don't have meters, you'll have to discuss the price. Sometimes it's a bit difficult to find out the "real" price, as it depends on the route and the place you are. However, you will be surprised that taxi drivers in Yangon ask for a moderate price and negotiating was not needed.

Public transport (buses, trains, ferryboats) have fixed prices. In some cases, there are high fixed prices for tourists; for example, ferry Yangon to Dala: locals 200 Kyats, foreigners 5.000 Kyats. There are no more foreigner prices for buses, trains and both are very cheap.

Entrance fees are fixed and always higher for tourists.

There are fixed prices in shopping centers and convenience stores, in restaurants etc. You can negotiate hotel prices (if walking in) and street food, markets... But usually they ask for the normal price and things are cheap, if not in the tourist business (souvenirs etc.).

Here is our guide for Buying and bargaining in Myanmar

Swiss Embassy in Myanmar

If you find yourself in need of help while traveling in Burma, there is a Swiss embassy in the former capital city of Yangon. 

Embassy address as below:

  • Address: Vantage Tower, 623 Pyay Road, Kamayut Township, Yangon, Myanmar
  • Telephone: + 95 1 230 7465
  • Email: [email protected]

 

Myanmar TOUR PACKAGES FOR "SWISS TRAVELERS"

Spiritual Myanmar Spiritual Myanmar

- Myanmar -

Spiritual Myanmar
Must-see / 10 days / fr. $1,490

Be captivated by the inherent spirituality that makes Myanmar so special. Take a pilgrimage trip to the sacred Golden Rock and meditate with monks at a famous monastery. Explore the mystical world... More

Trekking Tribes & Tradition of Myanmar Trekking Tribes & Tradition of Myanmar

- Myanmar -

Trekking Tribes & Tradition of Myanmar
Trek & Hike / 20 days / fr. $2,655

Explore Myanmar’s melange of traditional villages, ethnic groups and rich culture. Encounter a diverse mix of hill tribes in remote Kengtung, come face-to-face with Asian elephants in Kalaw a... More

Myanmar Must-see & Mergui Archipelago Cruise Myanmar Must-see & Mergui Archipelago Cruise

- Myanmar -

Myanmar Must-see & Mergui Archipelago Cruise
Cruise / 20 days / fr. $3,790

The combination of the big four - Yangon, Mandalay, Bagan and Inle Lake, and the magnificent Mergui Archipelago. There are activities like fun puzzles to solve, cultural experiences and hands on wo... More

Memorial Honeymoon in Myanmar Memorial Honeymoon in Myanmar

- Myanmar -

Memorial Honeymoon in Myanmar
Honeymoon Vacation / 7 days / fr. $1,220

Start the transition into a new chapter in life with a romantic trip to Myanmar. The first few days cover the must-sees such as Yangon’s colonial buildings, the temples of Bagan, and Inle Lak... More

Hidden Myanmar Hidden Myanmar

- Myanmar -

Hidden Myanmar
Trek & Hike / 30 days / fr. $3,900

Take a challenging trek to Nagaland that lies on the border of India and Myanmar. Explore the ancient hunting trails of Naga Warriors who are known for their now-defunct practice of headhunting. Ex... More

Family Holiday in Myanmar Family Holiday in Myanmar

- Myanmar -

Family Holiday in Myanmar
Family Vacation / 12 days / fr. $1,560

Bring the family on a world wind trip in Myanmar! Covering the big four - Yangon, Mandalay, Bagan and Inle Lake, there are activities like fun puzzles to solve, cultural experiences and hands on wo... More

Myanmar Highlights Exploration Myanmar Highlights Exploration

- Myanmar -

Myanmar Highlights Exploration
Luxury Holiday / 8 days / fr. $1,040

See some of the most beautiful spots in rural Myanmar including the Shwedagon Pagoda, Inle Lake, and the Bagan temples. In between visits to these attractions are great opportunities for catching a... More

Hill Tribes Myanmar Hill Tribes Myanmar

- Myanmar -

Hill Tribes Myanmar
Unseen / 7 days / fr. $910

Explore Loikaw, a charming and small place in Myanmar’s Shan State that’s filled with authentic culture and beautiful natural scenery. Interact with various ethnic tribes and take this... More

Discover Myanmar Discover Myanmar

- Myanmar -

Discover Myanmar
Unseen / 10 days / fr. $1,308

This Myanmar trip is as much about the journey as it is about the destination! Travel aboard everything from trishaws to horse carts, slow-moving trains to long-tail boats. Get an up-close look at... More

Myanmar Overview Myanmar Overview

- Myanmar -

Myanmar Overview
Must-see / 22 days / fr. $2,860

From Mandalay to Yangon and further south to Dawei beaches discover the many faces and smiles of local Burmese people. Explore the ancient capital of Bagan and Mandalay, visit responsible elephant... More

Myanmar Classic Exploration Myanmar Classic Exploration

- Myanmar -

Myanmar Classic Exploration
Must-see / 9 days / fr. $1,105

Take a whirlwind trip to Myanmar’s highlights. Gaze upon ancient pagodas in Bagan and explore Inle Lake’s scenic waters.  Delve into Myanmar’s spiritual traditions in Mandala... More

Myanmar Beauties Myanmar Beauties

- Myanmar -

Myanmar Beauties
Must-see / 19 days / fr. $2,754

Discover a land of cultural richness and physical beauty. Travel from Yangon to Mandalay, Bagan to Inle Lake stopping to explore the hidden gems in between. Get a comprehensive look at Myanmar&rsqu... More

Multi-sport Adventure in Myanmar Multi-sport Adventure in Myanmar

- Myanmar -

Multi-sport Adventure in Myanmar
Unseen / 10 days / fr. $1,125

Get active in Myanmar for a fun-filled adventure holiday. See iconic sites and famous cities, then add a dose of adventure for a closer look at Myanmar’s wonders. Bike, trek and kayak through... More

Wild Myanmar Adventure Wild Myanmar Adventure

- Myanmar -

Wild Myanmar Adventure
Unseen / 21 days / fr. $2,449

Go beyond the culture and communities of the Golden Land to discover its stunning nature and biodiversity. Check out slow-moving tortoises and elephants before trying to spot much faster birds and... More

Back to Nature in Myanmar Back to Nature in Myanmar

- Myanmar -

Back to Nature in Myanmar
Wellness & Leisure / 11 days / fr. $2,420

Exploring the nature of Myanmar in the remote area around Inle Lake & the magnificent Mergui Archipelago. Leave the tourist trail behind and discover an authentic corner of Inle Lake. Journey p... More

Cycling Myanmar Highlights Cycling Myanmar Highlights

- Myanmar -

Cycling Myanmar Highlights
Cycling & Biking / 10 days / fr. $1,450

Enjoy the awe-inspiring sights of this country by pedaling to cover an array of destinations in 10 days. Observe a vast number of religious edifices of Myanmar, diverse tribes and magnificent archi... More

Cycling Yangon and Southern Myanmar Cycling Yangon and Southern Myanmar

- Myanmar -

Cycling Yangon and Southern Myanmar
Cycling & Biking / 10 days / fr. $1,320

Take an unforgettable cycling adventure through rural Myanmar. Delve deep into the culture with a pilgrimage to the sacred Golden Rock. Experience local lifestyles with a ride around charming Bilu... More

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We believe you have the right to arm yourselves with as much information as possible before making any decision.

Check below our detailed tips & guide for every places to visit in Myanmar, recommendation regarding the inclusion in each theme you prefer, and what you can do based on the time frame you have.

PLACES TO VISIT IN Myanmar
Yangon
bee-white Yangon

Bagan
bee-white Bagan

Mandalay
bee-white Mandalay

Inle Lake
bee-white Inle Lake

Mergui Archipelago
bee-white Mergui Archipelago

Ngapali Beach
bee-white Ngapali Beach

Myanmar PLANS BY TRAVEL THEME
Must-see
bee-white Must-see

Check out all the must-see places and things to do & see

Luxury Holiday
bee-white Luxury Holiday

Unique experience combined with top-notch services

Wellness & Leisure
bee-white Wellness & Leisure

Easy excursion combined with week-long beach break

Family Vacation
bee-white Family Vacation

The combination of fun and educational activities

Unseen
bee-white Unseen

Reveal off-the-beatentrack routes, least explored destinations, and unknown tribe groups

Trek & Hike
bee-white Trek & Hike

Explore the least visited destinations and unknown experience on foot

Cycling & Biking
bee-white Cycling & Biking

Explore every corners of the destination on two wheels

Honeymoon Vacation
bee-white Honeymoon Vacation

Easy excursions combined with unique experience making the long-lasting romantic memories

Cruise
bee-white Cruise

The combination of some must-see experience and the cruise tour along the mighty rivers

Myanmar PLANS BY TIME FRAME
white-icon About 1 week
yellow-icon About 1 week
white-icon About 2 weeks
yellow-icon About 2 weeks
white-icon About 3 weeks
yellow-icon About 3 weeks
white-icon About 4 weeks
yellow-icon About 4 weeks
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Myanmar BLOG ARTICLES

Taking a cruise on the fascinating Mekong River offers a unique and memorable travel experience. The Mekong River, one of the longest rivers in Asia, flows through several countries, including China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Each destination along the river offers its own distinct cultural, historical, and natural attractions. In this article, we will go over what you can expect when cruising the Mekong River. 

...more

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Asian countries has taken the cautious approach to inbound travel and has had some of the strictest border restrictions and closures. At the moment, the nations of the region are in the beginning stages of reopening their borders for tourism, with every country introducing its own regulations.

The “unlocking” statuses vary widely. Travelers entering Asian countries may be required to do everything from going into quarantine, submitting negative COVID-19 test results, presenting proof of health insurance, and proof of vaccination (known a vaccine passports).

There is an understandable uncertainty with how you should travel to the Asian region if you are planning to. This is why we present you the list of 19 Asian countries, along with details on the current travel situation. As each country applies precisely defined regulations, you should always check the official websites listed in the article below for the latest government announcements.

...more

Myanmar will resume international passenger flights from April 17, the military said on Saturday, lifting a two-year ban on foreign tourists.

...more

Thanaka or  thanakha is a yellowish-white cosmetic paste made from ground bark. It is a distinctive feature of the culture of Myanmar, seen commonly applied to the face and sometimes the arms of women and girls, and is used to a lesser extent also by men and boys. The use of thanaka has also spread to neighboring countries including Thailand.

Within this article, we will learn everything about Thanaka and the benefits of its powder in making a secret beauty ingredient of Burmese women.

...more

Burmese Longyi, along with the country’s longtime history, art, and heritage sites has contributed to the richness of the local culture that will grasp your attention whenever you find yourself in strolling around the streets of Myanmar. With just a piece of fabric grasping on the lower part of the body through time, the longyi has made it become an incredible pattern of Myanmar traditional costume for both men and women. In this article, we are going to find out the secret of Myanmar quintessence through Longyi, about why it has been worn for centuries by the Burmese people.

...more
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