cambodia travel destinations

The 10 best places to visit in beautiful Cambodia

Nov 16, 2023 • 7 min read

Wander through the timeworn gateways of Angkor Wat, one of the highlights of Asia © Sestovic / Getty Images

Packed with some of Southeast Asia's best experiences, from temples to beaches and wonderful wildlife, it truly pays to spend a few weeks exploring Cambodia .

Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s once ravaged but now resurgent capital, is the place to check the pulse of contemporary life in Cambodia. However, Siem Reap, the gateway to the majestic temples of Angkor, is starting to give the capital a run for its money with its sophisticated restaurants, lively bars and chic boutiques. Then there's World Heritage-listed Angkor, home to some of the most spectacular temples on earth.

Down on the South Coast are several up-and-coming beach resorts and a smattering of tropical islands that are really beginning to take off. Northwestern Cambodia is home to the French-colonial city of Battambang, offering a more traditional slice of Cambodian life and several remote jungle temples, while the country’s wild east is where elephants roam, waterfalls thunder and freshwater dolphins frolic.

All in all, it's quite a package. Here are the best places to visit in Cambodia to start your adventure.

1. The temples of Angkor

Best for spectacular spirituality

One of the world’s most iconic destinations, the temples of Angkor regularly take the number one spot on lists of the world’s top sights. The most iconic structures here are Angkor Wat , the world’s largest religious building, and the Bayon , one of the world’s most unique temples, with its enigmatic collection of carved stone faces. Then there's Ta Prohm , where wild nature has run riot over ancient carved masonry.

The ancient Khmers packed the equivalent of all Europe's cathedrals into an area the size of Los Angeles, so it pays to take time to explore. There are plenty of outlying temple sites that see smaller crowds, including exquisitely carved Banteay Srei , the overgrown ruins of Beng Mealea and the Mayan-style pyramid temple of Prasat Thom at Koh Ker.

2. Cambodia's Southern Islands 

Best for beaches

While the sand-sprinkled Cambodian coast may not be quite as famous as the beaches of Thailand or Indonesia, it still offers the full tropical hideaway experience, only without the crazy crowds. Neighboring Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem are the most popular islands, fringed by azure waters and abundant powder-white sand.

There are many more islands along the coast, including the largely undiscovered Koh Sdach Archipelago and the large, almost undeveloped Koh Kong. Don't overlook the smaller islands close to overbearing Sihanoukville , like Koh Russey with its upscale resorts and Koh Ta Khiev with its low-key backpacker bungalows.

3. Phnom Penh

Best for fine dining and nightlife

The Cambodian capital is a chaotic yet charming city that has stepped out of the shadows of its war-torn past to embrace a brighter future. Boasting one of the most beguiling riverfronts in Southeast Asia, Phnom Penh is emerging as a sophisticated modern capital thanks to its impressive collection of boutique hotels, epicurean eateries and boho bars.

Urban explorers can feast all day and party all night, or experience the inspiring National Museum and the harrowing Tuol Sleng prison , showcasing the best and worst of Cambodian history. Once known as the "pearl of Asia," Phnom Penh is regaining its shine.

4. Kampot and Kep

Best for countryside scenery

These twin provinces down south offer a perfect combination of travel comforts and authentic character for those seeking a more rounded experience than the stop-and-flop vibe on the islands. Charming Kampot town offers a wide range of backpacker hostels, riverside resorts and boutique hotels where you can base yourself while you take in the French architectural legacy, explore the pretty river by paddleboard or kayak, or venture into the bucolic countryside on two wheels.

Beachside boutique charmer Kep has its famous Crab Market, hiking in Kep National Park and nearby Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island) , a great spot to escape the hubbub. Rural adventures include the winding ascent to the atmospheric Bokor Hill Station, hidden cave pagodas from the 7th century, and visits to rustic pepper farms. Take time to cruise through the salt flats at sunset as workers use a traditional yoke and baskets to harvest the region's white gold.

5. The Cardamom Mountains

Best for motorcycle adventures

The vast 20,746 sq km (8010 sq miles) Cardamom Rainforest Landscape protected area includes one of the last great wilderness regions of Southeast Asia – the remote Cardamom Mountains. An area of breathtaking beauty and astonishing biodiversity, this green corridor includes many of Cambodia’s most outstanding natural sites. 

If you can, explore by motorbike to immerse yourself in the landscape. Highlights include the isolated Stung Areng Valley, the rolling grasslands and dramatic drop-offs of Khnong Phsar, award-winning ecolodges in Botum Sakor National Park and the Tatai Wildlife Sanctuary with its iconic waterfall, myriad eco-adventures and fairytale accommodation. If you want to take a ride on the wild side, the Cardamom Mountains are the place to do it.

6. Siem Reap

Best for a taste of local life

Siem Reap’s only reason for existence may be as the gateway to the temples of Angkor, but this charming town has emerged as a world-class destination in its own right, thanks to a superb selection of restaurants, cafes and bars, not to mention energetic markets, cool boutiques and edgy galleries. Beyond the town center lie otherworldly floating villages on the Tonlé Sap lake, adventure activities such as quad biking and ziplining, and cultural pursuits such as cooking classes and martial arts courses.

For a different experience, head to nearby traditional villages where it's possible to experience local life in simple, welcoming homestays. Siem Reap was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw many businesses close, but there have been some real moves to "build back better" with renovated roads, riverside gardens and cycle lanes throughout the city. 

7. Mondulkiri

Best for wildlife-spotting

In the northeast of the country, the endless rice fields and sugar palms that characterize the landscape in most of Cambodia give way to the wild rolling hills of Mondulkiri , home to the Indigenous Bunong people.

Wildlife is a big draw here, with opportunities to "walk with the herd" at Elephant Valley Project (a great alternative to harmful elephant-riding) or spot douc langurs or gibbons on a trek through the Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary . Add thunderous waterfalls and a jungle zipline to the mix, and you have the perfect ingredients for an ecotourism adventure.

8. Battambang

Best for contrasting historic architecture

Winding along the banks of the Sangker River, Battambang is the traditional face of urban Cambodia and one of the country’s best-preserved colonial-era towns. Streets of shophouses host everything from fairtrade cafes to art galleries. Beyond the town in the countryside is a cluster of ancient temples, which, while not in the same league as the temples of Angkor, are usually less crowded.

Battambang is also the home of the inspiring Phare Ponleu Selpak , a renowned arts NGO that trains performing artists and hosts inspirational performance art shows that combine circus skills with theater and storytelling. Battambang is a world away from the crush of Phnom Penh and the crowds of Angkor, and definitely worth a deviation from the tourist trail. 

9. Preah Vihear Temple

Best for ruins with a view

The mother of all mountain temples, Prasat Preah Vihear , stands majestically atop the Dangkrek Mountains, the forest-cloaked ridge that forms a once-contested border between Cambodia and Thailand. The foundation stones of the temple stretch right to the edge of a cliff that falls precipitously away to the plains below, and the views across northern Cambodia are absolutely breathtaking.

Constructed over 300 years ago, the temple is a three-dimensional representation of Mt Meru, the center of the universe in Hindu mythology. It offers some fascinating insights into the evolution of carving and sculpture during the Angkorian period. It’s all about location, though, and it doesn’t get better than this – remote, hard to reach, but well worth the effort. 

Best for Mekong River adventures

The jumping-off point for trips to spot rare freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins on the Mekong River, Kratie is a busy junction on the overland route between Phnom Penh and northeastern Cambodia or southern Laos. Dolphins aside, the town has a certain decaying colonial charm and boasts some of the country’s best Mekong sunsets.

Nearby Koh Trong island is a relaxing place to experience authentic Khmer hospitality at a local homestay or explore by rented bike. North of Kratie lies the Mekong Discovery Trail, with a host of adventures and experiences themed around the mother river, including community-based homestays, bicycle rides and boat trips.

This article was first published Mar 23, 2022 and updated Nov 16, 2023.

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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.

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The 10 Best Destinations in Cambodia

Despite being a compact country, Cambodia has it all, from beaches to jungles, flat plains to rolling hills, and bustling city to calm countryside. Here are the 10 best destinations in the Kingdom of Wonder.

Kampot may be quickly gaining traction with the tourist crowd, who are drawn by its enchanting chilled-out charm, but the quaint riverside town has managed to retain its characteristic Cambodian laid-back vibe. The town is home to a growing number of hipster spots, with wine bars, coffee shops and boutiques mushrooming, and despite its small size, it boasts a swathe of top-quality food spots . The surrounding countryside is also some of the country’s finest, with the fertile lands making it ripe to grow world-renowned Kampot pepper. Bokor Mountain makes an intriguing day trip, with plenty of tours taking visitors into the heart of rural Kampot. And the sprawling network of waterways make this province the perfect place to kayak, stand-up paddleboard or take a boat trip.

This central province is slowly starting to gain popularity with tourists searching for an eco-adventure . A host of community-based tourism projects have sprung up in the area, which is home to a swathe of rare wildlife . The endangered Irrawaddy dolphin calls a short stretch of the Mekong River, which slices through the province, home, while the close-to-extinct Cantor’s giant softshell turtle also lives there. Kratie town – the provincial capital – is a good base to explore the surrounding area, with a smattering of tour operators offering day and multiple-day trips, or bicycles and motorbikes to hire for those who want to go solo.

This remote, mountainous province lies in eastern Cambodia and stands worlds apart from the rest of Cambodia . Home to rolling hills, thick jungle and lowland plains, the climate is cooler, the scenery expansive and there are very few people about – a population of four per square kilometre. The indigenous bunong tribe live in the area, with many eco-initiatives being rolled out to introduce tourists to their way of life, as well as the wildlife that populates Mondullkiri. The province is most popular for its handful of elephant camps, where retired, overworked and rescued beasts are given a new lease of life in their natural habitat.

Koh Rong Samleom

There’s no denying that development is picking up pace on this Cambodian island . However, for now, tranquility remains well and truly on its shores. Located about 45 minutes by ferry from Sihanoukville on the mainland, this island is still dripping with Insta-worthy snaps of turquoise waters lapping isolated white sands. Apart from lazing on the beach, activities are mainly water-based, ranging from snorkelling and kayaking to boat trips.

Cardamom Mountains

Spanning more than 4.4 million hectares of rainforest in southwestern Cambodia , the Cardamom Mountains remain Southeast Asia’s largest remaining rainforest. Inhabited by a swathe of endangered wildlife , the expansive woodland is also home to about 25,000 people, many of whom are ethnic minorities. While the area’s rich flora and fauna remain under threat from deforestation, and illegal logging and wildlife trafficking, several organisations are working tirelessly to conserve the area, which is becoming famous for trekking and the several community-based initiatives that include homestays , nature trails, kayaking and mountain biking.

Preah Vihear

Relatively untouched by tourism for now, Preah Vihear is Cambodia’s ultimate get-away-from-it-all destinantion. As well as being home to pristine vistas, the northern province, which borders Thailand , is home to Prasat Preah Vihear (temple of the sacred mountain). Standing at the centre of decades of conflict, ferocious fighting between the two countries over ownership of the sacred site continued until recent years. In 2015, the destination was deemed safe and taken off many foreign offices’ watch lists. While military presence remains strong, the temple is well worth a visit. With none of the crowds that plague Angkor, Prasat Preah Vihear is a series of impressive structures, built between the 9th and 12th century by several kings. It features on the 2,000 riel note.

Beach bums are skipping Sihanoukville and heading for Otres , a more chilled-out lengthy stretch of sand about 15 minutes away. Development is stepping up here, with more modern accommodation and amenities cropping up seemingly daily. However, it has retained its hippy charm and relaxed vibe, and is a top spot for those without the time to hit the islands.

Home to iconic Angkor Wat , Siem Reap can’t be missed off the list. While the city centre today is a bustling tourist trap, it takes little more than 10 minutes to escape to the open countryside that surrounds the city – something that is definitely worth spending a few more days in Siem Reap for after visiting the temples. Phnom Kulen national park is home to waterfalls, ancient religious monuments, wildlife and superb views, Banteay Srei has an abundance of nature-related adventures and there are plenty of tours to introduce visitors to rural life in Siem Reap province.

It is rare visitors stay more than a couple of days in the bustling capital of Phnom Penh , but there’s plenty to pack in. The rapidly modernising city captures a different side to the Cambodia most first-time visitors imagine. The vibrant urban hub resembles the direction the country is headed in and is an exciting, developing city that has high hopes on its horizon. Foodies are in heaven here because cuisines from all corners of the globe are served at the plethora of restaurants , with plenty of drinking options available. The capital is dotted with small galleries, artisan stores, markets and museums.

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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.

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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.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Cambodia, created by local experts

22 days  / from 4799 USD

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.

21 days  / from 4545 USD

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.

4 days  / from 1025 USD

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 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 traveling to Cambodia

• Eating and drinking in Cambodia
• Getting around Cambodia: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips Cambodia for planning and on the go
• 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 29.04.2024

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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.

Popular Guides

• Guide to Visiting Angkor Wat

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Table of contents

Table of Contents

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

To browse all our articles and guides about Cambodia  click here.

Ultimate Guide to Visiting Angkor Wat Temples

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Cambodia Travel Guide

Last updated on October 29, 2023 by Shannon

A small country with a violent past, Cambodia is best known for the ruins of the Khmer Empire located at Angkor Wat.

But the country offers a lot more than that to the backpacker or traveler willing to bid adieu to the well-run efficiency of tourism in most of Thailand.

In Cambodia, you will instead experience off-the-beaten path travel that’s a bit rough even when you’re on the most popular routes through the country. But no matter your travel style, the country has some fascinating charms to uncover.

Table of Contents

Why Visit Cambodia?

While the tragic events of the Khmer Rouge era have left a lasting impact on the nation, Cambodia has made significant strides in its recovery and is now a welcoming destination with a rich cultural heritage. When you spend even just a day in Cambodia you witness firsthand the indomitable spirit of its people as they strive to rebuild and move forward from the country’s painful past.

Take time to visit the extensive ruins in the Angkor Wat temple complex . Although the main temples and sites are quite busy, it’s well worth your time to glimpse them—and even more worth your time to stay for a few days and visit lesser-known temples. Then wander the chaos of Phnom Penh before paying witness to the killing fields and genocide museums.

Cambodia is a country unlike others in Southeast Asia , both for good and bad—there is a lot of poverty, and voluntourism done poorly has wreaked havoc in some areas, but the Cambodian people are proud, friendly, and have a lot to offer travelers seeking home stays and memorable cultural tourism opportunities. 

Cambodia’s Relevant History, Briefly

Following the fall of the Khmer Empire, a new chapter in Cambodia’s history unfolded with the establishment of a new regime in Phnom Penh, marking the birth of modern-day Cambodia. Like its neighboring countries Vietnam and Laos , Cambodia experienced a period of French colonial rule in the mid-19th century, which lasted for approximately 90 years. However, this period was not without interruptions: During World War II, the Japanese occupied Cambodia, temporarily breaking the French rule.

Unfortunately, one of the darkest and most tragic chapters in Cambodia’s history unfolded from 1975 to 1979 under the rule of Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge. In a violent coup, Pol Pot usurped Lon Nol, who was serving as the Prime Minister at that time.

The Khmer Rouge’s rule was marked by extreme brutality and repression. Many Cambodians desperately attempted to escape the country, seeking refuge by any means possible. Tragically, over a million Cambodians fell victim to mass murder, forced labor, and other atrocities under Pol Pot’s regime.

In 1979, neighboring Vietnam invaded Cambodia, overthrowing the Khmer Rouge and bringing an end to its oppressive rule. However, Cambodia’s journey toward stability and recovery was far from over.

In 1997, Hun Sen, a former Khmer Rouge member, seized power in a coup and has remained in control of the government ever since. His rule, although bringing a degree of political stability, has also been criticized for its authoritarian tendencies and suppression of dissent.

Understanding Cambodia’s complex history is crucial for travelers exploring the country and talking to locals. It helps you gain insight into the resilience and spirit of the Cambodian people. It should also help you understand why it’s not acceptable to discuss that time period with locals unless they bring it up first, or unless you’re at one of the historic sites and/or talking to a tour guide.

Essential Information When Visiting Cambodia

You won’t need a converter when visiting Cambodia as it also uses the 220V/50Hz electrical system (North American plug and two-prong round). And money is pretty simple for Americans—the US dollar is the most commonly used currency in Cambodia and you can withdraw it from ATMs in all major cities.

The Cambodian Riel (KHR) ( current exchange rate ) is also used all over, but usually only for providing smaller change for your US dollar (Cambodia uses U.S. paper currency, not U.S. coins).

If you have a reliable debit card (I highly recommend Schwab as an excellent travel debit card, here’s why ), you can withdraw cash as needed throughout your travels in Cambodia—and the hefty ATM fees are reimbursed. Some rural areas may not have ATMs, though, and not all establishments readily accept credit cards—carry enough cash when exploring off-the-beaten-path areas and venturing away from popular tourist destinations.

Also note that many visas in the region are full-page stickers, so be sure you have a lot of room in your passport! And count your days carefully—if it says 30 days on your visa, you will be fined for every day over that!

Can You Drink the Water in Cambodia?

Water in Cambodia is not safe to drink. You will need to drink bottled water. In rural areas especially, use a SteriPen or LifeStraw if you can’t find bottled water ( here’s why ) and use sterile water even to brush your teeth.

Because you cannot drink the water, you should also steer clear of fresh vegetables from street stalls that have been washed in local water. In very touristy areas, this may be slightly less of a concern, but also—just be cautious.

How is the Internet Access in Cambodia?

Internet access in Cambodia is generally reliable and widely available in urban areas and popular tourist destinations. However, the quality and speed of the internet can vary, especially in more remote or rural areas. Cambodia has made significant progress in expanding its internet infrastructure, and most hotels, restaurants, and cafes offer free Wi-Fi to customers.

If you rely on internet access for your work , or really if you’re in town for more than a day or two, then grab a SIM card in Cambodia and easily surf at 4G+ speeds for less than $10. And make sure you have a VPN—a surprisingly number of U.S. sites either IP block, or have international versions of their sites.

Nomadic Notes has a fantastic collection of wifi-friendly cafes across many cities in Southeast Asia .

Is Cambodia Vegetarian Friendly?

Cambodia sees a lot of tourists and backpackers coming through Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, so it’s no surprise that these are the easier areas to find vegetarian-friendly options. Vegetarian and vegan restaurants are growing in popularity in these places, and it’s possible to request vegetarian meals in non-vegetarian establishments—but note that even if you ask, the dishes may be prepared with fish or oyster sauce.

Options are limited in rural areas. Fresh fruits (opt for those in a skin like pineapple, banana, etc. versus those needing to be washed), vegetables, and tofu are widely available.

How to Book Accommodation in Cambodia

When you’re finding accommodation in Cambodia, start your searches with Agoda . Agoda offers accommodation around the world, but its coverage and property reviews are best in SEA. Accommodation in Cambodia is cheap, so many backpackers skip the hostels and opt for budget guesthouses and private rooms. You can find both hostels and guesthouses listed on  Agoda  or  Booking.com — and  Hostelworld  covers Cambodia, too. 

If you’re used to using Airbnb or  VRBO , these work a bit differently in  in Southeast Asia—although you can find private properties for rent, many hotels use it as well. I used  Agoda ,  Booking.com , and a vacation rental site exclusively on my recent three-month Vietnamese backpacking trip and it worked flawlessly. Read these tips that share exactly  how I research and book great hotels and guesthouses  along my travels.

What to Read Before Visiting Cambodia

• First They Killed My Father : This is the most recommended book for anyone visiting Cambodia—and for good reason. It’s the single best way to begin understanding what the Khmer Rouge did to Cambodia, and it’s staggering impact on every single person and family living in the country during that time.
• When Broken Glass Floats: Growing Up Under the Khmer Rouge : This book offers another riveting child’s-eye view of the horror wrought by the Khmer Rouge.
• The Road of Lost Innocence: The True Story of a Cambodian Heroine : Southeast has a major sex trafficking problem and this is a beautiful story of a woman who made her way through it.
• Lonely Planet Guide : Unless you’re traveling on a true shoestring budget , opt for this one focusing on mainland Southeast Asia .

Is Cambodia Safe to Visit?

Petty theft is your primary safety concern in Cambodia. While violent crimes against tourists and travelers are rare, remain vigilant against opportunistic theft wherever you go, especially during travel days at bus stations, buses, and in the bustling backpacker area of Siem Reap.

Similar to Thailand, it’s considered a crime to speak negatively about the government in Cambodia—do so can result in severe penalties, including lengthy jail sentences. So exercise caution when airing your opinions, and refrain from openly criticizing the government during your travels. In fact, it’s best to just keep any critiques or political discussions to yourself.

Despite the war being over, Cambodia still faces the lingering issue of landmines scattered across fields in certain areas. This is a big safety concern when venturing off-the-beaten-path for hikes, or if you’re motorbiking through the region.

Exercise caution and be aware of signs warning of possible minefields. Stay on designated paths and follow local guidance to ensure your safety. Also just be cautious in general when using a motorbike as that’s the among the biggest causes of serious harm for travelers in Cambodia ( read up on safety when traveling here ).

You may also get sick. Like Laos, Cambodia has a poor sanitation infrastructre and that means you might get sick from drinking the water, or eating fresh food washed in local water. Getting sick from food handling practices is the most likely thing that will jeopardize your safety.

Research and familiarize yourself with  tips for staying healthy while traveling  and read  How to Shit Around the World  if you’ve never traveled in developing countries before. It provides practical advice for maintaining good health in developing countries.

Lastly, be cautious of scams, particularly in popular tourist hubs like Siem Reap, and at the busy Poipet border between Thailand and Cambodia . Scammers often target tourists in these areas, and there are several common scams that you should be aware of.

Stay alert and informed, and be cautious when dealing with unfamiliar individuals or situations. Read up on the most common scams across the region: here and here . Even experienced travelers have fallen victim to these scams .

And since quality healthcare is also hard to find in many areas of Cambodia—you’ll be transferred by medevac to Thailand if something major happens—you should absolutely have travel insurance like IMG Patriot . Travel insurance is a must given the prevalence of diarrheal illnesses and potential for traffic accidents.

How to Get to and Around Cambodia

Southeast Asia is a region best explored overland for most travelers—although the distances are large, there are a great many incredible places to visit that don’t have an airport nearby. And while Cambodia’s Siem Reap sees a good deal of tourism from people flying in and out of the airport once they’ve seen Angkor Wat, Cambodia is also often visited as a secondary stop on a larger route around Southeast Asia for those backpacking overland.

That means you’ll be crossing overland between the countries, likely using long-distance buses and trains, but that varies greatly depending on the border crossing and the topography. Even on-the-beaten-path travel to and around Cambodia can require a “a train to a bus to a boat to a tuk-tuk”.

That said, you can also use a budget airline to fly into Siem Reap or Phnom Penh from nearby major cities like Bangkok, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Luang Prabang, and a few others. You’ll find surprisingly cheap flights via the budget airlines, and this can cut significant time off of your travel days. I reliably find great flight deals

on  Skyscanner  or  Expedia .

To actually plan your route, use Bookaway , which lists every single route and the primary ways to navigate between each. Once you’re in Cambodia, here’s what transportation looks like:

Buses are the most common and convenient mode of transport for long-distance travel between major cities and the country’s more popular tourist destinations. Various bus companies operate in Cambodia and each offers different classes of buses ranging from basic to more comfortable options.

Popular bus routes connect major cities such as Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, Battambang, Kampot, and Koh Kong. The road conditions can vary from well-maintained highways to rougher, pot-holed roads in more remote areas.

Mini-buses are smaller vans or minivans that cater to shorter distances and are often used for day trips or transfers between nearby destinations. This type of transportation is a popular choice for traveling between towns or attractions that are not serviced by larger buses.

Mini-buses can be slightly faster but might be less comfortable compared to full-sized buses. Private tourist transfers use these, however, and while it often costs a bit more, you’re guaranteed a seat and more straightforward route to your destination.

Taxis and Tuk-tuks

Taxis and tuk-tuks are widely available in the major cities and towns. They’re a convenient way to travel within cities or for short distances. Taxis are metered in larger cities like Phnom Penh, while tuk-tuks usually require negotiation for a fare (negotiate well or you will dramatically overpay). Tuk-tuks are both a popular and appropriate choice for sightseeing within cities or getting to nearby sights.

Motorbike and Bicycle Rentals

Renting a motorbike or bicycle is a popular option for travelers who want to explore independently and have more flexibility in their itinerary. Motorbike rentals are available in major cities and tourist areas, but it’s important to have a valid license to operate a motorbike in your home country (or your travel insurance is invalidated ), wear a helmet, and exercise caution when riding.

Bicycle rentals are also common, particularly in places like Siem Reap where cycling around the temples of Angkor is a popular activity—this is how I explored Angkor Wat the first time, and I chose a tuk-tuk the second time.

How to Get Between the Most Popular Towns

Although you can book through your guesthouse, you can also lock in these tickets by booking online here —Bookaway shares the prices, route details and options, and key ways to book online.

• Phnom Penh to Siem Reap : Buses and mini-buses operate frequently between these two cities, offering both day and night services. The journey takes around 5-6 hours.
• Siem Reap to Battambang : Buses and mini-buses provide transportation between Siem Reap and Battambang, with a travel time of approximately 3-4 hours. If you’re leaving the Poipet border for Battambang then you must ensure you reach the border before the last bus leaves in the early evening.
• Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville : Buses are the most common mode of transport between Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville, with a journey time of around 3.5-5.5 hours.
• Sihanoukville to Kampot : Buses, mini-buses, and taxis/tuk-tuks connect Sihanoukville with Kampot. The journey takes about 2-3 hours.
• Phnom Penh to Kampot : Buses, mini-buses, and taxis/tuk-tuks provide transportation between Phnom Penh and Kampot, with a travel time of approximately 3-4 hours. While there is a train, it takes nearly five hours, so skip it!
• Phnom Penh to Koh Kong : Buses and taxis operate between Phnom Penh and the Koh Kong/Cham Yeam border crossing, which is located near the border with Thailand. The journey takes around 4-5 hours.

How Much Does it Cost to Backpack Cambodia?

Cambodia is a dream destination for budget backpackers. Your monthly budget ranges from $600 to $1,200 for backpackers on any sort of budget . Upping your average costs in Cambodia is the expense of visiting Angkor Wat in Siem Reap—it’s not cheap if you do it right.

Your average price for all travelers is much lower once you’re no longer visiting either Siem Reap or Phnom Penh. As you backpack Cambodia for longer, you lower your daily expenses since your expenses are an average across your time in Cambodia. That means if you spend five days there and just hit hte highlights, you could blow well over $300+, but slow travel costs less. Here’s what budget travel looks like in Cambodia:

Budget Travelers

Hostels and budget guesthouses in popular areas like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh run around $8-$15 per night. Street food and local eateries offer meals at prices ranging from $2-$5.

Getting around is budget-friendly with local buses and shared taxis costing between $1-$10. Entry fees to major attractions like Angkor Wat range from $20-$37. With a daily budget of $20-$30, budget travelers can expect to spend around $600-$900 per month.

Mid-Range Travelers

Mid-range travel strikes a balance between comfort and cost. Private rooms in guesthouses or budget hotels typically range from $25-$50 per night. Dining at local restaurants and exploring a mix of street food and sit-down meals runs about $5-$15 per meal.

Transportation options include private taxis, tuk-tuks, or motorbike rentals at negotiable prices. Additional tours or activities cost $20-$50 per day if you’re splurging on a guide and nice activities. With a daily budget of $40-$60, mid-range travelers can expect to spend approximately $800-$1,100 per month.

Splurge Budget Travelers

If you’re backpacking but you spend a bit more on comfort, you can afford a lot on a still modest budget. Note that you can also spend a whole lot more for true luxury travel. But for upscale backpacking, here’s what that looks like: Upscale guesthouses and boutique accommodations range from $50-$100+ per night. Dining at upscale restaurants or enjoying international cuisine may cost $15-$30 per meal, or more.

Transportation can involve private transfers, hired cars, or personalized tours at higher costs. With a daily budget of $60 and above, splurge travelers can enjoy a nice experience, with costs totaling $1,500+ per month. This is a great couples budget for Cambodia travel .

What’s the Best Overland Route Through Cambodia?

If you’re traveling overland, there are several common routes to explore Cambodia, no matter if you have a week or a month. Your route through Cambodia could look something like one of these options, depending how where and how you enter.

From Thailand (Poipet)

If entering Cambodia from Poipet, which is the most common border crossing between Thailand and Cambodia, you can follow the popular route of Siem Reap – Battambang – Phnom Penh.

This route allows you to visit the iconic temples of Angkor in Siem Reap, explore the sleepy-yet-charming town of Battambang, known for its colonial architecture and artistic scene, and then continue to the vibrant capital city of Phnom Penh (you can also go straight to Battambang from the Poipet border, then onward to Siem Reap via bus or boat).

You’ll likely need around 7-10 days to experience these stops, and from Phnom Penh you could fly onward, head back into Thailand via Kampot and then the Koh Kong border crossing, or take a longer route across Cambodia and into Laos (you’d leave Phnom for Kampong Cham and then Kratie).

From Thailand (Koh Kong)

If entering Cambodia from Koh Kong, a border crossing in the southwest, you could follow the route of Koh Kong – Kampot – Phnom Penh – Siem Reap. Cross into Cambodia via Koh Kong and immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty and ecotourism opportunities.

From there, travel to Kampot, a charming riverside town famous for its pepper plantations and scenic landscapes that you can kayak through on the rivers, or enjoy from a hammock.

You’ll then head to the bustling Phnom Penh and take a bus over to Siem Reap to end your time in Cambodia at Angkor Wat. This route is ideal for those seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation, and urban exploration, and you’ll need 6-9 days toto fully experience each destination at a comfortable pace. You’ll end in Siem Reap and be primed to cross back into Thailand via Poipet.

If entering Cambodia from Laos , the most common border crossing is at Stung Treng. From Stung Treng, you can follow the route of Kratie – Kampong Cham – Phnom Penh – Siem Reap. This route allows you to visit Kratie, a riverside town offer sightings of the endangered Irrawaddy river dolphin watching, explore the charming provincial capital of Kampong Cham, and then make your way to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Some of these roads and towns are rougher travel, so you’d be pushing it to enjoy the trip in less than 7 days.

From Vietnam

If entering Cambodia from Vietnam , you have a few border crossing options, and all involve some long travel days. The most common route is from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) to Phnom Penh via bus in just under seven hours. From there you can travel onward to Siem Reap to visit the temples of Angkor.

The more scenic route though involves taking the five hour ferry from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh. Vietnam’s Mekong Delta is an enchanting region (and Phu Quoc offers the best beaches outside of Thailand), so this is a great route option.

Fly into Siem Reap or Phnom Penh

If you fly into Siem Reap, you can start by visiting the temples of Angkor and then continue to Phnom Penh, then where you visit depends on how you plan to exit the country—pick an onward destination and follow the recommended routes above. Note that If you fly into Phnom Penh, you can explore the capital city first and then proceed to other regions of Cambodia.

Note that flights in and out of Cambodia are often a touch more expensive than others in the region, so be sure you can swing the cost in your travel budget if you hope to skip the long bus rides. I recommend  checking flight prices right now  for a rough idea of if and how this fits your travel budget.

How to Travel Responsibly in Cambodia

The biggest hurdle for responsible tourism in Cambodia is the sketchy voluntourism industry—this is ground zero for phony orphanages  exploiting children to gain money from backpackers. Avoid orphanage volunteering completely—there are other options, but even better is using your travel dollars as a force for good in the poverty-stricken country.

Cambodia has a number of community-based tourism organizations (CBOs) in the rural areas of the country. If you plan to leave the main tourist trail, these organizations offer wonderful homestays and tours that will give you a glimpse of the Cambodia of yesteryears.

In terms of animal and human welfare, there are a few considerations for responsible tourists in all of Southeast Asia , including Cambodia. First off, don’t ride the elephants anywhere in Southeast Asia. Instead, visit the Elephant Valley Project in Sen Monorom—here’s what to know about visiting .

And while there are so many nuances to the debate about donating to beggars while you travel, Siem Reap in particular is a hotbed for scams related to this, where babies are drugged and then used all day to convince tourists to buy them formula or diapers, which are then promptly returned to the store for a profit.

More positive actions you can take  include spending money with local tourism operators, including some fantastic social enterprises operating in Cambodia. Read my complete guide to  Responsible Travel in Cambodia ., which includes specific local social enterprises doing great work merging tourism with social good.

Best Foods to Try in Cambodia

One of the most well-known Cambodian foods among travelers is amok trey , a fish fillet covered with kroeung (shallots, lemongrass, garlic and kaffir lime), roasted peanuts, coconut milk, and egg, and all wrapped in a banana leaf. The result is a somewhat sweet dish that tastes just as good as its Thai and Lao counterparts.

In general, Cambodian food features herbs, leaves, pickled vegetables, dipping sauces, and edible flowers. Many dishes have Chinese influences, too. Street food is quite popular and cheap—the deep fried rice cakes with chives and egg make for a yummy breakfast (as would this soup in Battambang !)

Other must-try dishes include lok lak (marinated beef stir-fried with a tangy sauce), bai sach chrouk (grilled pork served with rice and pickled vegetables), and nom banh chok (rice noodles topped with a savory fish-based gravy and fresh herbs).

For those with a sweet tooth, try num kroch , which are small, round dumplings made from rice flour and coconut milk. They are either steamed or boiled and are typically filled with a sweet mixture made from palm sugar, grated coconut, and sometimes flavored with sesame seeds or peanuts.

For vegetarians, there is plenty of fresh produce and tourism is well established, so you will find food options everywhere. There are a few traditional dishes you can eat from specialty street stalls, but when in doubt I could also order fried rice, a plate of fruit, and mixed veggies.

Best Things to Do in Cambodia

Cambodia is a land of ancient temples, vibrant cities, and natural beauty. While there is deep poverty in Cambodia, there are also an incredible number of things to do and see that are unlike other places in Southeast Asia.

A lot of what you do in Cambodia depends on how long you have to explore—many travelers head straight to Siem Reap and then move on to a neighboring country. Instead, pick a few things that interest you and fall in love with the Cambodian culture.

1. Bike or Tuk Tuk around Angkor Wat . 

Angkor Wat is the main reason many people visit Cambodia. If you stay for more than one day , you can visit more than the main temples, which I recommend. You have two main ways to explore Angkor Wat: bicycle or tuk-tuk. I’ve been to Angkor Wat several times and explored both ways, as well as via a private tour by van. I preferred the bike or tuk-tuk and recommend that for most able-bodied travelers (especially those on a budget).

Renting a bike in Siem Reap gives you the freedom to navigate through the temples at your own pace. Cycling allows you to enjoy the scenic surroundings, feel the breeze on your face, and stop whenever you please to admire the intricate details of various temples.

Biking also provides the flexibility to explore lesser-known temples and hidden trails, adding an element of adventure to your journey. Of note, though, is that you should dress modestly in the temples, so you’ll need to carry a backpack with water and a coverup that you can wear once you’re done for the day.

On the other hand, tuk-tuks offer a convenient and comfortable way to explore Angkor Wat. (Tuk-tuks are motorized three-wheeled vehicles commonly used as taxis in Cambodia and other areas of Southeast Asia .)

Hiring a tuk-tuk driver allows you to relax a bit more as it chauffeurs you from one temple to another. This is a more relaxing and leisurely experience, especially in hot weather or for travelers with limited mobility. Tuk-tuks also offer the advantage of shelter from the sun, which you will be thankful for during the midday heat.

If you’ve bought the multi-day pass to Angkor Wat, you could also visit the closest temples via bike, and then rent a tuk-tuk for a select few further away. Note that the ruins of the Khmer Empire are always stunning, but can be overcrowded. That means you want to start your days early before visiting any of the most popular temples—then you beat the crowds and the heat.

Read this guide to the best Angkor Temples and how to visit .

2. Visit the Cambodia Landmine Museum.

Landmines buried by the Khmer Rouge have been causing havoc since the 1970s and this museum is one way to learn about the devastating effects on the Cambodian people. Informative exhibits and personal stories raise awareness about the country’s history and ongoing efforts to address the issue.

The museum provides a comprehensive understanding of the devastating consequences of landmines and supports humanitarian initiatives for landmine clearance and victim assistance. By visiting the museum, you contribute to these efforts and gain a deeper appreciation for the resilience of the Cambodian people.

3. Cruise Tonle Sap Lake

Take a scenic boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. Explore the floating villages that dot the lake’s shores and witness the unique way of life of the local communities.

Experience the vibrant colors, bustling markets, and the ingenious floating houses that adapt to the lake’s changing water levels. The boat trip provides a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of the people who call this lake their home. It’s a great day trip from Siem Reap.

4. Tour the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Prison.

Located 15 km from Phnom Penh, the Killing Fields are a profound and somber reminder of the mass murders committed by the Khmer Rouge. Coupled with a visit to Tuol Sleng, these two sites offer key insight into the tragic history of the Cambodian people and who they are today.

These sites are iconic reminders of the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge regime, offering a firsthand glimpse into the dark chapter of Cambodia’s past. Only by visiting can you even begin an inkling of understanding about the immense suffering endured by the Cambodian people and pay tribute to the victims, ensuring they are not forgotten.

5. Wander through the Royal Palace.

A stunning example of Khmer architecture and craftsmanship, the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh was built in the mid-19th-century. Marvel at the intricate details of the palace buildings, characterized by gilded roofs, ornate carvings, and vibrant colors.

The Throne Hall, Silver Pagoda, and various pavilions showcase the grandeur and opulence of Cambodian royal traditions. Exploring the palace grounds allows you to immerse yourself in the architectural beauty and gain a deeper appreciation for Cambodia’s rich artistic heritage.

The palace also serves as the official residence of the King and is a symbolic representation of the monarchy’s role in the country, and has deep spiritual significance. Stop by the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, a sacred temple that houses an impressive collection of Buddha statues, precious artifacts, and a floor adorned with silver tiles. It is a place of worship and spiritual significance for the Cambodian people.

6. Kayak in Kampot.

Since Sihanoukville is no longer the paradise it once was, you should fully skip visiting. Instead soak in the slow life in Kampot . The town has a laid-back Cambodian charm and the river offers a number of activities. With Kep just up the road, there is no reason you couldn’t spend an enjoyable week here.

The rivers and mangrove forests around Kampot are breathtakingly beautiful. Kayaking allows you to navigate through calm waters, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning landscapes.

Paddle along the riverbanks, witness the vibrant flora and fauna, and take in the serenity of your surroundings. Then venture into narrow water channels, meander through mangrove forests, and discover secluded spots that are inaccessible by other means. You can paddle at your own pace, admire the scenery, and watch birds soar above.

7. Slow-travel through Battambang.

Rather than tick off to-do list items when traveling in Cambodia, slow down and take in your charming surroundings when you visit the sleepy town of Battambang.

Battambang boasts a wealth of well-preserved colonial-era buildings and ancient temples. Slow-traveling allows you to leisurely explore these architectural treasures, taking in their intricate details and historical significance.

Visit the iconic Battambang Provincial Museum to learn about the city’s history and browse through its collection of artifacts. Then wander through the quaint streets lined with French colonial buildings, such as the Governor’s Residence and the Central Market.

During one of your days in town, rent a bicycle and pedal through the lush countryside, passing by rice fields, quaint villages, and serene waterways. Take a boat ride along the Sangkae River to witness the breathtaking sunset or explore the nearby Phnom Sampeau, a hill with ancient temples and stunning views. And ride the antique bamboo train.

8. Watch a circus show from Phare Ponleu Selpak.

One of the most illuminating and unique things to do in Cambodia is taking in a circus show from  Phare Ponleu Selpak . Phare is best known for their circus performances in Siem Reap and Battambang. They offer  a range of shows , and each show shares a different aspect of Cambodian culture and history. The organization is a phenomenal social enterprise that supports children in rural Cambodia, and it also offers an amazing artistic experience.

Phare’s circus shows use acrobatics and storytelling to grapple with Cambodia’s tragic history . You’ll see nothing else this creative in Cambodia.

Phare runs nightly circus performances in Siem Reap, and three times per week in Battambang.  Booking show tickets in advance  is a must. The art exhibits in each city are open year-round. The troupe occasionally tours internationally, and those tour dates are always listed on their site.

Need more guides to the region?

Traveling Vietnam Traveling Laos Traveling Thailand SEA Backpacking Thailand Transportation, Explained

How to Plan Your Time in Southeast Asia

📍 Navigate more effectively. Bookaway  is super handy to assess the full range of transport options between two cities—it shows everything from flights to trains, buses, minibuses, and more. If you’re booking a rental car, I’ve always found the best deals on  RentalCars.com .

🛏️  Find great accommodation . Agoda has the widest and most affordable selection in Southeast Asia. It’s part of the Booking.com family, but has better reviews for SEA. You can book hotels, hostels, and even vacation rentals.

❗ Yes, you need travel insurance . IMG Global  is the travel insurance I’ve used for well over a decade of traveling solo, and with kids.  Here’s why .

Book Tours Ahead of Time I use Get Your Guide to book locally run tours since I can assess the options, read reviews, and lock in a date.

✈️  Book affordable flights. Expedia and Skyscanner are the first places I look for  low-cost flights .

🧳 Smart packing can save your trip. Shop my favorite travel gear , including all of the packing essentials for traveling , gear to keep you safe in Southeast Asia, my favorite travel books , and more.

📖 Read up on any off-the-path activities. Travelfish is among my go-to resources for anything in Southeast Asia. It’s updated far more often than print guidebooks and has extensive local insight and a fairly active forum, too. If you head off-the-path, this should be the first place you check for tips, transport advice, etc.

☕ Peruse all of my tips for round the world travel , or learn how to move and live abroad .

Cambodia Travel Guide: Best Stories from the Blog

I traveled around Laos on multiple trips spanning several months in total during my time  backpacking Southeast Asia . These stories featured across my travel blog represent my favorite places in Laos, the best moments of my trip, and more.

A Little Nostalgia… A Reason to Love Southeast Asia

A Little Volunteering… Continued Mentoring Years Later

A Little Sweet… Fun Desserts from Around the World

A Little Culture… Learning Cambodian Dance Hand Gestures

A Little Quandary… When Should You Donate to Child Beggars

A Little Discovery… 20 Neat Things I Learned By Traveling in Developing Countries

A Little Exploring… The History and Fun of Visiting Angkor Wat, Cambodia

A Little Transportation… Figuring Out the Roads & Rules of Southeast Asia

A Little Love… Volunteering at Future Light Orphanage in Cambodia on Valentines Day

This Is Your Perfect Cambodia Itinerary

Whether you’re coming across from another Southeast Asian country, or visiting Cambodia on a single-country trip, this is our ideal Cambodia itinerary for two or three weeks.

Updated January 2024

A couple of years ago, we spent three glorious weeks travelling across Cambodia.

Based on our experiences, we've curated this Cambodia itinerary to help future travellers like you optimise the best bits, add in a few extra nights in the places we had to leave too soon, and cut out the odd night in places we lingered too long.

Our Cambodia itinerary will help those who plan to be in the country for two or three weeks work out a balanced route make the absolute most of their time, whilst prioritising a responsible, sustainable, and experience-led travel style. 

It will bring you to pretty much all the highlights of Cambodia: to explore the majestic ruins of Angkor Wat from sunrise to sundown; the chance to get out into the real countryside; chill out on paradise islands which aren't as touristy as we had assumed; delight in the vibrant greens, yellows, and pinks of colonial quarters in Cambodian cities; reflect sombrely upon the barbarity of the Pol Pot regime; take in a cooking class or world-famous acrobat show; drive motorbikes along dusty roads; and slowly get to know the culture and people of this delightful south-east Asian destination.

Whether you’ve got two weeks or a little longer, this is the perfect Cambodia itinerary.

cambodia itinerary tips

| Country is ideal for a 2 - 3 week trip

| Can cover most of the main highlights in this time

| Starts and end in Phnom Penh

| Can get visa on arrival

| All transport can be booked online

| To cover more ground consider organised tour like this

How To Use Our Cambodia Itineraries

From our research and our experience in the country, it appears that the vast majority of people opt to spend either two or three weeks in Cambodia - so we’ve provided two itineraries in this article, one for each period of time.

Both include must-see spots such as Phnom Penh , Angkor Wat, and the Koh Rong Islands, as well a couple of lesser visited destinations, but the specific route taken varies a little between the two. We’ve also adjusted the number of nights spent in each place depending on the trip length, transport connections, and - naturally - the three week option taking you a little more off the beaten track.

We both cherish the notion of slow travel, and so when putting these itineraries together we didn’t want to offer up anything too overly ambitious, have you moving every day nor spending the majority of your time on somewhat unreliable transport. Being realistic and honest is more important than giving you false expectations! We also curated it in such a way so that you could maintain anticipation for Angkor Wat (rather than see it on your first day) and spend your last few days in paradise.

This means you won't be overloaded in the first week, will be able to retain a sense of enthusiasm throughout for what's coming up next, and also factors in a sensible rest day or two along the way.

After all, you should travel somewhere to savour it, rather than rush through it.

The Start Point

Both our two week and three week Cambodia itineraries travel in an anti-clockwise loop, beginning and ending in Phnom Penh - and there are two key reasons for this:

The country’s capital hosts the main airport for incoming international travellers

Perhaps more importantly, there are several vital experiences to be had in the city which we believe are integral to understanding modern day Cambodia and gaining important context for your travels - and therefore best done at the beginning of your trip.

If you are travelling through south-east Asia for a longer period of time, and arriving overland or by plane from Thailand, Vietnam, or Laos, this itinerary and our 13 Wonderful Things to Do in Cambodia post will still give you all the necessary inspiration and ideas for your own route - but you will just go in a different direction to our suggested one. For example, as your trip is more likely start off in Siem Reap, just follow the route in the following direction: Siem Reap - Battambang - Phnom Penh - Kampot - Koh Rong.

Two Weeks or Three Weeks in Cambodia?

Honestly, either is a great amount of time to experience the main tourist sights in Cambodia and get a real feel for the country.

However, it’s important to be realistic and note that if you only have two weeks, you will inevitably spend a higher proportion of your time travelling between locations, have limited opportunity for rest days and likely have to prioritise certain activities in each destination over others.

If you are someone who finds planning a big trip a little overwhelming, prefers to travel in a small group of likeminded people, or values having private transport throughout (and therefore save an awful lot of time), we can highly recommend this   14 day Ultimate Cambodian Adventure tour . It includes private bus transport, all accommodation, sunrise at Angkor Wat, an English-speaking guide, and various cultural activities throughout. Due to the private transport, it also allows you to see much more of Cambodia in two weeks than is realistically feasible if travelling independently.

We actually visited Cambodia on that tour in our role as G Adventures Wanderers, and are happy to personally recommend it; the itineraries we have shared here are however based on our tour experiences as well as our independent travels in the country

Cambodia Itineraries Overview

If you scroll down you can find the full details for both itineraries, but here are the two week and three week itineraries at quick glance.

TWO WEEKS IN CAMBODIA

Day 1 - 3   | Phnom Penh

Day 4 & 5  | Battambang

Day 6 - 8  | Siem Reap (inc. Angkor Wat)

Day 9 - 11  | Koh Rong Islands

Day 12 & 13  | Kampot

Day 14  | Phnom Penh / Travel Home 

THREE WEEKS IN CAMBODIA

Day 1 - 3   | Phnom Penh   

Day 4 - 6  | Battambang

Day 7 - 10  | Siem Reap (inc. Angkor Wat)

Day 11 & 12  | Kratie

Day 13 - 15 | Kampot

Day 16 - 20 | Koh Rong Islands

Day 21  | Phnom Penh / Travel Home

The Two Week Cambodia Itinerary

Day one | arrive in phnom penh.

The bustling capital city is the start (and end) point for the majority of travellers flying in from Europe or the US. Depending on your arrival time and jet lag, the day can be spent slowly exploring the city centre, having some rooftop drinks, and enjoying yours first tastes of Cambodia. 

Transport / Getting to the city centre from the airport is easy-peasy! Either opt for an official taxi tuk-tuk from arrivals (it’s a flat rate of $9) or alternatively arrange a private transfer .

Stay / If you’re looking for a luxurious retreat in the city, Plantation Urban Resort would be perfect, but we love the location, vibe and price of Le Chronique .

Alternatively, young party-hard backpackers will love Mad Monkey , but we prefer the rooftop views and pool of Onederz .

Vibe / Relaxed

Plan / How To Get From Phnom Penh Airport to the City and 13 Best Things to do in Phnom Penh

DAY TWO | The Darkside of Cambodia

We know you’ve only just arrived, but your first day in Cambodia is going to be pretty full on, with visits to both the Phnom Penh Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng / S21 Prison; these are incredibly sombre activities but integral to understanding - and appreciating - Cambodia’s barbaric and relatively recent history.

You can either book your tour in advance ( this one has excellent reviews) or visit independently.

In the evening, depending on your mood, head to the night market downtown for authentic food in a life affirming lively atmosphere.

Vibe / Sombre + historical

Plan /  How To Visit the Killing Fields from Phnom Penh   / 9 Things to Know Before You Visit Phnom Penh

DAY THREE | Explore Phnom Penh

Today will be a much more enjoyable exploration of both historical and modern Phnom Penh.

Spend your day walking and tuk-tuking between the Royal Palace , drinking at cool third-wave coffee shops, eating at a local's market or social enterprise restaurants, and sipping on secret sunset cocktails.

If you’d like to combine your explorations around Phnom Penh with the chance to enjoy local food, consider joining this popular food tour by tuk tuk .

Vibe / Cultural + modern

Plan / 13 Best Things to Do in Phnom Penh

DAY FOUR | Travel To Battambang

Today marks your first proper travel day - a six hour bus ride from Phnom Penh to Battambang.

This cute French colonial city was a little treasure on our trip, and we wish we could have spent a little longer there. It has a storied past, and we found it incredibly photogenic, bohemian, and a place which has tourism but isn't totally overwhelmed by it.

We’d recommend setting off from Phnom Penh nice and early so that you can relax and explore in the afternoon, or perhaps visit the wold-famous Phare Cambodian Circus in the evening.

Travel / The journey time is approximately six hours, but can be closer to seven. Remember to book tickets in advance in Cambodia on BookMeBus , which is the best site to use for booking buses and ferries in Cambodia.

Stay / There are a few hostels in Battambang, but our top pick is The Place Hostel . If you’d prefer a homestay however, Lotus Blanc is super affordable and provides an alternative experience to the typical backpacker hostel.

For a little more luxury, consider the beautiful Cambana La Rivière Hotel in the centre of Battambang, or Maisons Wat Kor for a more ‘amongst nature’ vibe.

Alternatively, Bambu Hotel offers comfortable rooms at more of a mid-range price point.

Vibe / Colonial cool + cocktails + the circus.

Plan / A Curated Guide to Battambang (published soon)

DAY FIVE | Explore Battambang

Spend the morning devouring a vegetarian local breakfast at our favourite restaurant from the trip, before slowly taking in the sights of central Battambang on foot.

For us the Bamboo Train isn't really worth it, but another popular morning activity is a tour by motorbike or bicycle to visit various traditional food enterprises in the country (making spring rolls, rice wine, and fish paste).

In the evening, hire a tuk-tuk or rent a motorbike to experience the incredible bat caves of Battambang. Each night, just before sunset, millions of bats stream out in unison for about half an hour - and it was an experience which totally mesmerised us! 

Whilst most of the activities above can easily be done independently, if you’d prefer to not have to worry about the logistics, join a popular tour like this one that includes all of Battambang’s biggest attractions.

Getting Around / The city itself is relatively small and very walkable, but if you’d like to go further afield into the countryside, you’ll need to hire a motorbike; expect to pay around$10 a day.

Vibe / Colonial cool + a lot of bats

Plan / A Curated Guide to Battambang (we promise it’ll be published soon!)

DAY SIX | Travel To Siem Reap

Today starts with a relatively straightforward five hour bus journey from Battambang to Siem Reap.

As the gateway to the famous ruins of Angkor Wat, Siem Reap sees a LOT of tourism. In fact, since Andrew's first visit 15 years ago, the city is almost unrecognisable - and that's only going to continue in one direction.

Therefore, we  strongly recommend  that you plan your visit to Angkor Wat, including transport there and back, in advance of your arrival in Siem Reap so you don’t waste precious time having to sort things out once you get there.

As most of you will be hoping to experience sunrise at Angkor Wat tomorrow, it's going an early night tonight...

Travel / There are regular buses throughout the day from Battambang to Siem Reap (although the vast majority depart before 2pm). The journey time is around 4-5 hours and tickets cost between $10 and $12 USD. You can check times and book tickets on BookMeBus or CamboTicket .

Stay / Splurge at the gorgeous Treeline Urban Resort , opt for the mid-range Glow Inn Siem Reap or choose a hostel ( Onederz is our pick of the bunch)

Vibe / Neon + overtourism

Plan Your Time / If you’d rather get your Angkor Wat tour sorted in advance, this sunrise one is incredibly highly rated.

DAY SEVEN |  Visit Angkor Wat

We asked our G Adventures group what made them choose a trip to Cambodia, and for the overwhelming majority it was the chance to visit Angkor Wat at sunrise - it's likely that the famous site has also inspired most of you reading this post to think about Cambodia too.

We were fortunate that all our travel, ticket, and transport arrangements for visiting at sunrise were included within the Ultimate Cambodian Adventure tour , so all we had to do was set the alarm clock and make sure we brought our spare camera batteries! 

However, whether you're visiting the ruins independently or with a tour, today is going to be a very  long day, with a 4am start necessary to see those towers as the sun comes up!

That’s why we wouldn’t recommend having any overly ambitious plans for the evening. Most people will be quite happy to settle in with a couple of beers, a soothing bowl of noodles and an early night.

For those that still have a little energy after the temples - or want to see everything - we’d recommend making a beeline in the evening to the critically-acclaimed Phare Circus (providing you didn’t visit in Battambang). Tickets can be booked in advance here .

Buy / If you’d prefer to visit Angkor Wat independently, and be there in time for sunrise, you’ll either need to buy your ticket in person at least the day before (the ticket offices don’t open early enough to buy it on the same day) or buy it online.

You can do this via the official website , or alternatively have a third party sort it and deliver it to your hotel. This second option is more expensive, but may suit those not travelling on a budget who want to make the process as simple as possible - find out more here .

Tip / In this itinerary, you only spend one full day at Angkor Wat, therefore only need to purchase the 1-day ticket ($37 USD). If you’d like to use your free day in Siem Reap (see the next section) to explore more of the site, we’d recommend purchasing the 3-day pass ($65 USD).

Vibe / Ruins + history

Plan / Our guide to Angkor Wat (published soon)

DAY EIGHT | Chill in Siem Reap

How this day goes really depends on your love of ruins, your energy levels, your budget, and whether you’d prefer to head to your next stop - Sihanoukville - by night bus or by an early morning flight.

Personally, we didn't really like the development of Siem Reap, and would be reticent to spend more than two or three nights there. But the reality is that quite of few of you will understandably be shattered after yesterday's early rise and exertions (the pedometer will take a pounding!). At this stage, you're also just over a week into your Cambodia adventure too, so it's the logical juncture for a rest day, a do-nothing day, or a few chilled out social-value activities and eating - despite its faults, Siem Reap is very well set-up for all of this.

For some of you, today may also be about a second visit to some of the lesser-visited areas of the Angkor Wat complex. If that's you, then just make double-sure you read this post before buying your tickets and making plans.

Other popular things to do in Siem Reap - besides the temples - include:

Learn how rats are saving lives at APOPO

Grab a drink on the legendary Pub Street

Give back by supporting the city’s social enterprises

Go shopping at Siem Reap’s markets

Join a Khmer Cooking Class

Take a day trip to the floating villages , the Cambodian countryside or the Kulen Waterfall

Plan / 13 Wonderful Things to In Siem Reap

Moving on To Sihanoukville

The downside to visiting Cambodia for two weeks - unless you're on a small-group tour which takes care of your transport connections and route plans - is that two of the country's most popular destinations (Siem Reap and the Koh Rong Islands) are on opposite sides of the country from each other. They are however logical to visit one after the other on a shorter Cambodia itinerary. 

So, you need to choose between the following:

After exploring Siem Reap / Angkor Wat in the day, taking a 12-hour night bus onward to Sihanoukville, and then the morning boat out to the Koh Rong islands.

Spend the night in Siem Reap, and take the first 1 hour flight to Sihanoukville the following day, before taking a boat out to the islands. We try to avoid short internal flights for environmental reasons but on short itineraries it often makes more sense.

Chop off or add-on a day to the itinerary so that you can still have two full days in Siem Reap

DAY NINE | Sihanoukville to The Islands

Okay, whether you’ve braved the overnight bus or hopped on an airplane, by day nine you should have made it to Sihanoukville - the gateway to the Koh Rong Islands.

But we have to prepare you: it’s a bit of a shithole.

Once a popular holiday getaway for locals and foreigners alike, over the last 5-10 years Sihanoukville has seen eye-watering levels of Chinese investment to make it the Las Vegas of the East, and with it came casinos, endless construction, crime, and corruption (read more here ). Stemming of that investment in the last few years has turned the city into a broken ghost town.

On the four occasions we passed through, most of the city was under construction and in a Schodinger's cat like state of being both demolished and constructed.

Thankfully, you’ll be heading straight to the ferry terminal, from which various ferry companies bring travellers to both Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem. The trip takes 1-2 hours (approx $12 one way), depending on the service, your final destination, and the weather conditions.

And then it’s time to relax - you’ve made it to paradise! The itinerary should give you most of the afternoon and evening to enjoy the island life - so pick a spot on the sand, and eye up the best place for sunset cocktails!

Travel / A 1-2 hour ferry from Sihanoukville dependent upon destination and weather conditions. Given the popularity of the route, we highly recommend booking your ferry in advance.

Vibe / Buses + boats + beaches

Plan Your Time / How to get from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong and How To Get To Koh Rong Samloem

Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem. How Do You Decide?

When we were planning our time in Cambodia, we did a lot of research into which island was right for us.

Tourism has long been established on Koh Rong, and it’s famous as a bit of a party island amongst backpackers. But we didn’t want to go all the way to a beautiful island just to get pissed (and we had a fixed couple of nights on this island at the end of trip).

Koh Rong Samloem on the other hand is much more relaxed, with the island only having been developed in the last few years. And whilst that has brought new accommodations, internet and a stable electricity supply, it’s a long way away from being overwhelmed by tourism.

For couples looking for a more relaxed resort-like experience, we’d recommend the white sands of Saracen Bay (it’s where we stayed on KRS), whereas backpackers will likely be more suited to M’Pai, or perhaps Sunset Beach.

Do be aware however that the island is undergoing a period of more rapid development at the moment, with quite a lot of building works, especially around Saracen Bay. We recommend reading any hotel/hostel reviews thoroughly before making a reservation.

DAY TEN | Koh Rong Islands

You are now waking up in paradise, and can full-on engage holiday mode.

Get a coconut cocktail or two, go snorkelling in wonderful clear water, take an afternoon boat trip, do absolutely nothing but relax and sunbathe on white sand, swim with fluorescent plankton, or take a walk to discover some hidden-away beaches

We wouldn't recommend being over ambitious and trying to do various island or beach-hopping on a two week Cambodia itinerary - just do whatever makes you happiest and enjoy the tropics.

Vibe / Paradise

Plan / Read our Koh Rong Samloem guide , within which you’ll find all our recommendations for the best accommodations on the island.

DAY ELEVEN | Koh Rong Islands and Onward to Kampot

Getting from the Koh Rong Islands to Kampot is relatively straightforward - just a short ferry ride over to Sihanoukville (for reasons we don’t entirely understand, the journey is far quicker on the way back, taking us just an hour) and then around a two hour bus ride to Kampot.

Therefore we’d recommend spending the majority of the day on the islands, hopping on a boat in late afternoon with plans to arrive in Kampot in the evening. Your next two days will be spent here so you needn’t worry about trying to explore the city or surrounding countryside until tomorrow.

Travel / Take a short 1-1.5 hour boat over to Sihanoukville and a bus to Kampot. Leaving the islands around 4 pm will allow plenty of time to get to Kampot.

We highly recommend booking your ferry and bus in advance.

Stay / With a cracking set of dorms and a real backpacker vibe, our hostel pick for Kampot is Monkey Republic , however if you’d prefer a guesthouse take a look at Retro Kampot Guesthouse .

If you can push that budget a little bit further however, don’t miss Hotel Old Cinema , a beautifully restored art-deco building that is ideal for couples wanting to chill out for a day or two, and stay somewhere memorable.

Vibe / Paradise and a smidge of travel

Plan / Our Favourite Things To Do in Kampot

DAY TWELVE | Kampot

As we explain in our guide , we are a little conflicted about the small riverside city of Kampot. 

Its historic French colonial design quirks, accesssible beautiful countryside and global renown for its pepper, make it a great place to include on any Cambodia itinerary. However there was a real seedy presence in the centre due to western sex tourists.

However, the reason for couple of days in Kampot just towards the end of your trip is that it substantially cuts down the travel time between the Koh Rong islands and Phnom Penh airport, thereby removing certain Cambodian transport quirks and stress from the last leg of your adventure.

After arriving the previous evening from the Koh Kong islands, today offers up a full day of exploring the colonial buildings, doing a cooking class, tasting lots of pepper, gift buying, and enjoying the countryside of Cambodia. If you don’t want to spend your last few nights in the city centre, there are a bunch of popular riverside backpacker resorts in the countryside, just a few kms from the centre.

Book / If you don’t want to rent a motorbike to get out into the countryside, consider joining a tour like this one that covers the major sites (including the salt field, Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple, Brateak Krola Lake and La Plantation, the pepper farm).

Alternatively, for a more adrenaline-fuelled day, consider this super popular climbing trip .

Vibe / Pepper and riverside life

DAY THIRTEEN | Kampot

There are a couple of really popular day trips from Kampot, namely Rabbit Island and Kep.

Rabbit Island (although unfortunately not being home to lots of rabbits) offers the chance for another beach day on a very undeveloped island, or seafood lovers should head to Kep for the world famous crab.

You can find details of how to reach both of these places in our guide to Kampot .

Alternative Choice / If after reading about Kampot, you feel that you can see all you want to in and around the city in one day, feel free to remove one of your days here and use it to increase your time on the Koh Rong islands. Honestly, we’d completely understand.

DAY FOURTEEN | Back to Phnom Penh

Your last day in Cambodia, but it’s all about making sure you catch that flight home from Phnom Penh International Airport.

Travel time between Kampot and the airport is about 3.5 - 4.5 hours, and there are plenty of shuttle buses and private taxi firms running the route. However, whatever time your flight is, please factor in a couple of hours extra as journey times can be delayed due to traffic outside Phnom Penh and other factors.

If you have a morning flight from Phnom Penh, we’d actually recommend you to travel from Kampot to Phnom Penh the previous night to save yourself unnecessary stress and reduce the risk of missing your flight.

The Three Week Cambodia Itinerary

Although the destinations, length of time, and route are a little different in three week itinerary, there are a number of activity recommendations and basic day planners that remain largely unchanged. To avoid repeating ourselves, where this is the case, simply refer up to the two-week itinerary for further information on the place or read our specific destination guides that are linked to throughout!

DAY ONE - THREE | Phnom Penh

Although we spent five days in Phnom Penh, we honestly believe that you can get a really great feel for the city - and the country’s important and painful past - in just two full days.

So, despite having more time in the Cambodia following this three week route, you’ll be following exactly the same three day outline as the above itinerary.

Vibe / Sombre + exploration

Day four means making your way to Battambang - a place we would have loved to have lingered in a little longer.

As with the two week itinerary, we’d recommend setting off nice and early to maximise your time in the afternoon, rather than front-loading in Phnom Penh.

Spend the evening enjoying dinner at the excellent social enterprise Jaan Bai restaurant, followed by drinks along #84 Rd ( Google Maps ).

Vibe / Colonial cool + cocktails

As you’ve spent the last few days in the bustling capital, we’d recommend that you spend your first day in Battambang out in the countryside. In the morning, take a tour of the various traditional food enterprises either by motorbike, tuk tuk or - as you have a little more time on your hands - by bicycle.

The afternoon offers up a chance for a stroll around the city and time to explore the city’s art scene, followed by an evening at the famous Phare Circus.

Vibe / Countryside jaunts + colonial cool + the circus

Plan / A Curated Guide to Battambang

DAY SIX | Battambang

Begin your day by devouring a vegetarian local breakfast at our favourite restaurant from the trip, before visiting the Central Market, and getting lost down streets you have yet to discover.

Then it’s time for one of the most mesmerising sites we’ve ever seen - watching millions of bats stream out of a giant cave at sunset. You can get here by tuk tuk or motorbike, and perhaps take some time to visit the city’s infamous Killing Caves beforehand.

Vibe / Street roaming + a lot of bats

DAY SEVEN | Getting to Siem Reap

Tomorrow is all about Angkor Wat at sunrise, so you’re going to want to hot foot it to Siem Reap nice and early. It’s a five hour direct bus city to city, so still a pretty easy travel day.

As we mentioned in the two week itinerary, we’d recommend knowing exactly how you plan to visit the ruins prior to arriving in Siem Reap so you don’t waste a day getting your shit together after the bus.

Then, it’s time to set that alarm clock to 4 am…

Stay / Splurge at the gorgeous Treeline Urban Resort , opt for the mid-range Glow Inn Siem Reap or choose a hostel ( Onederz is our pick of the bunch).

Plan / Consider booking your Angkor Wat tour in advance - this sunrise guided tour is incredibly highly recommended.

DAY EIGHT | Angkor Wat

Today is going to be a very (very) long day, beginning before sunrise and, depending when you head back to Siem Reap, lasting until early evening. But, as many people visit Cambodia purely to explore the magnificent temples of Angkor Wat, this may well be the day you’re most looking forward to!

You can find out more about visiting Angkor Wat in our guide (you guessed it - to be published soon!)

Vibe / Ruins, ruins, and more ruins!

Plan / Our guide to Angkor Wat

DAY NINE | Angkor Wat

As you’ve got an extra day in Siem Reap on this three week Cambodia itinerary, we’d recommend spending it exploring some of the lesser visited ruins at Angkor Wat. Unless you’re desperately keen to see it again, you needn’t arrive at sunset for this second day, just make sure you buy a multi-entry ticket to the site (you can find out more here ).

In the evening, if you didn’t visit the Phare Circus in Battambang, we’d highly recommend getting a ticket to their sister show here in Siem Reap - it was a real highlight of our time in the city!

Vibe / Ruins and acrobats

Plan / Our Guide to Angkor Wat

DAY TEN | Chill in Siem Reap

After two days of full-on explorer mode (with or without Indiana Jones outfit), we imagine you’re ready for a break; so this is exactly what Day Nine is for!

Hang out in your hostel/hotel pool, go eat some great food, or get a massage at a recommended spa.

Vibe / Chill time

Plan / 13 Wonderful Things to Do in Siem Reap

DAY ELEVEN | Make Your Way To Kratie

It's a travel day today - and at around eight hours, it’s a pretty long one.

Travel / There are only a handful of minivans running from Siem Reap to Kratie, and they all leave early in the morning. The best best is with Asia Van Transfer for $24 (book online here ) which is direct, but you may able to find a few other cheaper options locally - just make sure that it doesn’t go the old route, via Kampong Cham.

Stay / We’d recommend seeking out accommodation in Kratie along the Mekong River. Somewhere to relax with a couple of sunset beers after a long day of bus rides and bumpy roads - you’ll deserve it!

Our top pick in Kratie is the always popular Sorya Guesthouse .

Vibe / Podcast + window staring

Plan / Book your bus from Siem Reap to Kratie here .

DAY TWELVE | Kratie

One of the best things about opting for a slightly longer trip to Cambodia is the possibility of getting off the beaten track to places like Kampong Cham and Kratie to see a much more rural side to the country.

We were very lucky that our two week G Adventures trip included time in both these places, allowing us to head out on bike rides along dusty roads in the countryside, explore local markets, experience a slower pace of life and - one of our very favourite experiences - spot the incredibly rare Irrawaddy dolphin in the wild.

In the morning you can choose between exploring around your accommodation or renting bikes and heading off towards the fields for a few hours before hiring a tuk tuk and making your way to Kampi for the unforgettable dolphin spotting experience. Just don’t forget to buy a can of beer to enjoy the sunset over the Mekong!

Dolphin Deets / Grab a tuk tuk, a bike or a motorcycle and make your way down to Kampi for the last dolphin spotting adventure of the day. Boat rides cost US$10 per person, reducing to US$8 for groups three people or more and tickets can be bought before boarding.

Vibe / Attenborough + dust

Plan / Find out more on the resurrection of the Irrawaddy dolphins, plus all the necessary information to plan your visit to see them in Cambodia, in this post .

DAY THIRTEEN | Travel to Kampot

Okay, please don’t hate us but this is a horrendous travel day - and unfortunately, there is absolutely no way around it.

As we mentioned in our introduction, transport around Cambodia, although cheap, is not always the most efficient. And the only real way to get to Kampot from Kratie is via Phnom Penh. The good news is that if you start early enough it can be done in a day, the bad news is that that day will feel like it never ends.

The bus between Kratie and Phnom Penh will take five hours, and then another five hours from Phnom Penh to Kampot. As with every journey you book in advance, allow plenty of time between connections and remember journey times are notoriously longer than stated at the time of purchase.

Our favourite place to stay however is Hotel Old Cinema .

Vibe / Bus + nap

DAY FOURTEEN & FIFTEEN | Kampot

There are actually a whole heap of city-based, active and nature focussed activities in Kampot, and a long term traveller cold probably occupy themselves for several days here.

However, despite having an extra week to play with on this particular Cambodia itinerary, we’re not actually recommending you extend your time in the city. Therefore, it’s best if you refer to the Kampot section in the two week itinerary above for details of what we recommend you get up to in the city (or just read our Kampot guide ).

Vibe / Pepper + photography

DAY SIXTEEN | Travel to the Koh Rong Islands

After the mammoth travel day a few days earlier, your arse will be pleased to know that today involves only two-ish hours on a bus between Kampot and Sihanoukville, and then a 1-2 hour boat ride to the beautiful Koh Rong islands.

We’ve written full guides on getting to Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem , so you all you have to do is pick the right island for you (and you can see a handy little overview of each within the two week Cambodia itinerary).

Travel / Two hour bus from Kampot to Sihanoukville and then another two-ish hours to the island of your choice. We guarantee you’ll be on that beach with a cocktail in hand before the sun sets!

Vibe / Boat + beach time

Plan / How to get to Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem from Sihanoukville

DAY SEVENTEEN TO TWENTY | Enjoy The Koh Rong Islands

We know that most people appreciate a decent chunk of beach time so we’ve factored in four full days on the islands for this trip - it is after all paradise out here.

That should give you plenty of time to relax, unwind, snorkel in the crystal clear waters, maybe even strap on a pair of shoes and head out to explore, have a hangover - or take a couple of short boat trips to around and between the islands.

The choice is yours!

Plan / Read our guide to Koh Rong Samloem

DAY TWENTY ONE | The Islands - Phnom Penh - Fly

To do this, you have a few options.

If you have a very late flight, you can feasibly take the first ferry back to Sihanoukville and then a bus to Phnom Penh. Personally, that may result in a little

Alternatively, you can leave a little later, spend the night in a hotel close to the airport or in Phnom Penh and fly out early the next day. Lastly, if you don’t mind the extra cost, take an internal flight from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh and then your international flight from there.

Whichever option you pick, please just allow enough time for every eventuality you can think off - we’d hate for you to miss your flight home!

We hope that has helped you to get a head start on putting together your own Cambodia itinerary!

Make sure to check out some of our destination guides linked to within the post for more inspiration and information on each place (start with 13 Wonderful Things To Do in Cambodia ) whilst we also recommend everyone reads ‘ 23 Things to Know Before You Visit Cambodia ’ so you can pack, plan, and prepare properly for your own adventure.

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Cambodia Travel Guide

Cambodia is a country with bright smiles and a dark past. It’s hard to forget the Communist genocide that happened here in the 1970s, but Cambodia is still a fascinating place to visit and the people are very friendly to outsiders.

The Siem Reap area of Cambodia is home to the world famous Angkor Wat ruins , which bring in millions of tourists every year. Exploring the Angkor Wat feels a bit like stepping into The Jungle Book. These are massive Hindu temple ruins from the 12th century that cover hundreds of acres of land.

Read through this complete Cambodia travel guide for more info on what to expect!

Quick Facts

US Dollar;  Cambodian Riel is given for change

VOA or eVisa available to all nationalities

Tropical; hot & humid year round. Dry season is Dec - April

Power Plugs

Type A / C / G

As a tourist, your main airports in Cambodia are in Siem Reap (SAI) and Phnom Penh (PNH), which have direct flights from nearby Southeast Asian cities like Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore. You can shop for flights to Cambodia on Skyscanner.

Cambodia is a relatively safe place to travel, with a low violent crime rate of 1.8 per 100k inhabitants (71% lower than the global average). Petty theft and other crimes have been reported in Phnom Penh, but violent crime is not as common.

The biggest safety risks are probably motorbike and tuk-tuk accidents, and natural threats like dengue fever. Be sure to wear mosquito spray, especially during the rainy season.

The climate of Cambodia is tropical, so the weather is hot and humid year round. The rainy season runs from May to November (but especially the months of September and October), and the sunny season runs from December to April.

It's still possible to visit Cambodia in the rainy season, but give yourself some extra days as a buffer in case of bad weather.

Cambodia is a very budget friendly travel destination, with  hostels available from $3 USD and private hotels from $8 . Meals are also cheap, costing about $1 to $5 depending on location.

Transportation in Cambodia is generally by tuk-tuk or car, and hiring a driver is cheap and easy. The best transportation app here is  Grab , which works like Uber, except in Cambodia it hails a tuk-tuk taxi!

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Cambodia Travel Guide

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The Ultimate Guide To Backpacking Cambodia In 2024

If you’re considering backpacking Cambodia, I’ve got you covered with this in-depth Cambodia backpacking guide. 

I visited Cambodia when backpacking across Southeast Asia, and it was easily one of my favorite countries in the region. 

I spent several weeks exploring this backpacker-friendly country, and it won me over with its friendly locals, incredible Angkor Wat temples, and stunning landscapes. 

Cambodia offers a well-established backpacker route, with fantastic hostels, delicious food, and endless day trip options. Whether you’re an adventure traveler or you just want to relax on the beach, Cambodia has something for you!

Let’s jump in with everything you need to know before backpacking Cambodia!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. I hope you find the information here helpful!

Is Cambodia A Good Backpacking Destination?

Yes! Cambodia is a great backpacking destination that should be on your Southeast Asia itinerary. 

This underrated country has some of the most beautiful tropical beaches, stunning monuments, and friendly locals.

At the same time, you can easily backpack in Cambodia on a shoestring budget as the accommodation, transportation, and food are very affordable. 

Also, I felt safe backpacking Cambodia as a solo female traveler !

• Affordable – Cambodia is a country you can visit on a shoestring budget and easily spend less than $20 USD per day!
• Popular backpacking route – it is easy to get around Cambodia, as most people follow the same route. There are buses connecting virtually every tourist destination, and you can easily book them online or at your accommodation.
• Lots of backpackers – you’ll have no problem meeting other travelers in Cambodia, even if you start as a solo traveler!
• Incredible nature – Cambodia has some of the most beautiful islands in the region, with white sand beaches and gorgeous National Parks on the mainland.
• Stunning attractions – Angkor Wat is a UNESCO site and one of the most impressive places I’ve ever seen.

There aren’t many cons to backpacking around Cambodia, but you should know them. 

• Expensive attractions – tourist attractions and activities can be expensive compared to the prices of food and accommodation. Angkor Wat tickets start at $40 USD, and trekking tours at $50 USD.
• Long travel times – it takes quite a long time to get from one city to another, and you’ll probably spend several days just traveling between destinations in Cambodia.

Best Time To Visit Cambodia

Cambodia doesn’t have 4 distinct seasons like you’d find in Europe or North America. Instead, the weather in Cambodia is either hot and dry or hot and rainy.

The best time to visit Cambodia is when it is a little bit less hot and dry – November to February .

High Season: November To February

Most backpackers visit Cambodia during the high season, from November to February. 

The weather is sunny, dry with low humidity and relatively pleasant temperatures. The average temperatures are around 26-28℃, so it would still be considered summer in Europe but it is winter in Cambodia .

High season is the best time for traveling around Cambodia, exploring, trekking, and enjoying the beaches. 

Most backpackers in Cambodia come during the high season, so it is easy to meet other travelers . However, you’ll need to book your accommodation several days in advance if you want to stay in the best hostels.

I didn’t notice prices significantly increasing, but it will be harder to negotiate discounts.

Hot Season: March to May

March to May would be considered summer in Cambodia. At this point, it hasn’t rained for a couple of months, and the temperatures are the highest. 

April is the hottest month in Cambodia, with temperatures going up to 40℃. 

It is still worth visiting in April as you get to join one of the most important celebrations in the country – Cambodian New Year.

Also, if you survived backpacking Europe in the summer , you’ll be completely fine!

Rainy Season: June To October

The rainy season in Cambodia is from June to October, with most rainfall in September.

Before coming to Cambodia, I read that you should avoid Cambodia during monsoon season, but I couldn’t disagree more! 

I backpacked Cambodia in October. Sure, it rained most days. However, the rain is very predictable – usually in the afternoon, and doesn’t last long.

It is not like autumn rain in Europe when it rains for weeks on end. 

There are still many backpackers around, you can easily book the best hostels the day before, and you get to see stunning attractions like Angkor Wat without crowds.

I don’t understand why is it considered the worst period to visit Cambodia !

How To Get To Cambodia

Depending on whether you’re visiting Cambodia on a backpacking Southeast Asia route, or you’re just spending 2 weeks in Cambodia for a holiday, you’ll either fly or take a bus to the country.

Flying To Cambodia

Cambodia has three airports– Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville.

Ideally, you’d fly into one and out of the other, so you don’t have to go back on yourself.

However, it is likely your return flight will be from the same airport. In that case, I suggest you fly to Phnom Penh.

Phnom Penh Airport To City Center

The cheapest way to get from Phnom Penh Airport to the city center is the local bus 3. It costs only 1500 Riel, which is less than $0,5 USD.

You’ll have to get out of the airport to take the bus. The bus stop is outside the fence, on the same side of the road as the airport.

Taxi drivers will try to tell you that the bus doesn’t exist -it exists. You can download the City bus app to see exactly where the bus is.

You’ll have to pay in cash, and from my understanding, they don’t give change. 

To get small Riel notes, you can buy a SIM card like I did or take a $1 USD dollar bill and ask a local at the airport to exchange it. 

Alternatively, you can always get a taxi or a tuk-tuk. To avoid having to negotiate the price, order it on Grab – Uber alternative in Cambodia !

Siem Reap Airport To City

Siem Reap has a new airport, and it is about 50km from the city. 

If you’re backpacking Cambodia on a budget, you won’t be thrilled about the new airport as you’ll need to take a shuttle to reach it. 

The airport shuttle bus departs several times a day, starting at 7 AM, and costs $8 USD in one direction. 

If you travel in a group, you can also take a taxi, which will cost about $25 USD.

Taking A Bus To Cambodia

If you’re coming from neighboring countries, the cheapest way to get to Cambodia is by bus!

Those coming from Thailand or Laos can take a bus to Siem Reap. If you’re coming from Vietnam, you can get a bus to Phnom Penh or Kampot.

I found that the easiest way to organize these cross-border buses is through your accommodation. Every hostel will have a list of buses you can book through them, and some routes are not even online!

You don’t have to worry about logistics when booking through a hostel, and they usually promote the most reliable bus operators. However, you’ll pay a slightly higher price than if you book a bus ticket online. 

You can book the most common bus routes online, like a bus from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh . It is a cheaper alternative, and a good idea if you’re traveling in a group. 

🚌 Check bus times and prices here!

Getting Cambodian Visa

Travelers from most countries need a visa to visit Cambodia. 

You can get a visa on arrival or an e-visa. Both visa options allow you to stay in the country for 30 days. 

Visa On Arrival

Getting a Cambodian visa on arrival is pretty straightforward. 

As you get to the immigration, you’ll give your passport and pay for the visa at the first counter. 

You’ll need $30 USD in cash. The bills need to be in good condition, with no chips, marks, or strong creases. Immigration officers are very strict when assessing the condition of your bills, and they will not take them if they are damaged! Also, you can’t pay with a card or any other currency.

You’ll pick up your passport on the second counter in a couple of minutes with your visa in it.

You might need a passport-sized photo for the visa. It used to be necessary to have it, but they didn’t ask for it at Phnom Penh airport. Still, I would keep one on hand just in case!

Getting an e-visa for Cambodia is a good idea if you want to avoid the lines at immigration or you don’t have pristine US dollar bills with you.

E-visa is a more expensive option because you’ll have to pay an additional processing fee.

Before opting for an e-visa, check if your point of entry is eligible for an e-visa. Most popular entry points, including the airports, are.

It takes at least 3 business days to get the visa, so plan your arrival accordingly! 

Getting Around Cambodia

Cambodia’s public transportation is quite well developed, with plenty of public transport providers. It is easy to travel through Cambodia by public transport and reach virtually every tourist destination.

Buses are the most common way to get around Cambodia. Many different bus companies connect nearly every tourist site in the country. 

You can book your bus tickets online , in person, or through your accommodation.

Most bus companies don’t require you to print out your online ticket, so you can just show it on your phone.

Some bus companies, like Giant Ibis, are considered to be safer and more comfortable than others, but they will also be slightly more expensive.

I used Giant Ibis and Airbus companies, and I had a great experience. 

There are also minivans that follow the same route as buses, but they can be a more comfortable alternative. You can book a regular minivan or a luxury minivan. 

🚍 Compare All Buses In Cambodia Here!

By Train 

The Cambodian rail network is not very developed, and there are only two train lines in Cambodia: one from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville and another from Phnom Penh to Battambang. 

Trains are air-conditioned and quite comfortable, but there is only one daily train departure, so you can’t be as flexible as with buses.

Travel times are similar to buses, so don’t expect fast train service.

🚆 Check train departure times and prices here!

To reach the popular Cambodian islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, you’ll have to take a short speedboat from Sihanoukville.

There are several daily departures, with the last ferry leaving Sihanoukville at 17:00.

You can buy the tickets online or as a combo trip from your hostel, including land transport to the city and the boat.

🛥️ Browse ferry lines in Cambodia!

Cambodia Backpacking Route

Unlike the typical backpacking Vietnam route, which is better if you do it from south to north, it doesn’t make much difference which way you decide to travel through Cambodia.

There are three ways to backpack through Cambodia: north to south, south to north, or a round trip from Phnom Penh.

Depending on your starting point and interests, you can choose Cambodia backpacker routes that best fit your travel plans.

Best Places For Backpackers In Cambodia

Siem Reap is the best backpacking destination in Cambodia. The magical Angkor Wat temple complex is one of the top reasons to visit Cambodia.

It also offers vibrant nightlife along Pub Street, day trips to the floating villages, and trekking in Kullen National Park.

Kampot, a tranquil riverside town, is a must-visit for backpackers seeking a blend of nature and culture. Famous for its pepper plantations and colonial architecture, it is a great place to escape the crowds.

It is also a getaway to the Bokor National Park, Kep, and mesmerizing sunsets over the Kampot River.

The capital city of Phnom Penh is well worth a visit . It is a blend of history and modernity. It is not the most beautiful capital in the region, but I enjoyed my time admiring the Royal Palace and strolling along the river.

You have to visit the Tuol Sleng genocide museum and the Killing Fields to understand Cambodia’s past with Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge.

I joined this Memorial tour that took us to both sites!

Koh Rong is a haven for backpackers seeking pristine beaches and turquoise waters. This untouched island offers an unrivaled opportunity to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature.

Here, you can immerse in local culture, engage in adventurous water sports, or simply bask in the tranquility of the picturesque surroundings.

Battambang is a place to spend a night or two, as it offers a more laid-back experience. It is renowned for its French colonial architecture, ancient temples, and the famous bamboo train ride, which provides panoramic views of the countryside.

Best Backpacker Hostels In Cambodia

Cambodia has no shortage of budget-friendly accommodation.

Here are the best hostels for backpackers in Cambodia .

• Mad Monkey Phnom Penh : I stayed here for 3 nights in a female-only dorm, joined several events, and met amazing people. 
• Onederz Phnom Penh : I stayed here too! The location was great – right by the river, the female-only dorm was comfortable, and the rooftop pool was fantastic. It is quieter than Mad Monkey.
• Lub D Siem Reap : I stayed here for 4 nights, the room here was the best dorm room I’ve ever stayed at. Fantastic hostel!
• The Twizt Lifestyle Hostel : This is a beautiful hostel! It features large comfortable rooms, a fantastic pool, and decorations that make it look like a 5-star hotel.
• Mad Monkey Siem Reap : Mad Monkey is the best party hostel in Siem Reap. Like other hostels of this chain, they also organize daily events and tours.
• Karma Traders : Great backpacker hostel with events and a friendly atmosphere. Slightly out of the city center, but easy to organize activities.
• Onederz Kampot : I stayed here for one night and really liked the hostel. It is in a great location, a clean hostel with female rooms, and a fantastic swimming pool!

Koh Rong 

• Mad Monkey : This Mad Monkey hostel has a perfect beachfront location. Like other hostels of this chain, they organize events, making it an excellent option for backpackers.

Koh Rong Samloem

• Onederz Koh Rong Sanloem : Onederz is the best backpacker hostel on the island, situated right on the beach. It is quite basic compared to their hostels on the mainland, but it has a great atmosphere.
• The Cliff Hostel : A friend of mine stayed here, and she loved the hostel for the stunning views and great atmosphere, but noted that it was very basic and didn’t have aircon.

Backpacking Cambodia Budget

Cambodia is a country where you can either spend $10 USD or $100 USD per day.

Your Cambodia travel budget will depend on your itinerary, accommodation preferences, and food.

• Hostels : $4-10 USD per night
• Food : $2-8 USD per meal
• Drinks : $2-5 USD per drink
• Transportation : $8-25 USD, depending on the distance
• Activities : $0-50 USD per day

Shoestring Backpacker: $15-25 USD per day 

If you’re on a strict budget, you can expect to spend anywhere from $15-25 USD per day in Cambodia. 

Hostels and food are cheap in Cambodia, but activities are more expensive.

If you want to keep your budget under $20 USD per day, you’ll have to stick to free activities most days and maybe one of Cambodia bucket list experiences .

Mid-range Backpacker: $25-40 USD per day

I consider myself to be a mid-range backpacker, and I spend about $40 USD per day. 

I stayed in the best-rated hostels, ate a lot of vegan cakes, and went on several tours and a 3-day yoga retreat in Kampot.

I know most people won’t go to a yoga retreat in Cambodia , so my budget would be closer to $30 USD without it.

Activities are expensive in Cambodia. A day pass for Angkor Wat starts at about $40 USD, the Genocide Memorial tour in Phnom Penh is about $25 USD, and trekking to Kullen Waterfalls is about $50 USD.

Is Cambodia Good For Vegans?

If you’re vegan backpacking in Cambodia , you’ll be glad to know that Cambodia is a great travel destination for vegans. 

Traditional Cambodian food is not exactly vegan. However, nearly every restaurant also has tofu you can order instead of meat, and most Cambodian dishes can easily be made vegan.

Also, more and more vegan and vegetarian restaurants are popping up throughout the country.

Some of my favorite vegan-friendly restaurants in Cambodia are:

• HeyBong, Siem Reap
• Sambo, Siem Reap
• Simple Things, Kampot

Basic Cambodian Phrases

I’m the last person who will tell you to learn the language of every country you visit. I’ve lived in France for over 4 years and still struggle with French!

However, I always look up several simple phrases in the local language, like hello, goodbye, and thank you. It makes a difference and puts a smile on people’s faces when you do so!

• Hello : “Susadei”
• Thank you : “Arkun”
• Goodbye : “Lear hi”

Cambodia Safety Tips

As a solo female traveler in Cambodia, I felt very safe. However, certain parts of Cambodia, like Sihanoukville and Phnom Penh, have a bad reputation. 

I didn’t have any problems in Phnom Penh, and Sihanoukville should probably not be on your Cambodia backpacking itinerary anyway. 

Still, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid unnecessarily dangerous situations.

• Avoid Isolated Areas After Dar k: While Cambodia is generally a safe country, it’s best to avoid strolling alone in secluded areas at night. 
• Secure Your Belongings: Keep an eye on your belongings at all times, especially in crowded areas or in tuk-tuks where pickpocketing can occur.
• Stick To Well-Trodden Routes When Hiking : Cambodia is known for its landmine issue – remnants from past conflicts, so stay on marked paths and never venture off into the jungle alone. 
• Invest in Travel Insurance: Don’t overlook the importance of having good travel insurance , unpredictable incidents can always happen.
• Drink Responsibly : If you want to party in Cambodia, know your limits and be aware that local spirits can vary considerably in strength.
• Avoid Drugs : It is a bad idea to get involved with drugs in a foreign country where drugs are illegal, so just avoid it altogether.
• Get A Local SIM Card : You never know when you’ll need internet, and local SIMs are usually very affordable and worth it for peace of mind. 
• Understand The Currency: Cambodia’s currency situation is somewhat complex as they use US dollars and local currency. As long as you understand the exchange rate you won’t have any problems!

Summary: Backpacker Guide to Cambodia

Cambodia is a fantastic destination for backpackers. This underrated country is a popular stop on every Southeast Asia backpacking route for a good reason!

There are so many reasons to visit Cambodia as a backpacker, from the stunning Angkor temples, the tranquility of rural Cambodia, or the bustling city life of Phnom Penh. 

With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and friendly locals, Cambodia has something for everyone. 

Now that you know everything you need to know about backpacking in Cambodia, here is your Cambodia packing list so you don’t forget to bring any essentials.

I’m sure you’ll love backpacking through Cambodia as much as I do!

Natali is the founder of She's Abroad Again. She is a solo female travel and backpacking expert who traveled to more than 30 country over 3 continents, mostly solo and on a budget! She is a lawyer turned travel blogger as she traded long office hours in Croatia for a digital nomad life and currenly calls France her home.

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Cambodia Trips: 30 Unique Itineraries for Your Dream Vacation

Cambodia Trips: Best 30 Tour Packages for Your Holidays

Cambodia might be one of the smallest countries in Southeast Asia but it’s truly a hidden gem and now has its firm establishment on the Asia travel circuit. Travel to Cambodia to experience the collision between ancient and modern worlds. Cambodia offers countless exotic adventures, from the crumbling remains of the Khmer Empire, country’s tragic history under the brutal regime of Pol Pot; to breathtaking natural beauty of blissful beaches, tropical jungles teeming with wildlife, and densely-forested hinterland full of tribal villages.

While planning a holiday to Cambodia, travelers may find difficulties in deciding the best Cambodia tour packages and the most reliable local Cambodia tour operator. In this article, Cambodia Travel will suggest you the best 30 tour packages with a wide range of places and things to do throughout Cambodia , as well as combination trips with other neighboring countries.

Explore 30 curated tours for all interests. Siem Reap adventures, Phnom Penh culture, & beyond. Cambodia trips made easy!

Table of Contents

Trips starting from Siem Reap

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Undoubtedly, magnificent Angkor temples are the main draws when tourists plan trips to Cambodia . But beyond the network of awe-inspiring temples of Angkor, Cambodia holidays can cover various facets scattering through this captivating land, such as colourful floating villages, stunning countryside landscapes, authentic tropical islands, distinctive cuisine and warm-hearted Khmer hospitality.

You may also like: 6 Ideas for Honeymoon Destinations in Cambodia Cambodia: All things you need to know Cambodia Weather: General Information & Best Time to Visit The Complete Cambodia Travel Guide

The ancient ruins and temples of Angkor Complex is the main draw for international tourists coming to Siem Reap.

Located in northwest Cambodia, Siem Reap is the country’s major tourist hub and serves as the main gateway to the ancient ruins and temples of Angkor Complex . This is an ideal place to start your journey in Cambodia and the nearest airport – Siem Reap International Airport , is only 8km from Siem Reap downtown and 6km to magnificent Angkor Wat. If you just want to take a glance of Angkor Complex in only 3 day trip, Spirit of Angkor package invites you to discover from the most highlighted Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm to the lesser visited temples which are nestled deep in the jungle.

Adventurous tourists with moderate physical fitness can try Biking Through Angkor to escape the crowds and approach a different side of Cambodia’s legendary temples on two wheels. For tourists who come back Siem Reap on the second time and look for a different temple exploration, Explore Preah Vihear is a perfect choice. Cambodia Travel arranges the 2-day trip (start and end in Siem Reap) to discover Preah Vihear Temple – the famous Hindu temple located on the top of mountain by northern border of Cambodia Kingdom. In addition, this off the beaten track journey brings you to the less traveled area of Angkor – Beng Mealea and Koh Ker Temples .

Want to have more than one week visit Cambodia ? Our 10 day package Cambodia In Style or 15 day trip Absolute Cambodia are exactly designed for you! Both packages take visitors to experience Cambodia in its ancient history and modern life: wandering in the shadows of the mighty Angkor Wat, immersing into the bustling of cosmopolitan Phnom Penh, relaxing in the Kratie’s Mekong River in search of rare Irrawaddy dolphins; meet locals at their living inhabits and experience some of local daily life.

Especially, animal lovers and families travelling with kids should not miss the chance to visit Elephant Valley Project in Mondulkiri offered in package Absolute Cambodia . At the end of this package, tourists will stay up-close to nature in 4 Rivers Floating Lodge , which is located in southwest Cambodia’s jungle-fringed Tatai River and at the steps of the Cardamom Mountains.

Royal Palace is an outstanding masterpiece of Khmer Architecture in Phnom Penh Capital.

The vibrant capital city Phnom Penh was once known as the ‘Pearl of Asia’. Nowadays, this captivating city still preserves its undeniable charm with French colonial buildings, boutique hotels in old colonial mansions, combine with a new wave of upscale restaurants, bustling local nightlife scenes. Many Cambodia tour packages start and even end in Phnom Penh due to its convenient links to other countries by air, land and river.

The 7-day package Colors of Cambodia is the most basic trip covering Phnom Penh and Siem Reap – the two most highlights in Cambodia travel map . This package perfectly combines urban exploration in Phnom Penh and historical temple visits in Siem Reap, as well as cultural immersions such as Phnom Penh’s Central Market, Siem Reap’s floating village and cooking class.

With a holiday in Cambodia for about 2 weeks, tourists can consider the package Explore Cambodia that takes them deep into the heart of the Khmer Kingdom. Besides so popular tourist attractions like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, this journey will take participants to off the beaten track destinations in far northeastern Cambodia: get closer to elephants in Mondulkiri or endangered freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins in Kratie; interact with ethnic minorities in Mondulkiti and Ratanakiri; admire outstanding masterpieces of Khmer architecture in remoted temples Preah Vihear, Koh Ker and Beng Mealea.

Cambodia Travel especially designs and creates Cambodia luxury travel packages like  Luxury Cambodia & Song Saa Island and Cambodia Luxury Holiday to serve high-end travelers. Taking these trips, luxury travelers can experience all main highlights of this fascinating country, and enjoy coastal relaxation in private island resorts such as Song Saa Island Resort or Six Senses Krabey Island Resort with top-notch services.

Tour Cambodia, Laos and Thailand is one of the bestselling combined trips among Southeast Asia packages . Bangkok is the great starting point of the Southeast Asia multi-destination trip because its airports are the main hubs for many international connections in the region. Travel from Thai Capital to Northern Thailand experiencing the delights of Thailand and enter Laos to enjoy the boat trip down stream Mekong River to Luang Prabang.

Visiting Laos’ highlights from North to South, explore laidback river lifestyle of Laos. The last country of the trip is Cambodia – home to the once-powerful Khmer Empire. Travel down the mighty Mekong River and become immersed in the tranquility of remote villages and meet friendly faces along the way.

Join on 25-Day Thailand Laos Cambodia tour , taking in the bright lights of Bangkok with early morning visit to floating market, listening the historical story of Ayutthaya, taking care of elephants in their living environment in Chiang Mai, enjoying relaxed life pace in Luang Prabang, exploring the charming capital Vientiane of Laos, nature beauty of Pakse, marvelous Angkor temple, laidback Battambang with its ancient pagodas and French, Thai and Khmer architecture; and hearing bloody story of Cambodia recent history in Phnom Penh.

Taking rowing boat through small canals along Vietnam’s opulent Mekong Delta.

Grand Indochina Tour offered by Vietnam Travel helps travelers explore Indochina on an exciting tour through Cambodia, Vietnam and Myanmar. This 17-day trip starts from the legendary Angkor Temples, short flight to Phnom Penh’s wide tree-lined boulevards and faded colonial mansions, then speedboat takes you along the meandering Mekong River all the way to Vietnam’s opulent Mekong Delta to the thumping nightlife of Saigon modern metropolis. Continue your Cambodia – Vietnam – Myanmar journey to central and northern Vietnam with the visit to Vietnam’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Hoian Ancient Town, Royal Citadel in Hue and amazing Halong Bay.

Take advantage of direct flight from Hanoi Capital of Vietnam to Yangon, we encounter the magic of Myanmar’s glorious gold-leafed temples from Yangon to Bagan and end up in Mandalay. The tour Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar perfectly balances cultural immersion with sightseeing and relaxation, giving you an unparalleled Indochina experience. The tour could start from Siem Reap (Cambodia) and end in Mandalay (Myanmar) or vice versa.

Pha That Luang is a gold-covered large Buddhist stupa in the centre of the city of Vientiane, Laos.

Many tourists look for combined trip to Cambodia Vietnam Laos because these countries are located side by side. They have so much in common yet at the same time shine with their own different charms.

Magical Vietnam Laos and Cambodia package is designed for persons who have limited time budget but still quite long enough to discover the very best of Indochina. The 11-day package takes you throughout Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos . Start with a stroll through the hidden alleys in Hanoi Old Quarter, then sail in the less visited parts of the World Heritage Site of Halong Bay. Slow your pulse and awaken your imagination with the combination of world-class comfort and spiritual nourishment in the atmospheric Luang Prabang.

See the Khmer temple complex of Angkor Wat and behold the haunting beauty of Ta Prohm, where jungle vines embrace ancient ruins. Explore the bright lights and urban bustle of Saigon in Vietnam before departure. This tour takes you deep into three beautiful countries, immersing you in our rich culture and elegant landscapes.

For longer holiday in Cambodia – Laos – Vietnam , just click to 15 day trip Grand Indochina Adventure at Laos Travel ’s website or 19 day package Discover Vietnam Laos and Cambodia offered by Vietnam Travel . These comprehensive Vietnam Cambodia Laos itineraries take you to an authentic journey to wonders of three unique countries. Stroll through bustling alleys of Hanoi and Saigon smelling ethereal coffee’s odor in the morning fresh air. Be lured in charm of ancient town of Hoian and taste delicacy of Vietnamese cuisine.

Travel back in time to discover history in depth of Hue, the former capital of Vietnam. Sail picturesque cruise of Halong Bay among thousand karst islands and islets dotted in emerald water. Gain insights into culture of beguiling Luang Prabang. This exquisite small, palm fringed place is packed with fabulous colonial villas, top class restaurants, coffee shops and stunning Buddhist temples. Witness the sun rising over magnificent Angkor Wat is extreme experience of a life time. Your tripod will have a plenty of chance to capture unforgettable moments throughout these journeys.

Vietnamese girl in traditional long dress and iconic conical hat.

Cambodia and Vietnam are often visited in conjunction with each other due to close geographical location. Cambodia Vietnam tour packages tend to be more popular in recent years when visitors plan the trip to Indochina. This will give you broader understanding of the many similarities as well as differences between these two countries, also save lots of travelling time and expenses at the same time.

For 8 day trip duration, Cambodia Travel offers package Splendour of Cambodia & Vietnam to visit the region’s most beautiful sites with our expert, English-speaking guides. Enjoy the sunrise over the Khmer temple complex of Angkor Wat. Behold the haunting beauty of Ta Prohm, where jungle vines embrace ancient ruins and delight in Central Vietnam’s ancient culture and diversity. Wander through Saigon bustling streets and immerse yourself in the riches of Mekong.

Gourmet travelers should not miss the chance to take part in 16 day Foodie Tour Cambodia & Vietnam package . This private adventure lets you dine your way, indulging all your senses in delicious tastes and tantalizing aromas, while travelling in comfort and style. From the majestic Angkor temples to the emerald waters and haunting karst fangs of Halong Bay, Cambodia Travel designs this sixteen-day tour to take you across Vietnam and Cambodia’s kaleidoscope of landscapes.

To explore of-the-beaten-tracks in two countries, adventure packages like Biking Vietnam & Cambodia and Cambodia & Vietnam Adventure are ideal suggestions. During these journeys, all your senses will delve deeply into the culture and local life style through the back roads of Cambodia and Vietnam.

Luxury Heritage Journey is the bestselling package of Cambodia Travel to serve high-end tourists. Indulge in the best very best of Vietnam and Cambodia on this one of a kind private luxury tour. Designed to capture the essence of this mysterious region, this awe-inspiring itinerary is meticulously crafted to invite you, in elegance and style, into Southeast Asia’s “window of the past.”

Alms-giving ceremony in Luang Prabang is a longstanding tradition in Laos Buddhist culture.

With about 6 or 8 day duration, tourists will have opportunity to join in Cambodia and Laos tour packages at a glimpse with the main tourist attractions such as: Vientiane, Luang Prabang in Laos and Siem Reap in Cambodia. Both of these two countries were once the ancient Khmer Empire and predominantly Buddhist countries. Ancient temples and mysterious Buddha-filled caves, royal palaces can be found and explored during the journey in Cambodia and Laos via Cambodia Travel ’s sample tours: Cambodia and Laos Visit and Highlights of Laos and Cambodia .

No matter how long you want to spend on Cambodia and Laos vacation , there are some tours that would suit perfectly to your needs and budget. For those who want to have an insight into Cambodia and Laos culture and history, Splendor of Laos and Cambodia from Laos Travel is an ideal option. This 12 day trip covers four main tourism destinations in two countries: Siem Reap – Phnom Penh – Vientiane – Luang Prabang. Travel back in time to legendary Angkor temples complex. Other than that, jungle adventures, vibrant culture and great nightlife in Siem Reap add to the charm and allure of this historical part of Cambodia.

Once considered the “Pearl of Asia”, Phnom Penh fell victim to war and upheaval. But nowadays, the city has revived itself with intriguing markets, a charming café culture, and a delicious food scene. Laos retains many of the traditions that have disappeared in a frenzy of development elsewhere in the region. It’s hard to believe somnolent Vientiane is an Asian capital, and there’s a timeless quality to rural life, where stilt houses and paddy fields look like they are straight out of a movie set. Magical Luang Prabang bears witness to hundreds of saffron-robed monks gliding through the streets every morning in a call to alms, one of the region’s iconic images.

Marble Temple is one of Bangkok’s best-known temples and a major tourist attraction.

Amazing Thailand and Cambodia is a perfect combination trip to Cambodia and Thailand chosen by Cambodia Travel’s clients. Within 10 day journey, you will discover the many faces of Thailand and Cambodia on this adventure. The Cambodia and Thailand package commences from Bangkok, a bustling capital full of contrast between ancient temples, modern infrastructure, and buzzing Thai life. On the outskirts of Bangkok lies the ancient former capital of Ayutthaya. Heading north to the fabled Golden Triangle, once known as an opium producing area, to view and scenic panorama of three countries.

Your journey continues to Chiang Mai, a more relaxed city, known for colorful night markets, teak temples and Thai massages before immerse yourself in the magic and history of Cambodia’s famous Angkor temples, cruise through Tonle Sap Lake’s charming floating villages and watch the sunset behind the mystical, temple-dotted jungle.

With breathtaking ancient wonders, stunning isolated islands, jaw-dropping nature, affordable luxury and friendly locals, newly-wed couples have no reason to ignore taking Cambodia honeymoon package .

Luxury Cambodia & Song Saa Island package is designed for high-end honeymooners in the very personal and special way. The visit to the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat and nearby temples is absolutely worth every second spent. It will be such romantic moments when the couple wandering through the jungle hand-in-hand discovering crumbling ruins and witnessing the magnificent sunrise over the largest religious monument in the world. If you are lucky enough to meet up Buddhist monks while in Angkor Wat, the monk will give special blessings for your newlywed couple then sprinkling you with flowered water and finally he ties red threads around your wrists, as the symbol of everlasting love.

Moreover, relaxing days on Song Saa Private Island Resort will surely be a wow factor of your Cambodia honeymoon vacation . In this private island, every detail is carefully catered for each couple. Boasting with the pristine white sand beaches and lapping turquoise waters, 24 vast thatched roof villas with private pools, spa sanctuaries where treatments take place nestled in nature, and a protected coral reef, Song Saa is full of intimate spots for the newly-wed couples to unwind after the whirlwind of chaos that is a wedding.

Honeymooners with lower budget still can celebrate their new life together on Truly Cambodia to create unforgettable memories with their loved one in Southeast Asia. A perfect journey through the ancient and modern Cambodia for 11 days exploring capital city of Phnom Penh to the wonders of Angkor Complex, some of the most iconic places around Siem Reap as well as being close to the rural Cambodian lifestyle at Battambang. Slow down your pace to create unforgettable honeymoon memories on Koh Rong Samloem’s palm-fringed island and soft powder white sands before driving to Phnom Penh for departure.

No matter how much your couple spend on Cambodia honeymoon package, Cambodia Travel team can customize once-in-a-lifetime holiday with a touch of romance, beach relaxing and sightseeing to beautiful places in Cambodia.

Cambodia Day Trips

Besides all-inclusive packages, Cambodia day trips can be organized with air-conditioned transfers and an English-speaking guide give tourists more flexibility and alternative to get around and experience Cambodia at its best. Day Tours and short excursions in Cambodia are great options for travelers having a limited time or the ideal add-on to a longer holiday. Whether you want to experience Cambodia’s intoxicating history, meet the extremely friendly Khmer people or immerse into the country’s breathtaking landscapes, there is a Cambodia private day tour that perfectly matches your demand!

For more details, you should visit: Best Cambodia Day Tours

Angkor Wat is at it prettiest moments at sunrise.

Explore the Khmer architectural treasures of Cambodia in one day excursion from Siem Reap . The full day Angkor exploration starts by rising up early to pick up the most beautiful, haunting and spiritual moment to visit magnificent Angkor Wat at dawn. Your journey then continues with a visit of the South Gate of Angkor Thom, which is famous for its majestic doors and artifacts. Later, visit the Elephant Terrace, Terrace of the Leper King and Takeo “Jewel of Crystal”, which is dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva and was erected at the end of the 10th century.

You should not miss Ta Prohm Temple , which is a wonderful combination of human genius and natural beauty with its giant trees that have grown there for centuries. If the weather permits, you can enjoy tethered balloon over the Angkor at sunset from a bird’s eye-view.

Beng Mealea has remained untouched for centuries and has only recently been made accessible.

Escape from the hordes of tourists at the main Angkor temples on the private day trip to hidden temples outside of Siem Reap. The mystical overgrown Beng Mealea and the pyramid-shaped Koh Ker are located in the Cambodian countryside within a short drive from Siem Reap. Koh Ker – the former capital of the Khmer Empire under the reign of Jayavarman IV, now is abandoned deep in the jungle. There are many structures inside Koh Ker, but the most outstanding temple is seven-tiered pyramid Prasat Thom.

On the way back to Siem Reap, continue on to visit the incredible jungle-covered temple: Beng Mealea. This distant temple is a gem in the midst of the jungle; half strangled with vines and decorated by lichen, Beng Mealea is the true adventure experience. This one day excursion includes Cambodia Travel ’s private tour guide, entrance fee, picnic lunch and round-trip transfer from Siem Reap.

National Museum in Phnom Penh is home to the world’s finest collection of Khmer sculpture.

Discover Phnom Penh – Cambodia’s capital. Despite its recent turbulent history, Phnom Penh still holds an undeniable charm with its wide tree-lined boulevards and faded colonial mansions. On this full day excursion, you will learn about Cambodia’s war-torn past under the Khmer Rouge, as well as take a glimpse into ancient Khmer art and civilization in National Museum and Royal Palace. The day trip will end at Phnom Penh’s historic riverfront area where stands lots of  restaurants, art galleries and silk shops, or the distinctive Central Market where you can buy jewelry, curios, clothes and souvenirs.

Sun bears and Moon bears are taken care in Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre.

Day trip from Phnom Penh to Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre is an ideal suggestion for animal lovers or families travelling with kids. Located an hour’s drive from Cambodia’s capital, this is the world’s largest sanctuary for sun bears and has education programs about the threats facing wild bear populations. This rescue center is home to more than 1,200 animals, such as tigers, elephants, snakes, gibbons and clouded leopards, that have been rescued from the clutches of poachers and illegal trafficking.

During the visit, you can have chance to get up close and interact with endangered species kept at Phnom Tamao at a safe distance . A delicious Cambodian-style lunch is also included into this one-day tour package.

Interesting adventure from bamboo trains to enjoy countryside vista just outside Battambang.

Battambang is a perfect stop to make on the long journey between two main tourism hubs: Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. One full day sightseeing in Battambang includes the visit to the city’s bustling boulevards lined with quaint French colonial buildings; tranquil Wat Kor Village with a cluster of Khmer heritage houses. Go further out of the central town, tourists will join-in an interesting adventure from bamboo trains to enjoy countryside vista.

The reminder of the brutal Khmer Rouge can be found in notorious Phnom Sampov. On the brighter side, one of nature’s wonders can be witnessed from the nearby cave at sunset. Every evening at nightfall, thousands of bats make their way out of caves in the hillside to feed before returning at dawn.

You are surely surprised to know that there are a lot of options to visit Cambodia as well as take combined trips between Cambodia and other neighboring Southeast Asian countries. And your Cambodia holiday will be at its best if being escorted by excellent local tour guides. All our Cambodia travel packages are 100% tailored-made to fulfill all your travel dreams. Our Travel Consultants are knowledgeable and well-traveled professionals who are confident in delivering first-class personalized services. Contact Cambodia Travel team today to see how we can assist you with your travel demands.

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Cambodia Traveler View

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

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Cambodia. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Dengue in Asia and the Pacific Islands April 18, 2024 Dengue is a risk in many parts of Asia and the Pacific Islands. Some countries are reporting increased numbers of cases of the disease. Travelers to Asia and the Pacific Islands can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. Destination List: Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka

⇧ Top

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.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Cambodia.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Cambodia. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Cambodia.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Japanese Encephalitis

Recommended for travelers who

• Are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live
• Spend long periods of time, such as a month or more, in areas with Japanese encephalitis
• Frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis

Consider vaccination for travelers

• Spending less than a month in areas with Japanese encephalitis but will be doing activities that increase risk of infection, such as visiting rural areas, hiking or camping, or staying in places without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets
• Going to areas with Japanese encephalitis who are uncertain of their activities or how long they will be there

Not recommended for travelers planning short-term travel to urban areas or travel to areas with no clear Japanese encephalitis season. 

Japanese encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine for US Children

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Cambodia take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Cambodia.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Cambodia. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Cambodia, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Cambodia. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• 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

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.

Counsel your patients on actions they can take on their trip to stay healthy and safe.

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 | Healthy Water
• 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

Remind your patients to pack health and safety items. Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Cambodia for a list of health-related items they should consider packing.

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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Southeast Asia Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 27, 2023

Backpackers have been traveling through Southeast Asia since the late 1960s and early 1970s, leaving a well-worn trail around the region.

Starting in beautiful Thailand, the trail makes its way to up-and-coming Laos, through Vietnam, and to the temples of Angkor Wat. It then winds back into Thailand, where people head south to party in the Thai islands before moving down to Malaysia and Singapore.

There are a few variations to the trail, but this is what it mostly covers.

I’ve been visiting this region since 2004 and spent years living in Thailand . I love backpacking Southeast Asia and have written extensively about it as I know it like the back of my hand.

It’s an especially great region for new travelers because it’s easy to travel around, it’s safe, and there are lots of other travelers you can meet. But it’s also perfect for veteran travelers too as there are tons of off-the-beaten-path destinations that the standard backpacker trail doesn’t cover.

In short, Southeast Asia has something for every traveler — and every budget.

This Southeast Asia travel guide will help you travel the region like a pro, ensuring you save money and make the most of your time in this fun, gorgeous, and lively corner of the world.

Table of Contents

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

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in southeast asia.

1. Admire Angkor Wat

One of the greatest human creations in history, the Angkor Wat temple complex is best explored over the course of a few days. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site created by the Khmer Empire and absolutely enormous. Temples to visit include Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple which has 216 gigantic stone face carvings, and Ta Prohm. I spent three days here and that simply wasn’t enough. A one-day pass is $37 USD, while a 1-week pass is $72 USD. If you’re here for multiple days, be sure to hire a driver and see some of the more out of the way ruins away from the main temple complex (and the crowds).

2. Explore Bangkok

Bangkok is the hub of travel activity in Southeast Asia. You can get anywhere you want from here. Though I hated it at first, the more I’ve spent time here the more I love it. Bangkok is like an onion whose many layers need to be peeled back. Some things not to miss include the spectacular Bangkok Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chatuchak Market and Asiatique, and a canal trip on the Chao Phraya River. This is a city for foodies and wild nightlife.

3. Relax on some tropical islands

No visit to Southeast Asia would be complete without a visit to at least one of the thousands of tropical islands in the region. My top five include the Perhentian Islands (Malaysia), Rabbit Island (Cambodia), Ko Lanta (Thailand), and Boracay (Philippines). Lombok Island (Indonesia) has a chill vibe with unspoiled, perfect “desert island” beaches. There’s so many islands to visit. Be sure to add at least one to your trip. The country guides will have more information for you.

4. See Ha Long Bay

Sailing trips to this island-filled bay with stunning emerald waters, limestone formations, and marine life give you an appreciation for the natural beauty in Vietnam. Tours from Hanoi start at around $110 USD for two-day trips and increase from there. I love the colorful grottoes, hanging stalactites, and stalagmites of Surprise Cave (Sung Sot), Fairy Cave (Tien Ong), and Heaven Palace (Thien Cung). Make sure you go with a reputable company though as some of the cheaper boats are less than ideal. If you’d rather just visit for one day, day trips from Hanoi cost $55 USD.

5. Wander Kuala Lumpur

Other things to see and do in southeast asia, 1. go jungle trekking.

This region of the world is covered in amazing jungles with diverse wildlife, plentiful camping opportunities, and cool waterfalls. The best jungle treks are found in northern Thailand, Western Laos, and Malaysian Borneo (the latter are also the hardest and most intense). Some of my favorites include Danum Valley (Borneo) for its incredible wildlife; Ratanakiri (Cambodia) for its pristine wilderness and thousand-year-old trees; and Pu Luong Nature Reserve (Vietnam). Costs vary but jungle trekking generally costs $30-50 USD per day.

2. Attend the Full Moon Party

The biggest one-night party in the world welcomes up to 30,000 people with a party that stretches until dawn. Cover yourself in glow paint, grab a bucket of booze, and dance the night away with new friends on the island of Ko Phangan in Thailand. As the name would suggest, the party is on the night of the full moon. If you miss it, there’s always the half-moon party, quarter-moon party, and black-moon party. Really, every night is a party on Ko Phangan . Just avoid the flaming jump rope that occurs — I’ve seen people get burned badly!

3. Learn to dive

There are many great dive sites around the region for those interested in underwater exploration. You can learn to dive here at a fraction of what it would cost back home too. Some of the best places are Ko Tao (Thailand), Sipadan (Malaysia), as well as Gili Islands (Indonesia) and Coron, Palawan (The Philippines). A typical diving course is completed in three days. A PADI course typically runs $275 USD in Thailand, including three nights’ accommodation, though at smaller schools you can often negotiate down to $250 USD. Day trips for certified divers start at $165 USD. For information on Ko Tao, check out this blog post .

4. Eat street food in Singapore

Singapore is a foodie’s heaven. Try the hawker stalls of Singapore as well as Little India and Chinatown for some of the best and cheapest food in Asia. If you’re looking for a nice place to sit down and eat, eat at Singapore’s famed restaurants during lunch when restaurants offer discounts, making them a great deal. You’ll also find the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurants here (Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and Hawker Chan), offering world-class meals for just a couple of bucks!

5. Overload on temples

You can’t turn a corner without seeing a Buddhist temple in this part of the world. You’ll get temple overload at some point but visit as many as you can as each is unique to the country and region of the temple. There are so many places with high concentrations of ornate and beautiful temples. Check out Chiang Mai’s Wat Doi Suthep Temple and hike up the 300 steps to the golden Chedi that’s 600 years old!; Bagan’s Shwesandaw Pagoda from the 11th century with its stunning golden dome; Angkor Wat’s Ta Prohm is covered in iconic vines and enveloped in ancient jungle roots; Hue’s colorful Thien Mu Pagoda is perched atop a lush green embankment; Hoi An’s Quan Cong Temple with incredible Chinese architecture with hand-carved beauty and skill, and Luang Prabang’s Vat Xieng Thong with its golden, canopied roof. Most are free to enter, however, dress codes are enforced (you need to have your shoulders and legs covered).

6. Dive Sipadan

Located off Malaysian Borneo, Sipadan is one of the best dive sites in the world. If you have your dive certificate, make sure you venture out here. I absolutely love this area because it’s teeming with live turtles, diverse cave systems, sharks, dolphins, colorful coral, bright fish, and everything in between. Not a lot of people make it to this part of Malaysia, but it’s worth it to go the extra mile and make your way off the tourist trail a bit. Don’t miss Barracuda Point and The Drop-Off. Keep in mind that only 176 permits to dive at the island are issued each day, costing 140 MYR per person. The resorts on the neighboring islands each get a specific number of permits per day and require divers to stay with them for a few days. So you’ll need to stay at those resorts and dive into the surrounding areas before they can get you a Sipadan permit.

7. Fall in love with Bali

Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia, and its famous Kuta beach is known for its wild parties and surfing ( though I think it’s overrated ). However, there is much more to Bali than just wild nights and sun-soaked days. If you’re a thrill seeker, hike up to the top of Mount Batur, an active volcano, for a breathtaking sunrise. Paragliding and white water rafting are also super popular here, as is surfing (it’s an affordable place to learn if you’ve never done it). There are also lots of hot springs to enjoy, the Ubud Monkey Forest (a popular temple and nature reserve home to hundreds of monkeys), and numerous places to scuba dive, including the Liberty wreck and Manta Point.

8. Take in Ho Chi Minh City

Frantic, chaotic, and crazy, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam is the embodiment of the controlled chaos that rules Southeast Asia. You can’t quite figure out how this teeming mass of people and cars work together, but it does. Highlights here include touring the tunnels used by the Viet Cong in the 1960s, taking in the view from the Saigon Skydeck, eating your way through the street food scene, and seeing the city’s numerous temples.

9. Admire the sunrise over an Indonesian Volcano

One of the most popular tourist attractions on Java is Mount Bromo and its National Park. Don’t miss out on getting a photo of the smoldering Bromo volcano as it lies surrounded by the almost lunar landscape of the Sea of Sand. Get up early to catch one of the most memorable sunrises of your life. If you’re there in mid-August, you’ll be just in time to see Upacara Kasada, the traditional Hindu ritual of the Tenggerese, a Javanese tribe of the region.

10. Hike in Khao Sok National Park

Located in southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is constantly rated as one of the best parks in Thailand, with incredible trekking, camping, limestone karsts, cooling rivers, and a glistening lake. Visit for semi-challenging hikes, tons of wildlife, walking paths, and breathtaking sunsets. Park entrance costs around $6 USD while full-day guided tours are $95 USD. I highly recommend spending at least one night here to get the full experience.

11. Visit Kampot

Most people come to Kampot to enjoy the scenic riverside views, as well as the rolling hills that surround the city. Since you can explore easily enough on foot or by bicycle, Kampot is a great place to slow down and relax. There’s not much to do here but have lazy days by the river, chill, and eat (don’t miss the famous Rusty Keyhole for BBQ!). Don’t miss the pepper farms, as this 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.

12. Take a cooking class

Food from this region is as varied as the countries themselves and learning how to cook a few dishes is a great souvenir of your time here. Even if you don’t plan to cook back home, you can still spend a day making and eating scrumptious food. Most big cities have cooking schools offering classes of 2-6 hours, often including a trip to the local market beforehand to select ingredients. I absolutely love cooking classes and urge you to take one at least once. They are a fun experience!

13. Take a food tour

If you’d rather eat instead of cook, taking a food tour is a fun way to gain insight into the region’s amazing noodle dishes, fresh seafood, sweets, and street food while learning about the history and culture behind the cuisine. Most major cities in Southeast Asia offer food tours. These include tours around local markets, street stalls, and tours to locally-owned restaurants and cafes where you can sample the local cuisine and connect with a local chef. If you’re nervous about street food, this is a great way to try some in a controlled setting. Tours usually last 2-4 hours and include multiple stops and several different dishes, with prices costing $40-75 USD per person.

14. Visit an elephant sanctuary

While riding an elephant is on many a Southeast Asia bucket list, once you know how much the animals suffer from abuse in order to provide these rides, you might think twice about taking one. An even better way to interact with elephants is to volunteer at or visit the Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai in Thailand. It’s a phenomenal place, allowing you to give back to the community and these magnificent animals all at once. After coming here, you will understand why you should NEVER ride an elephant. A one-day visit costs $70 USD.

15. See The Killing Fields

A visit to Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields, may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, but it makes for an educational and memorable experience. Over 3 million people were killed by Pol Pot’s regime, including countless women and children. I recommend getting a guide so you can really understand what you’re seeing as you explore the area. Also, this horrific tragedy took place less than 50 years ago and is still very present so please be respectful as a visitor.  The site is located 10 miles from Phnom Penh. Half-day guided tours start at $66 USD.

16. Swim with Whale Sharks in Donsol

If you’re in the Philippines, check out the Donsol Whale Shark Interactive Ecosystem Project because there are not many experiences quite as adrenaline-inducing as swimming with a whale shark for the first time in crystal waters. These incredible creatures are around 45 feet (14 meters) long and yet incredibly gentle and curious. I loved floating at the surface being able to look below and see them slowly swim below me. Get some people together and rent a boat for a half day, explore the area, and go ‘shark-seeing’ for a good cause.  

  For a ton more information, visit my country specific travel guides for more detailed information on each place:

• Cambodia Travel Guide
• Indonesia Travel Guide
• Laos Travel Guide
• Malaysia Travel Guide
• Singapore Travel Guide
• Thailand Travel Guide
• Vietnam Travel Guide

Southeast Asia Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation in Southeast Asia is really cheap, making it the perfect place to travel if you are on a budget. Hostels are plentiful, as are budget guesthouses and hotels. It’s also very cheap to splash out here if you’re in need of some luxury.

Generally, you can find hostel dorm rooms for as little as $6-8 USD in Cambodia and $3-6 USD in Laos. In Thailand, 4-6-bed dorm rooms are $8-12 USD, while in Vietnam you can expect to pay $5-7 USD. In Indonesia, prices range between $5-10 USD for a 4-6-bed dorm room. Expect to pay at least $15-20 per night for a private room with air conditioning. Free Wi-Fi is standard in most hostels, free breakfast is common, and many hostels even have pools. In more remote areas, hot water isn’t common so make sure to check in advance if that’s an issue for you.

Simple guesthouses or bungalows throughout Southeast Asia generally cost $12-20 USD per night for a basic room with a fan (sometimes air conditioning) and hot water. If you want something nicer that includes a more comfortable bed and a TV, expect to pay $25-35 USD per night.

For backpackers, budgeting around $10 USD per night for accommodation is pretty safe no matter where you go in Southeast Asia. If you’re looking for a higher-end hotel room with more amenities, expect to pay $20-50 USD per night for a room. Anything over that is luxury territory.

Camping is available in certain areas, usually for just a few dollars per night for a basic tent plot without electricity. However, this is about the same price as hostels so it’s not really any cheaper.

Food – While each country’s cuisine varies, overall, Southeast Asian food is aromatic, spicy, and flavorful. Typical spices and herbs include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, and fish sauce. No matter what region you’re in, you can expect to find a variety of curries, salads, soups, noodle dishes, and stir-fries.

Rice and noodles are central to Southeast Asian food, while the meat is usually pork, chicken, fish, or seafood, which is everywhere on the islands and coastal areas.

While traveling Southeast Asia, street food is the most popular food and cheapest option. On average, these meals cost $1-5 USD. You find these stalls throughout this region lining most streets and every market. They are ubiquitous in the region. In Singapore, street food (from “hawker stands” as they’re known there) costs around $4-5 USD for a meal. Even if you go into small local restaurants, the price doesn’t increase that much.

Food that costs $2 USD at a street stall generally only costs $4-6 USD at a local restaurant. If you went into a restaurant in Thailand, you’d pay around $3-4 USD for a pad Thai that would have cost $1-2 USD on the street.

In Cambodia, street food is around $1-2 USD, while restaurants charge around $3-5 USD for a dish like amok (a coconut milk dish) or luc lac (pepper gravy beef).

Western meals, including burgers, pizza, and sandwiches usually cost around $7-10 USD. But these generally aren’t that great. If you want something that actually tastes as it does back home, expect to spend at least $10-12 USD for your meal.

While cheap, alcohol can take a bite out of your budget if you’re not careful. Those $1-2 USD beers add up! Wine and cocktails are more expensive, generally around $3-5 USD. A cappuccino is typically around $2 USD. Bottled water is plentiful and costs less than $1 USD.

There’s a growing cutting-edge foodie scene in the region and, if you want to splurge, you can do so on some really good meals. Big cities like Bangkok, KL, and Singapore, all have world-class Michelin star restaurants as well some incredible fusion restaurants.

Since dining out is so cheap in the region, there’s no point in grocery shopping unless you’re looking to get some pre-made salads or fruits. Additionally, a general lack of kitchens in most hostels and hotels makes it difficult to cook even if you wanted to. If you do purchase your own groceries, expect to spend around $25 USD per week for basic groceries like local produce, rice, and some meat (while avoiding expensive imported items like cheese and wine).

Backpacking Southeast Asia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of $45 USD per day, you can stay in hostel dorms, eat out at local markets and street stalls, limit your drinking, do mostly free activities, minimize paid activities, and use public transportation to get around. You’re not going to be able to splash out but you’ll be able to live the typical backpacker experience without really stressing over expenses.

On a mid-range budget of $85 USD per day, you can stay in budget hotels or private hostel rooms, eat more restaurant meals, do more paid activities like cooking classes, take some taxis, and enjoy a few more drinks. You won’t live large, but you won’t be missing out either.

On an upscale budget of $150 USD or more per day, you can stay in nicer hotels with more amenities, eat out as much as you want, do more paid tours including private tours, hire a driver, fly between destinations, and basically do whatever you want. The sky is the limit with this kind of budget!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Backpacking Southeast Asia is cheap. There’s little opportunity to spend a lot of money since everything is already so inexpensive unless you intentionally are trying to splash out on fancy meals and high end hotels. The two reasons why most travelers end up overspending is that they eat a lot of Western food and drink way too much. If you want to save money while traveling in this part of the world, cut down on your drinking and skip the Western food. While country guides have more specific ways to save money, here are some general ways to save money in Southeast Asia:

• Stay with a local – Accommodation is cheap in Southeast Asia but nothing’s cheaper than free! Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds and couches for free. You’ll also meet great people who can show you around and share their insider tips and advice.
• Book tours and day trips as a group – You have more negotiation power when you’re with a group of people buying multiple spots or tickets. Traveling alone? Meet a friend at a hostel and see if they want to join the same tour as you. I’ve met some great friends over the years doing this and highly recommend it.
• 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’ll be able to negotiate a lower price as you’ll find companies are often offering the same tour and competing. Anything you see online is more expensive than you need to pay!
• Eat on the street – The street food is the best food. The food is the best and cheapest you’ll find. It’s a great way to try new foods and get to chat with locals as well. This is where locals eat so if you want insight into local culture, good food, and savings, eat the street food. Look for where locals are eating to ensure that it’s safe to eat.
• Bargain hard – Nothing is ever at face value here. Bargain with sellers as 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. It’s important not to convert it in your head to your own currency because it will usually sound cheap even though you might still be getting ripped off. You’ll never get the local price, but you might come close!
• Minimize your drinking – Drinks really add up. Even with cheap drinks, if you’re not aware, you’ll end up spending more money on beer than on food and accommodation. If you want to drink, head to the supermarkets, drink at the hostel, or check out the local happy hours.
• Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier comes particularly in handy in Southeast Asia since you can’t usually drink the tap water. Save money and thousands of plastic bottles and get a bottle that can purify the tap water for you. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter that ensures your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Southeast Asia

I’ve been traveling Southeast Asia since 2005 and have stayed in hundreds of places. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Southeast Asia:

• The Siem Reap Pub Hostel (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Mad Monkey Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Sihanoukville (Sihanoukville)
• Monkey Republic (Sihanoukville)
• Onederz Phnom Penh (Phnom Penh)
• Sla Boutique Hostel (Phnom Penh)
• The Magic Sponge (Kampot)
• Indigo House Hotel (Luang Prabang)
• Sa Sa Lao (Luang Prabang)
• Sanga Hostel (Pakse)
• Nana Backpackers Hostel (Vang Vieng)
• Dream Home Hostel (Vientiane)
• Traveller Bunker Hostel (Cameron Highlands)
• De’Native Guest House (Cameron Highlands)
• Kitez Hotel & Bunks (Kuala Lumpur)
• Sunshine Bedz Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur)
• Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel (Penang)
• Mad Monkey Hostel (Bangkok)
• D&D Inn (Bangkok)
• Kodchasri B&B (Chiang Mai)
• The Royal Guest House (Chiang Mai)
• Green Leaf (Khao Yai)
• Lonely Beach Resort (Ko Chang)
• The Sanctuary (Koh Phangan)
• Na-Tub Hostel (Koh Phangan)
• Pineapple Guesthouse (Phuket)
• Dream Lodge
• The Pod Capsule Hostel
• The Scarlet
• Under the Coconut Tree Guesthouse (Hoi An)
• Fuse Beachside (Hoi An)
• Pretty Backpackers House (Da Lat)
• Hanoi Old Quarter Hostel (Hanoi)
• Luxury Backpackers Hostel (Hanoi)
• The Hideout (HCMC)
• City Backpackers Hostel (HCMC)

How to Get Around Southeast Asia

Public transportation – Public transportation costs from a few pennies to a few dollars, with Singapore and Malaysia offering the most comprehensive public transportation systems. In Thailand, local buses cost around $0.25 USD per trip, while the Metro and Skytrain in Bangkok cost $0.50-1.50 USD per trip. In Cambodia, a bus ticket in Phnom Penh costs just $0.40 USD per ride.

Major cities generally have subway systems but mostly you’ll be using the bus or shared taxis to get around.

Tuk-tuks (small, shared taxis with no meter) are available around much of the region and require a bit of haggling. They usually have 3-6 seats and generally cost more than public transportation but are faster. To find a reputable driver, ask your accommodation as they usually know someone. Tuk-tuk drivers can often be hired for the day for a discounted rate (this is what a lot of people do to visit the Killing Fields and Angkor Wat in Cambodia, for example).

Taxi – Taxis in the region are generally safe, though it’s not uncommon to have to haggle. Scams to rip you off aren’t uncommon either, so always ask your accommodation to call you a taxi whenever possible so you know you’ll get a reputable company.

In Singapore and Indonesia, taxi drivers do put on the meter. In Bangkok, you can get taxi drivers to use the meter, but if you’re hailing one in a tourist area, he might try to avoid using it. In Vietnam, the meter is sometimes rigged, but if you can get a reputable company like Mai Linh, you won’t have any problems.

Ridesharing – Grab, DiDi, and Gojek are Asia’s answer to Uber. They work the same way: you hire a driver to take you somewhere via the app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi, though drivers are a bit unreliable as the practice is not as widespread here as in other parts of the world.

Just keep in mind that some drivers are driving motorcycles so be sure to double check what kind of vehicle is picking you up if you don’t want to ride on the back of one.

Bus – The easiest and cheapest way to travel around Southeast Asia is by bus. The backpacker trail is so worn that there is a very well-established tourist bus system to take you anywhere. Buses costs vary between $5-25 USD for a 5-6 hour journey. Overnight buses cost $20-35 USD depending on distance (they often have reclining seats so you can get a decent sleep).

You can check ticket prices and book tickets for all the different bus companies across Southeast Asia at 12go.asia.

Train – Train service is limited in the region and not something to really consider when you travel Southeast Asia. You can take a train up and down the coast of Vietnam and there’s some limited scenic rails in Malaysia. Thailand is the only country that has an extensive train system that lets you travel all its regions (and onward to Singapore) from Bangkok.

The train prices in Southeast Asia are determined by distance and class. Night trains with sleeper cars are more expensive than day trains. The night train to Chiang Mai from Bangkok takes twelve hours and costs $27 USD for a sleeper seat. However, that same train during the day is $8-9 USD. In Vietnam, trains run up and down the coast and cost $60 USD from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

Flying – The cost of flying around Southeast Asia has come down in recent years due to the rise of low-cost airlines. Scoot, Jetstar, and AirAsia are the biggest. Nok Air has a lot of flights within Thailand , and VietJet Air is popular in Vietnam . Lion Air serves Indonesia , but its safety record is really spotty and I personally would not fly them. If you book early, you can save on fares, as most of the airlines offer deeply discounted fare sales all the time, especially Air Asia.

Just make sure that the airport these budget airlines fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Also, keep in mind that you usually must pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

All in all, I only recommend flying if you are pressed for time or find a super cheap deal. Otherwise, stick to the bus.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Southeast Asia is safe, though popularity of the practice varies by country (it’s more common in Malaysia, but not so much in Cambodia). Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Pack plenty of water and food. Also, make sure the people picking you up understand you’re hitchhiking and not flagging down a taxi.

Hitchwiki is a great resource for hitchhiking tips.

Car rental I don’t recommend renting a car in Southeast Asia. Rental cars are expensive ($40 USD per day or more) and the roads here are in poor shape. I would never drive around the region.

When to Go to Southeast Asia

The best time of year to visit Southeast Asia is from November to April when temperatures are milder (though temperatures vary drastically by region). It may be mild in Thailand in January and hot in Malaysia but in Northern Vietnam, it’s cold! Also, one of the biggest mistakes people make is not taking into account the rainy season. In some cases it won’t make a big difference but definitely does if it’s a beach trip.

In Indonesia, the best time to visit is April to October. Temperatures average 24-30ºC (75-86ºF), and the weather is mostly dry. July to September is the peak holiday season and when you can expect to pay the highest rates. December to February is the rainy season.

In Malaysia, January-March and June-September are the best time to visit, as these months have the lowest average rainfall. It is still hot and humid during this time though. The rainy season is from October to December. Singapore’s climate/weather is much like Malaysia’s.

In Vietnam, the weather varies by region. In Central Vietnam (including Hoi An and Nha Trang), January-May is the best time to visit because it is dry and the temperatures average 21-30°C (70-86°F). June to August is also a decent time to visit. If you want to stick around Hanoi, March to April is great, or October to December (for mildest temperatures). The rainy season is May-September.

Thailand has three seasons: hot, hotter, and hottest. It’s always warm, though the weather is nicest between November and February (which is also peak tourist season). Bangkok is “coolest” and driest during this time (but still averaging a hot 29°C/85°F each day). April and May are the hottest months, and the rainy season is June-October. The gulf islands get pretty rainy from August to December.

The dry season in Cambodia is from November-May and the cool season is from November-February (and when most people visit). Temperatures during this time are still high, but humidity is lower. Laos has the same cool season as Cambodia, with the dry season running from November-April.

In the Philippines, it’s mostly warm all year long with an average daily high of 26°C (80°F). There are rainy and dry seasons and temperatures are hot and dry from March-May and cooler December-February. The best time to visit is between January-April when it’s less humid. Monsoon Season is July-October.

For more information on when to go to places, visit the specific country guides.

How to Stay Safe in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crime is super, duper rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Southeast Asia, especially around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your valuables out of reach on public transportation and in crowds just to be safe. Never leave your valuables unattended while at the beach and always keep a hold of your purse/bag when out and about as bag snatching is common.

That said, outside touristy areas, theft is really rare. Heck, it’s pretty rare in touristy areas too! But a little vigilance goes a long way and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

There are some common scams around that you’ll want to be aware of, such as the motorbike scam. This involves a bike rental company trying to charge you for damage to the bike that you didn’t cause. To avoid this, always take photos of your rental before you leave so you can protect yourself from baseless claims.

Another common scam involves a tuk-tuk driver taking you somewhere you didn’t want to go in hopes you’ll buy something from the shop/restaurant he dropped you off at (he gets a commission if you do). Simply refuse to buy anything and demand to go back to where you were — or find another driver.

For other common travel scams, read this post about major travel scams to avoid in the region .

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though it’s generally a good idea to avoid walking around alone at night just to be safe. It’s always a good idea to carry some extra cash to get home in a taxi if you need to. Additionally, always keep an eye on your drink at the bar and never accept drinks from strangers. Be sensible when it comes to dating while traveling and meeting people in public places. As I’m not a woman, please check out some solo female travel blogs to get the best insight.

Overall, the people who get in trouble here tend to be involved with drugs or sex tourism. Avoid those two things and you should be fine. Keep in mind that it’s not always obvious how old someone is or if they’re a sex worker so be mindful when getting involved in romantic interactions. Also, penalties for drug use in this region are stiff so even if you’re here to party, skip the drugs.

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.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Southeast Asia, check out this post that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

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. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Southeast Asia 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.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Southeast Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

The 6 Best Hostels in Bali

The 22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

5 LGBTQ Travel Tips for Asia

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Backpacking Cambodia: 3 Suggested Itineraries for Your Trip

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The best countries to travel to in Southeast Asia

From indonesia to malaysia, the must-visit destinations on this corner of the continent, article bookmarked.

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Southeast Asia is a blend of fascinating traditions and cultures, with some of the most incredible temples, palaces and natural sites on the planet.

This region is home to famed attractions, from Angkor Wat to Ha Long Bay, as well as a selection of sprawling cities – including Bangkok , Kuala Lumpur and Singapore – and miles of pristine coastlines around Indonesia and the Philippines.

And though places such as Bangkok and Singapore have seen high numbers of British tourists for decades, other destinations are starting to attract more people, from lesser-known Laos to the neighbouring backpacker favourite of Cambodia .

Whether you’re looking to throw yourself into exploring a city or hop around a handful of serene tropical islands, your options are pentiful in this corner of the world.

Below are Independent Travel’s  picks for the region’s best countries to visit on holiday; read on to start planning your next long-haul getaway.

Thailand has long been a tourist favourite for Brits, whether for travelling youngsters or business people. Its capital, Bangkok (known locally as Krung Thep) was the most visited city in the world for several years in a row before Covid and is just a short journey away from the ancient city of Ayutthaya .

With dozens of famous white-sand beaches around the country (such as Railay and Ko Phi Phi ), as well as several areas of natural beauty (one of the most unique being Khao Sok National Park) and dozens of temples and palaces, Thailand offers anyone visiting the country a diverse mix of sightseeing, city experiences and relaxation – not to mention the nation’s delicious cuisine.

Best time to visit Thailand

With a rainy season falling between July and October, the best time to visit is between November and April, when temperatures are higher (with average highs in the early 30s). May is usually a quieter time to visit, but the sunshine may be interrupted by short rain periods.

Vietnam’s various areas of natural beauty are among the most notable in the region. Ha Long Bay is the country’s most famous natural area, while the beaches of Phu Quoc and the Cham Islands offer equal beauty in different settings. Other natural attractions include the caves of Phong Nha and Hang Son Doong, the Marble Mountains and the sand dunes at Mui Ne.

As for cities, Ho Chi Minh City , Hanoi and Da Nang are the best destinations for those who want to experience Vietnamese ‘hustle and bustle’ (Da Nang also has beach areas), while Hoi An is sometimes referred to as the ‘Venice of Vietnam’ due to its canals and the well-preserved Ancient Town comprised of wooden Chinese shophouses and French colonial buildings.

Best time to visit Vietnam

April and September fall just before and after the high season in Vietnam and also offer less humidity and lower temperatures than at the peak of summer. With weather that can vary quite drastically across the country in different months, these should give the best weather across the board too.

Read more on Asia travel :

• Why you should visit Koh Samui now
• Can Cambodia become Southeast Asia’s sustainable travel capital?
• Celebrating Thailand’s Songkran festival in Chiang Mai

Singapore is a popular destination for British expats, with an estimated 50,000 living there. It’s a country that is almost unlike any other; its urban planning strategy has created a metropolis and enabled almost six million people to live in an area roughly half the size of London.

Despite its diminutive size, the country offers numerous attractions , from its Botanic Gardens (a Unesco world heritage site) and historical and art museums to the Gardens by the Bay , a nature park spanning 101 hectares, and a Universal Studios theme park. It also hosts a Formula 1 race, which takes place in September on the Marina Bay Street Circuit.

Best time to visit Singapore

Singapore has significant rainfall all year, although the country’s dry season falls between February and April, when humidity levels are also at their lowest. Specifically, February and September offer the lowest rainfall and humidity, with average highs of around 31C. September also falls in low season.

By far the largest country in Southeast Asia, Indonesia lies at the southern end of the region and consists of roughly 17,500 islands, including Sumatra and Bali. With so many islands, it’s no surprise that the archipelago contains some of the region’s most attractive areas. Bali in particular is a tourism hotspot, while many of the islands offer tropical rainforests, rugged terrain and even volcanoes (the country sits within the Pacific Ring of Fire and is prone to both eruptions and earthquakes).

Jakarta is the capital and largest city in the country and is located – along with the popular tourist town of Yogyakarta– on the island of Java. Idyllic locations include Lombok and the Raja Ampat islands; Bromo Tengger Semeru and Komodo National Parks offer unreal nature and wildlife-spotting opportunities.

Best time to visit Indonesia

The dry season usually runs from April to October, which is also when the country welcomes the most tourists. If you want to avoid crowds, May and June offer average highs of roughly 31C and over eight hours of sunshine per day.

Malaysia’s culture is an eclectic mix of European, Chinese, Indian and Malay influences, while the country itself is famous for its rainforest, beaches and the capital city of Kuala Lumpur , with the iconic Petronas Twin Towers being one of the country’s most iconic symbols.

Away from the capital, many tourists decide to visit the Malaysian part of Borneo – in the north of the island – where rainforest treks, wildlife viewing and relaxing on the beach are all possible. The Perhentian Islands and Sipadan are two other popular destinations, while nature-lovers flock to the Batu Caves, Mount Kinabalu and the Cameron Highlands.

Best time to visit Malaysia

You can expect fewer crowds from March to June; these months have average temperatures of around 28C, while June is the driest month of the year (though bear in mind you can still expect showers every month).

Philippines

Another archipelago, the Philippines consists of more than 7,000 islands. Under Spanish rule for over 300 years, it is one of the only predominantly Roman Catholic countries in the whole continent and has been widely influenced by Western culture and traditions. For those keen to see its cities, Manila is the capital while Quezon is the largest.

Tropical white-sand beaches are plentiful on the nation’s thousands of isles, while the volcanoes of Mayon and Tail offer dramatic scenery overlooking the water. Other sites include Sigma Lagoon, Pagsanjan Falls and the Batad rice terraces.

Best time to visit the Philippines

The Philippines dry season falls right in the middle of the low season for tourism. The driest months are between January and March, where there is little rainfall and humidity falls to much more tolerable levels. Expect temperatures of up to 24C – and lows of 15C – every day.

Cambodia welcomes visitors eager to learn about its complicated history and experience its mix of Asian and French culture. A largely rural country, only three of its cities are home to over 100,000 people despite the country’s 16 million-strong population. Phnom Penh is the capital and largest city, while Siem Reap is another metropolitan centre that also acts as the gate to Angkor Wat, an ancient temple which today is the largest religious structure in the world.

The country’s islands, such as Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, contain pristine white beaches, sandy coves and coral reefs , and are popular spots for partying too. The Cardamom mountain range stretches over 4.4 million hectares of rainforest through the Southeast and into eastern Thailand, and is home to a vast range of wildlife, including sun bears, elephants and Siamese crocodiles. Tonle Sap lake is the largest in Southeast Asia, with its waters and floodplain home to over three million people and hundreds of different animal species.

Best time to visit Cambodia

Temperatures are at their lowest in the dry season between November and February, but you’ll still see average highs of 30C.

Laos is one of the continent’s smaller countries, and its shared borders – with Vietnam to the east, Thailand to the west and Cambodia to the south – give you an indication of the geography that you’ll find here. Whether you want to go through dense jungle on a cruise along the winding Mekong River, trek through the jagged karst around Vang Vieng or simply relax in the laid-back capital of Vientiane, there’s something to appeal.

Laos’ most important landmark is the Pha That Luang, a golden Buddhist stupa in Vientiane, while the capital’s other highlights include temples like Wat Si Saket and the old quarter. If you have time, visit the peaceful Song River and the town of Vang Vieng, before exploring the Unesco city of Luang Prabang and surrounding nature, including waterfalls, plunge pools and the banks of the Mekong.

Best time to visit Laos

The weather is Laos is best between October and April, when conditions are dry and not too warm. For river cruises, November through to January is best for high water levels, while August is both the wettest and most humid month.

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AirAsia Launches 7th Airline With AirAsia Cambodia Airbus A320 From Phnom Penh

• AirAsia Cambodia received AOC on Tuesday and is already using Airbus A320s for service; starting with one aircraft, with more to come.
• AirAsia expansion into Cambodia highlights a strategic move to tap into the growing consumer base and contribute to economic progress.

Air travel and connectivity in Southeast Asia have taken a significant leap forward today with the launch of AirAsia Cambodia, the seventh airline in the AirAsia Group. From today, travel within Cambodia will be more accessible at a lower cost than previously available, and the two new destinations will be connected to the AirAsia network of more than 160 destinations.

A quick start to passenger flights

AirAsia Cambodia is starting domestic service from Phnom Penh to two domestic destinations, with flights to Siem Reap, Sihanoukville and beyond through hubs in Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. AirAsia said that today's launch flight KT102 departed Phnom Penh International at 07:40 and landed at Siem Reap Angkor International (REP) at 08:30.

The new airline received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) on Tuesday from Cambodia's Secretariat of State Civil Aviation (SSCA) and is already putting its aircraft into service. However, at the time of writing, the usual flight tracking sites had not included this route in their programs, although it was likely to be an Airbus A320-200 .

AirAsia Cambodia Takes Off With Airbus A320s To Three Domestic Destinations

According to ch-aviation , the airline has only one aircraft, a 2012 Airbus A320-200, registration UX-819 and MSN 5109, which may or may not have flown the launch sector, and the airline will soon be receiving a second. The aircraft (not pictured here) was first delivered to Brazil's LATAM Airlines in April 2012, registered as PR-MYS, and remained with the airline until August 2017.

It joined AirAsia India as VT-IXC in August 2017 and stayed in the fleet until April 2022, after which it was inactive until being re-registered to AirAsia Cambodia as XU-819. The database shows the aircraft owned by lessor Avolon and estimates its current value at $22.38 million.

A very famous destination

Most people will immediately recognize the name Angkor, one of Southeast Asia's most important archaeological sites and the location of the famous Angkor Wat. For several centuries, Angkor was the center of the Khmer Kingdom and is a UNESCO World Heritage site exemplifying cultural, religious and symbolic values and containing high architectural, archaeological and artistic significance.

Capital A is the parent company of AirAsia, and its CEO Tony Fernandes said today is a historic day for AirAsia as it opens a new chapter in Cambodia, adding that the nation's economic growth trajectory and increasing integration into the global economy position it as a key player in the region's development landscape.

"AirAsia's expansion into Cambodia underscores our profound grasp of the Asean market. Cambodia's dynamic population of 17 million and its growing youth segment present a substantial consumer base and an opportunity to cater to domestic demand whilst contributing to its economic progress."

Boss Is Back: Fernandes Returns As AirAsia Advisor And Steward

In a busy first day of operations, AirAsia Cambodia will also connect Siem Reap to Sihanoukville, connecting its first three domestic destinations within Cambodia. These initial routes underscore AirAsia Cambodia’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and providing affordable and convenient travel options for Cambodians and visitors alike.

While Cambodians will benefit from the domestic services, international visitors can connect from the AirAsia hubs in Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok through Phnom Penh directly to Angkor and Sihanoukville. As a Group, AirAsia flies to Cambodia internationally from its Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok hubs with 63 flights weekly, and from today, it flies between Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville with daily flights.

Please let us know about your first flight with AirAsia Cambodia in the comments.