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Cambodia Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 24, 2023, cambodia - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Cambodia. Some areas have increased risks. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Exercise increased precautions in:

• Phnom Penh due to  crime.
• Very remote areas of Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Pursat, Siem Reap, Pailin, and Kampong Thom provinces due to  land mines.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Cambodia.

If you decide to travel to Cambodia:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Cambodia.

·        Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Phnom Penh – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Street crime, particularly phone and bag snatchings, occurs frequently in areas where foreigners gather; resistance can result in injury. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and to be extra vigilant when displaying items like jewelry, bags and cell phones in public. Violent crime, such as sexual assault and homicide, is common, sometimes against foreigners.

Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Use caution when walking or driving at night.

Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Pursat, Siem Reap, Pailin, and Kampong Thom provinces – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Land mines and unexploded ordnance are found in very remote areas throughout Cambodia, and especially in Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Pursat, Siem Reap, Pailin, and Kampong Thom provinces.

Do not touch unknown metal objects; instead notify the Cambodia Mine Action Center at 012-800-473/023-995-437. Use a local guide when walking in forested areas or dry rice paddies in these areas.

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TRAVEL to CAMBODIA – Tips and Information Guide (2024 Edition)

Everything you need to know to help you travel to Cambodia on your next adventure.

Paradise-like beaches and an abundance of culture are just a few of the things that inspire people to travel to Cambodia.

However, Cambodia offers plenty of life-changing experiences and sights that should be on your bucket list!

This country in southeastern Asia is not only very rich in natural beauties but in history as well.

It is most famous for being home to one of the most prominent UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Angkor Wat.

This site alone attracts thousands of annual visitors to the Kingdom of Cambodia.

But there are also many temples that are just as beautiful that should not be missed!

The capital city, Phnom Penh, is heaven for lovers of beautiful architecture.

Even though the bustling city never sleeps, it also exudes a peacefulness that is rare to encounter.

It is situated where three rivers join together and is one of the most interesting cities in Asia.

You should consider getting lost in Phnom Penh and truly getting to know its spirit and incredibly kind people!

Cambodia also offers many quiet beaches , making it a great place for the perfect holiday. 

You’ll feel as if you’re on your own private beach without going to a remote part of the country.

The weather is typically always warm and the food is delicious! What more could you ask for?

If you’re considering travel to Cambodia be sure to follow the information and advice in our Cambodia Travel Guide!

Cambodia Travel Guide

Cambodia is a great place to visit at any time of year and for any number of reasons.

Whether you’re travelling to the seaside or the cities, on a budget or willing to splurge, our Cambodia Travel Guide will prepare you for the trip of a lifetime.

General Info

Before you get too far in your planning, make sure you understand the basics about travel to Cambodia.

Here’s a list of things you might find useful!

• Currency : Cambodian riel (however, US Dollars are usually accepted)
• Capital : Phnom Penh
• Language : Khmer
• Population : 16,245,729
• Area : 181,035 sq. km
• Electricity Voltage : The standard voltage in Cambodia is 230 V at 50 Hz. If the voltage or the frequency is different from the one in your country, you should use an adaptor/converter.
• Electricity Sockets : Type A, type C (also works with plug E and F) and type G

How to Get to Cambodia

There are many ways you could travel to Cambodia. Here are a few of the most convenient and cost-effective transportation methods.

Cambodia has three major operating airports – the Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville International Airports.

There aren’t any direct intercontinental flights. So you will need at least one connection if you are not coming from an Asian country.

However, the majority of eastern Asian countries have direct flights to one of the three cities.

Often, you’ll be able to choose between the three airports, since they’re all very frequent.

Of course, the one in the capital city of Phnom Penh has the most international flight connections.

The ticket prices can vary drastically depending on the date, so make sure you book in advance!

If you’re flying in from Europe, no more than one layover is usually necessary.

Your best option might be to depart from the UK, France or Germany and to fly into China, Vietnam or Thailand. You will be able to connect directly to Cambodia from these Asian hubs.

Click here to see a list of all destinations you can fly in from.

Overland Vehicle

It is possible to cross into Cambodia from the neighbouring countries of Vietnam, Thailand and Laos via automobile, motorbike or bus.

Roads are relatively well maintained between the capital and major cities of each country.

Common routes include from Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam) to Phnom Penh and from Bangkok (Thailand) to Siem Reap.

Travel to Cambodia from Laos is a little more tricky, but possible.

If travelling to Cambodia by bus the options are plentiful and relatively inexpensive.

Giant Ibis, Kampot Express and Golden Bayon Express are three of the more popular bus companies in Cambodia that can accommodate travel into the country.

But note that travel times are often, if not always, slower than those posted in schedules. If you are crunched for time, you might want to consider flying into Cambodia instead of travelling by bus.

Ferry and Cruise Ship

At the moment, there’s only one ferry line available from Vietnam to Cambodia.

Mandarin Cruises has up to 7 weekly departures from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh and the tickets cost around USD$65.

The price includes the company picking you up at your hotel and dropping you off at your chosen address.

You can make a reservation on their website or buy the ticket in their office.

Make sure you have the necessary visas and travel documents!

Cruise Ship

You could also take a cruise ship from Vietnam to Cambodia.

But this is considered a luxury cruise and will be more expensive and touristy than taking the ferry.

However, this will allow you significantly more comfort and luxury, if you’re willing to spend the money.

The greatest advantage of these cruises is that you will have an English-speaking guide.

He or she will introduce you to the Mekong river, as well as the countries that it’s connecting.

The cruises last for a minimum of three days and they usually include all three meals.

Even though the prices can be very high, you can usually find early-bird discounts or cheaper deals.

Visa Requirements for Cambodia

Those who choose to travel to Cambodia must obtain a visa unless they are coming from a visa-exempt country.

Those countries are Laos, Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, Myanmar, Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam and Thailand.

Residents of these countries can stay in Cambodia for up to 30 days.

Other tourists can get a visa upon arrival or they can get an e-visa via the iVisa website .

Keep in mind that e-visas are accepted at only two of the three airports (Phnom Penh, Siem Reap).

You can find the list of all entry points, including land borders, by clicking on this link .

The tourist visa costs USD$30 and if you’re using the e-visa service, you’ll have to pay an additional USD$7 fee.

The business visa costs USD$35 and can be extended multiple times for longer periods.

On the contrary, the tourist visa can only be extended once.

Residents of certain countries must get their visa in advance, in Cambodian embassies in their homelands.

Those countries are: Iraq, Iran, Egypt, Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Lebanon, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Algeria, Libya, Sudan, Syria, Yemen.

It is important that your passport is valid for at least six months.

Also, the Cambodian visa will take up one page of your passport, so make sure you have enough space left.

Click here to see the visa application form.

If you don’t want the responsibility of handling the papers, you can always get the help of an agency!

You can also apply for visas to visit other countries, such as Vietnam , from the capital city of Phnom Penh.

5 Interesting Facts About Cambodia

• The Angkor Wat temple complex holds the Guinness World Record for the largest religious structure in the world! It measures a whopping 162,2 hectares (401 acres).
• People in Cambodia celebrate the New Year in April! The holiday lasts for three days and it marks the end of the harvest season.
• There is historical and architectural evidence that people have been living in Cambodia for at least 7,000 years!
• In Cambodia it is considered disrespectful and rude to point your feet at people and your fingers at things. People in Cambodia always keep their feet tucked and they point with their entire palms.
• The Cambodian flag is the only one in the world that features a building. Of course, that building is Angkor Wat!

Best Time to Travel to Cambodia

There truly is no bad time to travel to Cambodia, depending on your travel preferences and whether you are willing to endure rain during your visit.

Unlike many parts of the world, Cambodia doesn’t really have four seasons.

Instead Cambodia’s seasons are divided into the rainy season and the dry season.

The dry season lasts between October and April. Therefore, the most popular time for travelling to Cambodia is usually during these times.

Even though the weather is warm all year round it is best to avoid travelling to Cambodia during the rainy season.

The humidity can be smothering and the heavy rains will greatly restrict your ability to see and do things across the country.

On the other hand, some people like to travel when there aren’t many tourists around.

The advantages of that are lower prices and the fact that it’s highly unlikely any place will be too crowded.

The rain season has a couple more perks, such as seeing the country at its greenest and lushest.

However, even if you don’t mind the rain, there are certain months when the weather conditions are especially difficult.

The peak of wet season is in September and October, when heavy rains can cause transportation issues.

Also, keep in mind that May and June are usually the hottest months, when temperatures often reach 40°C.

Travel Itineraries Suggestions

Although it is a relatively small country, Cambodia has much to offer to keep you busy during your visit.

There is always something new to discover and try – whether it is a tale from its history or a tasty dish.

Travelling to Cambodia offers great choices both for lazy beach vacations or for active expeditions.

The options make it hard to choose and plan, since you’ll probably want to do everything!

Here’s a couple itinerary suggestions based upon arrival in Phnom Penh that you might find useful:

Day Trips In and Around Phnom Penh

A week in and around the capital city of Phnom Penh will give you the opportunity to experience the culture and history of Cambodia.

You won’t be able to see and do everything in this time, so consider touring the temples and beaches as part of your travel to Cambodia.

• Fly to Phnom Penh
• Phnom Penh – 4 days
• Day trip to Koch Dach – 1 Day
• Go to Kirirom National Park – 2 days
• Go back to Phnom Penh

Tour the Temples

If you have 8-10 days or more and want to tour the spiritual centre of the region, you could travel along the following itinerary.

• Travel from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap
• Go to Koh Ker; Koh Ker – 1 day
• Go to Beng Mealea; Beng Mealea – 1 day
• Go to Angkor Thom; Angkor Thom – 1 day
• Go to Ta Prohm; Ta Prohm – 1 day
• Go to Angkor Wat; Angkor Wat – 3 days
• Go back to Siem Reap; Siem Reap – 2 days
• Return to Phnom Penh

The Beaches

Everyone has their own idea of how long to relax along the beach.

But with 8-10 days you could have a very refreshing time visiting the beaches of Cambodia along the following itinerary:

• Travel from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville
• Go to Koh Rong; Koh Rong – 4 days
• Go to Koh Rong Samloem; Koh Rong Samloem – 3 days
• Go back to Sihanoukville; Sihanoukville – 3 days

Budget for Travelling to Cambodia

Cambodia is very affordable for tourists.

It’s actually even cheap compared to its other Southeastern Asian neighbours!

You can find plenty of good accommodation deals. The food is very inexpensive. And public transportation doesn’t cost a fortune.

Therefore, you can fully explore and travel in Cambodia regardless of your budget.

if you travel to Cambodia in the less popular, rainy months you will save even more money during your stay.

On the other hand, if you would like to stay in a luxurious resort you have that option as well.

There’s something for everyone’s preference and budget !

Here’s our list of three different budgets that you might find helpful. The prices below are per day:

Single Traveller:  USD$15-$30

The cheapest accommodation you can find will cost you around USD$7 per night.

Keep in mind that, even though it’s the cheapest, it doesn’t mean that accommodation is the worst.

There are actually some very decent rooms for that amount of money!

The next thing you’re going to have to spend money on is food.

Luckily, there’s a variety of delicious street food options, as well as a number of nice cheap restaurants.

For example, the Phsar Chas Fried Chicken will cost you less than a dollar. A restaurant option is pork ribs at Bei Chomneanh for only USD$2.

When it comes to public transportation, tuk-tuk rides usually don’t cost more than USD$3 anywhere across a city.

The tickets to some of the most popular tourist spots, such as the National Museum, will run around USD$10.

Flashpacker

Single Traveller: USD$80-$150

A room in a good hostel or a decent hotel will usually cost around USD$30-$50, depending on the time of year.

This option will allow you more comfort and quality, and you still won’t spend large amounts of money.

You probably chose to travel to Cambodia so you could try the traditional food, among other things.

Therefore, you should try to eat nice, cooked Cambodian dishes.

Their prices in restaurants are typically around USD$4 – $10 per meal.

You should visit Angkor Wat, since it’s one of the main attractions in the country. The one day pass costs USD$37.

Single Traveller: USD$250 and more

If you’re willing to splurge and treat yourself, Cambodia will have plenty to offer in return.

Spending the night in the beautiful Veranda Natural Resort in Kep will cost you around USD$100.

On the other hand, one of the most luxurious hotels in the country is the Park Hyatt in Siem Reap.

The price of one night in a room with a king-sized bed is between USD$200 – $300.

Eating in high-end restaurants will cost around USD$30-$50 per meal, drinks included.

Don’t hold back on the tourist passes and tours. They are all worth the money!

Top 5 Places to Visit in Cambodia

When you choose to travel to Cambodia, you probably already have an idea of what you’d like to visit.

Some places are worldwide famous and some you’ve probably found while doing your research.

Just so you wouldn’t miss some of the best spots, we’ve created a list for you.

Even though everyone’s preferences are different, make sure to add these to your list of places to visit in Cambodia!

• Angkor Wat : It’s an obvious choice, but it has to be mentioned! This will not only be one of the most breathtaking places you’ll see in Cambodia, but also in your lifetime. Built in the 12th century, its features and the level of details are still unsurpassed. If possible, we suggest getting the 3-day pass, to truly take in the beauty and magnificence of Angkor Wat!
• Phnom Kulen : Phnom Kulen is believed to be the most sacred mountain in the country. People visit the enormous reclining Buddha statue on top of it so they could say their prayers and bring offerings. Other than being interesting for allowing a peek into the locals’ praying rituals, it has incredible natural beauties. You might recognize the stunning jungle and waterfalls from the Lara Croft: Tomb Raider movie!
• Phnom Penh : The largest city in Cambodia is everything but boring. The vibrant city is full of attractions and fun experiences. Take advantage of its three rivers and go on a cruise. Visit the National Museum and the Royal Palace. Or just blend in with the locals and follow them to the markets, remote restaurants and shops!
• Sihanoukville : Commonly known as a party destination, Sihanoukville is that and much more. This sandy coastal paradise will allow you to unwind and relax as well as enjoy the great nightlife. During the day, consider surfing or kayaking, or just sit back and enjoy the scenery. The seemingly endless file of bamboo bungalows and the white sand make it one of the most gorgeous vacation spots in Cambodia!
• Tonlé Sap : This large freshwater lake and its floating village are the Venice of Cambodia! The restaurants, stores and private homes are all floating houses. There’s a variety of tours that will introduce you to the interesting lifestyle of the inhabitants of the village. It’s a perfect destination if you’re looking for some peace and quiet and a good place to watch sunsets!

Top 5 Travel Experiences to Have in Cambodia

• The Battambang Bamboo Train : Battambang offers one of the most interesting “train” rides in the world. The train is actually a norry – a platform made of bamboo with a small engine. Created because the national railroad was abandoned during the civil war, it is now one of the most famous tourist attractions. The 30-60 minute ride takes you through Cambodia’s wonderful landscapes and rice fields, at a maximum speed of 40 km/h!
• Glowing Plankton (bioluminescence) on Koh Rong: This is one of those experiences that you’ll remember for the rest of your life! Just imagine witnessing the sea full of sparkling blue dots, everywhere around you. Only a small number of places in the world are inhabited by bioluminescent planktons. The area around the Koh Rong island is one of them. There’s a number of nighttime boat tours available, at a fairly cheap price (around USD$10).
• Dolphins in Kratie : A rare kind of dolphin, the Irrawaddy dolphin, lives in the Mekong river and can be seen in Kratie province! The dolphin viewing area is in Kampi village, near Kratie town, and it’s easily accessed by bike or tuk-tuk. If you’re lucky, you’ll even catch them jumping in the air and playing! Make sure you add this day trip to your list of activities.
• Phnom Penh Walking Tour : The capital city is full of interesting spots with great backstories that you could never know on your own. Since the traffic can be chaotic, walking tours are an amazing option. Local guides will take you through Cambodia’s history and culture and really open your eyes to everything around you!
• Get a massage : Southeast Asia is known for having some of the world’s best masseuses! Find time to visit a Cambodian spa and relax completely. Ask for a traditional Khmer massage!

Transport in Cambodia

Transport between locations in Cambodia is fairly easy and full of different options.

You can choose between travelling on water, on land or in the air.

Here’s how you can get around the country and inside the cities:

Since there are three airports in Cambodia, you can travel from one side of the country to another by plane.

You’ll often be able to find affordable tickets since domestic flights are usually inexpensive.

Buses are the most affordable and most popular way to travel between cities.

However, as for now, they’re only departing from a few locations.

There’s a couple of companies that have very comfortable buses, equipped with Wi-FI and air conditioning.

12Go.asia is a website that you could use for ticket reservations.

The popularity of travelling by boat is decreasing and people are choosing other means of transport.

One of the few remaining advantages of travelling in Cambodia by boat is enjoying the scenery and the sights.

Right now, eight companies offer services between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

You can also travel from Siem Reap to Battambang by boat, as well as from Phnom Penh to Chau Doc.

Tuk-tuks and cyclos are the most popular way to get around urban areas.

The ride won’t cost you more than USD$3 to go virtually anywhere within a city or town.

There’s also a possibility of hiring the driver for the day.

You could expect to negotiate a price around USD$20-25 to have your own personal chauffeur for the day!

Accommodations in Cambodia

When it comes to places to stay, Cambodia has all categories covered.

Cheap accommodation can be found virtually anywhere. While the more luxurious options are available in the bigger cities and on the seaside.

Average tourists usually stay in hostels and guesthouses that cost around USD$15-$25 per night.

Some of the most expensive hotels are located in Siem Reap, as well as Song Saa, a private island.

Since the popularity of Cambodia is constantly growing, new accommodation options seem to be appearing overnight.

It’s unlikely that you’ll have an issue with finding a suitable option for you.

Of course, booking online in advance might help you save some cash!

Food in Cambodia

When in Cambodia, eat like a local! Cambodian food is not only cheap, but very delicious as well.

The traditional specialties are full of flavour and usually made with rice, noodles, meat or fish.

Even though it’s not the most famous Asian cuisine, Cambodian food is very underrated.

Don’t miss out on the street food, since it can often be tastier than restaurant food!

Here are some of Cambodia’s signature dishes:

• Fish Amok (creamy curried fish wrapped in banana leaves)
• Lap Khmer (spicy sour beef salad)
• Prahok (fermented fish paste)
• Nom banh chok (rice noodles with a green fish gravy)
• Num Chak Kachan (steamed layer cake with coconut cream)

Safety in Cambodia

Presently travelling in Cambodia is fairly safe for visitors.

Violence against tourists is extremely unlikely.

You shouldn’t have any problems, as long as you stick to common-sense safety tips such as walking in well known and well-lit areas.

Avoid visiting the remote areas of Phnom Penh and try not to walk through them alone.

There have been some incidents of bag snatching in the capital, so try to take care of your possessions.

Other than that, the frequency of petty thefts is pretty much the same as in any tourist hotspot in the world.

Some levels of precaution are always advised, such as keeping your money in a safe place and not flashing expensive items in public.

A rather unique danger to tourists involves unexploded ordinance from past wars in the area.

It is advised that you don’t stray from well-marked paths.

There is a possibility of bumping into un-exploded ordnance. The most important thing to remember is to never touch any rockets, bombs or anything similar to that.

Medical System in Cambodia

Medical care in Cambodia is underdeveloped. But it is getting better gradually.

It is incredibly important to have travel insurance to protect you in the event of illness or accident.

Consult your doctor about the necessary vaccines prior to travelling to Cambodia.

If you plan on spending time in rural areas, some recommended vaccines include those against Japanese encephalitis and malaria.

When it comes to the quality of hospitals, the best ones are located in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

The International SOS Medical and Dental Clinic, the Royal Rattanak Hospital and the Calmette Hospital are the best in the capital.

Prescriptions are not a thing in Cambodia, which means you can buy everything over the counter.

Be careful when choosing a pharmacy, since many of the independent ones have been accused of selling fake medicine.

Stick to the chains, such as U-Care and Pharmacie de la Gare.

When it comes to the prices, a consultation with the doctor usually costs between USD$20 – $50, plus the cost of medicine.

Also note that the national emergency phone number is 119.

We recommend that you always have travel insurance wherever you travel, and Cambodia is no exception. Get a free quote with World Nomads below.

Packing List for Cambodia

The good news about packing for travel to Cambodia is that no matter when you decide to visit, you’ll never need clunky sweaters and coats!

Cambodia is very warm all year round. Rain is actually the only weather factor for which you should be prepared.

Here are some of our suggestions for packing:

• long-sleeved top
• loose pants

Miscellaneous Items

• insect repellent
• travel electricity adapter

Travel Tips for Cambodia

• Always cover your knees and your shoulders when you’re visiting a temple. Although you may not follow Cambodian religious beliefs, this is a way of showing your respect for the culture. The locals will appreciate it!
• Even though most places accept US Dollars, do not assume that everywhere will. Make sure that you have both currencies on you, or at least only Cambodian Riels.
• Knowing some basic Khmer phrases will help out a lot. To say ‘yes’ the word is “baat” for men and “chaas” for women. “Dteh” means ‘no.’ “Suom mehta” means “please.” And the Khmer phrase for ‘thank you’ is “or-koon.”
• Make a copy of your visa and your passport. You never know what could happen and this could save you a lot of time and headache later. It is always good to keep a copy or copies in separate bags/places on your person in the event one is stolen or lost.
• Do not drink the tap water. Only consume bottled mineral water. Try to avoid ice in your drinks in bars and restaurants, since it is also made with tap water.

Read Our Cambodia Posts

Things to do in battambang – not just the bamboo train, angkor wat – why one day isn’t enough, why we didn’t do an elephant tour in sen monorom, backpacking budget for cambodia – cost breakdown, cambodia motorcycle adventure, getting your vietnam visa in phnom penh, cambodia, otres beach – best spot in sihanoukville, cambodia, koh rong – cambodia’s slice of paradise, bokor mountain – the beauty in the national park, getting your cambodia visa in vientiane.

• Customized Tour

The Complete Cambodia Travel Guide

Cambodia Travel Guide

Cambodia is really a hidden gem in Southeast Asia with world famous ancient temple complexes, deserted pristine beaches and islands, and rich cultural heritage. Cambodia is a relatively easy and safe place to travel, as long as you have good planning and preparation before the trip. Our Cambodia Travel Guide will give you the latest travel advice and most comprehensive information you need to make your trip to Cambodia run more smoothly.

Table of Contents

General Information

Major cities, ii. visa to cambodia, raffles grand hotel d’angkor, park hyatt siem reap, jaya house river park siem reap, shinta mani shack, courtyard marriott siem reap, lynnaya urban river resort, tara angkor hotel, central boutique angkor hotel, raffles hotel le royal, sokha phnom penh hotel & residence, palace gate hotel & resort phnom penh, white mansion boutique hotel, aquarius hotel & urban resort, villa langka phnom penh, queen grand boutique hotel, maisons wat kor, bambu hotel, classy hotel & spa, knai bang chatt, samanea beach resort, raingsey bungalow, kep bay hotel & resort, rikitikitavi hotel, the columns, 4 rivers floating lodge, song saa private island resort, white boutique resort, naia beach resort, the royal sands koh rong, the secret garden koh rong, sok san beach resort, sol beach resort, moonlight resort, rajabori villas resort, mayura hill hotel & resort, 1. places to visit in siem reap, 2. places to visit in phnom penh, 3. places to visit in battambang, 4. places to visit in sihanouk ville, 5. places to visit in kampot, 6. places to visit in kep, 7. places to visit in kratie, 8. places to visit in mondulkiri, 1. fish amok, 2. samlor korkor, 3. nom banh chok, 4. pepper crabs, 5. fried insects, 1. culture & classic tours, 2. adventure tours in cambodia, 3. luxury cambodia tours & holiday packages, 4. cambodia beach vacation packages, 1. overview of climate in cambodia, 2. when is the best time to visit cambodia, i. cambodia travel facts.

Apsara dancers in beautiful Khmer traditional costumes.

• Country Name: – Conventional form: The Kingdom of Cambodia. – Local form: Preahreacheanacha Kampuchea (short form: Kampuchea).
• Government Type: Multiparty Democracy under a Constitutional Monarchy.
• Capital:  Phnom Penh
• Location: Southeast Asia, bordered by Vietnam, Thailand and Laos and the Gulf of Thailand.
• Land Area: 68,154 sq mi (176,519 sq km);
• Total Area: 69,900 sq mi (181,040 sq km).
• Land Boundaries: Laos – 555 km, Thailand – 817 km, Vietnam – 1,158 km.
• Coastline: 443 km.
• Climate: tropical; rainy & monsoon season – May to October; dry season – November to April.
• Natural hazards: monsoonal rains (June to September); flooding; occasional droughts.
• Terrain:  mostly low, flat plains; mountains in southwest and north.
• Population: 15.28 million (March 2019 estimate)
• Language: Khmer (official) 97%, other 3% (2013 estimate)
• Religion:  Theravada Buddhist (official) 96.9%, Muslim 1.9%, Christian 0.4%, other 0.8% (2013 estimate)
• Ethnic Groups:  Khmer (97.6%), Cham (1.2%), Chinese (0.1%), Vietnamese (0.1%), and several ethnic minority groups (0.9%), most located in the northeastern section of the country (groups include: Kuy, Mnong, Stieng, Brao, Tampuan, Pear, Jarai, Radee, Brao, Krung and Kavet.)
• Currency: US dollar (USD) officially used, Khmer riel (KHR) is only for small transactions.
• Voltage:  220v/50Hz; European plugs are most common, British less so.
• Country Calling Code:  855
• Time Zone:  GMT +7 hours

Cambodia region distribution map.

• 1- Cardamom & Elephant Mountains (Battambang, Kampot, Koh Kong, Pailin, Pursat, Sihanoukville, Bokor National Park, Kep) – the western mountain ranges, gulf coast beaches and offshore islands.
• 2- North-western Cambodia (Angkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap, Sisophon, Koh Ker, Poipet, Tonle Sap Lake, Preah Vihear) – the main reason most visitors come to Cambodia, plus a huge lake and the northern mountains.
• 3- Mekong Lowlands & Central Plains (Phnom Penh, Kampong Cham, Kompong Thom, Krek, Kampong Chhnang) – the capital city and the central flatlands.
• 4- Eastern Cambodia  (Banlung, Kratie, Sen Monorom, Stung Treng, Chlong) – remote rural areas and national parks east of the mighty Mekong.
• Phnom Penh – Cambodia’s bustling capital, at the confluence of the mighty Mekong, the Bassac and the great Tonle Sap.
• Siem Reap – the gateway for UNESCO World Heritage Angkor Complex.
• Sihanoukville – coastal town in country’s southwest, main access to pristine offshore islands.
• Battambang – the country’s second largest city, leading rice-producing province of Cambodia.
• Kampot  – tranquil gateway to the abundant green Elephant Mountains & Bokor National Park.
• Kratie  – charming riverside town in the north-east on the Mekong, home to endangered Irrawaddy dolphins.
• Koh Kong – near the Thai border, embraces part of the Cardamom Mountains – the biggest coherent rainforest of Southeast Asia.
• Kompong Thom – riverside town & home to less well known but less crowded Sambor Prei Kuk Temple & other ancient sites.
• Mondulkiri – home to several tribal minorities, wildlife sanctuary, great waterfalls. Did you know that Bousra Waterfall, Mondulkiri is one of the biggest waterfalls in Cambodia

Visa to Cambodia.

A 30-day tourist visa is required for all visitors coming to Cambodia, except for nationals from the following countries:

• Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Laos and Vietnam (30 days).
• Thailand, Myanmar, Brunei, Seychelles (14 days).
• Philippines (21 days).

Visas to Cambodia can be obtained upon arrival international airports or land border checkpoints with visa fee 30 – 33 USD in cash only. You are required to show your passport-size photos and valid passport to Immigration Office and then fill in application form.

In case you want to avoid long queue at the airports or land borders, Cambodia E-Visa is also available to apply with the fee 36 USD per person. It will take about 3 working days to process your application. At this moment, there are 220 countries eligible for Cambodia E-visa. You can check out more details about Cambodia Visa requirements and procedures on Cambodia Visa .

III. Hotels in Cambodia

Looking for accommodation to stay in Cambodia? In recent years, accommodation for tourists in Cambodia has significantly improved in standards and service quality. Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanouk Ville offer plenty of hotels and lodgings in all categories to meet all budgets and demands. Even in smaller towns, tourists still can find a reasonable choice of guesthouses, mid-range hotels or quirkier accommodations in off-the-beaten-track regions, such as floating river lodges, jungle bungalows or luxurious resorts in private islands.

1. Hotels in Siem Reap

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor offers a peaceful oasis perfect for a luxury Cambodian holiday.

– Location: 1 Vithei Charles de Gaulle, Khum Svay Dang Kum, Siem Reap, Cambodia. Located right in the heart of Siem Reap, 5 minute drive to the central market, and 10 minute drive to both Angkor Wat and Siem Reap Airport.

– Style & Character:

• + Opened in 1932 – a truly heritage landmark itself;
• + The unique blend of old-world charm and modern necessities;
• + Beautiful prints of Cambodian life in 19 th century in the marble floored hallways;
• + Original wooden elevator, John McDermott’s seminal photographs of the Angkor ruins.
• + Hosted great celebrities such as Charlie Chaplin, Somerset Maugham, the Clintons and Michelle Obama

– Service & Facilities:

• + 60,000sqm garden, 33 meters long outdoor swimming pool;
• + Well-equipped gym, top of the range spa.
• + Cambodian buffet dinner combined with the classic dance Apsara performances;

– Rooms:

• + Dark-wood floors, historic prints on the walls, immaculate faux-antique furnishings.
• + Modern necessities: air-conditioning, smart ceiling lighting, minibar and coffee machine.
• + Bathrooms tiled with Italian marble, large walk-in shower.

– Food & Drinks:

• + 1932 Restaurant – Royal Khmer cuisine;
• + Café d’Angkor – lunch & dinner with Asian & Continental dishes.
• + The Conservatory – colonial atmosphere with pool & garden views.
• + Elephant Bar – extensive wine list and humidor.

Park Hyatt Siem Reap possesses prominent location, within walking distance to Siem Reap’s shopping & nightlife areas.

– Location: Sivutha Boulevard Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia. Within walking distance of the city’s shopping and nightlife area: Old Market, Angkor Night Market, Pub Street.

• + Exterior: ancient Khmer combines über modern aesthetics;
• + Large sculptures like silent guards in the corridors, interior’s minimalist, contemporary décor;
• + Strong identity by legendary designer and architect Bill Bensley, John McDermott’s iconic black and white images of the Angkor monuments, art works by local artist Lim Muy Theam.
• + Free traditional Apsara dance in central courtyard with dinner or drink in high season.
• + 2 swimming pools: smaller saltwater pool, larger one consists of interconnecting pools connected by small bridge;
• + Small but well-equipped gym; 7 spa rooms.
• + 104 spacious, bright and elegant rooms including 13 suites;
• + Amenities: air-con, television, a safe, a minibar, a docking port for iPads and other tablets and a Nespresso coffee machine;
• + Spotless large bathroom.
• + The Dining Room: buffet breakfast, Khmer set-menus as well as French cuisine classics;
• + The Living Room: Khmer and Western cuisines, fine wines, tempting cocktail concoctions;
• + The Glasshouse Deli. Patisserie: delectable light fare, fresh pastries, indulgent cakes and a grand selection of homemade ice cream and sorbets.

Jaya House River Park is a boutique hideaway situated on Siem Reap’s tranquil riverfront.

– Location: Street 30, Krong, Siem Reap, Cambodia. Situated on a tranquil riverfront, complimentary nine-minute ride to the centre, and similar distance to Angkor Archaeological Park.

• + A boutique hideaway mixes style and a social conscience with unique design inspired by 1960s Cambodian Modernism;
• + Interiors crafted from sustainably sourced wood and local stone;
• + The first plastic-free hotel in Cambodia.
• + Welcoming & attentive staffs;
• + Two swimming pools;
• + Smalls spa with a steam room
• + 36 spacious rooms & suites with balcony or terrace overlooking garden;
• + 4 Junior Pool Suites with alfresco plunge pools;
• + Neutral tones and tactile fabrics, comfortable pillow-top mattress & premium bedding & linens;
• + Vintage telephones, Bluetooth connectivity;
• + Well-stocked complimentary minibar with soft drinks and Angkor beer, a Malongo espresso coffee machine.
• + Tror Kuon: all day dining, mentored by renowned British chef Neil Wager;
• + Breakfast: part-buffet, part à la carte;
• + Sky Bar at rooftop.

Shinta Mani Shack is a spotless, quirky but ultimately straightforward resort.

– Location: Junction of 3rd and 14th Street, Siem Reap, Cambodia. Located in the junction between Royal Gardens and Old Market, 15 minute drive from Angkor Wat.

• + A spotless, quirky but ultimately straightforward resort;
• + Impressive high-ceilinged lobby which sports an extraordinary psychedelic Apsara mural;
• + Long dark corridors around the garden, contrast to the pool;
• + Large pool in central garden to get sun all day;
• + Plastic free hotel with refill stations around the resort;
• + Mirrored featured wall, custom designed iron bed and hand crafted light fittings.
• + A wall-mounted LCD TV/soundbar, BlueTooth, complimentary wireless internet access;
• + Artwork exclusively created for Shinta Mani by Bensley Design Studios, Bangkok.
• + Small bathroom but in immaculate condition.
• + Baitong: all day seasonal menus; reasonably pricey comfort food;
• + Kroya: blends local products and international recipe;
• + The Steakhouse: American steakhouse;
• + Bensley’s Bar: over 30 Gins from all corners of the world.

COURTYARD Marriott Siem Reap features award-winning Khmer architecture, forward-thinking amenities and sleek décor.

– Location: No 0609 Road 6A, Phum Chongkoesou Khum Slor Kram Siem Reap, Cambodia. Strategically access to Angkor Wat, 15 minute drive to Angkor Golf Course, 20 minute drive to Siem Reap Airport.

• + Features award-winning Khmer architecture, forward-thinking amenities and sleek décor;
• + Quan Spa in serene Angkorian architectural vestige;
• + State of the art fitness center;
• + Saltwater lagoon pool & whirlpool.
• + Spacious rooms with locally inspired décor, sleek marble bathrooms, private balconies and signature amenities.
• + Bluetooth speaker, complimentary WiFi and a 43-inch flat-screen TV.
• + Lok Lak: all day dining, authentic Khmer food and international favorites;
• + The Upper Deck: chic rooftop bar with breathtaking sunset views to the west;

Lynnaya Urban River Resort offers perfect blend of classic & modern chic design.

– Location: Street 20, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia. Riverfront location, 800m from Pub Street, 6 km from Angkor Wat, 8 km to Siem Reap Airport.

• + Offers modern and contemporary style promoting a real sense of luxury and class;
• + Perfect blend of classic & modern chic design.
• + An outdoor dark-blue swimming pool;
• + Experience relaxing treatments in Nirvana Spa & Wellness.
• + Each room features fine linens and classic Cambodian-style furnishings;
• + Flat-screen cable TV, an electric kettle, comfortable seating area and air conditioning;
• + Stylish en suite bathrooms.
• + Palate Restaurant: indoor main restaurant, retains the history and charm of the 1950’s building style.
• + Palate Skybar: enjoying sunset over the river; live music on Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday;
• + Pool Bar: located at the pool, open from 10:00 to 19:00.

Tara Angkor Hotel is a spacious full-service hotel close to the entrance of Angkor Wat.

– Location: Charles De Gaulle, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia. Located just 500 m from Angkor National Museum, 2.3 km to the lively Pub Street and Old Market, iconic Angkor Wat is 5.4 km away and 9.1 km from Siem Reap International Airport. – Service & Facilities:

• + An outdoor pool, a spa and a gym, a sauna, a hot tub and cooking classes.
• + Feature wooden flooring and garden or city views;
• + Each room has flat-screen TV, minibar, and tea/coffee making facilities;
• + Private bathroom provides bath amenities, bathrobes and slippers.
• + Suites add separate living areas, dining tables and whirlpool tub.
• + Tong Tara Restaurant: buffet breakfast, all day international dining;
• + Frangipani Restaurant: European & Asian menu;
• + Lily Lounge: serves cocktails.

Central Boutique Angkor Hotel is a perfect choice for mid-range budgeted travelers.

– Location: Tapoul Road, Tapoul Village, Svay Dangkum Commune, Siem Reap, Cambodia. Located in the heart of the Siem Reap City with easy access to the Pub Street, the Old Market & Angkor Night Market. – Style & Character:

• Well decorated with Cambodian art décor style furnishing.
• + All rooms are in boutique style; 20 bungalows located around one swimming pool and 34 rooms are facing to another swimming pool and surrounding garden;
• + Air conditioning, hot and cold water, bathtub with shower, stock mini-bar, safety box, hair dryer, tea and coffee making facility, Cable TV, IDD telephone, full bath room amenities and wireless internet access;
• + Most of the hotel rooms face the swimming pool, all rooms attached with terrace or balcony.
• + Bamboo Restaurant: casual & open air restaurant, offer a wide choice of other Asian and European dishes;
• + Bamboo Bar: offer all kind of drinks, cocktails and snack;
• + Poolside Terrace: a relaxing atmosphere in the tropical garden.

2. Hotels in Phnom Penh

Raffles Hotel Le Royal is the true heritage hotel in Phnom Penh.

– Location: 92 Rukhak Vithei Daun Penh Sangkat Wat Phnom Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Situated among embassies, government buildings and the National Library, 5 minute walk to Wat Phnom, 10 minutes to the riverfront, short drive to the National Museum, Royal Palace and Russian Market. – Style & Character:

• + First opened in 1929, the true heritage hotel in Phnom Penh;
• + Presents a wonderful fusion of colonial, Khmer and Art Deco styles;
• + Chosen as a regular staying place for famous writers, royalty and celebrities like Charlie Chaplin, Jackie Onassis, André Malraux, and W. Somerset Maugham, Jackie Kennedy.
• + Walls are lined with historical black-and-white photographs;
• + Newer wing was only built in 1997, but contains many original interiors: polished tiles and restored staircase, bookcases and bureaus lining the elegant corridors;
• + Two sublime outdoor pools surrounded by loungers, frangipani trees and tropical shrubs;
• + Raffles Spa offers a range of traditional Khmer and modern treatments.
• + Consists of 175 rooms, almost are State Rooms in newer wing with blend of colonial charm & modern comfort, private balconies, marble bathroom has separate shower/bath, and traditional décor;
• + The original 1929 building has Landmark Rooms; original claw-foot baths, antiques and high ceilings;
• + Rooms are equipped with silk bathrobes, signature toiletries, TV, air-conditioning and ceiling fans.
• + Le Phnom 1929: a casual, Parisian brasserie-style atmosphere, open kitchen, great cocktails and the “Around the World in 80 wines” wine program;
• + Restaurant Le Royal: the only restaurant serving Royal Khmer cuisine in Phnom Penh;
• + Elephant Bar: popular spot for afternoon tea, signature Femme Fatale cocktail created Jackie Kennedy in 1967;
• + Poolside Terrace: relax in the afternoon sun on in the shared of the fragrant frangipani trees.

Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel offers breathtaking view of the majestic Royal Palace, and the untouched greenery rural beauty opposite of Phnom Penh capital.

– Location: Street KeoChenda, Phum 1, Sangkat Chroy Changvar, Khan Chroy Changvar, Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Sokha Phnom Penh is strategically located on the bank of Mekong River, opposite to the Royal Palace, approximately 13 km from Phnom Penh International Airport, 5.6 km to both Old Market and Central Market. – Style & Character:

• + Offering breathtaking view of the majestic Royal Palace, Chaktomuk River and a wide sweeping view of the untouched greenery rural beauty opposite of Phnom Penh capital, Sokha Phnom Penh provides the peaceful, less busy side of the congested capital.
• + Staff here are able to communicate in Chinese, Thai, Khmer and English.
• + Large outdoor swimming pool overlooks the Great Mekong, Bassac River and the riverside ambience of the charming city of Phnom Penh;
• + Fitness Center with world-class gym equipment;
• + Jasmine Spa with 17 treatment rooms.
• + Spacious room with a spectacular view of Tonle Sap River, Royal Palace and serene greenery;
• + Each air-conditioned room and suite is soundproof. The seating area is equipped with an electric kettle, tea/coffee maker, minibar, flat-screen cable TV and safe;
• + Private bathrooms include a bathtub, hairdryer, toothbrushes, slippers and free toiletries. Ironing facilities are also available.

7 restaurants & 4 bars

• + Lotus Restaurant: buffet breakfast, all day dining;
• + The China House: offers regional Chinese specialties;
• + Takezono Restaurant: on the 19 th floor, provides authentic Japanese cuisine;
• + The Bel Cibo: ultimate Italian dining experiences with excellent view of the river and city;
• + Thansur Restaurant: offers a global blended menu featuring East meet West.

Palace Gate Hotel & Resort is the luxury accommodation in the heart of the thriving capital of Cambodia.

– Location: #44B, Street Sothearos Blvd (corner of street 240), Sangkat Chey Chumneas, Khan Daun Penh. Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Adjacent to the Royal Palace, 550m to the National Museum, 1.8km to Independence Monument and 11km away from Phnom Penh International Airport. – Style & Character:

+ Luxury hotel in the heart of the thriving capital of Cambodia; + Restored French colonial villa, ornate columns and wonderful examples of Cambodian tile making.

• + An outdoor swimming pool and surrounding garden;
• + Senses Spa: blending ancient Asian healing techniques with age-old beauty recipes.
• + Carefully decorated in Angkorian style with tasteful interior design to reflect the country’s history and traditions;
• + Higher room category offers wonderful views of either the Royal Palace or the river;
• + Rooms are fitted with a private bathroom equipped with a bidet.
• + Mealea Restaurant: buffet breakfast with extensive menu offering a range of Asian and Western options which changes on a 6 day cycle;
• + Organic Skybar: chance to sip cocktails and enjoy sunset at rooftop bar surrounded by the unique organic herb and vegetable garden.

White Mansion Boutique Hotel was set in a period building that was once the US Ambassador Residence.

– Location: #26 Street 240 (corner street 51), Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Close to Independence Monument Park, the Royal Palace and other Phnom Penh tourist spots. – Style & Character:

• + A boutique set in a period building that was once the US Ambassador Residence;
• + Elegance, genuine comfort and casual chic reign supreme.
• + 20m long saltwater swimming pool;
• + In-room massages and spa treatments available.
• + 33 suites and rooms, some with balcony or terrace with city view;
• + Locally made furniture, marble floor;
• + Bathroom equipped with custom Italian marble, designed cabinetry, double washbasin, large shower and/or bath, faucets.
• + Le Café: room service breakfast or in the gardens; offers snacks, degustation platters, Asian and international dishes.

Aquarius Hotel & Urban Resort is well-known for its glass-walled, L-shape salt water infinity pool at the rooftop.

– Location: No 5, St 240, Sangkat Chakto Mukh, Khan Daun Penh, Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Situated in the city’s main shopping and dining area-the street 240; a few minutes’ walk to the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum and Independence Monument. – Service & Facilities:

• + Glass-walled, L-shape salt water infinity pool at the rooftop;
• + Petal Spa: tranquil traditional Khmer massage;
• + Art Exhibition: gallery of Phnom Penh’s famous emerging local and international artist.
• + Rooms are tastefully enhanced with the indulgence of contemporary industrial design and dynamic Cambodian tradition and culture;
• + Most of the rooms and suites have either stunning city view, river view or a private balcony;
• + Open air Slla Sky bar & restaurant; river view rooftop, serves enthralling Western and Asian Fusion cuisines;

Villa Langka’s pool is surrounded by a fragrant garden courtyard.

– Location: 14, Street 282, Sangkat Beung Keng Kang I (BKK1), Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Situated in a small & quiet alley, opposite to Wat Langka Pagoda, and just around the corner from the Independence Monument and street 278 with popular shops, bars and restaurants. – Service & Facilities:

• + A shady pool surrounded by a fragrant garden courtyard;
• + Minispace spa.
• + Boutique style rooms blending contemporary elegance with Cambodian traditions;
• + 24 rooms in a traditional Khmer villa and 24 rooms in a contemporary building;
• + Room amenities: minibars, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and free breakfast
• + Poolside Restaurant: menu combines the flavour and freshness of Phnom Penh’s daily markets with the culinary skills of our Chef;
• + Poolside Bar: enjoy fresh fruit juices and exotic cocktails.

3 star Queen Grand Boutique Hotel is conveniently located within walking distance to the Independence Monument.

– Location: No 14-16, Street 258, Sangkat Chak Tomuk, Daun Penh, Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The hotel is about 25-minute drive from Phnom Penh International Airport and Royal Palace is a brief stroll away, within walking distance to the Independence Monument, University of Cambodia and the National Museum of Cambodia. – Service & Facilities:

• + The La Grand Spa: combines international and rich of Khmer style massage;
• + Rooftop Jacuzzi: enjoy sunbath and overlook the significant Mekong River and Royal Palace.
• + Modern design with a touch of Khmer style;
• + Air-conditioned rooms are fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows that open up to views and allow plenty of natural light;
• + Equipped with a flat-screen TV, DVD player, minibar and desk;
• + En suite bathrooms include a hairdryer and free toiletries.
• + Restaurant & Bar: serves up a variety of Khmer and Western dishes daily;
• + Sky Bar: over view the picturesque Riverside and dazzling city center Nagaworld Casino.

3. Hotels in Battambang

Maisons Wat Kor is set amid an authentic atmosphere in the heart of Khmer cultural village Wat Kor.

– Location: St 800, Wat Kor Village, Battambang, Cambodia. This boutique style hotel is set amid an authentic atmosphere in the heart of Khmer cultural village Wat Kor. It is a 5-minute walk from Wat Kor Pagoda, 2km to Battambang Town Centre and Central Market. – Service & Facilities:

• + A salt water swimming pool;
• + Khmer cooking classes;
• + Classic Khmer massage services.
• + Includes 15 guestrooms within 3 wooden houses, decorated with local furniture and ecofriendly materials;
• + Some rooms at garden level with balconies offering stunning views to the lotus pond and pool.
• + La Terrasse De Lotus Restaurant serves Cambodian cuisine and Western dishes.

Design in Bambu Hotel combines local Khmer and French colonial architecture; old-fashioned Cambodian tiles.

– Location: Phum Romchek 5, Sangkat Rottanak, KO Street, Battambang, Cambodia. – Service & Facilities:

• + Salt water swimming pool (14m x 6) is available exclusively to staying guests.
• + 16 bedrooms arranged in 4 traditionally inspired buildings;
• + Design combines local Khmer and French colonial architecture; old-fashioned Cambodian tiles;
• + Equipped with en suite bathrooms, air conditioning, telephone, flat screen cable TV, DVD player with access to our DVD library, iPod docker, mini bar, room safe and private terrace or balcony.
• + Russey Restaurant: all day dining, serves snacks, mains and desserts from local and international cuisine;
• + Pool bar: draught and bottled beers, a comprehensive wine list, a selection of local fruit juices and shakes, a range of cocktails, teas, coffees and other soft drinks.

Classy Hotel situated in the heart of East River Bank – an ideal place from which to discover Battambang center.

– Location: 159 D, Street 207, Phnum Romcheck 4, Sangkat Ratanak, Battambang, Cambodia. Situated in the heart of East River Bank, Classy Hotel is an ideal place from which to discover Battambang: 200m from Colonial Buildings, 300m to Battambang Museum, 400m away from riverside night market. – Service & Facilities:

• + Large outdoor swimming pool;
• + Spa and well equipped wellness centre.
• + Spacious rooms, basic decoration in modern hotel building
• + Cooled with air conditioning, feature a flat-screen cable TV, a minibar, a personal safe and a wardrobe;
• + En suite bathrooms offer a hot/cold showers and free amenities.
• + Java Restaurant: buffet breakfast, all day dining, direct access to swimming pool;
• + Dine Panorama: outdoor seating, spectacular view to river and pagoda at sunset

4. Hotels in Kep

Luxury boutique resort Knai Bang Chatt is located on the South Coast of Cambodia.

– Location: Phum Thmey, Sangkat Prey Thom, Kep City, Cambodia. Situated on the waterfront, a 10-minute walk to the centre of town, the famous crab market, cafés, bars and restaurants. – Style & Character:

• + Ground-breaking New Khmer architecture, inspired by the iconic Cambodian architect Van Molyvan, who studied under Le Corbusier.
• + Showpiece baby blue villa once belonged to the governor of Kep; the entrance and reception building was owned by the King’s relative; and a tomato-red two-storey building with zig-zagging columns was owned by the Head of Customs.
• + Private white sand beach;
• + Long wooden sea jetty with breathtaking view;
• + A substantial outdoor swimming pool embedded in the lawn;
• + Rental services: bicycle, scooter, kayak, paddle boat;
• + First Sailing Club in Cambodia with catamaran service;
• + Small but private and intimate spa services;
• + 18 rooms at six architecturally striking buildings;
• + Room interiors: minimalist style and inviting – earthy tones, polished stone walls, fluid wooden furnishings and mosquito nets strung above beds;
• + Bathrooms: spacious, shower only, locally made soap & shampoo.
• + The Strand: high-end & open-air restaurant; mixing elements from a range of global cuisines and palettes; serves inventive Khmer, international and vegan dishes;
• + The Sailing Club Restaurant & Bar: a restored traditional wooden fisherman’s cottage directly over the sea; serves small plates, sandwiches, seafood throughout the day;
• + The Lounge: open & airy space, Kep’s premier cocktail and wine bar.

Private dinner arrangement on the beach in Samanea Beach Resort.

– Location: Kep Road 33A, Kep, Cambodia. Set along Kep’s seashore and next to a protected mangrove forest. – Style & Character:

• + Renovated from the ruins of seaside cottage by suing the same materials: bricks, stone, cement tiles.
• + 300 square meters salt water infinity pool with integrated Jacuzzi jets and a safe shallow area for kids;
• + Private artificial white sand beach;
• + Mangrove forest with wooden boardwalk meandering through it;
• + Samathe Spa & Salon: unique concept of bio-treatments.
• + 12 well adorned Khmer style villas built set on 20 hectares, set around botanical garden, each villa has private terrace with sea, garden or pool views;
• + Decoration combines regional materials & innovation;
• + Almost rooms have 4 poster beds, a living area with sofa, 1 big size Flat-screen televisions 32″, a DVD player, and an antique desk;
• + Bathrooms: outdoor, laden with tropical plants, deep oval shaped bathtub.
• + Chankiri Restaurant: all day dining, serves international & Khmer specialties;
• + Panoramic Rooftop Bar: enjoy cocktails and tapas on 360 o bar with sea & mountain views.

Raingsey Bungalow’s swimming pool surrounded by bamboo and shaded by palm trees and tropical plants.

– Location: Thmey Village, Prey Thom Commune, Crab Market, Kep, Cambodia. Located a stone’s throw away from the famous Kep Crab Market, 5 minute walk to Kep National Park Entrance, and 1km to Kep Beach. – Service & Facilities:

• + A clear swimming pool surrounded by bamboo and shaded by palm trees and tropical plants;
• + 9 private bungalows scattered in a 2,500m² lush garden;
• + Each bungalow cottage has large windows, a private terrace opening out to the greenery;
• + Room amenities: aircon, ceiling fan, a desk, a flat-screen TV and an en suite bathroom.
• + Combine both modern-creative and traditional Asian styles;
• + Serve a tasty cocktail, Craft Beer, Local Commercial beers.

Almost rooms in Kep Bay Hotel offer spectacular views to ocean and greenery landscapes.

– Location: No.23100, Kep, Cambodia. Located 400m from Kep Beach, 1.8km from Crab Market, 1.6km from Kep Jetty and 2.7km to Kep Market. – Service & Facilities:

• + Huge & clean swimming pool – the highlight of the hotel.
• + Free bikes;
• + Spa & massage services.
• + Spacious rooms feature private balconies with sea view, several rooms with mountain view;
• + Room amenities: air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer, a desk;
• + Bathroom: combined bathtub & standing shower.
• + The Bay Dining Restaurant: outdoor seating, buffet breakfast, all day dining;
• + The Bay Sky Bar: spectacular sunset view overlooking the ocean.

5. Hotels in Kampot

Stylish room decorations in Rikitikitavi Hotel.

– Location: Riverside Road, Corner Street 728 Kampot, Cambodia. A prime location on the riverfront, within few minutes’ walk from many of Kampot’s bars and restaurants. – Style & Character:

• + Undergone various identities – 1920s wooden rice barn, theatre, home to an ex-governor of Kampot – before converted into a boutique hotel in 2006 by a British couple.
• + Small, stylish rooms in renovated wooden framed rice barn .
• + Only 8 rooms but in cozy settings, equipped with all luxuries such as air conditioning, fan and en-suite bathroom.
• + Restaurant: beautifully designed terrace restaurant overlooking the river, mountains and Kampot’s stunning sunsets.
• + Balcony Bar: views over Kampot River and the Elephant Mountains

The Columns Hotel was originally built as a set of shophouses when Cambodia was a French colony.

– Location: 37 Phoum 1 Ouksophear, Kampot, Cambodia. Located at a quietly tree-lined street, few minutes’ walk to the riverfront and two streets from the old Market. – Style & Character:

• + Built as a set of shophouses when Cambodia was a French colony;
• + Restored & renovated into the modern boutique hotel;
• + Retained original features: wooden beams, pretty tilework, blue French Colonial shutters.
• + 17 rooms designed in a subtle and understated style;
• + Hard wood furnishings, colorful silk cushions and décor created by local craftsmen;
• + Some rooms at the back with no view but super-quiet, top-floor attic-style rooms with balconies, second-floor rooms with big windows and French Colonial blue shutters cost a little more.
• + Green Café: serves breakfast, freshly baked pastries, great coffee and cooling smoothies during the daytime.

6. Hotels in Koh Kong

4 Rivers Floating Lodge is surrounded by lush rainforest and river setting.

– Location: Koh Andet Island, 20 km from Koh Kong City, southwest Cambodia’s jungle-fringed Tatai River and at the steps of the Cardamom Mountains. – Style & Character:

• + Floating white tented lodge is surrounded by lush rainforest and river setting;
• + Minimise the use of wood, use solar power where possible, and also support community projects.
• + A small library with books and DVDs to borrow, and reception sit on the central pontoon;
• + Shaded seating on riverfront deck on other side;
• + No WI-FI, no pool but the river awaits;
• + Free kayak to use, waterfall trips, firefly & sunset cruises, forest hikes & village excursions.
• + 12 luxury floating tents on tranquil Tatai River and on-land tents for family with kids;
• + Each 45 sqm spacious tent is fully equipped with modern amenities, handcrafted furniture by local materials.
• + Tents are roomy enough to include a lounge area with chaise longue;
• + The spacious bathroom has twin sinks and an innovative wooden shower barrel containing a hot-water power shower.
• + 4 Rivers Restaurant: combines the best of the local Cambodia cuisine and global influences, also serves a mix of Western and Southeast Asian food.

7. Hotels in Sihanouk Ville

All villas in Song Saa Private Island Resort are decorated in a contemporary-tropical style and has private pool.

– Location: Song Saa, Koh Rong Archipelago, Near Sihanouk Ville, Cambodia. Spanning over Koh Ouen and Koh Bong islands in Sihanouk Ville, accessible by a 25-minute drive with a 40-minute boat ride from Sihanouk Ville International Airport. – Style & Character:

• + Dotted across two tiny rainforests isles, ringed by calm clear waters;
• + Classic look blends nature & modernity;
• + Almost every furniture item has been upcycled from wood collected in the local area.
• + Resort staffs are locals from nearby area, trained in house to an exemplary standard;
• + Lists of activities to enhance your private island experience: snorkeling & scuba diving, sea kayaking, yoga & meditation, island safari, Buddhist ceremonies;
• + Spa: spa with no walls – it’s actually made up of little ‘sanctuaries’ dotted across the island, where treatments take place nestled in nature.
• + 24 vast thatched roof villas are decorated in a contemporary-tropical style, with cool stone walls and four-poster beds wrapped in blousy muslin;
• + Dreamy indoor/outdoor bathrooms with tealights;
• + TV & internet are provided but kept to a minimum;
• + Private pool in each villa (from 26sqm to 33sqm).
• + Restaurant: at the end of a wooden walkway to catch both sunrises and sunsets, à la carte breakfast between 7am and 11am..

Natural stone pool in White Boutique Resort.

– Location: Marina Road, Otres 2, Sihanouk Ville, Cambodia. It is a 15-minute tuk-tuk ride to the Sihanouk Ville city centre, 25 km drive to Ream National Park and 16 km to Sihanouk Ville Airport. – Service & Facilities:

• + Fitness center with all basic equipment;
• + Spa with experienced Khmer master of massage;
• + Natural stone pool
• + 19 spacious rooms & suites in combination with Cambodian culture & natural surroundings;
• + All rooms are air-conditioned and feature beds with orthopedic mattresses, minibar and a flat-screen TV;
• + A terrace or balcony are featured in certain rooms;
• + Duo Restaurant & Bar: combine Western cuisine & Cambodian flavors; offers stunning ocean views.

In Naia Resort, 1950s design influences from Cambodia’s Golden Age is blended with Mediterranean tones, using Cambodian-made materials.

– Location: Marina Road, Otres 2, Village 6, Sangkat 4, Sihanouk Ville, Cambodia. It’s located in quiet Otres Beach, 8km away from Ochheuteal Beach in Sihanoukville, 25 minutes to Sihanoukville airport. And it’s easy to Kbal Chhay waterfalls and Ream National Park from here. – Style & Character:

• + Designed by Spanish architect: wavy-design balconies, porthole windows, white exterior and soft hues of greens, blues and browns exude a calm, natural beach vibe;
• + Blends 1950s design influences from Cambodia’s Golden Age with Mediterranean tones, using Cambodian-made materials.
• + 32 rooms with perfect balance between comfort & style;
• + Almost room open onto the sea, private balcony or terrace ;
• + 1950s-style designer furniture in soft colors ;
• + En suite bathroom with a shower, a bidet and terry dressing gowns.
• + Breakfast restaurant inside the hotel;
• + Beach Bar & Restaurant with cool blue design, wooden deck and sunset views, serves snacks, lunch, dinner and happy-hour cocktails;
• + Bar near reception area with beautiful 1950s design.

8. Hotels in Koh Rong

Freestanding villas in The Royal Sands Resort with tropical & uncluttered décor.

– Location: Sok San Village, Koh Rong (Island), Sihanouk Ville, Cambodia. Located an hour by own catamaran boat west of Sihanouk Ville in the Gulf of Thailand. – Service & Facilities:

• + Dramatic black swimming pool, in front of the two Jacuzzis;
• + SensesSpa: includes a semi open-air ‘sala’ for foot and Khmer massages, an outdoor yoga ‘sala’ dedicated to the art of breathing & stretching and private rooms for more specialised therapies;
• + Fitness center in front of the spa area, overlooking the mountains of Koh Rong;
• + Other services: island hopping, snorkeling, diving, kayaking, SUP, fishing, mountain biking, trekking, plankton experience.
• + 67 freestanding villas, 30 of them have personal pools;
• + Spacious bedrooms; tropical & uncluttered décor;
• + Bathroom includes indoor & outdoor rain showers;
• + The Chill: open-air restaurant for lunch with BBQ seafood & dinner with refined Asian dishes;
• + Ocean Restaurant: serves up Cambodia’s finest buffet breakfast.

Romantic dinner set-up on Secret Garden Koh Rong’s private beach.

– Location: Pagoda Beach, Koh Rong, Cambodia. There is direct speed ferry from Sihanouk Ville to Pagoda Beach Pier within 40 minutes. – Service & Facilities:

• + Outdoor swimming pool & kid’s pool.
• + Luxury bungalows with sea views, private balcony in lush garden setting;
• + Combine local architecture style & Scandinavian influenced contemporary decor;
• + Beachfront restaurant provides stunning sea view; an exciting menu of western, Asian and fusion cuisine.

Secluded and relaxing beachfront in Sok San Beach Resort.

– Location: Sok San Village, Koh Rong (Island), Sihanouk Ville, Cambodia. – Service & Facilities:

• + Private speedboat services transfer guests from its mainland lounge in Sihanouk Ville to Sok San Beach Resort;
• + Other services: island hopping, snorkeling, scuba diving, wakeboarding, fishing, horse riding, beach volleyball, sunset cruises, plankton experience.
• + 16 thatched roof rooms located in five pavilion buildings with sea view or surrounding forest;
• + 20 chalets have 2 connecting rooms; like private traditional Cambodian cottages;
• + Sundeck Beach Bar: perfect spot to watch the sun go down over the horizon;
• + La Terrasse Restaurant: serves a delicious mix of Khmer and International cuisine;
• + Coco Beach Bar & Grill: offers snacks and a range of local and international drinks.

9. Hotels in Koh Rong Sanloem

Khmer-style villas with direct access to the beach in Sol Beach Resort.

– Location: Saracen Bay, Koh Rong Sanloem, Cambodia. Conveniently located at the heart of Saracen Bay, the main pier for several speed ferry from Sihanouk Ville’s mainland to Koh Rong Samloem within 40 minutes. – Service & Facilities:

• + The Soul Spa: can arrange a massage directly on the beach, or a more personal setting in private spa room.
• + Beautifully designed Khmer-style villas;
• + Include large soft beds, air-conditioning, fans, mosquito nets, Wi-Fi;
• + Modern bathrooms (with a shower, a bath, and hot water),
• + Bar & restaurant right on the beach, all day dining with a focus on classic Khmer dishes and well-known western foods.

– Location: Saracen Bay, Koh Rong Sanloem, Cambodia. A beachfront Resort located on Saracen Bay on the beautiful Koh Rong Sanloem Island, forty-five minutes from the mainland Sihanouk Ville by speed boat. – Service & Facilities:

• + Khmer, English, French and Chinese speaking staffs;
• + Two Jacuzzi pools with direct access to the beach;
• + Excursions to the white untamed beaches and surrounding local fisherman’s villages, offering guided fishing trips, snorkeling , diving, and more.
• + Dome rooms with king sized bed places under a round skylight;
• + Deluxe rooms with balcony, garden view, open air shower;
• + All rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, a television with movie selection, minibar, and hot water shower.
• + Blue Moon Restaurant: Asian European style fusion cuisine.

10. Hotels in Kratie

Rajabori Villas nestles in tranquil Koh Trong Island – only 10 minute boat ride from Kratie town.

– Location: Phum Kbal Koh, Sangkat Koh Trong 1, Kratie, Cambodia. Located on Koh Trong Island, 10 minute boat ride from Kratie’s mainland, 10-minute walk from Wat Chong Koh Wat Kbal Koh Pagodas. – Service & Facilities:

• + 180 sqm swimming pool;
• + Free bicycles, rental tuk tuk or horse cart, kayak to visit surrounding villages and nearby hot spots.
• + 13 small natural wooden Khmer-style buildings, built by well-trained local craftsmen to preserve Cambodian architectural heritage;
• + Limited electricity with only one fan per room, no TV or internet;
• + Water is heated by solar panels & need few minutes to reach the tap.
• + Restaurant: serves mainly Cambodian rural cuisines using fresh season’s products from local suppliers;
• + Bar: overlooks to swimming pool, well stocked in various alcohols.

11. Hotels in Mondulkiri

Mayura Hill Resort is the best accommodation in Mondulkiri.

– Location: Phum Derm Srol, Sen Monorom City, Mondulkiri Province, Cambodia. Situated on a verdant hillsides, 1.6km from the downtown Sen Monorom, a perfect base to explore surrounding must-see destinations. – Service & Facilities:

• + Outdoor swimming pool;
• + Children’s playground area;
• + Fitness centre & yoga class.
• + 11 private villas embodying the natural environment;
• + Interiors: fresh, light and airy with wooden handmade furniture;
• + Private balcony in each room overlooking lush green garden or swimming pool;
• + Room amenities: air conditioner, in room safe, cable channels TV, DVD player, free WIFI, minibar, coffee/tea making facilities.
• + Pkha Cha Restaurant: indoor & outdoor seating, offers casual all day dining with both European & Khmer cuisine.

IV. Places to Visit in Cambodia

Buddhist monks enjoy the views of Bayon Temple from distance.

Undoubtedly, Siem Reap stands in the first position of the must-visited list in Cambodia. It serves as the linking bridge to the ancient ruins and temples of Angkor Complex . Being defined as one of the most important archaeological sites in South-East Asia by UNESCO, Angkor Archaeological Park spreads over 400km 2 , with remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire from the 9 th to the 15 th century. The most highlighted temples can be listed as Angkor Wat , Angkor Thom , Ta Prohm .

To meet the continuously increasing demand to visit magnificent Angkor, Siem Reap has transformed itself into a major tourist hub. It’s a vibrant town with many activities and attractions including lively Psar Chas Market , buzzing cafes, bars, traditional craft shops and plentiful nightlife. Siem Reap is also a good point to access the nearby floating villages, bird sanctuaries on the Tonle Sap Lake – the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia.

In Siem Reap, there is a wide range of accommodation to choose, ranging from luxury or 5 star standard hotels, resorts to hundreds of guesthouses to meet every budget. There are lots of other things to do in Siem Reap that we recommend doing while you are here.

Leisure stroll along the facade of Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace.

Phnom Penh is the vibrant bustling capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia. Despite recent rapid changes, the city exudes a sort of provincial charm and tranquility with French colonial mansions and tree-lined boulevards amidst monumental Angkorian architecture. The city is conveniently located at the conjunction of three grand rivers – the Tonle Sap, the Mekong and the Bassac river. Therefore, tourists are highly recommended to take the scenic cruise to witness the golden colors of Phnom Penh’s skyline at sunset. Or just simply take the leisure stroll to Phnom Penh’s historic riverfront area where stands lots of restaurants, art galleries and silk shops.

City tour in Phnom Penh can’t be completed without Royal Palace and adjacent Silver Pagoda , which provide gorgeous examples of traditional artistry and offer intriguing insight into both Cambodia’s ancient and modern history. While  Tuol Sleng Museum and Choeung Ek   Killing Field are the evidence for the horror and brutality the people of this country suffered under Khmer Rouge rule. Shopaholics can’t miss the visit to the distinctive Central Market where you can buy jewelry, curios, clothes and souvenirs.

Wat Sampov Pram – the monastery is situated on almost top of Bokor Mountain.

Even being Cambodia’s second biggest city, Battambang itself is a laidback place compared to the bustling of the capital. If Phnom Penh’s hectic buzz is a bit too much to handle, tourists can take 6-hour drive from Phnom Penh to Battambang to find quieter atmosphere.

Battambang was established as a trading center in the 18th century. Later it became part of French Indochina, with some colonial buildings still in existence until now and scattered through the city’s boulevards. History lovers can take day trip to visit several Angkor-style temples and Buddhist shrines, like the temples of  Phnom Sampeau ,  Phnom Banan , and  Wat Ek Phnom . Among them, Phnom Sampeau (also known as Bat Cave) is the top site because tourists are eager to come there to witness thousands of bats making their way out of caves in the hillside to feed before returning at dawn.

Taking a slow 30-minute ride on the Bamboo Train is another popular activity which only can be experienced in Battambang. It is a single-line rail track where “carriages” made from a platform of wood and bamboo travel between Battambang’s east bank and the nearby tiny village. Famed among some of the most tranquil rural scenery in Cambodia, Battambang is an ideal place to take biking trip along rice fields, visit Cambodian families and taste rice paper, dried bananas, and bamboo sticky rice which are made in traditional methods.

Your night in this town will not be boring if you pay the visit to ‘ Phare Ponleu Selpak Circus’ , where all traditional Cambodian dances and circus music are performed live by students and young locals from nearby poor community. Here is our detailed guides for things to do in Battambang .

Beautiful secluded and deserted beach in Sihanouk Ville.

Being known as the most popular beach destination of Cambodia on the Gulf of Thailand, Sihanouk Ville was named after a former king – Norodom Sihanouk. In Sihanouk Ville, Ochheuteal Beach  and the  Serendipity Beach have emerged as one of Southeast Asia’s backpacker areas with party reputation. For a much quieter scene, just take 6 km to the south around  Otres Beach , with huts or bungalows on the beach, a sprinkling of classy boutique hotels, and a number of up-and-coming restaurants.

Sihanouk Ville is also the main entry point to offshore islands of Koh Rong , Koh Rong Samloem , where are ideal places for snorkeling and thoroughly relaxing beach vacation. Blessed with pristine, wild and beautiful islands, these islands are where tourists go to enjoy the nature and stay away from the world. If water activities are not in your list, just take a ride to pretty and pristine Ream National Park , which is an easy day trip from Sihanouk Ville and home to more than 200 different bird species, including a few threatened species.

Spectacular views from Bokor Hill Station.

Located about 3 hour drive from Phnom Penh, Kampot is often chosen as a break spot on the way to access Sihanouk Ville from Cambodia’s capital. Kampot is famous for its black peppercorns around the world because of their unique flavor. A visit at pepper plantation will help you to observe the work of local community living there, as well as taste local dishes using this special ingredient.

Besides being the land of black peppercorns, Kampot is a laid-back riverine town that has a number of colonial structures, some of which has been painstakingly restored. Many travelers stay here longer than they expected, having succumbed to its easygoing pace and chilled-out atmosphere. For the more active tourists, they will not feel boring because Kampot is also an excellent base for discovering the surrounding sights of the south. In this idyllic location, visitors can go boating and rafting on the river, as well as take in glistening waterfalls along the route.

Day trip can be taken from the town to Bokor National Park, which is famous for the old French summer getaway of Bokor Hill Station , with its abandoned church and eerie, empty shell of a once-grand hotel. Bokor National Park is a lush primary forest with pleasant climate.

Kep used to be a colonial retreat for the French elite in 1908.

Lying 25km southeast of Kampot, Kep is a favourite among Cambodians for weekend getaways and foreign travelers who want to get away from the tourist crowds at Sihanouk Ville. They are attracted by its convenient location (3h30m drive from Phnom Penh), quiet beaches and friendly people. Founded as a colonial retreat for the French elite in 1908, the town is still full of ruined shells of old villas, destroyed in the Khmer Rouge days.

Tourists can take a lazy stroll along the shiny white shores of the Kep Beach, and enjoy some delicious, inexpensive seafood, freshly plucked from the ocean at the well-known Crab Market. Day trips to nearby Rabbit Island can be arranged for snorkelers to enjoy viewing lots of colorful fishes on the bottom of the shallow sea. A visit to the  Kep National Park is also recommended for nature lovers. The park is filled with waterfalls, elusive monkeys, the Stone House and Little Buddha.

Stunning sunset over the mighty Mekong River in Kratie.

Kratie is a small town spreading along the banks of the mighty Mekong River. The town itself is dominated by a central marketplace surrounded by old, French colonial buildings. Even there’s no large scale tourism in this town, plenty of backpackers pour through here during the peak season. The main reason tourists come to Kratie because it’s an excellent base for dolphin-watching tours. Kampie , over 20km north of Kratie, provides the best riverside vantage point to view a pod of rare freshwater  Irrawaddy dolphins .

These dolphins are endemic to the Mekong River in ever-diminishing numbers. It is thought that there are between 66 and 86 dolphins left in the upper Cambodian Mekong area. Therefore, local authority puts environmental measures in place to try and help their dwindling numbers. If you are willing to spend more time in this tranquil town, check out our guide on other things to do in Kratie .

Mondulkiri offers excellent chances for tourists to interact with elephant in an ethical way.

Mondulkiri, 7 hour drive north east of Phnom Penh, is the largest but most sparsely populated in Cambodia. It is also home to the majority of country’s tribal minorities, including the Cham and Phnong people, who have maintained their way of living for centuries in the region’s forests and hills. One of the largest and easiest to access is the Phlung village inhabited by Phnong people , where their curious huts have woven, wooden walls and thatched roofs that slope almost to the floor.

Mondulkiri is also an interesting place to visit in Cambodia for adventures due to its wildlife and natural beauty, with thickly forested mountains, powerful waterfalls and the lush green rolling hills of the western side. Don’t miss the chance to visit the impressive, two-tiered Bou Sraa Waterfall , the highest in Cambodia.

Being known for a number of projects and sanctuaries in the region for rescuing and protecting elephants, Mondulkiri offers excellent chances for tourists to interact with elephant in an ethical way. The most popular project is included in our itinerary is The Elephant Valley Project , where helps elephants and their mahouts, as well as educate visitors about the importance of protecting these wonderful creatures.

V. Where and What to Eat in Cambodia

Khmer cuisine is profoundly influenced by water, rice and freshwater fish due to Cambodian geographical location and climate. Indeed, Cambodian food shares many commonalities with that of its neighbors – Thailand and Vietnam. However, Khmer food is full of distinct flavors and spices and really a must-try when you’re in the country.

The trip to Cambodia won’t be completed without trying fish amok and Angkor beer.

Being known as one of the most popular and signature dish of Cambodia, fish amok can be easily found on menus in tourist hubs all over the country. Diced fillets of freshwater fish are smothered in creamy curry like sauce. When done properly, the fish is silky smooth and melting in your mouth with each bite.

* Where to eat?

• Khmer Kitchen Restaurant – Street 2 Thnou the corner of Street 9, Old Market, Siem Reap.
• Amok Restaurant – Street 9, Siem Reap, Cambodia.
• Viroth’s Restaurant – #99 Wat Bo Street Corner Wat Bo St and Tep Vong St, Siem Reap.
• Frizz Restaurant
• Malis Restaurant – No. 136 Norodom Blvd, Phnom Penh.
• Eleven One Kitchen – #37 Street 123 (corner of 460), Tuol Tom Poung, Phnom Penh.
• Romdeng Restaurant – # 74 Oknha Ket St. (174), Phnom Penh .

Locals voted samlor korkor as the true national dish of Cambodia.

While amok is sometimes called the country’s signature dish, and very familiar to tourists, locals voted samlor korkor as the true national dish of Cambodia. It has been eaten by Cambodians for hundreds of years and can be found in restaurants, roadside stands and family homes alike. This type of soup is rich in both flavors and nutrition. * Where to eat?

• Mie Café – #0085, Phum Treng Khum Slorgram, Siem Reap.

Nom banh chok is served as typical breakfast food in Cambodia.

Nom banh chok is simply called in English as “Khmer noodles”. It’s a typical breakfast food, consists of fresh and thin rice noodles, topped with a fish-based green curry. * Where to eat?

• David’s Restaurant – Homemade Noodles – 13, #166 Preah Ang Eng St. (13), Phnom Penh.
• Boat Noodles – Sothearos Blvd, Phnom Penh Center, Phnom Penh.
• Tbal Khmer Restaurant – 40 Street 432, Phnom Penh.
• Khmer Fungus Noodles – House 15 200, Phnom Penh.

Kep’s freshest and finest crabs are best matched with Kampot pepper.

If you make a plan to visit the coastal town of Kep, you surely know that this place is famous for freshest and finest crabs. The freshest of catches are fried, quickly cooked and simply flavored with immature green peppercorns from Kampot and garlic chives, which turn out to be one of the best dishes in Cambodia. * Where to eat?  Seafood Restaurants in Crab Market in Kep Town: So Kheang, Diamond Jasmine, Holy Crab, La Mouette, La Baraka, Kimly Seafood Restaurant.

Deep fried insects are widely sold in Cambodian public markets as a popular snack among locals.

In Cambodia’s public markets, tourists can easily see local peddlers selling fried insects like: tarantulas, crickets, cockroaches, locusts. They are an excellent source of protein and often go well with a cold glass of beer. More than a popular snack among locals, these creepy crawlies are advertised as a culinary delicacy for tourists, and can be found in markets and on restaurant menus all around the country. If you want to explore more about Cambodia gastronomy, check out our detailed article on what to eat in Cambodia .

VI. Suggested Cambodia Itinerary

1.1. Spirit of Angkor 3 days

Bayon Temple is one of the highlight in 3 day tour Spirit of Angkor.

– Destinations: the most highlighted temples in Angkor Park (Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, Preah Khan, Banteay Srei, Rolous Group) and Tonle Sap Lake. – Overview: Immerse yourself in the magic and history of Cambodia’s famous Angkor temples on this three-day tour of the ancient Khmer Kingdom. With Cambodia Travel to explore ancient monuments, cruise through Tonle Sap Lake’s charming floating villages and watch the sunset from the foot of Phnom Krohm Mountain. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/spirit-of-angkor/

1.2. Colors of Cambodia 7 days

National Museum in Phnom Penh is an excellent introduction into ancient Khmer art and civilization.

– Destinations: Phnom Penh – Siem Reap. – Overview: Enjoy a weeklong holiday to explore our bustling capital Phnom Penh and peaceful Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor Archaeological Park. Colors of Cambodia package is a perfect blend of Cambodia’s finest elements: combining historical temple visits with cultural immersion and urban exploration. Experience the country’s natural beauty along with the subtleties of Khmer culture on this journey from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/colors-of-cambodia/ 1.3. Cambodia In Style 10 days

Banteay Srei is home to Angkor’s finest stone carvings.

– Destinations: Siem Reap, Kampong Thom, Kratie, Kampong Cham, Phnom Penh. – Overview: This 10-day package takes visitors to travel across the country from Siem Reap to Kratie – one of Cambodia’s eastern provinces then travel along the bank of Mekong River to Phnom Penh Capital. Cambodia In Style package gives you a closer look in to the countryside of Cambodia Kingdom, meet locals at their villages and experience some of local daily life. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/cambodia-in-style/

2.1. Biking Through Angkor 5 days

Exploring Angkor by bike is the best way to immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery and ancient history of the region.

– Destinations: the most highlighted temples in Angkor Park (Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, Preah Khan, Banteay Srei, Rolous Group), Kulen Mountain and Tonle Sap Lake. – Overview: Spice up your visit to the ancient Khmer Kingdom on a bike tour through Cambodia’s legendary temples. Exploring Angkor by bike is the best way to immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery and ancient history of the region. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/biking-through-angkor/

2.2. Explore Preah Vihear Temple 2 days

Preah Vihear Temple – an outstanding masterpiece of Khmer architecture, was listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.

– Destinations: Siem Reap, Beng Mealea, Koh Ker, Preah Vihear. – Overview: Cambodia Travel arranges the 2 day trip to discover the famous Hindu temple located on the top of mountain by northern border of Cambodia Kingdom. The journey brings you to the less traveled area of Angkor – Beng Mealea with thousands of great hands carving on ancient sandstone and explore Preah Vihear and border area. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/explore-preah-vihear-temple/

2.3. Explore Cambodia 13 days

Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace is an excellent introduction of the ancient Khmer art and civilization.

– Destinations: Phnom Penh, Mondulkiri, Ratanakiri, Kratie, Stung Treng, Preah Vihear, Siem Reap, Tonle Sap Lake. – Overview: For 13 days Explore Cambodia’s rich culture and history on a tour that takes you deep into the heart of the Khmer Kingdom. Discover the ancient Angkor temples and enjoy a rustic homestay; see the endangered freshwater dolphins that inhabit the Mekong and visit Cambodia’s bustling capital city. This vacation includes all of Cambodia’s highlights, offering something for everyone. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/explore-cambodia/

2.4. Absolute Cambodia 15 days

Ancient temple ruins in Cambodia.

– Destinations: Siem Reap, Tonle Sap Lake, Kampong Thom, Kratie, Mondulkiri, Kampong Cham, Phnom Penh, Koh Kong. – Overview: No matter where you travel in Cambodia, the past is always present. History, both ancient and modern, is everywhere here; whether you’re cycling in the shadows of the mighty Angkor Wat, wandering the streets of cosmopolitan Phnom Penh, exploring the Mekong in search of river dolphins, trekking in Mondulkiri or relax on the beach in south of Cambodia, you can’t escape the pull of time that shaped – and continues to shape – this arresting land. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/absolute-cambodia/

3.1. Luxury Cambodia & Song Saa Island 7 days

Overwater villas in Song Saa Private Island Resort.

– Destinations: Siem Reap, Sihanouk Ville, Song Saa Island, Phnom Penh. – Overview: A week long journey to visit top attractions of Cambodia: Angkor Temples and experience world-class services at luxurious Song Saa Private Island. Cambodia Travel invites you to experience the best of Cambodia on this package. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/luxury-cambodia-song-saa-island/

3.2. Cambodia Luxury Holiday 7 days

Khmer professional hospitality ensures your stay in Cambodia to be private and comfortable.

– Destinations: Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanouk Ville. – Overview: Cambodia Travel creates this luxury adventure for those who would like to take in all the main highlights of this fascinating country within a week long holiday. The combination of history, culture, architecture, countryside and coastal relaxation provides the opportunity for travelers to get under the skin of the country. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/cambodia-luxury-holidays/  

4.1. Truly Cambodia 11 days

– Destinations: Phnom Penh, Battambang, Siem Reap, Koh Rong Samloem. – Overview: A perfect journey through the ancient and modern Cambodia for 11 days exploring capital city of Phnom Penh to the wonders of the temples of Angkor, some of the most iconic places around Siem Reap as well as being witness the rural Cambodian lifestyle at Battambang. The trip includes couple of relaxing days on the white sand beach in Koh Rong Samloem before driving to Phnom Penh for departure. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/truly-cambodia/

Sunrise hunting moments in front of magnificent Angkor Wat.

4.2. Cambodia Cities & Southern Coast 12 days

– Destinations: Siem Reap, Kampong Thom, Phnom Penh, Takeo, Kep, Kampot, Sihanouk Ville. – Overview: This package is perfect for those who want to explore the main sights of Cambodia at a leisurely pace, allowing for plenty of time to get under the skin of the country. The trip start in bustling city of Siem Reap – home of amazing Angkor temples. Spend 12 days to explore the most famous temples some of our favorite temples away from the tourists. Our journey continues to Cambodia ‘s capital- Phnom Penh before going to countryside of Khmer people and end up on the laid-back coast in the southern of Cambodia, wake up the sleeping beauty of Kep and beautiful nearby islands. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/cambodia-cities-southern-coast/

Sihanouk Ville’s white sand beaches and warm waters combine with a laid back, beachy atmosphere to provide a great little tropical getaway.

4.3. Sihanouk Ville Beach Break 4 days

– Destinations: Phnom Penh, Sihanouk Ville. – Overview: Sihanouk Ville is Cambodia’s premier beach town. Sihanouk Ville’s white sand beaches and warm waters combine with a laid back, beachy atmosphere to provide a great little tropical getaway. Sihanouk Ville is an ideal place to unwind by the beach, enjoy the fresh from-the-ocean seafood, take in a snorkeling or scuba trip, and generally slow-down, lay back and chill-out. Cambodia Travel arranges the package of Sihanouk Ville Beach Break with pick up and transfer from Phnom Penh Capital. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/sihanoulk-ville-beach-break/

VII. Best Time to Travel to Cambodia

Sunset over Angkor Wat.

Cambodia has the simpler weather system in Southeast Asia with two distinct seasons: dry and wet season. The dry season in Cambodia runs from October to April/ early May, when hot wind caused by the dry north-east monsoon blowing across the whole country. With the average temperature at around 24°C-26°C, November to January are the coolest months of the year. Characterized by dry and sunny weather, low humidity and relatively cool temperatures, it is no surprise that dry season is when the number of tourists coming to Cambodia reaches its peak.

From May to early October is the wet season in Cambodia. During these months, southwest monsoon brings almost 75% of annual rainfall to Cambodia. During this rainy season, daytime temperature still remains high between 25°C and 27°C. May, June and July are the hottest months and rainfalls comes infrequently in the form of short downpours. Toward the latter months of the wet season (late July – September), rains tend to be more intense and can be heaviest along the south coast.

Angkor is suitable destination for families travelling with kids.

The high season for travel in Cambodia is from November until April, with dry and favorable weather conditions throughout almost main tourism destinations. Consequently, that is also when the cost of travelling tends to increase. The travel expenses are particularly acute during special occasions, like Christmas and New Year Eve, Khmer New Year Celebration in mid-April. If traveling during this period, tourists are suggested to reserve travel services as early as possible to avoid fully booked situations.

During November – April, Cambodia has comfortable conditions with brilliant sunshine and extremely low chance of raining. Beach and island lovers can enjoy relaxing sunny days in pristine white sand coastlines and islands, such as Sihanouk Ville – Koh Rong – Koh Rong Samloem. In north east regions of Cambodia, journey time to Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri is shorter thanks to good road conditions in dry season. Sunny daytimes and cooler temperatures make adventure activities like trekking into jungles or interact with wildlife in these places are much more pleasant.

Although November to January are quite cool, April is one of the hottest months in Cambodia with average temperatures of 35°C. Rather than all day visits to Angkor Temples , tourists are recommended to take early morning or late afternoon tours, and have short break by the hotel swimming pool or at air-condition restaurants or tourist venues at midday. On the other hand, the summer heat somehow helps to lower the crowd numbers at the main temples in specific time of the day.

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Coming to Cambodia between May and early October, tourists can experience a quieter holiday. Actually, wet season is not as bad as the label implies because it depends on what you want to do in these countries. And sometimes, tourist numbers may be taken into consideration rather than the weather factor. Visitors can still come to Cambodia during monsoon season when the dust is gone and the countryside returns to its lush greenery thanks to downpours. The iconic tourism site – Angkor Temples , gets a severe decrease in visitor numbers. In some extends, these spectacular temples are more stunning in wet season with fully watered moats surrounding, which provides perfect chances to snap shots of temple reflections in the water.

Rainy season is also the perfect time of the year to visit floating villages in Tonle Sap Lake by boat. During wet season, the lake swells to six or seven times its normal size of approximately 2,600 square kilometres.

On the downside, heavy rainfalls make travelling to north east regions ( Kratie , Mondulkiri , Ratanakiri ) and southern coastal destinations ( Sihanouk Ville , Kampot , Kep ) fairly difficult. “Off the beaten path” travel should be avoided, particularly in August. Remote tracks can become unpassable due to flooding of road system there. For those who are planning some relaxing days on the beach should forget Cambodia’s south coast during these months.

Overall, the best time to visit Cambodia falls between November and January because the weather in these months are cooler by Cambodia’s standards ( around 20 °C ) and there’s not much possibility of raining.

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14 Top-Rated Places to Visit in Cambodia

Written by Jess Lee Updated Mar 18, 2024

Best known as both the home of the colossal temples of Angkor Wat and for the brutal Khmer Rouge era of the 1970s and later civil war, Cambodian history encompasses both some of humanity's greatest artistic accomplishments and most horrific deeds.

The history is what draws most travelers here, but this Southeast Asian nation has more tourist attractions to offer for those who linger longer than a short temple hop to Siem Reap.

Beyond the temples, Cambodia is a prime destination for Southeast Asia travels that manages to charm all who come.

The coastline of sandy white beaches tempts every sun sloth. The jungle-swathed countryside is geared up for the more intrepid, and the buzzing capital of Phnom Penh envelops visitors in the frenetic pulse of contemporary Cambodian city life.

Plan your sightseeing in this fascinating country with our list of the top places to visit in Cambodia.

1. Angkor Wat (Angkor Archaeological Park)

2. phnom penh, 3. koh rong samloem, 4. siem reap, 5. ratanakiri, 6. prasat preah vihear, 7. battambang, 9. tonlé sap lake, 10. koh kong conservation corridor, 12. sambor prei kuk, 13. banteay chhmar, 14. mundulkiri, frequently asked questions, when is the best time to visit cambodia.

This temple city is the number one tourist spot in Cambodia.

Accessed from the town of Siem Reap, the temples of the Angkorian period are so ambitious in scale and in the majesty of their construction, that Angkor Wat is rated as one of the world's must-see ancient sites .

Built between 802 and 1432, this was the largest city in the world during the medieval age and the vast powerhouse of the Khmer kings who endeavored to outbid their predecessors in the beauty of their construction.

As the city's wooden dwellings were encroached and then decayed by the surrounding jungle, what remains today, are just those mighty temples.

The temple of Angkor Wat itself, the world's largest religious building, is only one sliver of the site in total, and the sprawling circuit of temples deserves three days to explore if you want to understand the scope of the Angkorian period's architectural achievements.

For those short on time though, the main highlights after Angkor Wat are the tree-root clasped temple of Ta Prohm (which first found international fame as a location used in the movie Tomb Raider), the Bayon Temple for its 216 stone-carved faces, Angkor Thom and Preah Khan.

Cambodia's capital is the frenetic heartbeat of the nation; a city of chaotic streets abuzz with motorbikes and car horns that can frazzle at first glance.

Deserted completely during the Khmer Rouge madness and left to wither and decay, Phnom Penh has bounced back to become one of Southeast Asia's most dynamic cities.

For visitors, this is Cambodia's most cosmopolitan destination, with a café and restaurant scene unrivaled in the rest of the country.

It's also home to a scattering of important historic sites that help unravel both Cambodia's modern and ancient history.

The National Museum is home to a swag of Khmer sculpture that traces the nation's history from the pre-Angkorian age right through to the phenomenal majesty of the god-Kings of Angkor.

The Royal Palace provides gorgeous examples of traditional artistry, while Tuol Sleng Museum and the killing fields of Choeung Ek speak of the horror and brutality the people of this country suffered under Khmer Rouge rule.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Phnom Penh

Just off Cambodia's south coast lie a scattering of islands just as beautiful as their Thai counterparts to the west, but much less visited.

Compared to the now very developed islands of Koh Samui and Phuket , Cambodia's islands are a slice of laid-back tropical bliss, where sun and sand take center stage, and the big resorts have yet to make their mark.

Of all the islands, Koh Rong Samloem is one of the most beautiful, with the long, sandy Saracen Bay home to a dozen beach hut resorts that offer a welcome respite from the world.

It's really all about hammock-time here, but there's plenty of scuba diving activities on offer for the more active.

You can access these islands from Sihanoukville.

Siem Reap is usually seen by travelers as among Cambodia's top places to visit due to it being the base for Angkor Archaeological Park, but the town itself offers more interesting attractions beyond the mighty temples.

This is the country's major activity center, with bundles of tours on offer, from cycle trips around the lush countryside just outside of town to Cambodian cookery tours.

Shoppers will also find plenty to keep them occupied, as central Siem Reap is brimming with opportunities to browse traditional crafts.

Make sure to visit Angkor National Museum, before heading to Angkor Wat itself, to dose up on the history of the site. The exhibits here explore the breadth of culture and artistry of the Khmer empire.

For evening entertainment while in town, don't miss Phare The Cambodian Circus. This internationally-renowned circus troupe and social enterprise puts on dazzling shows where performers combine theater, acrobatics, and music.

Ratanakiri is a nature-filled reprieve for travelers suffering from temple-fatigue.

This is outback Cambodia, and the endless red-dirt roads of the region, leading to ethnic minority villages, are an intrepid traveler's delight.

For those with an adventurous streak, the province is one of the best places in Cambodia for trekking, from spotting gibbons at Veun Sai-Siem Pang Conservation Area, where overnight trips involve sleeping in hammocks and early rises to track buff-cheeked gibbons, to hiking in Virachey National Park home to elephants, tigers, and sun bears.

There's more relaxing options on offer as well. The emerald water of Yeak Lom Crater Lake just outside of Ban Lung town is a tranquil swimming spot, while the waterfalls of Chaa Ong and Ka Tieng are fun diversions that provide more opportunities for getting wet.

The temples of Angkor Wat may gain all the glory, but Prasat Preah Vihear wins the prize for the most dramatic location.

Sitting atop the Dangrek Mountains, on an escarpment with dizzying views across the Cambodian floodplains, Prasat Preah Vihear is a monumental temple complex of intricately carved pavilions linked by long causeways, built originally to honor the god Shiva.

The temple is snug against the border with Thailand and has historically been a point of contention between the two nations, who both claim it as their own.

The International Court of Justice ruled in Cambodia's favor in 2013 after border disputes flared up between 2008 and 2011.

Tensions have dissipated in the last few years, meaning this UNESCO World Heritage Site can now reclaim its rightful role on the tourist trail.

Access is from Sra Em, although most visitors come on a day trip from Siem Reap (200 kilometers south).

The countryside of rice fields and tiny villages surrounding the northwest city of Battambang holds some of the most tranquil rural scenery in Cambodia, and the area is home to swags of historic riches as well.

All this has made the city itself a popular destination on traveler itineraries.

For history fans, the temples of Phnom Sampeau, Phnom Banan and Wat Ek Phnom are all within day-tripping distance, while the famed Bamboo Train - a single-line rail track where "carriages" made from a platform of wood and bamboo travel between Battambang's east bank and the tiny village of O Srav - is one of the most popular activities for visitors.

Battambang itself is a rather sleepy city compared to the buzz of the capital, with a central district brimming with colonial buildings.

For those who found Phnom Penh's hectic buzz a bit too much to handle, Battambang is a thoroughly approachable town to use as a base.

The laid-back riverine town of Kampot has oodles of old-world ambience.

The compact central district is a joy to ramble around, full of surviving shop-house architecture, some of which has been painstakingly restored.

Kampot's charm lies in its exceedingly chilled-out atmosphere, and many a traveler finds themselves waylaid here longer than they expected, having succumbed to its easygoing pace.

For the more active though, this is also an excellent base for discovering the surrounding sights of the south.

The old French summer getaway of Boker Hill Station, with its abandoned church and eerie, empty shell of a once-grand hotel, is an easy day trip from town, as are the limestone caves of Phnom Chhnork and Phnom Sorsia both with old temples inside.

Tonlé Sap is Cambodia's most important waterway and Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake.

As well as being an important source of food and a vital tool for Cambodian irrigation, the lake itself is home to 170 floating villages that depend on fishing for their livelihood, with homes built directly on the water.

The houses, shops, churches, schools, and temples of these villages are built on rustic buoy foundations of lashed together barrels and bamboo, and all transport is by boat. They're a fascinating place to spend a day exploring.

One of the most interesting is the sprawling village of Kompong Luong, near the town of Pursat on Tonlé Sap's western shore, although the most popular village to visit is Chong Kneas near Siem Reap.

The Koh Kong Conservation Corridor stretches across an area within Cambodia's Cardamom Mountains, south of the border town of Koh Kong in the country's southwest.

The highlands here, home to dense rainforest, winding rivers, and waterfalls, offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and boat tours.

Head to the Tatai River if you want to simply soak up the lush surroundings and take a time out from life. Here, you'll find a handful of boutique eco-resorts scattered along the riverbank all offering activities such as day hikes and kayaking.

Further south in the Cardamoms is the village of Chi Pat, an eco-tourism center with simple homestay and guesthouse accommodation and plenty of activities, ranging from multi-day treks into the forested mountains to wildlife-spotting river boat trips.

If you're here for the full Mekong experience, you've come to the right place.

Spread along the banks of the mighty Mekong, Kratie has become a major destination for travelers due to its dolphin-watching tours.

The endangered Irrawaddy dolphins are endemic to the Mekong, and environmental measures have now been put in place to try and help their dwindling numbers.

Tourism has played a good role in trying to protect the dolphins by offering an alternative economy to fishing.

To see the dolphins head to Kampi, just north of Kratie, where there are plenty of boat tours available.

This pre-Angkorian temple site dates from the early 7th century when it was the capital of the Upper Chenla Empire.

More than 100 brick temples dedicated to various Hindu gods sit within the forest here, many half-swallowed by mammoth tree roots.

Archaeologically, the site is extremely important, containing some of Cambodia's oldest surviving buildings, but you don't have to be an archaeology buff to appreciate the ethereal beauty of this tree-wrapped site.

The most important temples in the archaeological site include Prasat Sambor, Prasat Tao and Prasat Yeay Peau which all have remarkably clear carvings on their temple walls and plenty of ethereal ambience provided by twisting tree trunks and coiling vines.

You can access Sambor Prei Kuk from Kompong Thom.

For a touch of Indiana Jones-style temple exploring, you can't beat Banteay Chhmar.

This mammoth temple complex sits consumed by surrounding jungle in Cambodia's lonely northwest, providing the perfect opportunity to discover the highlights without the crowds.

It was built by the 12th-century Angkorian king Jayavarman VII, and the remarkable stone reliefs along its walls are some of the most intricately detailed you'll see in the country.

In particular, the spectacular bas reliefs depicting Avalokiteśvara on the south wall and the dizzying array of battle scenes depicted on the eastern walls are prime examples of the Angkorian era's artistry.

The village neighboring the archaeological site has simple homestay accommodation. Otherwise, most people stay in Sisophon (60 kilometers south) or take a day trip to the ruins from Siem Reap.

Adventurous travelers beeline to the hill country of Mundulkiri Province in Cambodia's far east for wildlife spotting, village life, trail-bike tours, and the Elephant Valley Project.

The most famous tourist attraction in the region, the Elephant Valley Project offers visitors a chance to walk with the sanctuary's elephants (no riding allowed) while providing an opportunity for local mahouts (elephant keepers) to earn a wage that doesn't involve overworking their elephants.

For adrenaline-junkies, the Mayura zipline course skims right over the top of Bou Sra waterfall, while bird-watchers and wildlife spotters will want to take a tour into Seima Protected Forest, home to gibbons, the endangered black-shanked douc langurs, and plentiful birdlife.

The small town of Sen Monorom is the main base for travelers in Mundulkiri and within easy day-tripping distance to all of the tourist attractions.

Most visitors who arrive in Cambodia are heading to the Angkor Wat temples as their main destination - so it makes sense that the best time to visit Cambodia is when the temples are at their best. Weather-wise, the best time to visit Siem Reap and Angkor Wat is between December and February, when temperatures drop into the high 20s and the humidity is low enough to be bearable.

However, these months are part of the cool season, which is also high season in the country - this means higher prices, bigger crowds, and more expensive airfares. For better prices and slightly smaller crowds, consider arriving in March or early April - while temperatures are rising fast at this time, the rainy season is just starting by then, so you should be able to still enjoy the outdoors.

Phnom Penh has hot and humid weather all year-round, with just a small dip in temperature and humidity dropping to around 70 percent during the cool season. This is also a good time to visit Koh Rong, Cambodia's best beach destination.

More on Cambodia

Cambodia Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 27, 2024

Backpacking Cambodia was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had.

When I first visited Cambodia in 2006, I had low expectations for the country as I hadn’t heard much about it as a travel destination. I knew a little about its violent and tumultuous past but that was it.

But, as I traveled around Cambodia, I was blown away by the friendliness of the people, the beauty of the country, and all the great things there are to see and do. The country fast became one of my all-time favorite travel destinations; I think it’s one of the most underrated countries in the world. I can’t recommend it enough!

Since that first visit, I’ve been back dozens of times — I even spent over a month there writing a book. After all these visits and my subsequent travels elsewhere, the country remains a favorite.

Cambodia is still trying to find its footing after the horrifying genocide carried out by Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge regime between 1975 and 1979, which saw upwards of 3 million Cambodians killed. This conflict left a deep, deep wound on the country that very much exists to this day.

Despite this, Cambodia is filled with some of the friendliest people I’ve ever encountered, a rich history, delicious food, beautiful coastlines, and a lively nightlife.

This guide to Cambodia travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and ensure you make the most of your visit to one of the best countries in the region.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• How to Stay Safe
• Where to Stay
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• How to Get Around
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Cambodia

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in cambodia.

1. Explore Angkor Wat

The Angkor Wat temple ruins are massive and you’ll need a few days to satisfy your inner Tomb Raider. If you’re not a history buff, just purchase a single-day ticket ($37 USD). Everyone else may want to consider the 3-day ticket ($72 USD) as there is a ton to see here! You can also take a guided tour if you want to really learn about this epic site!

2. Hang out in Sihanoukville

White sand beaches, nearby deserted islands, great diving, seafood, and a lively nightlife filled with cheap booze make Sihanoukville a favorite among backpackers. It’s not a quiet place to hang out, but it’s a good place to drink or use as a base to visit the nearby islands, which are quiet and serene.

3. See Phnom Penh

As the capital of Cambodia, Phnom Penh has a wild west ambiance. But it’s an up-and-coming foodie hub with lots to see and do so you can easily spend a few days here playing tourist. Don’t miss the sobering but important Killing Fields outside the city.

4. Visit Tonle Sap

Sailing down this river and around the lake highlights just how closely Cambodian life is tied to this major waterway. You can take a boat all the way downriver or just cruise around on a day trip. Tours start around $20 USD per person.

5. Discover Battambang

Battambang is Cambodia’s second largest city. Here you’ll find great temples, a bamboo train, and stunning architecture. It’s Cambodia without the tourism — for now! Try taking a river boat back to Phnom Penh or Siem Reap for a unique experience (tickets are usually around $20 USD).

Other Things to See and Do in Cambodia

1. see the killing fields.

You can’t mention Cambodia without people drawing a connection to the country’s bloody genocide. Although a visit to Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields, may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, it makes for a hallowing and memorable experience, a testament to the dangers of uncontested power. You can’t understand modern Cambodia without learning about Pol Pot and the violence of the Khmer Rouge, which was responsible for killing millions of people during their reign of terror. Admission is $6 USD, though you’ll need to arrange a ride to the area, as the site is located 10 miles from Phnom Penh. Expect to pay at least $15 USD for a return trip via tuk-tuk .

2. Visit Kep

This quaint beach town, located three hours east of Sihanoukville, is the quiet version of Sihanoukville. It’s a nice place to relax near the ocean without the party atmosphere. This town is famous for its pepper crab and empty beaches. It’s quite sleepy and there’s not a lot to do here, making it a good place to come for some downtime. Nearby Kep National Park, which spans almost 70 square kilometers (26 square miles), is a great place for mountain hikes with incredible views over the water and surrounding jungle.

3. Hike in Bokor National Park

Visit this national park as a full day trip from Sihanoukville or nearby Kampot. Here you can wander among the atmospheric French ruins while hiking around the rainforest. Bokor was a big destination for the French aristocracy in the early 20th century and Bokor Hill Station has the remains of an abandoned luxury resort and casino that was later used as a hideout by the Khmer Rouge. Admission to the park is free. Group day tours from Sihanoukville start from about $20 USD, while a private guide for the day is $40 USD.

4. Enjoy the views at Prasat Preah Vihear

This breathtaking mountain temple was built in the 11th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its exceptional carved stonework and overall preservation. Today, it’s the source of conflict with neighboring Thailand, which also claims ownership of the temple. As it is quite remote, the trip here is not easy so not a lot of foreigners visit. Expect a $10 USD entrance fee and a long and steep hike (you can hire a 4×4 for $25 USD or a motorbike taxi for $5 USD to take you to the top if you don’t want the trek).

5. Visit a river village

There are three major floating villages in Cambodia. At these villages, the houses are built on bamboo stilts, and there are always boats filled with people selling trinkets, food, and hanging out. The Chong Khneas is the most visited in the country, but its popularity has made it a bit of a tourist trap. It’s interesting to visit but you won’t have a whole lot of interaction with the locals. Most tours cost at least $15 USD per person. The other floating villages are Kampong Khleang and Kampong Phluk, which you can access from nearby Siem Reap.

6. Visit the pepper farms of Kampot

Outside the city of Kampot and on the way to Kep are vast pepper fields. This southern region of Cambodia is filled with pepper farms where you can learn about the history of the spice, see how it is grown, and pick up what is considered some of the finest pepper in the world. Tours are usually free, though you need to arrange transportation. Half-day tours are around $25 USD. Don’t miss the nearby mangroves and national park too.

7. Trek Koh Kong

An island near the Thai border in the Cardamom Mountain district, the Koh Kong region offers excellent jungle trekking opportunities, as well as a chance to relax on the white-sand beaches. Koh Kong is the biggest island in the country and is considered one of the best beach spots in Southeast Asia. It’s illegal to spend the night there, but there are plenty of operators offering day trips to the island. Keep an eye out for monkeys, boars, and all kinds of indigenous birds while visiting.

8. Tour Kampong Cham

Though it’s the third-largest city in Cambodia, most travelers overlook Kampong Cham. The city has retained a lot of its old French colonial feel and is a great place to really get to know Cambodia. While the city in itself is something to explore, don’t miss the ruins at Nokor Wat, a 10th-century temple built by Jayavarman VII. One of the temple’s highlights is a detailed series of murals that depict religious torture scenes.

9. Relax, Unpack, and Meditate in Kep

Take a break from traveling and sign-up to stay at Vagabond Temple for a while. Prices begin at $275 USD for a 5-day retreat, which includes accommodation, meals, and full days of yoga and meditation classes from incredible teachers. If you’d like to commit to staying for longer, you can pay around $43 USD per day for a two-month retreat. This is a great place to take a break and gather your thoughts, especially if you’re on a long trip. No previous yoga or meditation training is required either.

10. Visit the Landmine Museum

Landmines have devastated Cambodia, maiming and killing thousands over the decades. The remaining mines from the Vietnam War (which spilled over to Cambodia) are still discovered every year. Located in Siem Reap, the Landmine Museum is an eye-opening museum that will broaden your perspective on the war and the horrific impact of landmines. Admission for foreign visitors, including a guided tour in English, is $5 USD per person. I can’t recommend this museum enough.

11. Shop at the markets

Exploring the street, indoor, and night markets is a quintessential part of traveling through Southeast Asia , and Cambodia is no different. Every major city has sprawling markets offering all manner of stalls, from prepared street food and produce to clothing and household items that make great souvenirs. Haggling is commonplace, so don’t be afraid to do so.

12. Learn to cook Cambodian dishes

Learning how to cook Cambodian food is one of the best souvenirs you can bring home. Dive into Cambodian cooking with a class where you’ll learn to cook 3-4 different dishes — and eat them at the end! You’ll usually get to go to a market to shop for produce too and you’ll also get a recipe card so you can recreate the recipes at home. Class sizes tend to be around 6 people, take around 3 hours, and cost around $20 USD per person.

13. Take a food tour

Traditional Khmer food is often overlooked compared to other Asian foods, so a food tour is the best way to sample this culture’s amazing noodle dishes, fresh seafood, sweets, and street food while learning about the history and culture behind the cuisine. Siem Reap Food Tours offers several tours, including morning tours into the market and evening tours perusing food stalls. Tours start from $75 USD and include all food, drinks, and transportation.

14. Hike in Phnom Kulen National Park

Located just 1.5 hours from Siem Reap, this national park is the perfect place to spend a day hiking in the rainforest, with majestic waterfalls, epic viewpoints, and hidden temples in the jungle. Don’t miss Kbal Spean, an archaeological site in a riverbed with intricate rock carvings representing Hindu gods. The entire park area holds tremendous national significance as it was on this mountain range that King Jayavarman II founded the Khmer Empire in 802 CE. The park entrance fee is $20 USD.

For more information on specific cities in Cambodia, check out these guides:

Angkor Wat Travel Guide

Phnom penh travel guide.

• Siem Reap Travel Guide
• Sihanoukville Travel Guide

How to Stay Safe in Cambodia

Cambodia is a safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. Violent attacks against tourists are rare here, though petty theft can occur so always guard your possessions.

Unfortunately, theft is frequent on the beaches and in crowded streets. Always keep an eye on your belongings when out and about and never flash your valuables. Keep your wallet and phone secure and out of reach and don’t leave anything unattended on the beach either.

There are some common scams around that you’ll want to be aware of, such as the motorbike scam. This is where vendors try to charge you for damage to your bike rental. To avoid this, take pictures and video of your bike when you rent so that you can’t be charged for existing damage.

There is also a common tuk-tuk scam where the driver takes you miles from your destination and then pressures you to stay and spend money at the shop or restaurant where he dropped you off (the driver works under commission for a particular restaurant, hotel, or shop). If this happens, firmly decline and demand to go back or find another tuk-tuk driver.

Another common scam involves shady or fake police officers who demand to see your passport. Chances are, you’ll be asked to pay a “fine” to get it back. Simply deny the request and tell them the passport is back at your hotel in a safety deposit box.

For more information on travel scams, read about common travel scams to avoid here .

The people who usually get in trouble in Cambodia tend to be involved with drugs or sex tourism. Stay away from that stuff and you’ll likely be fine.

Avoid dehydration in the heat by making sure you bring lots of water to keep hydrated. Remember that tap water isn’t safe to drink, so bring a water bottle with a built-in filter.

If you experience an emergency, dial 119 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Where to Stay in Cambodia

Accommodations in Cambodia are incredibly cheap. Here’s a list of budget-friendly places to stay in Cambodia:

• The Magic Sponge (Kampot)
• The Siem Reap Pub Hostel (Siem Reap)
• Lub D Cambodia Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Hostel (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Sihanoukville (Sihanoukville)
• Next Beach Club (Koh Rong)
• Mad Monkey Koh Rong Samloem (Koh Rong Samloem)
• Mad Monkey (Phnom Penh)
• Onederz (Phnom Penh)
• Sla Boutique Hostel (Phnom Penh)

Cambodia Travel Costs

Note: Cambodia uses USD. There’s no real need to carry the local currency, Cambodian Riels (KHR), unless you’re paying for really small things on the street. In a growing number of places, especially in the countryside, you might start getting riels back when paying in USD but you can essentially get by using mostly USD here.

Accommodation

• Hostel Dorms – $6-8 USD per night
• Hostel private rooms – $10-20 USD per night
• Budget hotels – $15-35 USD per night
• Airbnb apartments – $25-35 USD per night
• Street food – $1-3 USD
• Sit-down restaurants – $3-5 USD
• Western restaurants – $5-10 USD
• Beer – $1 USD
• Glass of wine – $3 USD
• Cocktails – $3-5 USD
• Cappuccino/latte – $1.75 USD
• Groceries for a week – $15-20 USD

Cambodia Suggested Budgets

Backpacker – $45 usd per day.

This budget lets you stay in a dorm room, eat street food, have a couple of beers here and there, and take public transportation to get around.

If you’re visiting Angkor Wat (you likely are), you’ll need an additional $37 USD plus the cost of a bike or driver.

Midrange – $90 USD Per Day

On a mid-range budget, you can stay in a budget hotel with air conditioning, have some sit-down meals at nicer restaurants, drink more, take buses between cities, visit Angkor Wat, and do more tours and activities like seeing the Killing Fields and taking a cooking class.

Upscale – $160 USD Per Day

On a “luxury” budget, the sky is the limit! You can stay at hotels, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you want, hire a driver, and do whatever tours and activities you want (including a multi-day visit to Angkor Wat).

Cambodia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Cambodia is one of the cheapest countries in Southeast Asia . There really aren’t any big money-saving tips here unless you go out of your way to find the most expensive things to see or do. But if you really want to pinch some pennies, here are a few tips on how to save extra money in Cambodia:

Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier comes particularly in handy in Cambodia since you can’t drink the tap water. Save money and thousands of plastic bottles by getting a bottle that can purify the tap water. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw since it has a filter that ensures your water is always safe and clean.

Minimize your drinks – Every drink is a dollar and before you know it, you’ve spent more money on beer than on food and accommodation. Limit your drinking to save your budget.

Work for your room – You can usually negotiate a discount at a hostel if you stay for a week or longer and offer to volunteer. Usually, this means just a few hours per day helping out in exchange for free accommodation.

Book tours and day trips as a group – You have more negotiation power when you’re with a group of people buying multiple tickets. Traveling alone? Meet a friend at a hostel and see if they want to join the same tour as you. You can likely get a better price this way.

Don’t book in advance – Don’t book any tours or activities before you get to your destination. They’ll be much cheaper when you arrive as you can to negotiate a lower price. Anything you see online is going to be more expensive than you need to pay!

Eat on the street – You can pick up tasty local fare for cheap in Cambodia. Eat cheap at the stalls and avoid Western food.

Bargain hard – Nothing is ever at face value here. Bargain with sellers, because most of the time, the price they’ve quoted is way higher. There’s a haggling culture in the region so play the game and save some money. You’ll never get the local price, but you might come close!

How to Get Around in Cambodia

Public transportation – Local city transportation is cheap in Cambodia. Phnom Penh is the only city with any public transportation network to speak of, with a small bus network of 17 routes. Tickets cost just $0.40 USD per ride, paid in cash each time you board the bus.

Taxi – Taxis are normally double to triple the local transportation cost, and you often must haggle for the price. They start high, and you work towards something you are willing to pay. Shared taxis for long-distance travel are a good idea if you have a group of 3-4 people. When in doubt, ask your hotel/hostel staff for a price estimate so you know you’re not getting ripped off.

Renting a driver for the day costs $15-20 USD, and most hostels can help you arrange finding one.

Tuk-tuks can be found on every corner in the big cities, though be sure to negotiate a price in advance (usually not more than $5 USD depending on the distance).

Bus and minibus – The easiest and cheapest way to travel around Cambodia is by bus, a network that has improved quite a bit in recent years. The backpacker trail is so worn that there is a very well-established tourist bus system to take you anywhere. Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville are the main hubs.

Generally, you can get a bus anywhere in the country for under $20 USD. Buses depart regularly from Siem Reap to Bangkok for $20 USD each way, a journey that takes around 9 hours. Both buses and mini-buses also make the 6-hour journey from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh daily for $10 USD per person. The 5-hour ride from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville starts from $9 USD, while Siem Reap to Sihanoukville takes 10 hours and costs $17 USD.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Train – Trains are not common in Cambodia. There is one route that runs between Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville, and one that runs from Phnom Penh to Poipet. Tickets cost $5-7 USD though departures are not very common so you’ll need to plan ahead. While improvements are being made, due to the lack of upkeep of the rail infrastructure, trains are in bad shape. I’d stick to the buses.

Boat – You can take a boat between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap and between Siem Reap and Battambang. This isn’t the most efficient or cost-effective way to travel, but it can be a scenic and fun journey. The 6-hour ferry ride from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh costs $18-25 USD, and it’s $25 USD between Siem Reap and Battambang.

Flying – There are only a few domestic routes in Cambodia, between the major destinations of Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, and Siem Reap. The main airline carrier is Cambodia Angkor Air. Flights are generally quite expensive and have infrequent schedules. The one-hour flight from Sihanoukville to Siem Reap costs $140 USD, while the 45-minute flight from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh is $90 USD. These prices can increase significantly when booking last-minute.

Car rental – Car rentals are expensive here and the roads are far from excellent. Since accidents are common, I suggest skipping the car rental here.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Cambodia is possible, though it’s not common. Most people will think you’re waiting for a taxi though so make sure you clarify that you’re hitchhiking. Rural areas see little traffic so expect long waits outside major highways. You can check out Hitchwiki for more information and advice.

When to Go to Cambodia

The high season in Cambodia is from November to April when temperatures are milder. This more or less coincides with the dry season, which is from November-May. November-February are the busiest months, with temperatures rarely dipping below 20°C (68°F). Temperatures can go as high as 38°C (100°F), especially in April and May, so if you visit during these months be prepared for the heat and dress accordingly.

If you’d rather avoid peak tourist season, visit from May to the beginning of October. Although this overlaps with the rainy season, generally that just means getting hit with brief heavy rainfall in the afternoons. You can still see and do a lot during this time, just bring a rain jacket.

Cambodia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Cambodia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Cambodia travel and continue planning your trip:

Backpacking Cambodia: 3 Suggested Itineraries for Your Trip

Phnom Penh, I Love You!

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Cambodia Travel Guide

Your ultimate cambodia travel guide, with tips, ideas on things to do, and best things to see in cambodia. great for first-time & returning travelers..

Angkor Wat is definitely the star attraction of Cambodia and is certainly one of the most impressive structures on the planet.

We will never forget driving up to the complex and seeing Angkor Wat standing proudly over the water or the adorable little girl that sold us post cards as she recited our capital city of Canada.

But once you have your fill of temples, head over to the country’s capital Phnom Penh.

Relax by the Mekong River, check out the Royal Palace and then hire a guide to the Tuol Sleng Museum and the Killing Fields; the most compelling and profoundly moving sight in Phnom Penh. 

This Cambodia  travel guide  will help you plan your next vacation.

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• Guide to Visiting Angkor Wat

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Fast Facts about Cambodia

• Cambodian power voltage is 220/230 V 50 Hz; Power sockets A & C
• Cambodian currency is the Cambodian Riel (KHR) and is around 4,000 KHR  for 1 USD. Check  current rates here.
• If you want to skip getting a visa upon arrival, than citizens of most nations can apply for an  e-Visa online  on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation website. The price is indeed a little higher, due to a processing fee, and the e-visa only valid for entry by air or at specific border main land crossings.
• Do some good and have a drink at  The Foreign Correspondents Club  or a meal at  Friends  (215 Street 13; 00855 12 802072;  friends-international.org ), where street children are trained to be waiters and chefs.
• Take small note denominations in US dollars – $1 bills are ideal – for tipping and small purchases.
• Make sure to book in advance if you plan on visiting during mid-April’s New Year celebrations or for the Water Festival in Phnom Penh in November.

Things to See and Do in Cambodia

• Visit Tuol Sleng   – former school building, it was here that The Khmer Rouge Regime, held prisoners and tortured them until they gave names of family and friends who in turn were arrested.
• Explore Angor Wat   – hire your own private guide and explore the various sites
• Watch plankton glow at night  – Head to the island of Koh Rong to watch the water light up at night as the plankton glow from below.

Accommodation

Budget:  You can stay in budget hotels in Cambodia starting at $10 US per night. They often have free Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, and are near city centers.

Mid Range:  You will find outdoor pools to enjoy at mid-range hotels in Cambodia along with restaurants, lounges, and laundry service.

High End:  When you stay at a high-end hotel in Cambodia, you may have access to a fitness center, massage services, and beautiful views from your balcony.

Check out our favorite booking platforms Booking.com , Tripadvisor and VRBO for the best deals on accommodation.

Fish amok  – This popular dish consists of fish, coconut milk, ginger, turmeric, and lemongrass.

Lap khmer  – This beef salad is marinated with lime juice, fish sauce, mint, basil, bell peppers, and fish sauce and comes with chiles on top.

Red tree ants  – Various sized ants are mixed with chili and beef and put on top of white rice.

The Best Ways to Get Around Cambodia

Getting to cambodia:.

Getting to Cambodia:  There are no direct flights to Cambodia from North America, but you can fly in by way of Bangkok, Seoul, and other cities in Asia.

You can check for the best flights to Cambodia on Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Buses : There are some buses available in the larger cities, including ones that run to and from the airport, which start at $1.

Taxis:   Taxis are available in Cambodia in most larger areas as well as tuk-tuks and motodups starting at $1.

Car Rental:  Car rentals are available in Cambodia starting at around $40 a day. Check for prices and availability here.

When to go To Cambodia

• The best time to visit Cambodia is between November and February as the heat dies down but it’s still dry enough for outdoor activities.
• Many people also enjoy visiting from March through May as the weather starts to get warmer, making it perfect for swimming and scuba diving.

Where to Stay in Cambodia

Borei Angkor Resort & Spa  – This beautiful hotel in Siem Reap offers an outdoor restaurant, spa, and outdoor pool. The hotel is located within half an hour of many temples and the Siem Reap International Airport.

Thansur Sokha Hotel   – This is a good hotel to stay at for families in Kampot. It as it has a waterpark and in-room childcare. They also have a nightclub and casino for guests who want to go out at night.

TeaHouse Asian Urban Hotel  – This hotel is located in Phnom Penh and offers a restaurant, lounge, and an airport shuttle. They’re also right in the city center so you’ll have access to restaurants and shops within a few minute’s walk.

What to Pack for Cambodia

Cambodia is in a  tropical zone , affected by two distinct seasons: wet and dry. Monsoon season is from May to October, raining usually for a short time in the afternoon.

The dry season is from November to March where temperatures hovering around 95°F (35°C). Phnom Penh is always very humid.

• Umbrella / Rain coat:  Climate change means that Cambodia experiences rainstorms during the dry season and cool temperatures in the hot season – in short the weather can be unpredictable. Make sure to bring an umbrella or rain coat.
• The protection basics  – Travellers should stock up on the essentials: sun block, mosquito/insect repellant containing DEET or a pyrethroid insecticide, sunglasses and a hat. If you plan on traveling in rural areas, make sure to avoid mosquito-born dengue fever by wearing clothes that cover the arms and legs and spraying yourself with DEET. Mosquito coils can also help/
• Pack for Humidity  – for humid weather it is best to pack fabrics that breathe as much as possible and natural fabrics, like cotton, linen or rayon (avoiding silk, wool and polyester). Clothing should be loose and comfortable to encourage the flow of air and allow moisture to evaporate. Think “cool but conservative.”
• Footwear  – to make visiting temples and homes easy, look for a pair of supportive and sturdy sandals that can be easily slipped on and off. For hiking and trekking, pack a pair of boots. Last make sure to pack a pair of flip flops for those long walks along the beach.

Cambodia Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Cambodia Travel Guide: Related Articles

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Introduction

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An independent travel guide to Cambodia

For decades off limits to all but the most intrepid travellers, today Southeast Asia's Cambodia is a popular destination for all kinds of folks: from independent backpackers who roam far into the hinterland to luxury tourists who stay in style and experience Angkor Wat between massages and exquisite French meals.

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Tourism to Cambodia has exploded over the last two decades in two waves. The first was when security concerns were addressed, allowing easier access to Angkor and then, more recently, the second was when Cambodia's stunning islands opened for business. Despite an influx of visitors, mass tourism remains largely restricted to just a few destinations and it remains relatively easy to drop off the tourist highways. Don't assume Angkor Wat is all Cambodia has to offer; there is so very much more.

Our Cambodia travel guide is here to help you get the most out of each and every one of your trips to Cambodia, beginning with some guidelines below aimed at first-time travellers to the country. Enjoy.

Absolute highlights

Given Cambodia has an Angkor Wat motif on the flag, it's difficult not to think Cambodia equals Angkor. While it's true that Angkor Wat and the surrounding historical park are one of Cambodia's highlights, they are not the only one. The country also has some outstanding tropical islands, a nascent ecotourism scene, and some fascinating and historical urban centres. While the country lends itself to a quick trip to see the ruins, it deserves more.

Angkor Wat : Cambodia’s Angkor Wat is, quite simply, one of the most splendid attractions in all of Southeast Asia . Long considered “lost”, the ruins of Angkor were never really lost to the Khmers, who have used the monuments as religious sites throughout their history.

Siem Reap : Just five kilometres south of Angkor Wat, Siem Reap has exploded from a relatively small backwater town into the fastest growing settlement in the nation. Think amazing food, seductive places to stay and a mass of non-ruin things to do.

Phnom Penh : A crossroads of cultures, times, peoples and worlds, in Phnom Penh you can find temples, markets and buzzing back streets. The thriving, turbulent city brings together Cambodian, Chinese and French influences in a congested, grimy, shiny, vibrant and thrilling mash that somehow seems to work—except when it rains.

Islands : When many people think "Cambodia islands" they draw a blank. But the kingdom is home to some outstanding islands, suited to chilling, sunning and funning (ok, we made that word up)— here are some of our favourites .

Popular destinations

Battambang : With a rich architectural heritage, an increasingly confident art scene providing a cradle for many of Cambodia’s top talents, and stunning surrounding countryside, Battambang is a tranquil respite from the boom and hustle of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

Kratie : A charming, cheerful little town on the Mekong, Kratie is best known for its dolphins, in particular the Mekong Irrawaddy dolphins. The dwindling population of these endangered creatures makes their home off the village of Kampi, 20 kilometres north of town.

Banlung : One of Cambodia’s loveliest provinces is also one of the furthest away from anywhere else. But Ratanakiri and its capital, Banlung , is truly worth the effort, and is now easier to get to than ever before.

Koh Kong : Overlooking the peninsula that links Cambodia to Thailand, which is accessed by a near two-kilometre long bridge, Koh Kong is a breezy town, and makes for a pleasant and relaxing base from which to explore the surrounding hills, seas and all that lies in between.

Alternative destinations

Kampot : Long described as “sleepy”, the Kampot of today is transforming into a lively tourist destination, with plenty of good restaurants, bars and music to be found. But that doesn’t mean they’ve given up on the hardcore riverside lounging that the city has built its name on. Not by a long shot.

Kompong Thom : For those longing to escape the crowds and madness of Cambodia’s main tourist attractions, yet keen to visit some spectacular locations, Kompong Thom might be just the ticket.

Kompong Chhnang : Central Kompong Chhnang province is home to Cambodia's most sublime and easily accessible scenery, while the provincial capital of the same name is one of Cambodia’s most picturesque, photogenic and fascinating regional towns.

Sen Monorom : Little-visited Sen Monorom is the capital of Mondulkiri, famed for its (rapidly disappearing) thick forests, thunderous waterfalls, hills that wave up and down towards misty, faraway horizons and a real chance to immerse yourself in nature.

Chi Phat : An idyllic Cambodian village between a mountain and a river offers a relaxed, welcoming base from which to explore a special part of the world. Tucked into the southeastern front of the Cardamom Mountain range, Chi Phat is a pretty, prosperous two-street village.

Tropical islands

In recent years the islands off the coast of Cambodia (we cover seven Cambodian islands on Travelfish) have become a tourist destination in their own right, with new accommodation being built on nearly all of them, along with a host of bars, restaurants, dive shops and so on. While they're no longer deserted island paradises, they do still possess a serenity not easily found elsewhere in mainland Southeast Asia.

Koh Rong : From the image of pristine, picture-postcard-perfect cliche to somewhat messy, party destination extraordinaire to… whatever comes next, Koh Rong offers 43 kilometres of gorgeous, pristine beachfront along seven bays, all teeming with corals, marine life and fluorescent plankton, as well as dense forests covering its interior.

Koh Rong Samloem : Just 45 minutes by speedboat, yet a world away from the grubby confines of Sihanoukville, Koh Rong Samloem offers four completely different atmospheres on four beaches on what many might describe as the archetypal paradise island.

Koh Ta Kiev : Not so many people stay overnight on Koh Ta Kiev , which is a shame because it's beautiful and has a few easily accessible beaches.

Koh Totang : Unspoiled and undeveloped—there are no roads, barely even any tracks—makes getting back to nature easy on Ko Totang .

Nature lovers

National parks : Cambodia lacks the wide selection of national parks that can be found in some of its neighbours, but for the dedicated nature lover, Virachey National Park in the northeast remains a highlight. Coastal nature lovers may find Ream National Park of interest and, in the same area, Bokor National Park , while largely de-charmed by developers, is still worth a peek. Close to Phnom Penh lies Kirirom , Cambodia's first national park.

Ruins and rivers

When it comes to Cambodia and Khmer ruins it is a bit of a challenge to know just where to start—ruins great and small can be found scattered all over the country. For ease of comprehension, we've broken some of the main sites out into a few clear clusters.

From Siem Reap : Siem Reap is the hub for visiting Angkor Historical Park , along with outlying sites including Banteay Srei , Phnom Kulen , Beng Mealea , the Roluos Group and Koh Ker .

From Banteay Chhmar : While possible to visit from Siem Reap, we highly recommend overnighting at Banteay Chhmar as a part of a community-based tourism scheme.

From Kompong Thom : Preah Khan of Kompong Svay occupies a near-mythical position in Cambodia-traveller lore and is best visited from Kompong Thom—as is the lovely pre-Angkorian Sambor Prei Kuk .

From Battambang : An important province in the Angkor period, Battambang is home to several temple ruins and historical sites which can be found within a 30 kilometre radius of town, providing convenient day trip opportunities.

Preah Vihear Temple : The object of a longstanding territorial dispute between Cambodia and Thailand, Prasat Preah Vihear is one of the kingdom’s most stunning creations, not just because of the temple itself but thanks to the spectacular views across northwest Cambodia afforded from atop the 650 metre-high cliffs at the temple’s apex. A must see.

So you've got your ruin-wandering and beach baking done, what else is there to do in Cambodia? Quite a bit actually!

Learn to dive: While Cambodia's diving does not rival Thailand's you can learn to dive on some of the islands out from Sihanoukville, including Koh Rong and Ko Sdach.

Cooking courses and food walks : Food walks and cooking courses are popping up across the country like mushrooms in the wet season. Battambang , Siem Reap and Phnom Penh all have options for the culinarily inclined.

Trekking : In northeast Cambodia, trekking in Virachey National Park will appeal to those looking to get right off the map. Don't expect minority villages and the like—this is all about the wilderness—or at least what remains of it. Also look into Chi Phat and Kirirom .

The most popular time to go to Cambodia is between November and February, with the peak season falling between late December and mid January. At this time of year the weather in Cambodia is excellent—there is little rain and it isn't uncomfortably hot. This is a popular time of the year though, and destinations such as Angkor Wat and the Cambodian islands can be very busy—in peak season having a reservation for Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem can be a prudent idea.

While the Christmas period is the most popular team to go to Cambodia, opting for shoulder season instead, either between late October and early December or from early February through to the end of March, can be a good idea. In doing this you'll only have a moderate risk of rain (if visiting in October/November) or of uncomfortable heat (March, April) but the pay off will be in slightly reduced numbers of tourists.

Cambodia's wet season runs from May to October and isn't the best time for a Cambodian beach holiday—seas can be rough, in heavy weather boat services may be curtailed and some island accommodation may be closed. On the mainland, the wet keeps the crowds at bay somewhat and Angkor is wonderful in the wet season, so it isn't all bad. Phnom Penh often experiences heavy flooding during Cambodia's monsoon season.

How long to go for

How long have you got?! For a first time visitor looking to see just see Angkor Wat on a fly-in, fly-out trip, three days would suffice as an introduction. As soon as you get into multiple destinations, you'll be needing at least a week. With two weeks you could see Angkor, a couple of towns and perhaps an island. Overall, we'd say the country really deserves two weeks as a primer .

If you’re planning on travelling around more, three to four four weeks is a popular stretch especially as Cambodia has good land border connections with all three of its neighbours, allowing it to fit in well for a regional trip.

If you are planning a longer stay, it pays to familiarise yourself with Cambodia’s visa rules . They change occasionally and some rules are enforced haphazardly, complicating what should be a simple process.

What it will cost

Your budget will depend very much on your style of travelling . If you’re comfortable in very simple accommodation, eating street food, not drinking too much alcohol, travelling using cheap transport and steering clear of heavily touristed (and so more expensive) destinations, you can survive on around US$15 per day—more on the islands and maybe a couple of dollars less if you’re especially frugal and travelling as a couple.

Most independent budget travellers though tend to spend more. That air-con room is tempting, as is the pool and WiFi, latte and occasional VIP bus or short domestic flight. All these conspire to push daily budgets up to around a more comfortable US$20-$30 per day.

If your tastes veer more towards the luxurious, then Cambodia does offer terrific value — especially in the accommodation stakes, with lovely and tasteful offerings in the US$50-$150 per night mark scattered across the country. Food and entertainment costs can rise accordingly. Likewise, you can also spend north of a thousand dollars per day for truly luxurious settings—think private pool villas, butlers and so on—flying everywhere and fine dining the whole way along.

What to watch out for

Cambodia is one of the poorest nations on earth, yet it remains a fairly safe place. Petty theft is a problem, particularly the snatch and grab variety, but violent crime is rare. Always keep your wits about you. Drinking 15 beers and walking home at 3am probably isn't safe in your home country either.

Violent crime specifically aimed at foreign travellers remains rare, but does happen. Use your common sense, stay under control and, if a situation becomes uncomfortable, leave or seek assistance immediately. In the case of theft, we strongly advise not to resist and to hand over whatever the thief is demanding—it is not unusual for thieves to be beaten to death when caught—so they have far more to lose then you

Having adequate travel insurance cover is essential .

Each year at least a few foreigners are found dead in Phnom Penh guesthouses of accidental drug overdoses. The main reason? Buying cocaine that is actually heroin. Aside from being illegal, the risks involved in taking drugs in Cambodia may be higher than those in your home country. The penalties, if caught, are harsh. Don’t ride (or drive) stoned or drunk. Just because the tuk tuk driver who sold you a bag of pot didn’t get arrested doesn’t mean you won’t be.

The general state of driving skill on Cambodia's roads is poor. Cars and buses often travel at high speed, seat belts are often not fitted and drug use among drivers is reportedly not unusual. Vehicles are frequently overloaded. Roads often include everything from high speed taxis to buffalo carts, and the speed differential increases the dangers considerably. Avoid being on the roads at night when possible. We do not recommend using buses at night.

Always, always always wear a helmet when on a motorbike in Cambodia.

If you wouldn’t do it in your home country because it is stupid, why do it in Cambodia?

Popular destinations in

Angkor Banlung Banteay Chhmar Battambang Kampot Kep Koh Ker Koh Rong Koh Rong Samloem Koh Ta Kiev Koh Totang Kompong Cham Kompong Chhnang Kratie Pailin Phnom Penh Preah Vihear Temple Sen Monorom Siem Reap Sihanoukville Stung Treng Takeo See all destinations in Cambodia

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The Cambodia Travel Guide will help you discover one of Southeast Asia’s most enjoyable destinations. Visit Cambodia, and you’ll find plentiful attractions ranging from unspoilt beaches and colonial townscapes through to dense forests and majestic rivers and lakes. The legendary temples of Angkor continue to attract millions of visitors each year. Away from the temples, Cambodia is refreshingly untouristy. Cambodia remains largely unexplored in many places. New roads now bring once remote destinations within easy reach.

Cambodia travel facts

Where to go in cambodia, best time to go to cambodia.

• How to get to Cambodia

Cambodia’s cities

Phnom Penh is the capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia. The city is an alluring attraction in its own right. The centre has broad appeal, and its French influence is evident in the open-fronted colonial shophouses that line the streets. There are a mind-boggling number of restaurants, bars and cafes to try. Many tourists that travel to Cambodia linger here for the culinary experience. You can also take a boat trip from Phnom Penh along the mighty Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers.

Siem Reap is Cambodia’s principal tourist town. This city offers a gateway to the temples of Angkor. More than one hundred Angkorian monuments lie spread over some 3000 square kilometres of the countryside around the town. Siem Reap retains its small-town charm despite its popularity. It’s a lively city with many activities and attractions including lively Psar Chas Market, buzzing cafes, bars, boutique shops and plentiful nightlife. It’s also a good spot from which to visit the nearby floating villages on the Tonle Sap.

Laidback Battambang is Cambodia’s second biggest city. It is worlds apart from Phnom Penh’s urban bustle. It has a growing number of ex-pats fuelling the growth of arty cafes, restaurants and bars. It’s also home to impressive colonial architecture. You can take a countryside ride on its quirky bamboo railway.

Kompong Cham is Eastern Cambodia’s largest city. The waterfront is particularly attractive, with a string of colonial buildings lined up along the Mekong.

Temples of Angkor

For most tourists that choose to come here, their Cambodia trip is not complete without a visit to the unforgettable temples of Angkor. Understandably, this is high on the list for many who travel Cambodia as it is one of the most important archaeological sites of Southeast Asia. The awe-inspiring Angkor Wat is the most famous of the temples dominated by five corncob towers. Visit early in the morning to avoid some of the crowds. The temples attract some two million visitors per year. Visit How to see Angkor Wat without the crowds for more tips.

Southwest Cambodia & The Southern Islands

Visit the Southwest to discover miles of unspoilt beaches, hidden coves and idyllic Cambodian islands. Sihanoukville is the most popular beach resort. Ochheuteal Beach and Serendipity Beach Road justify their party town reputation. There are quieter spots too, particularly around Otres, 6km away. Sihanoukville is also the entry point to the islands of Koh Rong, Koh Rong Samloem and Koh Ta Kiev. Koh Rong has a buzzing backpacker strip at Koh Toch. The beaches at Long Set and Long Beach along the west coast are more laidback. Peaceful Koh Ta Tiev retains a real castaway vibe. Remember to take cash as there are no ATM’s on the islands.

Ream National Park is 18km east of Sihanoukville. It’s a great place to explore Cambodia’s unspoilt natural environment. The park is evergreen with mangrove forests, sandy beaches, coral reefs, and offshore islands. The riverside town of Kampot with the backdrop of misty Bokor mountains is one of Cambodia’s most appealing towns to add to your Cambodia trip itinerary. 25km southeast of Kampot, Kep is a favourite with ex-pats and Cambodians who descend at the weekend. They are attracted by its delicious, inexpensive seafood, freshly plucked from the ocean.

Eastern Cambodia

If you travel to Cambodia and you like nature and wildlife, the east is the place to be. There are patches of dense, unspoilt rainforest that remain in Eastern Cambodia . The riverside town of Kratie is an excellent base for exploring the nearby countryside. Just over 20km from Kratie is Kampie which provides the best riverside vantage point to view a pod of rare freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins . It’s thought that only around eighty remain in the entire Mekong river.

Tucked away in the forest near the sleepy capital of Banlung in the Rattanakiri province, there is a trio of impressive nearby waterfalls Ka Chhang, Katieng and Chha Ong.

Discover more places in Cambodia

• Battambang Travel Guide

Figuring out the best time to travel Cambodia depends on what you plan to do when you arrive. Cambodia is warm all year round, but it has a rainy season too.

If you visit Cambodia between March and May, the temperatures and humidity are higher. Visiting at this time can still be a good choice if you are hitting the coast. If you are travelling Cambodia to explore the temples, the season between November and February is cool enough for sightseeing. December and January can be the most popular time for tourists.

Travel Cambodia in the rainy season, and you’ll find the countryside at its lushest. Travelling around Cambodia during this season can present some practical challenges and flooding is commonplace. However, the mornings are usually dry as the rain mainly falls in the afternoon. If you do choose to go visit in the rainy season, you’ll avoid the crowds too.

The busiest International Airports are Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. There aren’t any direct flights from Europe to Cambodia. You can reach Phnom Penh, and Siem Reap via Hong Kong, Singapore, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh City and several other destinations. Take a look at Skyscanner for more options.

It’s also possible to travel overland into Cambodia from neighbouring countries. You can cross the border at several spots in Thailand, Vietnam and Laos.

Find out more Cambodia travel information in Getting to Cambodia .

When planning how to travel around Cambodia, consider the transport as part of the adventure.

Roads have seen massive improvements in the past five years, so getting around the country is much easier than it once was. The bus system provides connections between all major towns. The bus offers the cheapest and usually the most convenient way to travel.

Minibuses and ‘share taxis’ are also other options to travel by road. Share taxis are faster than taking the bus, but they do get absurdly packed. You can ask to pay roughly double the standard fare to have a front seat to yourself. You could also pay to hire the entire taxi.

For short local trips, you can hire a motorcycle or ‘moto’ for the day or a tuk-tuk. A tuk-tuk is a passenger carriage pulled by a motorbike. It’s virtually impossible to rent a self-drive car in Cambodia, but you can hire a car with a driver. Three-wheeled cycle rickshaws called cyclos are also available in Phnom Penh for short trips.

You may also end up travelling Cambodia by boat. Boat trips run between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, and between Siem Reap and Battambang. In the south, regular ferries and fast catamarans run between Sihanoukville and Koh Rong. Find out more about how to travel to Cambodia in our Cambodia guide to “ Getting Around ”.

Why travel to Cambodia? Here are 10 of the best places to travel in Cambodia. These highlights are sure to convince any traveller to include Cambodia on their itinerary when taking a trip to Southeast Asia.

• The Royal Palace in Phnom Penh: The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda in Phnom Penh are the city’s finest example of twentieth-century Khmer influenced architecture. The Royal Palace is set back from the riverbank on Sothearos Boulevard. You can stroll this complex of regal structures and perfectly manicured grounds. While there, you will gain an insight into Cambodia’s past and present. A blue flag flies when the King is in residence. While the palace itself is off-limits, it’s possible to visit several buildings within the grounds. The Silver Pagoda is named for its floor which is covered in gleaming silver.
• Temples of Angkor: The Temples of Angkor are world-renowned and house some of the country’s finest monuments. More than one hundred Angkorian monuments lie spread over some 3000 square kilometres of the countryside. The best-known monuments are the vast temple of Angkor Wat and the walled city of Angkor Thom. During the Angkorian period, the ruling god-kings built imposing temples as a way of asserting their divinity. They left a legacy of more than one hundred temples constructed between the ninth and fifteenth centuries. The full magnificence of Angkor Wat represents the height of Khmer art. The pretty tenth-century temple of Banteay Srei is unique, made from unusual pink sandstone and with intricate ornamentation.
• Koh Ta Tiev: Peaceful Koh Ta Tiev is one of the southern islands, and it’s a tropical paradise retaining a real castaway vibe. There are several types of accommodation to choose from, and you can even camp or sleep in a hammock between two trees over the sand. There is limited electricity on the island and no wifi. Spend your days’ jungle trekking, snorkelling, or experiencing authentic Khmer cooking.
• Battambang: Battambang is Cambodia’s second largest city, but it’s often overlooked. It’s a bustling city that is both welcoming and laidback. Its lush surrounding countryside is ideal for bike rides, and it’s easy to get out on the water by kayak. You can whizz past rice paddies and rattle over bridges when you ride the quirky bamboo railway too.
• Kampot: The riverside Kampot is one of Cambodia’s most appealing towns with the backdrop of misty Bokor Mountains. At Kampot, you can potter along the river for a swim or sunset cruise. You could also head into the mountains to explore caves. Kampot is also a base from which to explore the region’s famed pepper plantations. Bokor National Park is home to an abandoned 1920s hotel and casino. Kampot has a friendly but low key nightlife.
• Kep: Kep is renowned throughout Cambodia for its delicious, inexpensive seafood. It’s heaven for seafood connoisseurs. You can get fresh crab straight from the sea at the crab market on the western seafront. It’s also a good base from which to go on an island boat tour. Head over to the palm-fringed beach of Rabbit Island or Koh Tonsay.
• Floating villages on Tonle Sap: Tonle Sap lake is home to dozens of picturesque floating villages. Explore the fascinating houses built from bamboo and raised on stilts; they are mainly inhabited by Vietnamese fisherman. You’ll pass floating markets, schools and pagodas and learn more about local life.
• Irrawaddy Dolphins: Around 20km north of Kratie is Kampie. It offers the best riverside vantage point to spot the rare freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins. It is expected that only around eighty remain in the entire Mekong. The Irrawaddy dolphins look very much like porpoises. The Irrawaddy dolphin has been added to the IUCN Red List as a critically endangered species. The dolphin-watching site is now run as an ecotourism project by the local community.
• Ream National Park: Ream National Park is one of Cambodia’s most accessible national parks. Here you can explore Cambodia’s unspoilt natural environment with mangrove forests, sandy beaches and rich diversity of flora and fauna. You are likely to see kingfishers, eagles and monkeys.
• Trekking in Rattanakiri: Trek into the forest of Rattanakiri, the capital Banlung is surrounded by peaceful countryside. It is dotted with waterfalls and lakes, and it’s also home to the indigenous chunchiet hill tribes. You may spot gibbons, rare birdlife and endangered species in the Virachey National Park.

For more places to visit, check out these gorgeous pictures of Cambodia .

The carefully-curated itineraries in our Cambodia travel guide will inspire you to make the most of your trip. These itineraries take in the most popular destinations for those that travel Cambodia including the cities and infamous Temples of Angkor. You can also take the opportunity to go off the beaten track and take in Cambodia’s natural attractions. There is an itinerary to suit anyboth your interests and your timeframes.

Travel ideas for Cambodia, created by local experts

The Ultimate Southeast Asia Grand Tour

Explore the highlights of four countries in a bit over 3 weeks: Halong Bay & the Mekong Delta in Vietnam combined with the cities Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Proceed to Cambodia with Angkor Wat before watching the monks in Luang Prabang/Laos. Your trip ends in Thailand with elephants and Bangkok.

Impressions of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos

Start and end your trip in Ho Chi Minh City and visit highlights such as the Mekong Delta, Phnom Penh with the Killing Fields, Angkor Wat, the historic city of Luang Prabang in Laos before heading back to Vietnam - Hanoi, Halong Bay and Hoi An await.

Siem Reap Family Adventure

Traditional ox and carts, sprawling rice fields, majestic temples, glorious food and breath-taking countryside – this is Cambodia. Take some time out in Siem Reap with its Old Market and boutiques, savour local cuisine and be prepared for the trip of a lifetime. Perfect for groups and families.

Cambodia’s Beaches and Temples

See the best of beautiful Cambodia on this amazing tour. Explore the busy capital Phnom Penh, laze on the golden sands of the south coast beaches, discover local villages and Cambodian cuisine before you lose yourself among the mystical temples of Angkor.

Cambodia Explorer

This is a trip to Cambodia for the adventurer. This trip takes you from the glorious temples and rolling countryside of Siem Reap to the attractive riverside capital of Phnom Penh where you can explore the city’s broad boulevards, new restaurants and myriad sights.

A Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos Adventure

Make the most of your time in South East Asia and discover not 1 but 3 exciting countries. From Vietnam to Cambodia and Laos you will get the know the locals, visit ancient temples, relax on a cruise, get a taste of Buddhism and so much more. This itinerary will show you the wonders of Asia.

Cambodia cultural discovery tour takes in Phnom Penh, with its romantic cafes and haute cuisine, ancient, awe-inspiring temples, stunning countryside and one of the greatest wonders of the world.

Cambodia Explorer travel tour takes you from the glorious temples and rolling countryside of Siem Reap to the attractive riverside capital of Phnom Penh where you can explore the city’s broad boulevards, new restaurants and myriad sights.

Combining remote locations that are as yet not overrun with tourists is the aim of the Unseen Cambodia itinerary , which includes trips to quiet tucked away townships and villages.

Travel advice for Cambodia

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Cambodia

• Eating and drinking in Cambodia
• Getting around Cambodia: Transportation Tips
• Best time to visit Cambodia
• Weather in Cambodia in May
• Weather in Cambodia in April
• Weather in Cambodia in March

When you plan your Cambodia trip, make sure you have the latest Cambodia travel advice.

Check out the travel essentials section with all the travel advice you need before you go. It will help you to make sure your trip runs smoothly. It covers tips on travelling Cambodia, including keeping healthy, staying safe, money and insurance. Cambodia travel essentials also includes festival and public holiday dates, tips on travelling with children and more.

All foreign nationals except those from certain Southeast Asian countries need a visa to enter Cambodia. Tourist visas are valid for thirty days. The tourist visas are issued on arrival at all border crossings and airports. You will need two passport photos to get your visa. You can also take care of your tourist visa online in advance evisa.gov.kh. The e-visas are only valid at airports and the Poipet, Koh Kong and Bavet land crossings. Check the website for full details. E-visas take three days to process, and you still need to provide a digital photograph.

A tourist visa can be extended once for one month. Many travel agents and guesthouses can help you extend your visa for a commission. You can also buy a business visa, and this can be extended in a variety of ways, and they allow multiple entries. Find out more in the Cambodia guide to travel essentials.

The main cities in Cambodia have several accommodation options and finding something is rarely a problem. There are basic hotels in every provincial town too. The budget accommodation can be very cheap at around $7 to 8$ per night. Most hotel rooms have a double bed as standard. Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville also offer tourist-orientated budget guesthouses and hostels. Hostels can be priced as little as $2 per night. Camping is theoretically illegal in Cambodia, but is a possibility in some places – for example, on the beaches and islands of the south coast.

Mid-range and luxury accommodation is usually only found around the tourist hotspots and major towns. Luxury accommodation is widely available in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Battambang, Sihanoukville and Kep. There are choices of five-star chain hotels, chic boutiques and idyllic resorts constructed in traditional Khmer style.

Find out more in the Cambodia guide to accommodation .

Cambodian food has influences from many other countries in Asia and French influence too. Cambodian food is milder than Thai food and often herbs, spices and chilli are served on the side rather than blended into the dish. Dishes are delicately enhanced with flavours like lemongrass and coriander. Cambodia’s national dish is bamboo-leaf infused fish amok. Stir-fries feature on most menus alongside delicious coconut milk curry dishes and rice.

Local variations of typical Vietnamese dishes can also be found too. French influences can also be found on the menus here with endless coffee options and French-style baguettes. You can find Khmer street food at markets and on street stalls. You can fill up on noodle dishes, filled baguettes and stir-fries.

Cambodians drink plenty of green tea and fruit shakes. Stalls are set up in towns all over the country from late afternoon. Also available is iced sugar-cane juice and the juice of green coconuts - all very refreshing. Cambodia’s national beer is Angkor, brewed by an Australian and Cambodian joint venture in Sihanoukville. Find out more about food and drink in Cambodia .

Cambodia has an increasing number of activities and sports. In the northeast, particularly in Banlung and Sen Monorom, local guides can lead groups or individuals on treks into the surrounding jungle and Virachey National Park. Treks can last anything from a day to a week. There is also good trekking in the forested hills around Koh Kong.

Diving in Cambodia

There are excellent opportunities to snorkel and dive in and around Cambodia. There are several PADI dive shops in Sihanoukville and nearby islands offering both certification and fun day trips.

Cycling and kayaking are available in the northeast around the Mekong River. Bike trips can be organised at Kratie, Stung Treng and around Angkor’s temples or the Cardamom Mountains.

Those that travel Cambodia will gain more respect from locals if they are well dressed. Both men and women dress conservatively. It’s best to avoid skimpy clothes and shorts unless you are at a beach resort. When visiting temples, it’s best to have both shoulders and legs covered. Remove your shoes before entering a Cambodian temple or Cambodian home. Cambodians themselves are conservative and do their best to keep clean and well presented.

It’s advisable to avoid any displays of public affection between men and women. Even visitors holding hands can be embarrassing for Cambodians.

Top image © Efired/Shutterstock

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written by Andy Turner

updated 22.05.2024

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Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

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After Your Trip

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites
• Mosquito bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

Avian/bird flu.

• Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
• Avoid domestic and wild poultry
• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Cambodia, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Cambodia. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Cambodia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Cambodia. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Cambodia’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Cambodia. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Cambodia may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Cambodia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Cambodia for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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The best times to visit Cambodia for temple trips, beach days and more

Mar 24, 2022 • 6 min read

High season draws huge crowds for iconic photo opportunities like sunrise at Angkor Wat © Ikonya / Getty Images

Some Cambodians wryly observe that Cambodia has three seasons – hot, hotter and hottest – but in reality, there are distinct dry and wet seasons that define the harvest cycle and dramatically alter the character of the landscape in this fascinating Southeast Asian nation.

The dry season runs from November to May, and the "cool season" months of November to February are the most popular time to visit Cambodia due to milder temperatures. The countryside appears somewhat parched from February to May when daytime temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F ).

The wet season usually runs from June to October, coinciding with the southwest monsoon, but it's not necessarily a bad time to travel to Cambodia. It usually only rains heavily once a day towards sunset, the countryside is a blaze of green, and many hotels and resorts offer substantial discounts. 

Here's a guide to the best times to visit Cambodia.

The high season (November–March) is the best time for good weather and exploring temples

Temperatures in Cambodia are much more Mediterranean during the "winter" months in Southeast Asia. The mercury occasionally drops below 20°C (68°F), forcing Cambodians to scramble for their coats and woollies. This makes exploring the temples much more pleasant, but it's also the most crowded time at Angkor . Lots of accommodation is booked out in advance, particularly over the Christmas and New Year period and during Chinese New Year, which follows the lunar calendar, falling in January or February.

The shoulder season (July–August) is the best time for families

Although this is the middle of Cambodia's wet season, it doesn’t usually rain that much, though there's enough water to swell the Tonle Sap lake. It's an ideal time for families living in Europe and North America, thanks to the long school holidays and discounted prices at hotels and resorts.

There are also far fewer tourists exploring Angkor during the "green season" when the moats are full of water and many of the temples are coated in moss and lichen. The main drawback of shoulder season travel is that it can rain quite heavily on the coast, meaning Ko Rong and other idyllic islands near Sihanoukville can be quite wet and windy.

The low season (April–June & September–October) is the best time for discounts

When it comes to weather, these months are definitely not the best. Temperatures in April and May reach scorchio levels, and September and October are wet, wet, wet. However, this is the time when accommodation providers release their best special offers. You can save a huge amount of money if you plan on staying at five-star hotels and luxury resorts. September and October are the height of the rainy season, but this also brings emerald landscapes and epic cloud formations. 

A month-by-month planner

Many of Cambodia's big festivals follow the lunar calendar and spill across more than one month on the Gregorian calendar. Here's a guide to what is happening throughout the year.

January–March is the busiest time of year

This is peak tourist season in Cambodia, and Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and the South Coast are usually heaving. The internationally recognized New Year celebrations are followed by Chinese and Vietnamese New Years' festivities, so be ready for some serious festive cheer.

Chaul Chnam Chen & Tet: The Chinese New Year – known locally as Chaul Chnam Chen – coincides with Tet, the Vietnamese New Year, falling in either January or February depending on the year. As many of Phnom Penh ’s businesses are run by Chinese-Khmers, commerce grinds to a halt around this time and there are dragon dances all over the capital.

April–June brings festivals and the start of the rains

This is the beginning of the low season for visitors, as the monsoon swoops in, bringing regular rain until October. Young rice is planted and the landscape begins to come to life once more in a blaze of green after the parched months of the dry season. April is the most important month in the calendar for Khmers, marking the Cambodian New Year. However, temperatures rocket and the mercury regularly hits 40°C (104°F).

Chaul Chnam Khmer: During the three-day celebration of Chaul Chnam Khmer (Khmer New Year) in mid-April, Cambodians make offerings at wats, clean out their homes and exchange gifts. It is a memorable time to visit the Kingdom as Khmers go wild with water in the countryside, and a good-natured water fight spills across the country (throwing talcum powder is also popular).

Chat Preah Nengkal (Royal Ploughing Ceremony): Presided over by the royal family, the Royal Ploughing Ceremony is an ancient agricultural festival held to mark the traditional beginning of the rice-growing season. The royal oxen predict whether or not it will be a good harvest by tucking into the sacred crop. The ritual takes place in early May and rotates around different provincial capitals.

Visakha Puja (Buddha Day): A celebration of Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and parinibbana (passing), Visakha Puja sees locals flock to wats (pagodas) to pay their respects. The festival falls on the eighth day of the fourth moon (in May or June) and sees processions of monks carrying candles through Angkor Wat at night.

July–September sees more celebrations and crowds of backpackers

Tourism numbers see a bounce in July and August thanks to the annual school holidays in Europe and the US. Backpackers also descend on Cambodia and the Mekong region to take advantage of university and college holidays. September is traditionally the wettest month in Cambodia, with sporadic flooding along the Mekong and around Battambang . The Khmer calendar’s second-most-important festival, P’chum Ben, falls in September or October.

P’chum Ben (Festival of the Dead): This festival resembles the Christian celebration of All Souls’ Day when respects are paid to the dead through offerings made at wats. P’chum Ben lasts for several days and devout Buddhists are expected to visit seven wats during the festival. Local temples are a blaze of color, ceremonies and chanting.

October-December sees rain give way to warm, dry winds

The rains extend deep into October and this has led to some serious flooding in recent years. However, the countryside is extraordinarily green, and it's a rewarding time for boat travel between Siem Reap and Battambang. November sees the start of the dry, windy season, the best time to be in the country. The peak tourist season starts and continues through until February.

Bon Om Tuk, the much-celebrated Water Festival, takes place in October or November. Christmas and New Year are peak times for visitors at Angkor and leading beach resorts, so book a long way ahead. The international New Year on 31 December is widely (and wildly) celebrated in key cities such as Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

Bon Om Tuk (Water Festival): Celebrating the victory of King Jayavarman VII over the Chams, this important festival in October or November also marks the extraordinary natural phenomenon of the reversal of the flow of the Tonlé Sap River. It’s a wonderful, chaotic time to be in Cambodia, with boat races at Sisowath Quay in Phnom Penh, and riverside parties in Siem Reap.

Angkor Photo Festival: In Siem Reap, resident and regional photographers descend on the temples and team up with local youths to teach them the tricks of the trade at this civic-minded festival in November or December. Photography exhibitions are staged all over town and some famous Vietnam War-era photographers are sometimes in attendance.

Angkor Wat International Half Marathon: This half marathon in December has been a fixture on the sporting calendar for two decades. Choose from a 21km (13-mile) half marathon, a 10km (6.2-mile) fun run or various bicycle races. It’s hard to imagine a better backdrop for a run than the incredible temples of Angkor.

You may also like: Angkor Wat: everything you need to know about Cambodia's most iconic temple Siem Reap: 11 best things to do after you explore Angkor Wat Cambodia's less-traveled islands visitors need to know about

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Cambodia travel advice

Latest updates: Entry and exit requirements – updated information on other entry requirements

Last updated: August 27, 2024 15:54 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, cambodia - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Cambodia due to an increase in petty crime.

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Petty crime

Petty crime, such as phone and bag snatching, occurs frequently. Thieves, sometimes on motorcycles, grab bags and other valuables, including passports. Theft targeting foreigners is frequent on sidewalks, on motorcycles and tuktuks (rickshaws) in:

• Phnom Penh, particularly the riverfronts and the Boeung Keng Kang areas
• Sihanoukville

Personal belongings have been stolen from locked rooms, particularly in low-cost accommodations. Items have been removed from luggage stored in the luggage compartments of buses, especially on the journey between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

These crimes occur any time of day or night.

During your stay in Cambodia:

• ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and your other travel documents are secure at all times
• do not leave your belongings unattended
• if you are robbed, hand over cash, electronic devices and valuables without resistance

Violent crime

Violent crimes, such as stabbings, sometimes occur. Foreigners have encountered difficulties when reporting crimes to police and military personnel lacking discipline.

Organized crime

There are reports of criminal operations in the seaside resort of Sihanoukville and the Special Economic Zone. The criminal activity includes employment scams, drug and human trafficking.

During your trip:

• exercise a high degree of caution at all times
• avoid walking alone after dark
• report any criminal incidents to the local police of the jurisdiction, before leaving Cambodia

Cambodia is one of the most heavily mined countries in the world. Landmines pose a threat to the safety of travellers.

There are still reports of landmines in the following areas:

• the Preah Vihear Phnom Kulen temple areas
• the border areas, including with Thailand
• the River of a Thousand Lingas

There are also landmines in rural areas, especially in the following provinces:

• Banteay Meanchey
• Kampong Thom
• Siem Reap except in the town of Siem Reap and the Angkor temples, which are considered clear by the Cambodian government

If you are travelling through the affected areas:

• be especially vigilant in remote areas, near small bridges and secondary roads
• do not walk in forested areas, fields or in dry rice paddies without a local guide
• don't handle suspicious items and report them to local authorities
• pay attention to signs indicating the possible presence of landmines
• stay on paved and main roads and avoid roadside ditches, shoulders and unmarked trails
• cross only at official border crossings

Although there have been no recent reports of terrorist activity, the global risk of terrorism should not be ruled out.

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place and even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Credit card and ATM fraud

There is bank and ATM fraud. When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention if other people are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• count and examine your cash at the ATM or with your teller
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Scams targeting tourists occur, including card games. The criminals sometimes take travellers to ATMs and force them to withdraw money.

Travellers have been the victim of scams and extortion at border crossings. Some have reported that border officials demanded they pay extra charges before they can enter Cambodia.

Carefully consider accepting assistance from individuals offering to help with documentation or transportation.

Reports of scam operations have increased, especially in the city of Sihanoukville and Poipet.

• Be wary of fake job offers on social media, through agencies, or from unknown employers.
• Verify the business's legitimacy before making the decision.

Telephone scams

Foreigners have received calls from scammers claiming to be local authorities or financial institutions. The caller may try to collect personal information or request a fund transfer to resolve administrative or customs issues.

Do not send any money or personal information in this type of situation.

Romance scams

Romance scams through dating sites or social media have occurred. Be alert to attempts at fraud by persons who profess friendship or romantic interest over the internet. It may be an attempt to get you to send money to pay off fake debts.

• Beware of people who show a keen interest online
• Keep in mind that you may be the victim of a scam if you go to Cambodia to meet someone that you met online
• Always meet new acquaintances in a secure and familiar location
• Be mindful of the risk of inviting new acquaintances in your hotel room or apartment

Useful links

• Overseas fraud
• Cyber security while travelling

Women's safety

Sexual assault has been committed, including against foreign women, in Cambodia. Some of the reported incidents happened in hostels.

• Be cautious of strangers who are helpful and friendly
• Do not accept offers of transportation from strangers
• Avoid dark alleys and isolated areas
• Avoid unattended beaches
• Keep your hotel or hostel doors and windows locked

If you are victim of a sexual assault, you should seek medical attention and report the situation immediately to local authorities and the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate.

Advice for women travellers

Road safety

Driving habits.

Road safety can vary considerably across the country. Drivers do not drive safely or respect traffic laws.

Drinking and driving is common, and frequently the cause of accidents, especially around major holidays. Some vehicles, especially motorcycles, may drive against the flow of traffic and on the sidewalks.

• Exercise caution when driving or walking
• Be particularly vigilant when driving during the holiday periods

In the event of a car accident:

• remain at the scene
• report the accident to the police and your insurance company as soon as possible
• if you are found to be at fault, you may be detained until all fines are paid

Road conditions

The road system outside of major cities is in poor condition. Main roads are paved but secondary roads may not be. Narrow and unpaved roads affect rural driving. Conditions may be more hazardous during the rainy season.

Travel by road during daylight hours.

Travel by motorcycle

Motorcycles are a common in urban areas. Motorcycle accidents kill or maim several Canadians in Cambodia each year.

Riding motorcycles in Cambodia as it is dangerous, even for experienced motorcyclists.

Rental agencies often request passports as a guarantee when renting motorcycles.

You should not use your Canadian passport as collateral or assurance for debts or rental of motorcycles. If your passport is inaccessible or stolen because of such misuse, you may be subject to investigation by Passport Canada and may receive limited passport services.

Checkpoints

Expect checkpoints and have your up-to-date documents ready for traffic police to inspect.

Public transportation

Exercise caution when taking buses in Cambodia.

• Only use reputable transportation companies
• Contact your travel agency for a list of recommended intercity bus companies

Taxis and ridesharing services

Taxis are available in major cities and are easy to obtain at hotels or taxi stands. Self-drive (rental), chauffeur-driven cars and ridesharing services are also available in major cities.

Confirm fares before entering a taxi, and/or request that the taxi driver use the meter.

Travel can be affected by the poor track maintenance and drivers trying to beat the train at crossings.

Boats are often overcrowded and lack adequate safety equipment. Boat owners do not accept liability for accidents.

Each year, illicit drug use leads to the death of several Canadians in Cambodia. Seek medical assistance if you begin to feel sick after using drugs.

More information on how to avoid difficult and dangerous situations related to illegal drugs

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report – International Maritime Bureau's Piracy Reporting Centre

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Cambodian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of entry into Cambodia. If you wish to extend your stay in Cambodia, make sure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond the extension period.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required Business visa: required Student visa: required

Tourist and business visas allow entry to Cambodia for 30 days only, counting from the date of entry.

Travellers must pay a fee in cash of US$30 for tourist visas or US$35 for business visas and provide two passport-sized photos. The photos can be purchased at the airport for US$3 each.

Make sure Cambodian officials stamp your passport when you arrive. Keep your immigration card intact in your passport or put it in a safe place. You will have to contact Cambodian immigration officials if you lose your immigration card before you can leave the country.

You can request a single-entry tourist visa online through Cambodia's e-Visa service.

Apply for an e-visa – Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation

Visa expiry date

When issued outside Cambodia, visas have an expiry date, which refers to the date by which the visa must be used, not the length of time allowed in the country. Visas must be renewed for stays over 30 days and may only be extended once.

Where to get a visa

Tourist and business visas can be obtained at:

• a Cambodian embassy abroad
• upon arrival at the airports in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap
• certain land borders as e-visas

For more information, contact the nearest Cambodian embassy or consulate.

Other entry requirements

The trial period for the Cambodia e-Arrival application (CeA) will end on August 31, 2024. As of September 1, 2024, the electronic form in the app will replace the standard immigration, customs and health forms.

You will have to complete your e-Arrival forms (immigration, customs and health) within 7 days of your scheduled arrival.

Cambodia e-Arrival (CeA) application – Government of Cambodia

An onward or return ticket and proof of sufficient funds are required to visit Cambodia.

Foreigners Presence in Cambodia System (FPCS)

Cambodian immigration has required that foreign nationals in Cambodia be registered on the FPCS – an online registration system aiming to protect foreigners' safety and security in case of an emergency while living or staying in Cambodia. If you don't register, you may be denied a visa extension. Verify with your accommodation staff or owners if they have registered your information on the system. If you own your accommodation, you can self-register by downloading the mobile app.

• Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain.  It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.

Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:

• travelling long term (e.g. more than 30 days)
• making multiple trips to endemic areas
• staying for extended periods in rural areas
• visiting an area suffering a JE outbreak
• engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (e.g., entomologists)

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

There is a risk of schistosomiasis in this destination. Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by tiny worms (blood flukes) which can be found in freshwater (lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands). The worms can break the skin, and their eggs can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, or urinary problems. Schistosomiasis mostly affects underdeveloped and r ural communities, particularly agricultural and fishing communities.

Most travellers are at low risk. Travellers should avoid contact with untreated freshwater such as lakes, rivers, and ponds (e.g., swimming, bathing, wading, ingesting). There is no vaccine or medication available to prevent infection.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The level of risk may vary by:

The virus that causes chikungunya is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times.

Learn more:

Insect bite and pest prevention Chikungunya

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)   is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). 

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

There has been an increase in the number of multidrug-resistant gonorrhea cases reported in this country. Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection. It is spread through sexual contact (oral, genital or anal) with someone who has the infection. Multidrug-resistant gonorrhea is very difficult to treat as it may not respond to currently recommended antibiotics.

Reduce your risk of getting multidrug-resistant gonorrhea by:

• avoiding sexual activity with a new partner
• packing your own supply of condoms and dental dams
• using condoms consistently and correctly every time you have sex
• using dental dams (rectangular pieces of thin latex) over the vagina or anus for a protective barrier during oral sex 

If you think you may have been exposed to gonorrhea, discuss this with your health care provider. If you are diagnosed with gonorrhea, it is important to follow your health care provider's prescribed treatment and any follow-up recommendations. 

• Safer condom use
• Getting tested for STIs
• Sexual health and travel 

Medical services and facilities

Medical facilities are poor and very limited throughout Cambodia, except some foreign hospitals in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

Doctors and hospitals may require cash payment or written guarantees from insurance providers in advance for health services.

Medical evacuation to Thailand or Singapore is often required to obtain adequate treatment. You should seek immediate assistance in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap and consider leaving the country if you experience medical problems.

Psychiatric or psychological facilities and services in Cambodia are almost non-existent.

Some prescription medication may not be available in Cambodia. Pharmacies only carry a limited selection compared to Canada. There have been reports of expired and fake medicines being sold in some pharmacies.

If you take prescription medications, you're responsible for determining their legality in Cambodia.

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack them in your carry-on luggage
• Carry a copy of your prescriptions

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

There are severe penalties for the possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs. If you are convicted, you can expect lengthy jail sentences and steep fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Expulsion, deportation and limitation of visit

Cambodian authorities can expel, deport or limit a traveller's visit if you are accused, or suspected of:

• violating local laws, which include possession of invalid entry documents and requirements
• having a criminal record
• being involved in criminal activities
• suffering from mental illness or serious transmitted diseases

Legal process

Detention during the investigative period is commo and can exceed 6 months before charges are laid.

Illegal or restricted activities

Overstaying a visa.

Immigration regulations are strict. You could face fines, detention and deportation if you overstay your visa. There is a daily fine for overstaying the validity of your visa. There is no limit to this fine. If you overstay more than 30 days, you will need to leave Cambodia in addition to paying the fine.

Exploitation of minors

There are harsh penalties for sexual exploitation of minors. It is a serious offence in Cambodia.

Canadians may also be subject to criminal proceedings in Canada for acts of this nature committed while abroad.

Child Sex Tourism: It’s a Crime

All forms of commercial surrogacy are illegal in Cambodia. Penalties for surrogates, as well as operators of clinics and hospitals providing surrogacy services, may include imprisonment and/or fines. If you have already entered into a surrogacy agreement, you should seek advice from a local lawyer on how these guidelines, including its exit requirements, apply to your situation.

Cultural heritage and antiquities

A permit is required to purchase, export or possess cultural or archaeological artefacts.

To avoid any difficulties, make sure you obtain and carry the required legal paperwork to purchase or export antiquities.

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Cambodian law doesn't prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Cambodia.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Cambodia, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Cambodia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Cambodia by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Cambodia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

You must have and carry a Cambodian driver's licence.

Helmets are mandatory for motorcycle riders, but many helmets do not meet international safety standards. Ensure your medical insurance will cover you when riding as a driver or passenger.

Dress and behaviour

There are reports of local authorities cracking down on events such as pub crawls, raves, booze cruises and pool parties, as well as other events where recreational drugs may be present. Avoid these types of events.

Behaviour that is deemed scandalous, drunken or disorderly is considered highly disrespectful to the local culture and population, especially near the Angkor temples.

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect religious and social traditions
• do not photograph airports or military installations
• ask permission before photographing individuals, including Buddhist monks

The currency is the riel (KHR).

U.S. dollars are also widely used. Only newer, undamaged notes are accepted. Notes with the slightest tear will not be accepted.

Credit cards are not widely accepted outside major cities. Some banks in Phnom Penh accept certain credit cards for cash advances. There are many ATMs in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville but fewer in smaller cities.

The rainy (or monsoon) season extends from May to November. Severe rainstorms can cause flooding and landslides, resulting in loss of life and extensive damage to infrastructure. They can also hamper the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged. Flooding can affect wide areas in numerous provinces, including certain parts of Phnom Penh.

• Keep informed of regional weather forecasts
• Avoid disaster areas
• Follow the advice of local authorities
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Mekong River conditions  –  Mekong River Commission

Forest fires

The dry season lasts from November to April. Forest fires can start and spread very quickly during this period.

• Stay clear of active fires
• Always verify local conditions with relevant authorities before travelling near forested areas, particularly during the dry seasons

National Committee for Disaster Management – Government of Cambodia

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 117
• medical assistance: 119
• firefighters: 118 or 666

Consular assistance

Siem Reap, Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Oddar Meanchey, and Preah Vihear

Thailand, Cambodia, Laos

For emergency consular assistance, call the Office of the Embassy of Canada in Phnom Penh and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Warnings and insurance

Before you travel.

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see  general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see  general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about  safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

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Cambodia's Secrets of Angkor

3 days | uncover cambodia's secrets from angkor wat to siem reap.

Uncover the secrets of Cambodia’s mystical Angkor Wat region during three full days of exploration and adventure. Investigate these sacred temples and explore from Angkor Wat to Ta Prohm with a knowledgeable local guide. Be awed not only by the ruins but by stories of god-kings and lost civilisations, ancient mythology and fascinating folklore. Trek through the dense, steamy Cambodian jungle to admire Hindu sculptures that were carved into a riverbed over a thousand years ago, sample plenty of spicy Khmer dishes and meet locals who reside in stilted villages atop Tonle Sap. This is the perfect addition to any holiday in South East Asia.

Trip overview

• As one of the world’s greatest religious and archaeological sites, Angkor Wat deserves and demands special attention – this short break focuses on the temple complex in detail.
• From the man-made to the natural side of Cambodia, an Intrepid Foundation supported project that helps animals saved from trafficking.
• Explore the lands surrounding Angkor Wat, and gain insight into the Cambodian way of life.
• Discover a way of life dictated by the rhythm of water in the fascinating floating villages of Tonle Sap Lake
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, CRST. Donations help them break the cycle of poverty in Cambodia by inspiring and empowering children with education opportunities.
• On Short Breaks, you maintain a good level of independence and freedom, with the added bonus of having the details sorted out for you. You’ll have lots of free time and you won’t be accompanied by a Trip Leader. This means that all included activities and tours will be run by different local Intrepid partners, and these may operate independently from each other. The included activities and transfers will operate on a join-in basis, which means that you could have your Adventure all to yourself, or others may join you along the way. If you would prefer to travel in a group with a dedicated Trip Leader, just get in touch with your booking agent and they will take you through some alternatives.
• We use a variety of hotels in Siem Reap, depending on availability. These hotels will be confirmed to you at your time of booking.
• Part of travelling with Intrepid means respecting local cultures and sensibilities. That way you get the most out of your interactions with local people and environments and you will visit many temples on this trip, which requires a level of modesty. Be sure to bring clothes that cover the arms and pants or skirts that go past the knees. A light scarf is also a good idea for covering shoulders and arms when it’s hot.

Sua s'dei! Welcome to Cambodia. You are picked up from centrally located hotels between 8.00am and 8.15am by your local guide for your day tour in Siem Reap.

We start our Angkor adventure with a visit to Angkor Wat temple, easily the most famous and best-preserved of all temples within the Angkor complex. Lunch is Khmer style in a local restaurant. Enjoy a spread of great local food followed by a nap lazing in a hammock or explore to see the traditional way of life and say hello to the Cambodians near here. After lunch we continue our day tour by visiting Angkor Thom, with its 54 towers decorated with more than 200 enigmatic smiling faces. Then we move on to visit the beautiful Ta Prohm (Tomb Raider) temple which was made famous by Angelina Jolie.

Your evening will be free for you to do as you wish. You might like to hit the night markets for some cheap and delicious street food, or maybe indulge in a traditional massage.

• Hotel (1 night)

Today’s activities are part of the Angkor tour. You might be joined by other travellers who’ve booked this activity.

Join a friendly local guide for some serious temple-hopping, nature appreciation and an in-depth look at local life in Siem Reap.

Visit the Banteay Srei Butterfly Centre, where we’ll learn all about the lifecycle of butterflies. The netted tropical enclosure here contains thousands of beautiful, free-flying butterflies and is the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia, and all revenue is re-invested to the local community to help alleviate poverty.

The next stop on our tour is the Cambodian Landmine Museum which was established in 1997 by ex-child soldier Aki Ra. The museum aims to educate visitors on the importance of clearing landmines in Cambodia and also supports at-risk Khmer children.

The truly stunning Banteay Srei Temple is next, which is home to some of the most exquisite stone carvings on earth. We’ll take a look around, learn a little about the temple and its history and, let’s be honest, pretend to be Indiana Jones for a few minutes. Since you're likely getting hungry at this point, we'll stop for a local Khmer lunch before heading to the next stop.

On the way back, we’ll stop to meet the sugar palm community at Preah Dak Village, the biggest sugar palm producer in Siem Reap. Here you’ll get a chance to learn how this organic sugar is produced and hopefully you’ll get to taste one of their sweet treats too. Our last stops of the day will be at two more elaborate temples in the grand circle of Angkor. Then we'll finish off with a visit to Preah Khan Temple, one of the largest complexes at Angkor.

Return to your hotel and you will have free time tonight.

• Siem Reap - Tour of Banteay Srei and Preah Khan Temples
• Siem Reap - Landmine museum
• Siem Reap - Banteay Srey Butterfly Center

Ensure you have suitable footwear today for the jungle trek - shoes with a good grip are recommended. Although the trek is fairly easy the hot weather can make it very challenging so please carry plenty of water with you to keep hydrated.

Today’s activities are part of the Banteay Srei Full-Day Tour: Temples, Butterflies & Lunch tour. You might be joined by other travellers who’ve booked this activity.

Discover Siem Reap's secrets as you explore by remork (Cambodian tuk tuk) on a half day tour in Siem Reap. Leaving Siem Reap we travel through the countryside to Tonle Sap Lake.

The Tonle Sap one of the world’s most productive bodies of fresh water. Each year, millions of fish come to spawn in the seasonally flooded forest surrounding the lake, attracting a myriad of water birds as well as people, who have settled in villages along the shores and who live with the rhythm of the water. This ecosystem was classified as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1997.

Take a boat trip around the lake to see floating villages and get a taste for life ruled by monsoonal rains and water-based agriculture. Take the back roads back to town and witness seasonal agricultural activities like cricket catching, rice planting and harvesting, smoking fish, fish paste (prohoc making), and duck farming. Stop at a local village to pick up Khmer snacks and visit a Buddhist monastery.

Your Cambodia's Secrets of Angkor comes to an end today in Siem Reap at 12pm - 1pm. No accommodation is included tonight.

• Siem Reap - Chong Kneas Floating Village boat trip

Please note this trip includes a 3 day Angkor Complex Pass and 2 of those days are used during this tour. If you want to do another day of sightseeing on your own, at the conclusion of this trip, you can use this pass for 1 extra day. Please note extra transportation or guide will be at your own cost when using this pass on the third day. If you want to stay longer in Siem Reap please contact your booking agent to organise post trip accommodation with us.

2 breakfasts, 2 lunches

Boat, Private vehicle

Hotel (2 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1.You will be picked up on Day 1 from your hotel in Siem Reap at 8:00-8:15 am. Please let us know the name and address of your hotel. 2. Please note that this trip is available in either Original or Comfort style. Unlike our group trips, the style on a Short Break Adventure refers to the style of accommodation only. All other inclusions are the same no matter which style of Short Break you select. 3. This trip is operated by our local partners in Cambodia and therefore you may be joined by a mixture of Intrepid-booked passengers and other travellers during activities.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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