Transportation in Myanmar
Once overlooked in the tourism world, Myanmar, formerly known as Birmanie, has emerged today as a highly sought-after tourist destination. To explore this country of countless wonders, several transportation options are at your disposal.
Once overlooked in the tourism world, Myanmar, formerly known as Birmanie, has emerged today as a highly sought-after tourist destination. To explore this country of countless wonders, several transportation options are at your disposal.
For Long-Distance Travel
Opt for a Domestic Flight
Traveling by domestic flight proves to be the most convenient option for covering long distances. Time-saving and comfortable, Birmanie has several airlines offering internal routes: Golden Myanmar Airlines, Myanmar National Airlines, Air KBZ Birmanie, Mann Yadanarpon Airlines, Yangon Airways, Air Mandalay, Air Bagan, Air Kanbawza, and Aslan Wings. Flight costs remain reasonable given that journey times are quite short (typically around 1 hour). Flying within Myanmar is a genuine adventure since you'll always travel aboard twin-engine propeller aircraft. The only downside is that most airports in Birmanie are located several minutes' drive from the city center.
Take the Bus
The bus is considered the most common means of transportation for traveling the roads of Birmanie. Taking a bus remains the most economical alternative for covering long distances, despite the often exhausting journey duration. Travel typically happens at night. Don't worry—Myanmar buses offer considerable comfort, with air conditioning, sometimes even internet and screens with various film programs. You'll be provided with a bottle of water, a blanket, and a small sleeping berth.
Rent a Private Car
Driving a car is quite dangerous in Birmanie. For safety reasons, you should never risk traveling alone on an unfamiliar road. Moreover, all road signs are written in the Burmese language.
For a long-distance journey, it's better to rent a car with a driver. The cost of renting a car for a long distance ranges from approximately $120 to $150 per day. To reduce costs, it's therefore more worthwhile to travel in a group. For better communication, prefer a driver who speaks at least some English.
Travel by Boat or Cruise
Myanmar is dotted with waterways where countless boats make their way back and forth daily. To navigate the heart of Myanmar, your choices are vast, and costs generally depend on the boat's quality (comfort). The most economical are the old ferries that often transport merchants. However, these ordinary ferries aren't advisable if you're in a hurry. Moreover, comfort often leaves much to be desired. The most popular route remains the one connecting Mandalay to Bagan.
If you want comfort, opt for steamers! This type of boat is fast and very modern. Designed exclusively for tourists, steamers are only found during high season.
You can also take a cruise boat journey. The Irrawaddy River remains the most suitable setting for this experience. Many luxury boats offer their services. Quite expensive, the pleasure of the voyage is worth the cost.
Travel by Train
The best opportunity to admire the picturesque landscapes of Myanmar, train travel promises a unique and unforgettable adventure. Unfortunately, the railway infrastructure doesn't allow offering passengers maximum comfort. Moreover, train travel in Myanmar is renowned for being very slow.
For Getting Around a City or Village
For short-distance travel, numerous alternatives exist. The choice depends on each city or village visited. Generally, the cost can always be negotiated. To give you some ideas about intra-city transportation options in Birmanie, here are the possible choices:
Travel by Taxi
An option that will give you more freedom and comfort, taxis are plentiful in Birmanie. In this country, taking a taxi proves to be the most common choice for tourists. All the more so because they are very numerous and scattered throughout all Myanmar cities.
For your information, Burmese taxis don't use meters. You must negotiate the fare with the driver.
Take a Local Bus
A very affordable choice, traveling by local bus will allow you to better understand the Burmese. It will also prevent you from spending more money taking a taxi. However, it's not easy to know each bus's route since all signs on the road and destinations are illegible. Not to mention that few locals understand French or English. Before taking a city bus, you should first inquire about the entire route the bus will take as well as all its stops.
Rent a Private Car
Within the city, taxi remains the most interesting option. You can still rent a private car for a full day and take the opportunity to discover the city's surroundings.
Travel in a Pick-Up
Also called a pickup truck or mini-bus taxi, the pick-up proves to be a very common means of transportation in Burmese countryside. It's a large converted truck capable of transporting several travelers for short journeys.
Ride a Motorcycle Taxi
Seen in many tourist cities, motorcycle taxis are increasingly popular with tourists. Note, however, that two-wheeled vehicles, including motorcycle taxis, are prohibited in downtown Yangon. When riding a motorcycle taxi, never neglect safety (helmet, speed, etc.).
Travel by Motorcycle
It is possible to rent a motorcycle or scooter to explore the city, or to take a two-wheeled trek. In Myitkyina and Mandalay, you'll often find people renting their motorcycles on a daily basis.
Choose the Trishaw or Bike Rickshaw
A typically Burmese means of transportation, the trishaw, rickshaw, or sidecar is a bicycle equipped with a bench at the back or on the side. The cost of a trishaw ride remains affordable compared to other vehicles. To travel by trishaw, it's highly advisable to negotiate the fare before starting your journey. The sidecar predominates in small towns.
Navigate by Rowboat
The rowboat remains a good means of transportation to discover Innwa and Inle Lake. An experience not to be missed!
Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride
 Ideal for a leisurely ride, traveling in a horse-drawn carriage is also part of the adventure. Don't miss the opportunity to explore Bagan and its temples aboard a horse cart (the Myanmar name for the carriage). Rather slow but very pleasant, this means of transportation is also found in small towns such as Thazi or Maymyo.
