Can Tho to Khao Yai Road Trip Guide: Best Stops & Drive Time

Leaving Can Tho's Mekong Delta waterways, you'll cross the Cambodian border at Moc Bai and follow National Highway 22 (H22) before connecting to the Asian Highway AH1 through Phnom Penh. This 1,100-kilometer route to Khao Yai in Thailand passes through flat rice paddies, rubber plantations, and finally climbs into the Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Known as the 'Green Belt' of Thailand, Khao Yai National Park protects one of the largest intact monsoon forests on mainland Southeast Asia, with elevations reaching 1,351 meters at Khao Rom.

Before you plan, note that the drive typically takes 18 to 20 hours without border delays, so budget for at least one overnight stop. This guide focuses on practicalities, key attractions, and tips for a safe journey.

For help finding unexpected gems along the route, check out our guide on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

National Highway 22 (H22) is a two-lane road with moderate traffic. Once you cross into Cambodia, the road quality improves on the Asian Highway AH1, which is well-maintained and toll-free. From Phnom Penh, continue on AH1 to Poipet, then cross into Thailand at Aranyaprathet, where you'll join Route 33 and later National Highway 2. Expect several toll booths in Thailand, with total toll costs around 200 THB (6 USD).

Speed limits vary: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on highways in Vietnam and Cambodia, and 90-120 km/h in Thailand. Note that speed cameras are common.

Fuel costs are a major consideration. As of 2023, gasoline in Vietnam averages 23,000 VND/liter (1 USD), Cambodia 4,300 KHR/liter (1.05 USD), and Thailand 35 THB/liter (1 USD). A typical SUV with a 60-liter tank will get 500-600 km per tank, so you'll need about three fills across the journey. Budget around 350 USD for gas, plus 50 USD for tolls and border fees.

• Border Crossing: Moc Bai/Bavet (open 7am-10pm) and Poipet/Aranyaprathet (6am-10pm).
• Visa: Cambodia e-Visa available; Thailand visa exemption for many nationalities.
• Pet-friendly: Cambodia and Thailand require an international health certificate for dogs; ensure you have one.

Leaving the Mekong Delta's lush orchards, the scenery shifts to Cambodia's vast Kampong Cham and Kampong Thom provinces, where you'll see traditional stilt houses and silk farms. Near Skuon, known as 'the spider village,' you can sample fried tarantulas at roadside stalls—a Camodian delicacy.

As you approach Khao Yai, the terrain rises into the San Kamphaeng Range, a paradise for hikers. The park's evergreen forests are home to wild elephants, gibbons, and hornbills. The 3-km Nature Trail and the 50-meter Heo Suwat Waterfall, featured in the film 'The Beach,' are top attractions.

Local commerce thrives along the way. In Cambodia, stop at Kompong Cham's riverside market for pottery and handwoven krama scarves. In Thailand, Pak Chong's night market offers local dairy products (Khao Yai is famous for its milk) and fresh strawberries. You'll also find numerous roadside fruit stalls selling durian, mangoes, and rambutans.

For a unique cultural experience, visit the Prasat Ban Bueng, a Khmer temple complex east of the route, less frequented than Angkor.

Road safety varies: Vietnam and Cambodia have aggressive drivers, while Thailand's highways are generally well-marked and maintained. Always wear seatbelts, and avoid night driving in Cambodia due to poor lighting and animals on the road. In Thailand, be cautious of speeding trucks and tourist minivans.

For families, the route offers several kid-friendly stops: Nong Nooch Tropical Garden (though slightly off-route), Como Siem Reap's water park, and Khao Yai's Adventure Point with ziplining. Many hotels in Pak Chong have family rooms and swimming pools.

Pets are welcome at many guesthouses, but beaches and temples often restrict access. At Khao Yai, note that domestic cats are prohibited in the park, and dogs must be leashed.

To combat fatigue, plan rest breaks every 2-3 hours. Safe stops include the PTT petrol stations in Thailand (with clean bathrooms and cafes) and the Cambodia's Plus stations. Consider an overnight rest at Nakhon Ratchasima (Khorat) or Pak Chong, a 2-hour drive from the park entrance.