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Welcome to our Cambodia travel guide, where we help you discover one of Southeast Asia’s most fascinating countries. Cambodia is a land of ancient temples, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you're drawn to the iconic Angkor Wat, the peaceful countryside, or the paradise islands, this country has something for everyone. The mix of history, friendly locals, and affordable travel makes it an unforgettable destination. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know before your trip—from the best places to visit and where to stay to travel tips and budgeting advice.

What To Know Before Traveling To Cambodia?

Where Is Cambodia?

Cambodia is located in Southeast Asia, between Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos. Its coastline stretches along the Gulf of Thailand. The capital city is Phnom Penh, a lively and fast-developing city full of history and culture.

Phnom Penh might not be as famous as other capitals in Southeast Asia, but it has its own charm. We recommend spending at least a couple of days here to explore the Royal Palace, the Mekong Riverfront, and some of the city's hidden gems.

Climate and best time to visit

Cambodia has a tropical climate, which means it’s hot and humid most of the year. The country has two main seasons:

Dry season (November–April): This is the best time to visit. The weather is cooler, especially from December to February. If you're planning to visit the temples of Angkor or enjoy the beaches, this is the perfect period.

Rainy season (May–October): It rains a lot, but usually in short, heavy bursts in the afternoon. The landscapes become greener and less crowded during this time, which can be a great experience if you don't mind the rain.

If you're visiting for the first time, we suggest coming between December and February for the best weather.

Time zone

Cambodia follows Indochina Time (ICT), which is GMT+7. There is no daylight saving time.

Language

The official language is Khmer, and most people speak it. English is widely spoken in tourist areas like Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville, especially by younger people and those working in tourism. However, in rural areas, English might not be as common.

We recommend learning a few basic Khmer phrases like:

• Hello: "Suosdey"
• Thank you: "Arkun"
• How much?: "Tlay pon man?"

It’s always appreciated when you try to speak the local language, even just a little.

Currency

The official currency is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), but the US Dollar is widely used. In fact, most prices in hotels, restaurants, and tourist spots are given in dollars. Small change is usually given in riel.

Our advice: Carry both dollars and riel. Use dollars for bigger expenses and riel for smaller purchases like snacks or tuk-tuk rides. Credit cards are accepted in bigger hotels and restaurants, but cash is still king in most places.

Landscape

Cambodia’s landscapes are surprisingly diverse. The country has:

• The famous Angkor Temples in Siem Reap
• Peaceful countryside with rice fields and small villages
• White sandy beaches in Koh Rong and Sihanoukville
• Lush mountains in the Cardamom Mountains
• The mighty Mekong River, home to rare Irrawaddy dolphins

If you're into history, nature, or just relaxing by the beach, Cambodia has something for you. We think the best way to experience Cambodia is to mix a bit of everything—culture, nature, and relaxation.

Is it safe to travel to Cambodia now?

Cambodia is generally safe for travelers, especially in tourist areas. The people are warm and welcoming. However, like any country, you need to take some precautions:

• Be careful with your belongings, especially in crowded places.
• Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
• Only use registered tuk-tuks or ride-hailing apps like Grab.
• Check the latest travel advice before your trip.
• The biggest health risk is dengue fever, especially during the rainy season. We recommend using mosquito repellent and wearing long sleeves in the evening.

Cambodia still faces poverty, and you'll probably see some difficult situations. It's important to be respectful and avoid giving money directly to children begging on the streets. If you want to help, donate to local organizations instead.

How many days are enough for Cambodia?

The ideal length of your Cambodia trip depends on what you want to see and do.

3–4 days: Perfect for a quick visit to Siem Reap and the Angkor Temples. You can explore the ancient ruins, enjoy the local markets, and get a feel for Cambodian culture.

5–7 days: You can combine Siem Reap with Phnom Penh. This gives you time to explore the capital’s historical sites like the Royal Palace and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, as well as the Angkor temples.

10–14 days: This is the best option if you want to experience Cambodia more deeply. You can visit Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and Kampot, relax on the beaches of Koh Rong, and even take a boat trip on the Mekong River.

2–3 weeks: With this much time, you can explore off-the-beaten-path destinations like Battambang, Mondulkiri, and Kratie, along with the main highlights.

If it's your first time, 10-14 days is a good balance to see both culture and nature without feeling rushed.

Cambodia travel requirements

Visa

Most travelers need a visa to enter Cambodia. You can apply for a tourist visa (T-class) online through the e-Visa website or get one on arrival at major airports and land borders.

• Tourist Visa: 30 days, single entry
• Visa on Arrival: $30 USD (bring cash and a passport-sized photo)
• e-Visa: $36 USD (apply online before your trip)

Some countries in Southeast Asia (like Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos) have visa exemptions for short visits.

Passport

Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your arrival date.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance isn’t mandatory, but we highly recommend having one that covers medical expenses, theft, and trip cancellations.

Vaccinations

No vaccines are officially required, but it's a good idea to be vaccinated against:

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Typhoid
• Tetanus

If you're planning to visit rural areas, consider taking malaria tablets.

How to get to Cambodia

By Plane

The easiest way to reach Cambodia is by flying into one of its three international airports:

• Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH)
• Siem Reap International Airport (REP)
• Sihanoukville International Airport (KOS)

Direct flights are available from nearby countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, and Malaysia. From further destinations, you will likely need to connect through a regional hub like Bangkok or Ho Chi Minh City.

By Land

You can enter Cambodia by land from Vietnam, Thailand, and Laos. The most popular border crossings are:

• From Vietnam: Moc Bai – Bavet (Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh route)
• From Thailand: Poipet – Aranyaprathet (Bangkok to Siem Reap route)
• From Laos: Dom Kralor – Veun Kham

Crossing by land can take longer, but it's often cheaper and gives you more flexibility.

By Boat

You can take a boat from Chau Doc in Vietnam to Phnom Penh along the Mekong River. This journey is scenic and unique, but it takes around 5–6 hours.

Where To Go In Cambodia For The First Time?

If you're visiting Cambodia for the first time, you'll want to see a mix of its ancient temples, bustling cities, and beautiful natural landscapes. Here's a suggested route that'll give you a well-rounded experience of the country:

• Day 1–3: Phnom Penh
• Day 4–7: Siem Reap and Angkor Temples
• Day 8–10: Kampot
• Day 11–13: Koh Rong
• Day 14: Back to Phnom Penh

Siem Reap and Angkor Temples

Why go? This is the heart of Cambodia’s cultural heritage. The Angkor Archaeological Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the famous Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world.

What to do:

• Explore Angkor Wat at sunrise – magical but can be crowded.
• Visit Bayon Temple with its iconic stone faces.
• Discover the jungle-covered Ta Prohm Temple (known from Tomb Raider).
• Wander around Siem Reap’s Old Market and enjoy the nightlife at Pub Street.

How long to stay: 3–4 days

Our Tip: Get the 3-day Angkor Pass to explore the temples at a slower pace.

Phnom Penh

Why go? Cambodia’s capital is full of history, both beautiful and tragic. It’s a mix of colonial architecture, busy markets, and moving historical sites.

What to do:

• Visit the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda.
• Learn about Cambodia’s dark past at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields of Choeung Ek.
• Walk along the Mekong Riverfront for sunset views.
• Try local street food at Russian Market.

How long to stay: 2 days

Our Tip: Phnom Penh can feel chaotic, but it’s worth spending time here to understand Cambodia’s history.

Kampot

Why go? A laid-back riverside town surrounded by green hills and pepper plantations. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the countryside.

What to do:

• Take a boat ride on the Kampot River at sunset.
• Visit the nearby Bokor National Park for old colonial buildings and stunning views.
• Try the famous Kampot pepper at a local farm.
• Explore the small but charming town on a bicycle.

How long to stay: 2–3 days

Our Tip: Kampot is great if you're looking for a peaceful break from the bigger cities.

Koh Rong

Why go? Cambodia’s tropical island paradise with white sandy beaches and crystal-clear water.

What to do:

• Relax on Long Set Beach.
• Go snorkeling or scuba diving.
• See the bioluminescent plankton at night.
• Take a boat trip to nearby Koh Rong Samloem for quieter beaches.

How long to stay: 2–3 days

Our Tip: There’s no ATM on the island, so bring enough cash with you.

Battambang

Why go? A charming town with colonial buildings, art galleries, and local life. It’s less touristy than Siem Reap or Phnom Penh.

What to do:

• Ride the famous Bamboo Train.
• Visit the Phnom Sampeau Killing Caves and watch thousands of bats flying out at sunset.
• Take a cooking class or bike tour around the countryside.
• Explore local temples like Wat Banan.

How long to stay: 1–2 days

Our Tip: Battambang is perfect if you want to see Cambodia without the crowds.

Sihanoukville and Surrounding Islands

Why go? The gateway to Cambodia’s best islands, but the town itself has become very developed and less attractive.

What to do:

• Skip the city and head straight to Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem for beach time.
• Go snorkeling or diving in the clear waters.
• Enjoy fresh seafood by the beach.

How long to stay: 3–4 days on the islands

Our Tip: If you’re looking for a peaceful beach, Koh Rong Samloem is quieter than Koh Rong.

Getting around Cambodia

Flight

Domestic flights are the fastest way to travel long distances. The main airports are in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville. Flights between these cities take less than an hour. If you're short on time, flying is worth it. However, flights can be expensive compared to other transport options.

Train

Cambodia's train network is limited but improving. The Royal Railway runs between Phnom Penh, Kampot, Sihanoukville, and Battambang. Trains are slow but comfortable, with air conditioning and plenty of space. It's a great way to enjoy the scenery if you're not in a hurry.

We recommend trying the train from Phnom Penh to Kampot if you're looking for a more relaxing journey.

Bus

Buses are the most common way to travel between cities. They're affordable and fairly reliable. Popular companies like Giant Ibis, Cambodia Post VIP Van, and Virak Buntham offer different levels of comfort.

• Sleeper buses: Good for long journeys like Phnom Penh to Siem Reap or Sihanoukville.
• Minivans: Faster but less comfortable than buses.
• Local buses: The cheapest option, but often crowded and not very comfortable.

If you're traveling between major tourist cities, we suggest booking with Giant Ibis for a more comfortable experience.

Tuk Tuk

Tuk tuks are everywhere in Cambodia, especially in cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. They're great for short trips and sightseeing. Always agree on the price before getting in, or ask the driver to use the PassApp ride-hailing app if available.

Taxi

Taxis aren't very common on the street, but you can book them through apps like Grab or PassApp in bigger cities. Private taxis can also be hired for day trips or long journeys, but they can be pricey.

Motorbike

Renting a motorbike is a popular option, especially in Siem Reap, Kampot, and smaller towns. It's cheap and gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. However, Cambodian roads can be chaotic, and driving here isn't for everyone.

If you don't have experience riding a motorbike, it's better to avoid this option.

Private Car

Hiring a private car with a driver is one of the most comfortable ways to travel, especially for long distances or group trips. It's more expensive but worth it if you're short on time or traveling with family.

Boat

Boats are a scenic way to travel between Siem Reap and Battambang or to explore the Tonle Sap Lake. However, boat trips can be slow and uncomfortable during the dry season when water levels are low.

Where to stay in Cambodia

Cambodia offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. Where you stay depends on your budget, travel style, and the places you're visiting.

Siem Reap

Budget: Onederz Hostel—A popular hostel with a rooftop pool and great social atmosphere.

Mid-range: Tara Angkor Hotel – Comfortable rooms, swimming pool, and close to Angkor temples.

Luxury: Shinta Mani Angkor – Boutique hotel with stylish design and excellent service.

Our Tip: Stay near the city center to be close to Pub Street and night markets.

Phnom Penh

Budget: Mad Monkey Hostel – Social hostel with a rooftop bar.

Mid-range: Okay Boutique Hotel – Great value with a rooftop pool and city views.

Luxury: Raffles Hotel Le Royal – Colonial-style luxury with a historic touch.

Our Tip: Stay along the riverside for the best views and easy access to restaurants.

Kampot

Budget: Monkey Republic—Relaxed atmosphere with dorms and private rooms.

Mid-range: Villa Vedici—Riverside resort with pools and a peaceful vibe.

Luxury: Amber Kampot – Modern riverside resort with private villas.

Our Tip: Choose a riverside guesthouse to enjoy Kampot’s beautiful sunsets.

Koh Rong

Budget: Coconut Beach Bungalows—Simple beach bungalows with amazing views.

Mid-range: Tree House Bungalows—Wooden cabins in nature, close to the beach.

Luxury: The Royal Sands Koh Rong – Beachfront luxury resort with private villas.

Our Tip: If you're looking for peace, stay on Koh Rong Samloem instead of Koh Rong.

Battambang

Budget: Here Be Dragons—Clean guesthouse, with the market in walking distance.

Mid-range: Bambu Hotel – Boutique hotel with a pool and colonial design.

Luxury: Maisons Wat Kor—Traditional Khmer-style villas with a relaxing atmosphere.

Cambodia travel budget

Cambodia is a budget-friendly destination, but your daily costs depend on your travel style. Here's a rough idea of what to expect:

Budget: $20–30 – Hostel dorms, street food, tuk tuk rides

Mid-range: $40–70 – Hotels with pools, local restaurants, some tours

Luxury: $100+    – Boutique hotels, private transfers, guided tours

Final thoughts

We hope this Cambodia travel guide has inspired you to explore this beautiful country. Whether you're seeking adventure, history, or relaxation, Cambodia offers a unique travel experience that will leave lasting memories. Start planning your trip today and let the wonders of Cambodia surprise you. If you're ready to embark on your journey, don't hesitate to book a tour to make the most of your visit!

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