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Cambodia Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• 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 Cambodia

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Top 5 things to see and do in cambodia.

1. Explore Angkor Wat

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

2. Hang out in Sihanoukville

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

3. See Phnom Penh

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

4. Visit Tonle Sap

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

5. Discover Battambang

Other things to see and do in cambodia, 1. see the killing fields.

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

2. Visit Kep

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

3. Hike in Bokor National Park

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

4. Enjoy the views at Prasat Preah Vihear

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

5. Visit a river village

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

6. Visit the pepper farms of Kampot

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

7. Trek Koh Kong

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

8. Tour Kampong Cham

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

9. Relax, Unpack, and Meditate in Kep

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

10. Visit the Landmine Museum

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

11. Shop at the markets

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

12. Learn to cook Cambodian dishes

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

13. Take a food tour

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

14. Hike in Phnom Kulen National Park

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

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

• Angkor Wat Travel Guide
• Phnom Penh Travel Guide
• Siem Reap Travel Guide
• Sihanoukville Travel Guide

Cambodia Travel Costs

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

Accommodation – Dorm rooms in hostels with 6-8 beds start at around $6-8 USD per night. Private double rooms generally go for $10-20 USD per night, depending on where you are in the country. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels also have outdoor swimming pools and air-conditioning. Free breakfast and kitchen facilities are rare.

A double room with an ensuite bathroom in a comfortable guesthouse or hotel costs $15-20 USD. Most places have air conditioning, TV, and Wi-Fi. Nicer hotels in the $25-35 range have swimming pools and restaurants on-site.

Airbnb is available in the major cities, with prices starting around $25-35 USD per night for an entire home or apartment.

Food – Cambodian food is similar to Thai and Vietnamese cuisine. Vietnam and Cambodia especially have many dishes in common due to the countries’ shared history of French colonization. For example, the baguette sandwich known as bánh mì in Vietnam is called num pang pâté in Cambodia. Popular Cambodian dishes include num banhchok , a lightly fermented rice noodle dish served for breakfast; amok trei , a fish curry dish; and samlar kako , a hearty soup filled with vegetables, roasted ground rice, and catfish or pork. In general, Cambodian cuisine includes a huge variety of noodle soups, stir-fries, curries, fried rice, and sweets.

Rice and freshwater fish are present in nearly every Cambodian meal. Lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, tamarind, ginger, chili pepper, and kaffir lime are all commonly used spices. Fermented fish paste is another widely used ingredient that adds saltiness and flavor.

Common vegetables include leaf and root vegetables as well as melon, long beans, snow peas, bean sprouts, and eggplant. Dozens of types of fruit are native to Cambodia, with durian being the most infamous. However, there are plenty of less pungent fruits to try, including mangosteen, passionfruit, dragonfruit, and mangoes. Fruit is a popular dessert and snack, either eaten alone or made into a variety of sweets.

Overall, food is very cheap in Cambodia. A meal from local street vendors costs about $1-3 USD per meal, while street snacks are even less. Basic restaurant meals cost between $3-5 USD for a typical dish like curry or fish and rice.

Western meals generally cost $5-10 USD. Pizza costs $4-6 USD, a burger costs $7-8 USD, and a pasta dish costs $6-8 USD.

For drinks, a beer costs less than $1 USD, a glass of wine is $3 USD, and a cocktail is $3-5 USD. A cappuccino is $1.75 USD.

If you want to splurge, you can get world-class food in Phnom Penh for around $8-10 USD.

If you plan on buying your own groceries and cooking your own meals expect to pay between $15-20 USD per week for basic groceries like rice, produce, and some meat or fish. Stick to local markets for the cheapest produce. However, given that hostels and hotels don’t have kitchens and the street food is so cheap, I wouldn’t advise cooking your meals while here.

Backpacking Cambodia Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Cambodia, expect to spend around $45 USD per day. On this budget, you can stay in a dorm room, eat food from the street stalls, have a couple of beers here and there, and take public transportation to get around. If you’re visiting Angkor Wat (you likely are), you’ll need an additional $37 USD plus the cost of a bike or driver.

On a mid-range budget of $90 USD, you can stay in a budget hotel with air conditioning, have some sit-down meals at nicer restaurants, drink more, take buses between cities, visit Angkor Wat, and do more tours and activities like seeing the Killing Fields and taking a cooking class.

On a “luxury” budget of $160 USD or more a day, the sky is the limit! You can stay at hotels, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you want, hire a driver, and do whatever tours and activities you want (including a multi-day visit to Angkor Wat).

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.

Cambodia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

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

• Minimize your drinks – Every drink is a dollar and before you know it, you’ve spent more money on beer than on food and accommodation. Limit your drinking to save your budget.
• Work for your room – You can usually negotiate a discount at a hostel if you stay for a week or longer and offer to volunteer. Usually, this means just a few hours per day helping out in exchange for free accommodation.
• Book tours and day trips as a group – You have more negotiation power when you’re with a group of people buying multiple tickets. Traveling alone? Meet a friend at a hostel and see if they want to join the same tour as you. You can likely get a better price this way.
• Don’t book in advance – Don’t book any tours or activities before you get to your destination. They’ll be much cheaper when you arrive as you can to negotiate a lower price. Anything you see online is going to be more expensive than you need to pay!
• Eat on the street – You can pick up tasty local fare for cheap in Cambodia. Eat cheap at the stalls and avoid Western food.
• Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier comes particularly in handy in Cambodia since you can’t drink the tap water. Save money and thousands of plastic bottles by getting a bottle that can purify the tap water. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw since it has a filter that ensures your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Cambodia

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

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

How to Get Around Cambodia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to Go to Cambodia

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

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

How to Stay Safe in Cambodia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you experience an emergency, dial 119 for assistance.

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

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

Cambodia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

Cambodia Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Backpacking Cambodia: 3 Suggested Itineraries for Your Trip

Experiencing Local Cambodian Culture on Bamboo Island

Phnom Penh, I Love You!

The Tragic Death of Phnom Penh’s Lake Area

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Cambodia Guide: Planning Your Trip

The remnants of a glorious Khmer empire still enchant visitors to Cambodia—not just the grandeur of the Angkor temples, but also the effervescent joy of a people who shook off a genocide within living memory.

This patchwork of contradictory elements—majesty, hardship, culture, happiness—makes this Southeast Asian country such a compelling place to visit.

Siem Reap and its nearby Angkor temples have put Cambodia on the travel map, but you need to go beyond for the complete experience. Visit the lakeside villages at Tonle Sap, or go on a river cruise to the capital Phnom Penh . Visit Koh Rong’s white sand beaches, Kampot’s farms, and a little-known temple ruin at Banteay Chhmar.

For first-time visitors, Cambodia can be a lot to take in at once: ease your entry by reading the information provided below.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Schedule your visit to Cambodia during the dry season from late November to early April. The cooler weather and lack of mud make a visit to the Angkor temples perfectly pleasurable, and avoids the monsoon season’s floods .
• Language: Over 90 percent of the local population speak the Khmer language. You’ll find some locals can speak conversational English in the main tourist areas, like Siem Reap, but expect little to none when you go out to the villages.
• Currency: the local currency is the Cambodian riel (KHR), with its value pegged at 4,000 riel to the US dollar. The greenback is accepted in most tourist spots, though they will only accept new-looking bills.
• Getting Around: The best way to go places is by hiring the auto-rickshaw called the tuktuk ; they’re even better value if you hire one over the course of several days.
• Travel Tip: You’ll be pressured to see Angkor Wat’s fabled sunrise. It’s like visiting the Louvre to see the Mona Lisa: any sense of greatness is dissipated by the massive crowds coming to see the same thing. Visit during the early morning or late afternoon, but give sunrise a miss.

Things to Do

Everybody’s heard about Angkor Wat and the Angkor Archaeological Park that surrounds it. But what do you know about Tonle Sap, Southeast Asia’s biggest lake, which increases size sixfold during the monsoon season? Or the lively restaurant and nightlife scene in the capital Phnom Penh? What if we told you that Cambodia’s white-sand beaches rival Thailand’s, or that the Cardamom Mountains are excellent places to hike and meet elephants in?

Here are the experiences we recommend when you’re planning a trip to Cambodia:

• Explore the vast Angkor Archaeological Park. This 400-acre park near Siem Reap contains Angkor Wat and a collection of Buddhist and Hindu temples dating back to the 12th century. “Temple fatigue” is a real danger here, with the vast collection of structures contained within; choose from a 10-mile “Small Circuit” that can be seen in the space of a day, or the 16-mile “Grand Circuit” that requires a multiple-day entry pass to cover.
• Visit the Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh. In the 1970s, torture camps like S-21 in Phnom Penh contributed to the Khmer Rouge-led genocide that killed up to three million people. Now known as the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum , the former school building now stands as a grim reminder of the absolute depths that humans can sink to under the influence of a malign ideology.
• See Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake. Tonle Sap changes with the seasons, expanding from 1,000 sq mi to 6,200 sq mi during the rainy season from June to October. The flooded forests provide a rich breeding ground for over 300 species of fresh water fishes—indeed, the lake provides half of Cambodia’s total fish catch. Located only ten miles north of Siem Reap, Tonle Sap is renowned for its floating villages, where entire communities live off the bounties of the lake.
• Laze about on a beach. Cambodia’s island beaches are arguably as good as Thailand’s, but with less crowds and more charm. Koh Rong , Cambodia’s second-largest island, offers 27 miles of lightly-developed coastline; a rugged beach destination that’s easily accessible from the mainland, with an affordable set of campsites, bungalows and hostels to stay at while you’re enjoying the place.
• Go hiking in the Cardamom Mountains. This mountain range near the border with Thailand contains a large chunk of virgin rainforest that’s become an ecosystem for endangered flora and fauna. Hike through these jungles and discover waterfalls, rare plants, and the occasional elephant. Ecotourism projects like the Chi Phat commune go a long way in preserving the local environment, while curating it for tourists.

What to Eat and Drink

Sitting in the shadow of the cuisine of neighboring Thailand, Cambodian cuisine is noted for its lack of heat. But Khmer food is more complex than you’d think: it represents waves of multiple influences, from noodles brought over by the Chinese; bread dishes imported by the French; and curry sauces reflecting Indian sources.

Most dishes throughout the day are eaten with plain white rice, but the meats and vegetables all reflect Cambodia’s unique terroir . Thanks to the abundance of freshwater lakes, rivers and streams, fish is the country’s most important protein. The Khmer also eat beef and pork, all given subtly complex flavors by local herbs and spices like shallots, garlic, galangal and lemongrass.

Diy13/Getty Images

Where to Stay

Siem Reap, the most common international gateway for tourists to Cambodia, offers a wide range of accommodations ranging from hostels to historic five-star hotels. Make sure to book in advance, particularly if you’re visiting during the high season between December and February.

Beyond Siem Reap and the cities, rural areas and more laid-back towns like Kampot offer homestays for tourists who want to experience local living. “Glamping” is also offered as an option in some community-based tourism sites like Banteay Chhmar .

Getting There

Most international visitors fly in to Cambodia via Siem Reap International Airport , located three miles from Angkor Wat and about five miles from Siem Reap itself . From Siem Reap, you can take minbuses, buses or domestic flights to other parts of the country, including Phnom Penh, Battambang, Kampot and Sihanoukville (the gateway to Koh Rong).

If you’re planning an overland visit from neighboring countries, several border crossings are open for tourists: the Aranyaprethet/Poipet and Trat/Koh Kong crossings bordering Thailand ; and the Moc Bai/Bavet crossing bordering Vietnam.

Most nationalities can enter Cambodia without a visa for up to 30 days; check with the Cambodia Ministry of Tourism for any changes in policy before planning a trip.

Culture and Customs

• Cover up in Buddhist temples. Despite the influx of Western tourists, Cambodia as a whole remains conservatively Buddhist, and will not brook any disrespect to their temples and monks. This means covering your shoulders and legs when visiting active Buddhist temples , including the Angkor park complex. Tourists wearing “skimpy” clothes will not be allowed to enter.
• Tipping is optional in Cambodia. Prices in Cambodia don’t include a tip, and tips aren’t expected from tourists. However, given low local wages, any tip will be appreciated, and shows your genuine satisfaction with good service.
• Don’t visit local orphanages. Cambodia is one of Southeast Asia's least developed and most poverty-stricken countries, and many entrepreneurs have capitalized on foreign charitable impulses to set up orphanages where tourists can volunteer their time . But the “orphans” in these places often still have a living parent; a good number of orphanages are only a cynical tourist cash grab.

Marc Dozier/Getty Images

Money Saving Tips

• Stay at a hostel. Not all Cambodian hostels are grimy and stinky; some approach boutique standards without raising the price too high. Hostels aren’t just great for saving on accommodations, they’re also excellent places to meet other tourists, swap tips on the best places to see, and even split costs on transport or food.
• Hire a tuktuk for more than just one destination. Tuktuks can be found lining up at almost every street corner in Siem Reap. But you don’t have to hire a different tuktuk for every trip. Tuktuk drivers are happy to serve as your personal chauffeurs for your entire visit to Siem Reap, if you can negotiate a reasonable package for yourself. A visit to the Angkor temples might cost $20, and maybe $5 or so for a one-way trip to the airport. Put together a list of places you want to visit, and see if a tuktuk driver can accommodate them all at a price you can live with.
• Look for free stuff to do. In Phnom Penh, for instance, you can take up free meditation classes at Wat Langka every Monday, Thursday and Saturday evenings at 6pm; and Sunday mornings at 8:30am.
• Buy a local SIM card for phone and mobile internet use. Cellular phone roaming in Cambodia, as with the rest of Southeast Asia, is just a matter of buying a local SIM card and slapping it into a compatible handset. There are multiple cellular providers in Cambodia to choose from—although Cellcard ’s cheap data packages are popular with tourists, and Smart offers good rates for international long-distance calls. Prepaid SIM cards can be bought at almost every corner store, convenience store, and cellphone store; present your passport to buy one.

The Top 10 Things to Do in Cambodia

A Beginner's Guide to Siem Reap, Cambodia

The 13 Best Things to Do in Siem Reap

Where Is Angkor Wat?

Traveling to Cambodia: Essentials to Know

Angkor Wat in Cambodia

Phnom Penh, Cambodia Guide: Planning Your Trip

Visiting Phnom Penh's Wat Phnom Temple

What $100 Can Get You in Southeast Asia

Siem Reap International Airport Guide

Top UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Southeast Asia

Cambodia's Biggest Festivals

How to Visit the Must-See Temples in Angkor, Cambodia

The Best Time to Visit Angkor Wat

The Top 7 Things to Do in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Visa Requirements for Cambodia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cambodia Travel Guide

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

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

General Info

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

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

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

How to Get to Cambodia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Overland Vehicle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ferry and Cruise Ship

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

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

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

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

Make sure you have the necessary visas and travel documents!

Cruise Ship

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visa Requirements for Cambodia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click here to see the visa application form.

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

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

5 Interesting Facts About Cambodia

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

Best Time to Travel to Cambodia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Itineraries Suggestions

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

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

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

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

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

Day Trips In and Around Phnom Penh

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

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

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

Tour the Temples

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

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

The Beaches

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

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

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

Budget for Travelling to Cambodia

Cambodia is very affordable for tourists.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Single Traveller:  USD$15-$30

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Flashpacker

Single Traveller: USD$80-$150

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

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

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

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

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

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

Single Traveller: USD$250 and more

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top 5 Places to Visit in Cambodia

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

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

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

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

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

Top 5 Travel Experiences to Have in Cambodia

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

Transport in Cambodia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Accommodations in Cambodia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Food in Cambodia

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

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

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

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

Here are some of Cambodia’s signature dishes:

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

Safety in Cambodia

Presently travelling in Cambodia is fairly safe for visitors.

Violence against tourists is extremely unlikely.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Medical System in Cambodia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also note that the national emergency phone number is 119.

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

Packing List for Cambodia

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

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

Here are some of our suggestions for packing:

• long-sleeved top
• loose pants

Miscellaneous Items

• insect repellent
• travel electricity adapter

Travel Tips for Cambodia

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

Read Our Cambodia Posts

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

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

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

Our Highlight

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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The perfect 7 day Cambodia Itinerary

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Thinking of traveling to the beautiful Cambodia? Then your first action is to decide on a great Cambodia itinerary! To help you on your way in putting together a travel route through Cambodia, we give you our 7 day itinerary, most useful tips and mini guides per each destination so you can choose what best suits your travel needs.

You can basically spend up to a month in Cambodia but if you only have a limited available amount of days, you can definitely cover the highlights in 1 week. Don’t worry, you’ll have plenty of time to visit the otherworldly temples of Angkor Wat , get your necessary dose of culture, experience the countryside and enjoy the sunshine on Cambodia’s exotic islands

7 day Cambodia Itinerary

How many days do you need in Cambodia?

You can travel anywhere from 2 days to one month in Cambodia, depending on your interests. In our opinion, a minimum of 2 days is needed to explore the capital Phnom Penh , 3 days is needed to discover the archeological its in Angkor Wat and 2 days is needed to enjoy the wonderful beaches and islands .

With one week in Cambodia, you can enjoy all the above mentioned highlights.

A perfect 7 day Cambodia itinerary

Day 1: arrival Siem Reap

Undoubtedly the sprawling temples of Angkor Wat is what drives most people to visit Cambodia. More than 50 temples pepper the countryside of nearby Siem Reap. Visiting the largest religious monument in the world is like traveling back in time. The beautifully preserved and restored temples tell Cambodia’s history and faith of the once powerful Khmer Empire.

You'll have plenty of time to go temple hopping tomorrow. Spend the evening enjoying lively Pub Street, one of the fantastic evening activities or the refreshing swimming pool of your hotel!

Where to stay in Siem Reap: Cambana d’Angkor Suites

Day 2: Temple hopping in Angkor Wat

Get up before dawn and enjoy the magical red sunrise above the Angkor Wat temple itself. The moment the Angkor Wat temple reveals itself is the highlight of any Cambodia itinerary! Incredibly beautiful and the postcard picture of Cambodia. Schedule enough time to explore this vast complex. There are lots of hidden nooks and crannies that are worth exploring.

In the afternoon, enjoy the Angkor Wat temple complex from a different perspective: from a balloon ride , or explore the remaining temples in the area. Ta Phrom (also known as the Tomb raider Temple) and Preah Khan were some of our favorites!

You can explore the many different temples scattered around Angkor Wat from a Tuk Tuk tour, by bicycle or by a private car. Whatever mode of transport you chose, we suggest you read our guide to the temples of Angkor Wat for the best temples to vist, the best time of day to avoid the crowds and in what order you should visit the temples best.

Where to stay in Siem Raep: Cambana d’Angkor Suites

Day 3: Cambodian village experience

Today is dedicated to experiencing Cambodian culture. Join a day tour that gives you insight into the life of a Cambodian village . You'll become part of a Cambodian family for a day and experience how the family spends their day to day life.

Ever wanted to know what it feels like to drive an ox cart or to plant rice? Well you surely get to experience it during your one week Cambodia itinerary on this Cultural Village tour .

Village activities, transport to the village, picknick lunch and an English speaking guide are included into the tour. By participating at this tour you'll contribute to the HUSK Village Fund which aims to support the local village.

Looking for a shorter excursion to the Cambodian countryside? Then dedicate the morning to explore some more temples or revisited your favorite ones from yesterday's trip. We decided to do the exact same temple tour on our second day but in the reversed order. This allowed us to see the temples in a different light but also with different numbers of crowds.

In the afternoon you can browse through the local Cambodian markets, hunting for art, gems and Cambodian silks or join a Cambodian cooking class or a visit to the floating village of Tonlé Sap.

Day 4: Phnom Penh visit Royal Palace and Mekong sunset cruise

In the morning, fly from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh in a bit less than an hour. If you arrive in time for lunch, head to the riverfront for lunch at the Backyard Cafe . Backyard café caters to travelers looking for a healthy lunch and well located to your hotel for the night (10min), The Pavilion , and the Royal Palace (5min).

In the evening, the Mekong river banks come to life with fancy rooftop bars, night markets and river cruises. Enjoy a cocktail on deck while the contrast of old and modern quietly floats you by. A perfect way to end your first evening in Cambodia's capital.

Where to stay in Phnom Penh: The Pavilion

Day 5: visit Killing Fields and S21 Prison

History buffs will definitely enjoy Cambodia as its strong and fascinating history doesn’t stop at the boundaries of the Angkor Wat National Park. The capital Phnom Penh offers a peek into Cambodia’s recent violent past as well.

Though Phnom Penh isn't the most exciting or beautiful city, top things to do include visiting the numerous temples, museums and Royal Palace. Visiting the S21 Prison and Killing Fields may be one of the most emotional and educational activities to do in Cambodia and we highly recommend!

Day 6: Koh Rong

While the tourist masses can be found lazing on Thailand’s islands, Cambodia’s alternatives are often forgotten (and wrongly so). That makes them unspoilt and uncrowded, a true dream for those seeking an authentic island experience. Koh Rong is the most popular island, mostly catering to the backpacker scene wile nearby Koh Rong Samloem caters more to the family crowd. If it’s pristine white sand beaches you’re looking for, flanked by a turquoise sea, you’ve come to the right place!

Where to stay on Koh Rong: Sok San Beach Resort

Day 7: more relaxing on Koh Rong

Today your only goal is to relax on the beach. You ca n walk on the beach to explore the island or join a bioluminescent plankton tour.

Why go on a journey through Cambodia?

If I need to summarize why we loved Cambodia it would come down to: food, food and food. We absolutely fell in love with the traditional Cambodian cuisine and are still dreaming about Amok ! My expanded waistline was the best souvenir I brought back from my travels. No regrets what-so-ever.

Thailand may be known as the ‘Land of Smiles’ but Cambodia is renowned for its hospitality. You’ll be overwhelmed with the abundance of warm welcomes and smiles and it reflects in the abundance of homestays available throughout the country.

Obviously history and architecture buffs will definitely enjoy Cambodia as divine temples in Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh are abundant and among the most beautiful in the world. Beach bumps will also get their fill at the pristine exotic Islands on Cambodia’s coast – they will make your jaw drop in awe.

Getting around on this Cambodia itinerary

Do i need to book a tour in cambodia.

You don’t need to book a tour as Cambodia, just like Laos , it is extremely easy to travel. Budget options include overnight busses and minivans but Cambodia also has many internal flights to get around the country. You can easily arrange tickets via your hostel/hotel or through their websites. We arranged and traveled this 7 day Cambodia itinerary completely independent.

Air travel in Cambodia

Cambodia has three international airport, which align perfectly with our one week Cambodia Itinerary. The most common used airports for flights from Europe and Northern America are Phnom Penh International airport and Siem Reap International Airport.

If budget is not an issue, the most comfortable way to travel around Cambodia for this itinerary, would be to travel by internal flights. Cambodia Angkor Air is the longest-running airline offering domestic flights in Cambodia and tickets cost about US$100 one-way. 

Their schedule can change a bit but they have several flights operating between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh a day. The journey between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap can be completed in about 50 minutes.

Bus travel in Cambodia

The easiest and cheapest way to travel around in Cambodia is by bus. Roads in Cambodia can be tricky, aka a pain in the ass. During rainy season roads can turn into mud pools, making bus travel difficult (read: slow). Toddler-size potholes are also quite common.

Be aware when traveling by bus, the bus often drops you off at the edge of town, where tuk-tuk drivers are abundant and ready to take you into the town-centre. So calculate some extra time to reach your hotel onto the bus travel time.

We traveled around Cambodia using Giant Ibis , which was absolutely fine. The nightbus held a few bathroom stops, offered AC on board and was comfortable.

Mini-bus travel in Cambodia

Mini busses can be a great solution for some destinations in Cambodia. We used Asia Van Transfer to get from 4000 Islands (Don Det and Don Khone) in Laos to Siem Reap and Angkor Wat. It was the easiest and fastest way to travel from Laos-Cambodia border to Angkor Wat and were very happy with the service.

We got in touch with them via Skype and through WhatsApp and everything went very smoothly. You can read our complete review of Asia Van Transfer here .

The best travel route through if you have one week in Cambodia

Your Cambodia itinerary will largely depend on where you enter and exit the country. Are you only traveling through Cambodia or are you combining it with one of its neighbouring countries?

Either way, you’re likely to pass through Phnom Penh a couple of times, if only for a short stop of the night bus, as it is a major hub between the northern and southern part of the country.

We spent 7 days in Cambodia and travelled from north to south after crossing the border with Laos . Below is a map of Cambodia showing what places we travelled to and highly recommend. You can click on each highlighted site on the map to get a better impression of that destination.

For every destination on this Cambodia itinerary we have a separate mini-guide written with our best tips for things to do, things to see, best places to eat and best places to stay. This will make it much easier for you to decide what places are of interest to you and how many days you want to stay at each location.

Have you been to Cambodia? Would you try this Cambodia itinerary?

Love it? Pin it!

Our paradise guide to Koh Rong!

Visiting lavender fields in the Provence

So helpful! Thank you. I don’t see the map referenced with the separate mini-guide links. Am i missing something?

yes, it’s the map directly below the title “A PERFECT 7 DAY CAMBODIA ITINERARY”. you can click on the different location markers, it will open a separate page with the mini-guide.

cheers, Marlo & Kristof

I CANT SEE THE MAP EITHERor the mini guides! IT MIGHT BE THE BROWSER I AM USING

So many great suggestions in this post and the photography is stunning! The food looks incredible too. Looking forward to seeing what you get up to next!

What camera did you use for these photos? Stunning!

Hi Elicia, we use a Canon EOS 80D. We’ll be writing a resource page for all our camera gear soon!

Hugs, Marlo & Kristof

Havent been to Sihanoukville yet, but would really love to! Thanks for the itinerary!

You’ll have a super time!

Marlo & Kristof xxx

This is beautiful! Cambodia is on the top of our list of places to go – we’re waiting for the kids to get a little older just due to flight length, but I hear that it is also an incredibly family-friendly area. You pictures make me want to go even more 🙂

Aw thank you so much Kate! You’re going to love Cambodia, guaranteed. We agree it is very kid friendly, especially Siem Raep and a stay on Koh Rong Samloem are great for families.

Thanks for this itinerary, it looks great. How’s the food in Cambodia? Is it influenced by Thai cuisine, Vietnamese, or neither?

Cambodian food is good but we prefered Lao food. Our favourite dish in Cambodia was Fish Amok. It’s a fish curry prepared in banana leaves. Of course you got the fried rice which resembles Pad Thai a bit and Mee Kola, it’s kinda like a ramen soop but only veggies. It’s Asia, you’ll always find something delicious to eat! 😉

Marlo & Kristof

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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

All Destinations , Asia , Cambodia

Two weeks in cambodia itinerary for first-timers.

The South East Asian Kingdom of Cambodia is one of my favourite countries, and is such an enriching and wonderful travel experience. It has one of the most impressive temple complexes in the world, beautiful beaches, stunning countryside, and wonderful people.

There is, however, a darker side of Cambodia that must be acknowledged when exploring the country as well. Just 40 years ago, it was victim to one of the most brutal genocides in recent history. I’ll go into this in more detail later in the post, but it’s very important to be a mindful traveller in Cambodia.

That being said, the country is rebuilding – and the right kind of tourism really does benefit it doing so. This is why I’d highly recommend spending two weeks in Cambodia – or even longer.

How to Get to Cambodia

If you’re visiting Cambodia on an extended South East Asia trip, you can travel from many places overland.

• If you’re visiting Cambodia from Vietnam, night buses leave Ho Chi Minh City for Phnom Penh (then you can complete this Cambodia itinerary in reverse).
• From Laos, you’ll want to get to the city of Pakse , and then you can head to Siem Reap to begin the Cambodia travel itinerary.
• From Thailand, buses leave Bangkok for Siem Reap, Sihanoukville and Phnom Penh. 

Click here to buy tickets for your buses in Cambodia.

There are international airports in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville, but the destinations are limited, and prices can be high. It’s definitely better to fly into Bangkok and overland to Cambodia.

If you’re visiting Cambodia from its neighbouring countries, make sure to check out my other itineraries! I have a Vietnam itinerary , a Laos itinerary and a Thailand itinerary ready and waiting for ya. If you’re heading further south, check out my Bali itinerary and Singapore itinerary , and stay tuned for my Malaysia itinerary (coming in 2020!). All are filled with helpful travel advice, tips on being a more sustainable traveller and the odd witty joke thrown in for good measure.

Visas for Cambodia

Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival at a Cambodian air or land border. The price varies but is around $30-$40 (must be paid in USD), and it is valid for one month.

You can also get an e-visa online before visiting Cambodia.

Make sure you keep your immigration form and your passport is stamped correctly when entering Cambodia – otherwise you could encounter problems when trying to leave!

WiFi in Cambodia

WiFi in Cambodia isn’t as strong as its neighbouring countries, but is still fine for most purposes. Siem Reap and Phnom Penh both have good connectivity – other regional areas vary, but you’ll normally be able to find a good connection somewhere.

Many travellers choose to get a local SIM card to make travelling around a little bit easier.

When to Visit Cambodia

Cambodia is best visited during the dry season – from around November to April. It does, however, get very very hot from February until April, as it is the build-up to the wet season; so do bear that in mind.

That being said, if you can only visit during the wet season, it’s still worthwhile. Travel might take a bit longer, but all of the destinations on this 2 week Cambodia itinerary should still be accessible.

Health and Safety in Cambodia

Being a tropical country, there are some health considerations that you should take into account when visiting Cambodia. Dengue is a real threat in the country, so make sure to bring high-quality insect repellant and go to the doctor straight away if you feel any flu-like symptoms.

Malaria is also a possibility in some areas – I’m definitely not qualified to give medical advice on this blog, so do your own research and decide whether you want to take malaria pills or not. I did take them, but I met lots of people who didn’t.

Other vaccinations that you should consider are tetanus, rabies, typhoid and hepatitis A and B. Watch out for monkeys and stray dogs and cats – if you are bitten by one of these you’ll need to see a doctor quickly for rabies treatment (even if you’ve already had the pre-exposure shots, post-exposure shots are still needed). Check out fit for travel’s Cambodia page for more information about jabs.

Money in Cambodia

Cambodia has its own currency – the riel – but as a tourist, you’ll only be quoted prices in USD. You can pay in riel (there are 4,000 riel to the dollar), but locals expect tourists to always pay in USD. If you’re due 50 cent change, however, you’ll get that back in riel. It’s also completely feasible to pay part riel, part USD, if you have some small riel that you want to use up.

Is Cambodia Safe for Travellers?

The question of ‘is Cambodia safe’ seems to come up quite a bit when researching travel in the country. While Cambodia is less developed than its surrounding countries, there’s nothing that makes it unsafe, apart from the roads.

There were a few times where I felt like the buses were a little sketchy; although the roads aren’t mountainous like Northern Laos , and the drivers are of course, used to these roads.

Many tourists hire out motorbikes; if you’ve got experience and are confident in your abilities, go for it – but I wouldn’t recommend driving one of these if you’re inexperienced – they really are quite dangerous.

Social-wise, Cambodia is fine. There is pickpocketing in central Phnom Penh – I was actually told by several locals to put my phone away because of snatchers. I never actually met anyone who’d experienced their phone being snatched, but I’m sure the local’s concerns were not unfounded. So just take care of your belongings, however , violent crime is very very low.

Many Cambodians speak excellent English and are very helpful, whenever I had any problems or concerns I always found someone to help me out.

Where to Stay in Cambodia

There are all sorts of different places to stay in Cambodia. From backpacker hostels to beachside camping to five-star hotels, there are places to accommodate anyone in this country.

I’ll go into some of the best places to stay in Cambodia throughout the post, with links to individual accommodation providers, but you can also search on Booking.com by clicking here.

What to Eat in Cambodia

You can find all sorts of South East Asian specialities in Cambodia – generally I ate curries and soups with lots of spice. Rice is plentiful and very cheap (and served with every meal!). There’s also a lot of Western food on offer, due to the amount of tourists in the country. Being vegetarian or vegan is easy in the tourist areas of Cambodia, but might be a little bit harder in the less-visited areas.

How to Get Around Cambodia

Getting around Cambodia is rather… slow. While its neighbours Vietnam and Thailand have great train connections , Cambodia mainly relies on buses and minivans to get from A to B. Taxis between cities can also be inexpensive, if you have a few people in your group to split the costs.

There are tourist connections between all of the destinations mentioned on this post – if you want to go off the beaten track, you might have to ask around a bit more but there are normally local buses. Transport in Cambodia can be booked through Bookaway – click here to check it out or use the search bar below.

Obviously, to get to the islands, you’ll need to take boats. There are also internal connections between Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville – but as this is an overland itinerary, I’ll always recommend ways to do it without flying!

How Long to Spend in Cambodia

For this Cambodia itinerary 2 weeks is the optimum amount, but you could definitely add on other destinations and increase your time in the country – or spend extra time at each stop.

Two weeks to a month is a great amount of time to stay – after a month you’ll need to renew your visa anyway, and any time under 2 weeks means that you’ll be spending too much time on buses!

Where to go in Cambodia for Two Weeks: Two Week Cambodia Itinerary

Siem reap – 3 days.

Siem Reap is a touristy, backpacker town with far too many foreign-owned bars. So why am I recommending you spend three days here? Because of Angkor Wat. You might have heard of her, she’s kind of a big deal.

Most people get around Cambodia by tuk-tuk. It’s likely that your tuk-tuk driver will ask if you want a tour around Angkor Wat the following day. It should cost $15 to do the small circuit and $20-25  for the large circuit. That’s the standard price, so I’d advise to just go with the first person who offers you.

You can also arrange someone from your accommodation, but I’d probably go with the tuk-tuk driver who approaches you first.

Where to Stay in Siem Reap

Hostel:  I stayed at Mad Monkeys Siem Reap, which is a party hostel. I’m not generally a fan of party hostels, I find them quite out of touch with the community around them, but Mad Monkeys gives parts of its profits to helping projects in the local area, and gives fair work to their staff – I really can’t fault them on their ethics. Plus it’s a nice hostel, with spacious dorms, a great restaurant and bar, and lovely staff. You can read my full review of it here.

Being the party hostel it is, it does attract some not-so-savoury guests, but I did meet some really nice people there too (and of course, the actual hostel can’t control what the guests do). Click here for more information and to book.

Budget Hotel:  The Amazing Residence is a great budget-friendly option in Siem Reap, with a swimming pool, restaurant and bar on-site and large, spacious rooms with plenty of natural light – it’s great value for the price. Click here for more information and to book. 

Mid-Range Hotel: eOcambo Resort & Spa has well-furnished rooms with comfortable beds, looking out over a courtyard area. Each room has a deluxe attached bathroom and guests can make use of the restaurant, pool and bar facilities. Click here for more information.

Luxury Hotel: With facilities like a luxury pool with waterfalls and roll-top baths in the rooms, Golden Temple Retreat is one of the most impressive hotels in Siem Reap. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, some which open right out onto the pool. There is also a spa, bar and restaurant on site. Click here for rates and to book.

Day One: Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and other temples

Your driver will recommend a three day Angkor Wat temples itinerary, and of course, they know a lot better than I do, so take my suggestions with a pinch of salt. This is just what I worked out with my driver and what worked well for what I wanted to do and see.

But first things first, you need to purchase a pass. Your driver will take you to where you need to buy it from. You can buy a 1 day pass or a 3 day pass (or a more day pass, but if you only have 2 weeks in Cambodia you might need to stop at just three days!).

There’s a big circuit and a small circuit in Angkor Wat. Your guide will probably recommend visiting Angkor Wat itself first, and then travelling around all the most popular temples on the small circuit. These include:

• Angkor Thom – the second most popular temple, after Angkor Wat.
• Bayon – one of the most majestic temples in the Angkor area, with many steps to go up!
• Elephant Terrace – this was used by the King to address citizens in the area.
• Ta Prohm – this is the tomb raider temple.

Day Two: Angkor Wat Sunrise

Waking up at 4am is often pretty painful, but in this case, it’s worth it. The Angkor Wat Sunrise is one of the most beautiful scenes you’re likely to ever see – you’ll see the majestic temples silhouetted against gorgeous red and gold skies, then once the sun comes up have the whole day ahead of you to see more of the complex.

Just so you know, this isn’t a hidden gem, at all. It will feel like all the tourists in South East Asia are there watching the sunrise with you, but it still is worth doing.

Take a tuk-tuk there – your tuk-tuk driver from the day before will most likely offer their services again – and try to get there as early as possible, as it really does get incredibly busy!

After that, the day is yours to explore the rest of the ruins. I did the ‘big lap’ on this day, taking in sights like East Mebon and Ta Som, which took about 7 hours.

Later that night, I recommend checking out the Cambodian Circus. Don’t worry, there are no animals here – it’s all acrobats doing things with their body that you wouldn’t believe possible. You can purchase tickets here.

I’d recommend spending day three in Siem Reap seeing some of the other temples, that are a bit further away. A tuk-tuk will take you all the way out here, but it will cost slightly more than trips to the other Angkor Wat temples.

I went to Banteay Srey Temple and it was lovely, so much quieter than the other temples – there were times when me and my travel mate had the whole place to ourselves.

Also in the park is the Landmine Museum, which details a bit more into the tragedy of the wars that have shook South East Asia in the last half-century.

When visiting Angkor Wat, remember it is a religious site – the largest in the world, in fact. So pay the same respects here that you’d pay when visiting any other temple, church or mosque in the world. Here’s a good article with some resources about how to be respectful in Angkor Wat.

Take a night bus from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville – click here to book it.

Sihanoukville – 1 day

You’ll arrive in Sihanoukville on a night bus early in the morning – and I wouldn’t recommend spending much time here. It used to be a pretty crazy party place – nowadays, it’s a pretty crazy Chinese gambling city .

Walking around, I kind of felt like I was in a post-apocalyptic world, with some neon flashing signs and others still being built – but honestly, it’s not a very nice place. I’m only recommending that you pass through here so you can quickly scoot on over to Koh Rong, where this Cambodia itinerary resumes.

Day Four: Get the heck out of Sihanoukville

Luckily, there are lots of boats heading to Koh Rong. Once you get off the bus, you’ll have a lot of offers of tuk-tuks and scooters. Just hop on one of these and they’ll take you to the place to buy your boat tickets. You might need to wait around for a little while, but it shouldn’t be too long. Make sure you specify where you want to go to on the island, as some boats go to different places.

If you decide to go to Coconut Beach and stay at Coconut Beach Bungalows, you’ll be advised to get a certain boat which is operated by Coconut Beach Bungalows themselves. Here is the Google maps location of the shop selling their tickets.

Koh Rong – 3 days

Once you’ve arrived in Koh Rong, you can kick back, find a coconut and watch the sunset. This island paradise is your home for the next three days!

Where to Stay in Koh Rong

Hostel:  I’m not sure if it can be classed as a hostel, but Coconut Beach Bungalows is a great budget place to stay. You actually stay in tents right by the sea, which is so relaxing and serene. There’s a good restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner and the owner gets everyone involved in activities like finding glowing plankton at 4am. Click here for rates and to book.

Mid-Range Hotel:  Ariya Resort has air-conditioned huts with mosquito nets, with each room offering a private bathroom and free WiFi throughout the whole property. Click here for more information and to book.

Luxury Hotel: Tamu Koh Rong is without a doubt one of the most luxury hotels in Koh Rong with rustic yet deluxe ‘glamping’ style rooms. The four-star property has outdoor showers, and a pool and restuarant on site. Click here for rates and more information.

Day Five – Hang Out in Koh Touch

Koh Touch Beach is the biggest and most developed of Koh Rong’s beaches by far. There are lots of bars, pubs and restaurants in the area and it’s always very busy. It’s a fun place just to hang out, have some drinks and see who you meet, although it can be rather rowdy at times! You can also walk around the jungle that backs onto the beach; Long Set Beach is just 10 minutes away through the forest.

Day Six – Trip to Coconut Beach

Coconut Beach is on the quieter side of the island; it’s a small bay with just a few restaurants, bars and places to hang out. It’s a super chill out spot and is definitely worth visiting for some R&R. I spent most of my time on Koh Rong at Coconut Beach, and I can attest that it’s a wonderful place to spend a day or more, with all you’ll need. Here’s my full Coconut Beach guide .

Day Seven – Snorkelling or Diving Around the Island

The beaches and forest on Koh Rong are beautiful, but what makes it even more special is the marine life in the surrounding seas. These can be enjoyed on a snorkelling or diving trip with Koh Rong Dive Center . You can do try dives, fun dives, PADI qualifications or snorkelling trips, so there’s something to suit everyone! Snorkelling trips are also bookable here.

Day Eight – Travel from Koh Rong to Kampot

You’ll first need to travel back to the mainland, and then make your way to Kampot. There are a few ways to get from Sihanoukville to Kampot, including:

• A minibus which takes 2-3 hours and costs about $6.
• A taxi which takes around 2 hours and costs about $45.
• A train which takes around 3-4 hours and costs about $8, but only leaves a few days a week.

The easiest way to arrange transport is to book it with your hotel, but here are the train timetables.

Once you arrive in Kampot, you can take a tuk-tuk to your accommodation, which will cost between $2 and $5.

Kampot – 3 days

The best advice I’d give to anyone who is planning a trip to Cambodia is to not miss Kampot. This is probably my favourite place in South East Asia: I love how chilled out and relaxed it is, as well as the fact that a lot of businesses here are really doing good. It’s also absolutely beautiful, with palms overlooking the tranquil river. It’s not the place to party, but definitely somewhere to recharge for a few days.

Where to Stay in Kampot

Hostel:  Bohemiaz Resort is a perfect chill-out space, with a spa, jacuzzi, steam room and sauna – it may well be the most luxurious hostel you’ve ever stayed in. There’s a restaurant and bar on site, and you can choose to stay in one of the dorm rooms or the hobbit huts. Click here for rates and to book. 

Mid-Range Hotel:  I loved loved LOVED Eden Eco Village. It was possibly the best place I’ve ever stayed. You stay in beautiful rustic huts which overlook the river and a scenic view of palm trees, there’s free yoga, the food is incredible and it’s in a wonderful tranquil setting. Book it, you won’t regret it. Click here for more information.

Luxury Hotel: Le Bokor Palace is one of the most imposing and luxurious places to stay in Kampot. With period decor, friendly and helpful staff, and a bar and restaurant on-site, you’ll feel like you’re in the lap of luxury at Le Bokor Palace. Click here for more information and to book.

Day Nine – Cycle Tour Around Kampot

It’s very easy to do a self-guided cycle tour around Kampot, and there are many places to visit in and around the town. I used a bike provided by my accommodation and saw the following:

• Toek Vil Pagoda – a lovely riverside church where you’re likely to be the only tourist
• Banteay Srey Spa – a wonderful project that employs young women and trains them to be masseurs and beauty therapists
• Farmlink (pepper farm) – a place where you can learn all about the production of Cambodian black pepper, which is a booming local business
• The durian roundabout – pretty self-explanatory… it’s a roundabout with a huge durian on it!
• The colonial buildings of the town centre – these are from the French colonial period and are a typical style of architecture

Remember to pack your camera (there are so many amazing places to take photos!), lots of suncream, a big bottle of water and mosquito repellant.

You can get food at Banteay Srey Spa, so I’d recommend visiting around lunchtime – it’s really delicious. I had a vegan English breakfast – yes, you can get that in Cambodia! – and it was wonderful.

You can check out my video of my day in Kampot here

In the evening, there are some fun bars to check out in Kampot with great happy hour deals.

Day Ten – National Park Tour

Bokor National Park is close to Kampot and makes for a perfect day trip. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could rent a bike and explore it yourself (I would only recommend doing this if you have experience though!), or you could jump on a tour from Kampot.

The park has beautiful lookouts, a moutain to climb, abandoned buildings and amazing tropical scenery. It’s well worth a day trip from Kampot!

In the evening, check out the night market for some local food and drinks.

Day Eleven – Relax in Kampot

Spend the next day relaxing in Kampot. There’s just so much to take in here – beautiful Cambodian countryside, wonderful food and amazing people. You might want to swim or kayak on the river, or cycle through the countryside again, or maybe just kick back in a hammock and relax.

I would definitely recommend doing a sunset boat tour along the river though. There are a few options leaving from town, and when the fireflies come out it’s really magical.

Day Twelve – Travel Kampot to Phnom Penh

Travelling from Kampot to Phnom Penh doesn’t need to take all day – it’s a 2.5 hour journey, although there is some waiting around. You can book a time that suits you online or at your accommodation, and either spend some extra time in Kampot in the morning or head to Phnom Penh and walk around the city in the afternoon.

Phomn Penh – 2 days

Phnom Penh is an important part of your Cambodia itinerary, but it’s not going to be an easy part. It’s where you’ll get the chance to learn all about the Cambodian genocide through various memorials, and it’s as sickening and as shocking as you can imagine.

There are, however, other things to do in Phnom Penh – I’d recommend dedicating a day to the memorials, as you won’t feel like doing much else after seeing them, and then spending a day learning about the more positive side of Phnom Penh’s history and culture.

I’d recommend checking out the central market in Phnom Penh when night falls, there are some great clothes there that are actually much more durable than most trousers from South East Asia (I still have a pair that I bought there and have worn about 100 times – if you’ve ever bought trousers/ pants in South East Asian markets you’ll know how impressive that is!). There are also places to get dinner and AMAZING coconut ice cream.

You could also spend some time checking out the best cafes in Phnom Pehn like the lovely Connecting Hands which is an NGO and supports worthwhile causes.

Where to Stay in Phnom Penh

Hostel:  I stayed at Coolwrong Hostel and really enjoyed it. The rooms are squeaky clean, beds have a good amount of privacy, it’s very laidback and relaxed and there is a restaurant downstairs. The family who run the hostel are very sweet as well. Click here to learn more and to book.

Mid-Range Hotel:  Aquarius Hotel and Urban Resort has trendy, minimalistic rooms with luxurious bathrooms – some with bathtubs. Enjoy an outdoor pool and a spa on-site. Click here for more information and to book.

Luxury Hotel:  The Palace Gate Hotel and Resort is an oasis in the middle of the city. With a pool surrounded by day-beds, an on-site spa, and gorgeous rooms with a mix of period and modern features, it’s a great luxury pick in Phnom Penh. Click here for more information and to reserve your room.

Day Thirteen – The Killing Fields and S21 Prison

This is a horrible day, but it’s very very important. Cambodia was victim to a huge genocide, not long ago. From 1975-1979, the Khmer Rouge took brutal control over the country , killing 25% of its citizens. An estimated 1.6 – 1.8 million people were murdered or perished during this dark time, and it went from being a rather developed South East Asian nation to a poverty-stricken country.

I believe that it’s really important to learn about this side of Cambodia’s history because educating ourselves in this kind of history hopefully helps it not repeat itself. It also gives visitors a key education into how Cambodia was like as a country then, and subsequently what it is like now – it definitely changed the way I looked at the country, and travelling in South East Asia as a whole, and helped me be a more respectful traveller.

That being said, it’s so important to visit these places respectfully – it’s asked to not wear revealing clothes as it’s a memorial site, and obviously don’t be noisy, take selfies or do anything else that might be seen as disrespectful. I read this article that states that ‘too many tourists’ are visiting the Killing Fields – or, to be more exact, too many tourists are visiting for the wrong reasons.

It’s really important to go to these sites to learn about what happened and want to know what we can, as a whole, learn from it – not to just tick something off a list.

You can take a tuk-tuk to the Killing Fields and S21 Prison; there will be plenty of people offering, and it should cost you $15 for the whole day. The driver may or may not chat to you about it on the way, just go with what they’re obviously comfortable with.

The Killing Fields are about half an hour out of town, and they’re a truly harrowing site. Take the audio guide, take your time, listen to the stories.

The S21 Prison is back in town, and again is best experienced with an audio guide. Again, it’s a shocking, brutal place – but I do think humanity can collectively learn so much from both of these places.

I’ve written a longer, more detailed blog post about my thoughts on the Phnom Penh Memorials – you can click here to read it.

For the rest of the day, you’ll probably just want to quietly pay your respects. Maybe take a stroll along the Phnom Penh river and reflect.

Day Fourteen – The Rest of the City

Your driver will probably be willing to take you to some other spots around the city the next day – if they’re not, there will be lots of people who will. While much of Phnom Penh’s history is very sad, there is a happier side, and this can be shown through the other spots of the city.

Some places I visited with my tuk-tuk driver were:

• The Silk Farm – silk is a growing industry that has helped Cambodia a lot since their country was devastated. You can take a guided tour of the silk farm with a local guide – there’s also a swimming pool there if you want to cool off in the sweltering Phnom Penh heat – and the option to purchase items. I didn’t want to buy any silk, but there was also some products made of Cambodian cotton to buy so I got a cotton headscarf.
• Yellow Temple – this temple was far out of the tourist trail, and somewhere that I would never have found if it wasn’t for my tuk-tuk driver.
• Royal Palace – the Royal Palace is a huge complex that details the story of the monarchs of the country. I would recommend
• Museum of Cambodia – this museum tells the story of Cambodia from ancient times

Your tuk-tuk driver will also happily recommend restaurants and answer any other questions that you might have – generally they speak very good English. I paid $20 for my tuk-tuk driver to drive me around all day.

Where to go from Phnom Penh

From Phnom Penh, you have a few options. It’s easy to head into Vietnam from here, either on a sleeper bus to Ho Chi Minh City or a day bus to the Mekong Delta (which goes via Kampot). You can also take a sleeper bus to Bangkok. Or head north, to Pakse in Laos and start a Laos adventure .

You can book all of your travel on Bookaway .

What to Pack for Cambodia

I’m going to write a full South East Asia packing list soon – stay tuned – but some Cambodia essentials that you might want are:

• Loose, light clothes – it doesn’t often get cold in Cambodia! However, make sure that you have some modest clothes for temples and memorials. Cambodia a conservative country and it’s not respectful to walk around non-touristy places in super short shorts – I’d recommend taking a few pairs of light trousers and saving the shorts for the beach.
• A Cambodia guidebook – this will be very helpful when you’re exploring all the different attractions. Buy Lonely Planet Cambodia here.
• A travel adaptor – Cambodia uses European-style adaptors. So if you’re coming from anywhere else in the world, you’ll need your own adaptor. Purchase an international adaptor here.
• Suncream – Cambodia can be absolutely roasting, and many suncreams sold here have whitening in them. Plus suncream is one of the only things that’s a lot more expensive in Asia than back home. Purchase some suncream by clicking here.
• A Water-to-go-Bottle – You can’t drink the tap water in Cambodia – unless you have one of these jazzy gadgets. After flushing the filter initially, you’re good to drink tap water from it for up to 2 months – then you’ll need to change the filter. Click here to buy a Water-to-Go-Bottle .
• Metal Straws – South East Asia does have a plastic problem. Be part of the solution by using reusable straws rather than plastic straws. Click here to purchase metal straws before you go go.
• Power bank – You’re likely to take some long bus journeys in Cambodia, so you’ll probably want to keep your device charged. Click here to purchase one.
• Camera – you’ll want a good camera for all your Cambodia pictures! I use and recommend the Fujifilm x-a3 – click here to purchase one.

Being Respectful in Cambodia

As I’ve mentioned a few times, this country went through four years of absolute hell under the rule of Pol Pot, and is still rebuilding and healing today. The whole country is suffering from first or second generation PTSD, and while tourism has helped them a lot financially, the wrong kind of tourism can really damage the country.

Some ways to be respectful in Cambodia include:

• Learning about the genocide. Don’t impose yourself onto locals with questions (unless they broach the subject first and you can tell they want to talk about it), but read about it, visit the memorials, and understand the enormity of what happened.
• Use local businesses. Cambodia has a big problem with foreign-owned businesses who are setting up places that don’t help the local people. Using businesses that are run by Cambodians and employ Cambodians help this enormously. I’ve tried to recommend as many local businesses in this post as possible – let me know if you find any others that are worth a shout out.
• Dress respectfully. As mentioned above, Cambodia is a modest and religious country – but for some reason, many backpackers and tourists don’t seem to think it applies to them. Just because Cambodia is a popular, cheap place to travel, it doesn’t mean that it’s somewhere where we can do whatever we want. The punishments for being provocative and disrespectful are high , but they can easily be averted by just being a bit more modest.

Useful Khmer Phrases

I’ll be honest, the English level in Cambodia is generally pretty good and because it is such a different language to English, it’s not expected that you’ll speak Khmer. However, Cambodians really love it if you speak a little of their language – here are the words I learned…

Hello – suostei Thankyou – arkoun Goodbye – leahaey Please – saum

Books to Read About Cambodia

Your Ultimate Cambodia Travel Itinerary

I hope that this 2 weeks in Cambodia itinerary has shown you exactly how you can spend 14 days travelling around Cambodia! It’s not quite long enough, but it’s still plenty of time to enjoy some of the best things that this fascinating South East Asian country has to offer. I can guarantee you’ll be back for more!

Check Out My Other South East Asia Itineraries

• 3 days in Bangkok itinerary
• 3 days in Hanoi itinerary
• 1 month in Vietnam itinerary
• 10 days in Vietnam itinerary
• 1 month in Laos itinerary
• 2 weeks in Thailand itinerary
• 2 days in Singapore itinerary

If you have any questions or want to connect, I’m over on Instagram and YouTube !

One thought on “ Two Weeks in Cambodia Itinerary for First-Timers ”

Cambodia is one my absolute favorite countries in the world!! As I was looking at the list I was happy I got to see some of these beautiful places, but realized there are so many more to visit!!

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There are no direct flights to Cambodia from Europe, North America, Australasia or South Africa, so if you plan to fly into the country you’ll need to get a connecting flight from elsewhere in Southeast or East Asia.

Flights from the UK and Ireland

Flights from the us and canada, flights from australia, new zealand and south africa, round-the-world flights, getting there from neighbouring countries, tour operators, 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.

Tailor-made trips for   Cambodia

There are direct flights to Phnom Penh from an increasing number of cities in the region including Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Seoul, Bangkok, Vientiane, Ho Chi Minh City, and several cities in China (including frequent connections with Hong Kong). Alternatively, it’s also possible to fly direct to Siem Reap from Singapore, Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Kuala Lumpur and a number of other Asian destinations.

There are plenty of daily flights, many nonstop, from London Heathrow to Southeast Asian cities, with some airlines offering connections to Phnom Penh. Flight times vary depending on routing. The most direct route is via Bangkok (around 11–12hr from London, plus another 1hr on to Phnom Penh), followed by Kuala Lumpur and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). There are also a growing number of connections via the Gulf, although these will entail at least two stops. From Ireland , it’s a matter of either getting a cheap connection to London Heathrow or flying to Cambodia via a different European (or possibly Gulf) hub.

Thai Airways ( thaiairways.com ), Singapore Airlines (singaporeair.com) and Malaysia Airlines ( malaysia-airlines.com ) offer some of the most competitive fares to Cambodia, with return fares to Phnom Penh starting at around £650.

Flying from the east coast of North America to Cambodia it’s quickest to travel via Europe. Conversely, from the west coast it may well be quicker and cheaper to fly westward via an Asian city such as Seoul or Taipei (the latter has direct connections to Phnom Penh on EVA Air; evaair.com ). There are daily flights from New York and Los Angeles to Bangkok, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, all of which have onward connections to Phnom Penh. Fares from both the east and west coasts to Phnom Penh start from around US$1500. From Canada , low-season return fares from Toronto to Phnom Penh start at around Can$2000, and Can$1500 return from Vancouver.

There’s a wide selection of flights from Australia and New Zealand to Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and Ho Chi Minh City, with onward connections to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Return fares from Australia to Phnom Penh start at around Aus$1000; from Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington flights start from roughly NZ$2000.

Travelling from South Africa to Cambodia via an Asian hub city, fares start at around ZAR12,000 return.

If Cambodia is only one stop on a longer journey, you might want to consider buying a Round-The-World (RTW) ticket. Cambodia can be added to itineraries offered by airline consortium Star Alliance ( staralliance.com ) for example. Bangkok or Singapore are more common ports of call for many RTW tickets; from the UK, figure on around £1000 plus taxes for an RTW ticket including either of these destinations.

There are numerous land borders into Cambodia open to foreigners from neighbouring Thailand, Vietnam and Laos. Visas at all are issued on arrival.

From Thailand

There are currently six border crossings between Cambodia and Thailand open to foreigners. All are open daily (7am–8pm) with visas being issued on arrival at all points; although e-visas are currently only accepted at Poipet and Koh Kong.

Far and away the most popular of the six crossings is the mildly infamous crossing at Poipet , on the main highway between Bangkok and Siem Reap. The Trat/ Koh Kong crossing further south is good for Sihanoukville and Phnom Penh. There are two further crossings in the east at Ban Pakard/ Pailin (Psar Pruhm) , an hour by road to Battambang, and at Ban Leam/ Daun Lem (although this crossing is basically a casino development in the middle of nowhere, and of zero practical use unless you’re on a visa run from Bangkok). Finally, there are two remote and little-used (by foreigners at least) crossing points in northern Cambodia at Surin/ O’Smach , and Chong Sa Ngam/ Anlong Veng – both 150km north of Siem Reap (2hr by taxi). These are not busy crossing points though, so your transport options on the Cambodian side will be limited.

From Vietnam

There are currently seven border crossings open to foreigners travelling overland from Vietnam (daily 7am–5pm); Cambodian visas are issued on arrival at all points, although heading into Vietnam you’ll need to have acquired a visa in advance. The busiest crossing is at Moc Bai/ Bavet , 200km southeast of Phnom Penh on the main road to Ho Chi Minh City. Also popular is the crossing at Chau Doc/ K’am Samnar on the Bassac River. There are two further border crossings in the south at Tinh Bien/ Phnom Den near Takeo, and at Hat Tien/ Prek Chak east of Kep, plus three little-used crossings in eastern Cambodia (see Border crossings in the east) at Xa Mat/ Trapeang Phlong east of Kompong Cham; Loc Ninh/ Trapeang Sre , southeast of Snuol, and Le Tanh/ O Yadow , east of Banlung.

There’s just one border crossing with Laos , at Nong Nok Khiene/ Trapeang Kriel (see To Laos) in the far north of Cambodia, 57km beyond Stung Treng. The border is open daily (7am–5pm) and both Cambodian and Lao visas are available on arrival.

If you want to avoid the hassle of making your own arrangements you might consider travelling with a specialist tour operator . However, although Cambodia is well covered, many tour companies still include it only as part of a visit to another Southeast Asian country. Tour prices start at around £500 for land-only options; those that include international flights tend to be £1200 to £1500, while choosing luxury accommodation and specialist activities, such as golfing, can set you back more than £4000.

Agents and operators

North South Travel northsouthtravel.co.uk . Friendly, competitive travel agency, offering discounted fares worldwide. Profits are used to support projects in the developing world, especially the promotion of sustainable tourism.

STA Travel statravel.co.uk . Worldwide specialists in independent travel; also student IDs, travel insurance, car rental, rail passes, and more. Good discounts for students and under-26s.

Trailfinders trailfinders.com. One of the best-informed and most efficient agents for independent travellers.

Specialist tour operators

Cambodia Community Based Ecotourism Network ccben.org . Cambodian organization offering homestays and visits to ecotourism sites throughout the country.

Intrepid Travel intrepidtravel.com . Southeast Asia specialist with an impressive choice of Cambodia offerings and an emphasis on low-impact tourism.

Peregrine peregrineadventures.com. Reasonably priced Southeast Asian tours, mostly combining Cambodia with a neighbouring country – one interesting option is the Saigon to Angkor Cycle. Pedalling through Cambodia may be challenging, but you’ll get fit and see plenty of local life along the way.

Responsibletravel.com responsibletravel.com. Online travel agent with an extensive range of Cambodia tours from different companies, all with an ethical emphasis.

See Cambodia Differently seecambodiadifferently.com . Cambodian specialists offering moderately priced group and customized tours, including an excellent selection of wildlife-themed trips.

The Rough Guides to Cambodia and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

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

Find even more inspiration here

• Travel Tips

written by Andy Turner

updated 26.04.2021

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Cambodia Itinerary: The Ultimate 2 Weeks In Cambodia (2024)

Come check out the perfect 2 weeks in Cambodia Itinerary for first-time visitors, hitting up all the top destinations. Let’s talk about the best route, things to do, transportation, accommodation, and more during your time in Cambodia!

Welcome to one of my favorite countries, Cambodia . I know it is quite less visited than neighboring Vietnam or Thailand . Though it is honestly one of the best countries to backpack .

Luckily it is not too large, nor too small, you can spend a good 2 weeks in Cambodia and explore the main tourist trail taking you to all the highlights. You may find your Cambodia itinerary to be more or less than this, though in my eyes this is the perfect amount of time to get a taste of what the country has to offer.

Now I have traveled Cambodia twice, basically following the exact same route both times, and that is simply because you cannot fault it.

You will get to experience city living in Phnom Penh, island life in Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, the more quaint side in Kampot and Battambang, and the magnificent Angkor Archeological Park in Siem Reap.

If you are looking at getting off the beaten track and away from other travelers, then I will say it now; this is not the itinerary for you. This is assuming you are visiting Cambodia for the first time and want to see some of the best places it has to offer.

We will keep you on the well-trodden backpacking Cambodia route. Though with a few extra tips and tricks are thrown in to take your adventure to the next level. Though like I said I have done this route twice, and honestly would do it a third time.

Be aware that this itinerary does not start and finish in the same location. Instead, you will be starting in Phnom Penh and finishing in Siem Reap, though it can also easily be done the opposite way as well.

Both Phnom Penh and Siem Reap have international airports so you shouldn’t have an issue flying in, and perhaps if you are coming overland from Vietnam or Thailand , this will also work well for you.

Now, let’s get into this 2 weeks in Cambodia itinerary with all the information you need to know to have the ultimate adventure.

2 Weeks In Cambodia: The Perfect Cambodia Itinerary For First Timers

• Phnom Penh (Day 1 – 2)

Koh Rong (Day 2 – 4)

Koh rong samloem (day 4 – 6), kampot (day 6 – 8), phnom penh (day 8 – 9), battambang (day 9 – 11).

• Siem Reap (Day 11 – 14)

Extend Your 2 Weeks In Cambodia Itinerary

Phnom penh (day 1- 2).

Phnom Penh is a huge city and honestly, it can be a bit overwhelming when you first arrive. Nevertheless, it is well worth spending a couple of days in Phnom Penh during your adventures around Cambodia.

This will give you time to get adjusted to the city, and over any jetlag if you are traveling from further abroad. Though if you happen to simply be coming across from Vietnam, I recommend checking out my post on traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh to find out what to expect.

In my personal opinion, it is actually a must to do this to check out some of the historic sights around the city. If you are not aware, Cambodia has quite an unfortunate past that happened not so long ago in the 1970s.

This includes visiting the Killing Fields and S21 Prison. It is easy enough to find a tuk-tuk driver on the street who will take you to both locations from $14.00 to $20.00. Just be aware you will need to haggle for a cheaper price.

Where To Stay In Phnom Penh

You are spoiled with choices when it comes to choosing where to stay in Phnom Penh. There are countless luxury 5-star resorts, locally run guesthouses, and modern hostels. Though what I have personally had issues with in the past is figuring out where exactly in this city I should be booking my accommodation.

Sure, it’s easy even to look at a map and figure out what is the city and what is not. Though your girl ended up staying in the red-light district during my second trip here.

I honestly have no idea how it happened, but it may have been the super affordable hotel with a rooftop pool. I mean it was okay for one night, but it was certainly a bit seedy venturing out trying to find somewhere for dinner.

Nevertheless, simply make sure to check out reviews and other travelers’ opinions thoroughly. This city is full of budget deals for travelers, some even too good to be true.

Overall I would budget to spend around $7.00 per night on a dorm room or $20.00 per night for a basic private room. Check out my post on the best hostels in Phnom Penh to find the perfect stay for those who are on more of a budget.

How To Get To Phnom Penh

As I said at the start you can either start or end your itinerary in Phnom Penh, depending on which way you decide to do this itinerary. If you are traveling from your home country straight to Cambodia one of your best options will likely be to catch a flight from Hong Kong, Vietnam , Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia.

These airports are international hubs connecting to many regions around the world and offer direct flights to Phnom Penh. I recommend checking flights on SkyScanner to ensure you find the best price for your journey.

You could also have just finished your Vietnam itinerary and be making your way to Cambodia.

The best way to do this overland is by taking a bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh . My preferred company servicing this route is the Giant Ibis which caters to tourists and will help you during the border crossing .

Don’t stop at Sihanoukville instead head straight to the islands. You either have the choice of traveling to Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem . Personally, I have always chosen to visit both islands, though I will travel from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong first.

This is because it is the busiest island so boats are always heading in that direction (most of the time), and it is a bit further away so I like to get the longest journey over with first.

One of my favorite spots to chill beachside with clear waters and squeaky sand in the entire world has got to be Koh Rong. No matter where you go you will no doubt discover some of the best beaches on Koh Rong .

Once on the island, you will arrive in the area known as Koh Toch Village. This is where the main town on the island is located and where you can catch a boat to other parts.

The roads here are simply made of dirt paths through the green jungle. You will notice an absence of cars on these roads as most locals travel by motorbike instead.

Seriously there is nothing better to do here than to simply relax beachside so buckle up for a chill time lying on the shoreline.

Where To Stay On Koh Rong

Once again there will be plenty of choices for where to stay on Koh Rong . Though you are just here for two nights so I don’t recommend staying somewhere on the complete other side of the island as a lot of time will be eaten up simply traveling there.

Instead, I advise you to stay on either Sok San Beach or Long Set Beach. Both are beautiful options and have a mixture of hostels, guesthouses, and resorts. This means no matter your budget you should find something to fit.

Also, I don’t recommend staying in the main village of Koh Touch where the boats arrive, but instead, somewhere a 10 or 15-minute walk away. This will still allow you to access all the amenities, but also have some privacy and a quiet beach to relax on.

For something, more lux check out Long Set Resort , for mid-range prices you have Tree House Bungalows , and for dorms, Nest Beach Club (though it is a party hostel).

How To Get To Koh Rong From Phnom Penh

The journey to travel from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong is done in two parts. The first is from Phnom Penh to the coastal city of Sihanoukville from which the ferries depart. The second part is actually catching the ferry from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong.

Be aware you will want to leave Phnom Penh relatively early in the day to ensure you don’t miss the afternoon boats.

Here is a quick overview of the various travel options available to book:

Though personally I would recommend either taking a minibus or a flight depending on your budget. The distance from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville in Cambodia is approximately 227 kilometers.

I know this doesn’t sound like a lot, and in all honesty, it is a pretty easy and decent drive. The roads are well paved and you will be traveling on the busy highway the majority of the distance.

Once you have arrived in Sihanoukville it is time to make your way to the ferry terminal where the boats depart from. Depending on what beach you decide to stay on will basically determine what time and which boat to go with.

I recommend checking out my article on traveling from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong which breaks down all destinations, prices, times, and more. I recommend booking your journey in advance online with 12.Go Asia.

The smaller sister of Koh Rong is called Koh Rong Samloem, located just 4 kilometers away. Though just because it is smaller doesn’t mean it is any less spectacular.

Ten or so years ago this was definitely the less ventured between Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem. Though in more recent years we have seen a huge influx of resorts, hostels, and cheaper accommodation options, bringing with them a new influx of travelers.

The main tourist area of Koh Rong Samloem is called Saracen Bay and this is where the ferry will arrive from Sihanoukville. Be aware there are not actually any roads on Koh Rong Samloem.

Therefore many people choose to stay in Saracen Bay which will just be a short walk from the ferry pier to your accommodation. Though if you are looking for a more secluded experience there are numerous accommodation options that you will need to take another boat or go on a jungle trek to access.

All in all Koh Rong Samloem is an absolute paradise! Seriously you will be amazed by the impressively clear shores, white sand, and calm lapping water. This of course is another one of my favorite spots, with beautiful beaches and a chill atmosphere, and once you arrive you will understand why!

Where To Stay On Koh Rong Samloem

Even though this is a less populated island, you can still find an assortment of restaurants, cafes, and types of accommodations. Whether you want an all-inclusive 5-star resort or a cheap dorm room, you can easily find it here.

It may be surprising but there are actually more hostels here on Koh Rong Samloem than there are on Koh Rong. This includes a lot of large chain hostels that you will also find on the mainland.

Honestly, there is nowhere that I would stay “don’t stay in this location” etc, all the beaches here are pretty good spots to stay at. Though instead, it is a matter of booking somewhere that meets your needs. Whether that may be air conditioning, wifi, a hostel, an onsite restaurant, or a deserted beach.

I have personally stayed at both Sleeping Trees and Sara Resort while staying on Koh Rong Samloem. They both provided different experiences with the latter being more of a luxe option but were equally excellent for what we were requiring at the time.

How To Get To Koh Rong Samloem From Koh Rong

I know it may be simple enough to get from Koh Rong to Koh Rong Samloem . Though unless you have infinite money to wander down to the pier and ask a fisherman for a ride you will be like me and instead be needing the ferry schedule.

Luckily enough this journey is relatively simple, though there is some information you need to know.

The distance from Koh Rong To Koh Rong Samloem is approximately 6 kilometers. Though this is from Koh Toch, the main beach in Koh Rong, to M’Pai Bay which is a busy local village on Koh Rong Samloem. Most travelers will stay between here, Saracen Bay, and Sunset Beach.

If you are interested in taking the supply boat from Koh Rong To Koh Rong Samloem then there are two separate boats each day. The first one leaves Koh Toch on Koh Rong at 8 a.m., making its way to M’Pai Bay at 830 a.m., EcoSea at 9:15 a.m., and finally Saracen Bay at 10 a.m.

After this, it makes its way back to Koh Rong. The second boat starts at Saracen Bay at 4 pm, then to M’Pai Bay at 5.30 pm, EcoSea at 5.45 pm, and then on to Koh Rong.

Be aware these times can change quite often and there is no way to book this journey online. Instead, you will need to wait until you are on Koh Rong, though best to book your tickets the day before your desired departure date.

For example, the last time I visited Koh Rong the boat actually departed Koh Toch at 1pm which worked perfectly for check out at our previous accommodation and check in at the next place.

Time to slowly reintroduce ourselves back to city life after an incredible few days in the most dreamy islands. Kampot is the perfect spot for this! It is actually a really awesome backpacker hangout which really put it on the map as a must-visit destination.

It also makes the perfect stopover for a few nights in between the journey from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville or vice versa. This city is located alongside the Kampot river, which helps add to the chill atmosphere. Some of the most popular things to do here are:

Pepper Farm Visit: I know it does sound a bit random, but you may be surprised to learn Kampot is well known for its pepper. One popular thing to do here in Kampot is visit La Plantation Pepper Farm.

You will be guided through the black pepper forests as you sample and learn all about the produce. You will need to pay for a tuk-tuk there, though the tours are actually free of charge. Even better is that there is a restaurant on site serving up the freshest dishes.

Cruise On The Kampot River: For a chill evening head down to the river by the old colonial bridge and jump on one of the boats to enjoy a cold drink and some epic views. Watch the sunset dip below the jungle as nightfalls and fireflies fill the sky. This is certainly a unique experience and one I recommend doing while in the city.

Arcadia WaterPark: Also a hostel, this is a popular spot with travelers looking to cool off. Grab a cold beer, have a game of beer pong, and be flung off the giant blob. There is even a floating pontoon with a 3-meter diving board.

Where To Stay In Kampot

Kampot is a relatively small chill place, though you will still be spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation. There are some really cute riverside lodges, backpacker hostels, and modern hotels.

I know if I were to visit Kampot again I would definitely spend a night or two in one of the riverside bungalows. Seriously there are some awesome eco-friendly spots here so if you are looking for a unique accommodation experience in Cambodia I definitely recommend trying it out in Kampot .

Though we stayed at a small guesthouse a 10 or so-minute walk away from the action of the city. Though it doesn’t seem to still be open, and that is not the worse thing.

Honestly, I wouldn’t have recommended it with barely working air conditioning, even though you pay extra for it, hard as rock beds, and nonexistent wifi. In all honesty, we spent the majority of our time next door at a hostel called The Magic Sponge .

This is a popular backpacker spot that has everything a traveler needs such as a clean place to sleep and freakin delicious huge meals. This spot has a truly homely feel.

You are also able to find a few hostels here that are also waterparks. Think slides, rope swings, tubing, and more. This is a great way to cool off and meet some other travelers.

How To Get To Kampot From Koh Rong Samloem

Once you are finished relaxing beachside it is time to make your way back to Sihanoukville on the mainland. Luckily tickets are super easy to book online with 12.Go Asia .

There are plenty of boats traveling in this direction throughout the day and Kampot is relatively close to Sihanoukville so there is no need to head off crazy early.

Here is a quick overview of the various methods to travel from Sihanoukville to Kampot :

Honestly, you are just best off booking a bus for the journey. It is relatively short being only 3 hours long, so you really are not saving any money by doing it visa train or private transfer.

I know, I know, you already went to Phnom Penh so what gives! Well, you are best off staying 1 night here between Kampot and Battambang. Unfortunately, you cannot travel between these destinations directly without stopping in Phnom Penh.

Technically you would be able to do it in one day, setting off on the first bus out in the morning, and taking an afternoon bus from Phnom Penh.

Though doing this you won’t be getting into Battambang until 9.30 pm at the latest. It will be well over a 12-hour travel day, and unfortunately, these parts of Cambodia are notorious for delays and breakdowns. So there is no knowing whether or not you will actually make your connection bus in Phnom Penh to start with.

Better off cutting your losses, book somewhere nice to stay and enjoy big-city living before venturing into the quaint town of Battambang.

How To Get To Phnom Penh from Kampot

Luckily enough it is super easy to travel from Kampot to Phnom Penh. The journey is relatively straightforward forward taking approximately 3 hours. Though as I said above delays are notorious, so no promises on this timing.

The best way to get to Phnom Penh from Kampot is by bus. There are numerous companies servicing this route so you will have no problem finding one to leave at a suitable time that works with your day’s plans.

I can recommend booking this journey with 12.Go Asia . On their site, you will see all the companies available and be able to check out other travelers’ reviews so you know exactly what to expect.

The town of Battambang isn’t super popular with the average traveler backpacking Cambodia route. Also, if I am honest, I saw a video online of the Battambang Bamboo Train and decided I had to go and check it out. Nevertheless, the town also has a lot more to offer as well, so don’t worry.

Some other things to do here include:

Killing Cave : Why not learn about some of the history and venture to the Killing Cave? It is a rather nice walk where you can see monkeys and even swarms of bats during sunset. Though once you reach the caves prepare to learn about the past and the horrors many people suffered.

Kampon Pil Pagoda: Make your way across the long bamboo bridge and to Kampon Pil Pagoda. Have a wander around the grounds and marvel at the impressive golden roof in contrast with the white walls.

Central Market: Right in the center of the town you will find Central Market, also known as Phsar Nath Market. Here is much more of a local market than for tourists. Though it is an interesting walk-through to see the different goods for sale.

Free Walking Tour: An excellent way to discover a new destination is on a free walking tour. It departs from the Central market at 4 pm the hottest part of the day is over. The guide will take you around the central area pointing out French architecture and historical sites. Be aware that even though it is a free tour, if you found it worthwhile it is always appreciated to leave a tip.

Bat Cave: For another unique experience in Battambang head to Phnom Sampeaou Mountain about 12 kilometers outside of the city. A lot of tuk-tuk drivers will know about the location so you won’t have an issue getting there.

What makes it worth visiting is the insane amount of bats that fly out when the sky starts going dark. It is a continuous stream for about 20 minutes, seriously my mind can’t even comprehend how many there must be!

Where To Stay In Battambang?

Honestly, did I fall in love with Battambang as a town and the accommodation on offer? Not particularly. We stayed in a small super cheap guesthouse with a fan room.

Though I am not going to recommend it simply due to the fact that there was a constant stream of bugs that seemingly appeared from nowhere during our stay.

Instead, I advise you to check out a couple of the below options:

How To Travel To Battambang From Phnom Penh

Once again it is time for the good ol’ bus when it comes to traveling from Phnom Penh to Battambang. Though this will be one of your long travel days, so I recommend bringing along some snacks and downloading a few movies.

The total travel time can be anywhere from 6 hours to over 7 hours depending on how many stops your bus makes and what traffic is like.

Just don’t make the same mistake I did on this route, where I rocked up to a random travel agency and booked whatever without looking into it. Instead, book online through a platform like 12.Go Asia , read reviews and weigh up what company is going to be best for you versus price.

Siem Reap (Day 11- 14)

Finish your 2 weeks in Cambodia itinerary in one of many travelers’ favorite spots in the country, Siem Reap. Personally, it has got to be one of my favorite budget-friendly cities.

This is an awesome place with so much history to explore, delicious spots to try, and plenty of shopping to be done at the numerous markets.

While backpacking Siem Reap you will be amazed at all the incredible things to do here. Though obviously, a highlight for many travelers is the incredible Angkor Archeological Park. The best way to see all of these magnificent temples is by doing a tour.

You either have the option of the small circuit , which takes you to all the well-known temples, or the grand circuit , which visits a lot of the more underrated temples. If you have enough time to spare in your Siem Reap itinerary why not do both?

To give you a lot greater understanding of what you see in front of you, and a greater appreciation for it all a visit to The Angkor National Museum is highly recommended. Here they focus on the collection, preservation, and education of Angkorian artifacts.

While at it also hit up the Cambodia Landmine Museum and APOPO Center. You may find it surprising to learn that Cambodia has nearly the most landmines in the world.

Of course, there is no better way to finish off your day in Siem Reap than visiting Pub Street. Now depending on what type of traveler you are will certainly determine how your night is going to go. Nevertheless, I recommend hitting up some of the local street food stalls before tucking into any $1.00 or 50-cent beers.

Where To Stay In Siem Reap

Siem Reap is a popular destination for travelers of all types so you will find accommodation for all budgets. Whether you are looking for a taste of 5-star luxe, an affordable guesthouse, or a hostel where you can meet other travelers.

My personal favorite place to stay in Siem Reap is called the Royal Crown Hotel & Spa . They have two different pools you can use, a quick 5-minute walk from the Old Market, beautiful rooms, and delicious food options on-site. I actually got quite sick in Siem Reap and we ended up bunkering up here in this hotel for a week.

Though in my eyes, there are two things you need to be aware of when booking accommodation in Siem Reap . The first is I highly HIGHLY recommend booking a room with air conditioning.

Secondly is that there are a heap of power cuts in Siem Reap like A LOT. Therefore depending on where you book, if the power goes out, there goes your air conditioning. Now I don’t mean to sound like a princess, but I have had the power go out here for 24 hours.

Nicer hotels will have generators that will boost into action in a power cut.

How To Travel To Siem Reap From Battambang

Last bus trip of the journey! Yay! Thankfully to celebrate it being the last one the total travel time between Battambang and Siem Reap will take you approximately 3 to 4 hours. Which compared to some of the other journeys is not too bad. Once again I am going to recommend 12.Go Asia for booking this journey. That way you can check out the reviews of the various companies before deciding to book and you will know what to expect.

Why not stay a little longer while you are here in the country? Make the most out of that 30-day visa and do some more exploring! More popular destinations include:

Kep: Another spot in Cambodia worth visiting if you have time. This is a cute seaside village just 2 kilometers away from Kampot. Make sure to try out the famous Kep Crab! There are also some awesome accommodation spots with cute bungalows overlooking the jungle or river.

Koh Ta Kiev: If you are looking for something off the beaten track with minimal other travel then check out Koh Ta Kiev. This island is equally as stunning as the others, though a lot less built up.

One of the top places to stay here is called Kactus where you can find basic bamboo huts and dorm rooms. You won’t be able to find any super glamorous accommodation here. This spot is like the rest of the islands 20 years ago, with just what you need and nothing more.

International: If you want to get to other neighboring countries from Siem Reap it is super easy to travel to Bangkok . There are plenty of bus connections available. Another option is Pakse in Laos , though bus connections are a lot less common as it is a less frequented route. This one may take a bit more planning.

Though apart from the above I would also recommend staying a few extra days in the islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem as well.

Any Questions? Let me know in the comments!

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Want more Cambodia Inspiration? Check out….

• IS SIHANOUKVILLE WORTH VISITING STILL?
• BEST 4 DAYS IN SIEM REAP ITINERARY
• PHNOM PENH TO SIHANOUKVILLE
• BEST HOSTELS IN SIEM REAP
• HOW TO TRAVEL KOH RONG TO KOH RONG SAMLOEM
• BEST BEACHES ON KOH RONG
• SIHANOUKVILLE TO KAMPOT
• COST TO TRAVEL CAMBODIA
• KOH RONG OR KOH RONG SAMLOEM- WHAT IS THE BEST BEACH GETAWAY
• BEST HOSTELS IN PHNOM PENH
• BEST HOSTELS ON KOH RONG & KOH RONG SAMLOEM

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. So, if you click on it and purchase something, I get a small percentage at no extra cost to you. As always all opinions are my own and your support is much appreciated.

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Tasha Amy is a true backpacker at heart and has been discovering the world on a budget since 2015. Based in Gisborne, New Zealand she will spend many months each year traveling overseas as a solo female traveler before coming home and sharing her adventures online with you.

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• How to Plan a Trip to Cambodia and Vietnam 2024: Itinerary, Best Times, Expert Tips

In the heart of Southeast Asia, Cambodia and Vietnam have long been in the limelight for many travelers. They border each other, offering convenient travel connections.

Diversity is absolutely one of the most enchanting features of Vietnam and Cambodia. Plunging into Halong Bay, climbing up Pre Rup for a breathtaking sunset in Siem Reap, or delving into Hanoi's alleys for delicacies... no matter whether you're traveling for a honeymoon, anniversary, or family vacation… Vietnam and Cambodia will not disappoint you.

• Places to See
• How Long Do You Need
• How Much Does It Cost
• Best Time to Visit
• How to Get There and Travel Around
• How to Obtain Visas

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Places to See in Cambodia and Vietnam

Vietnam and Cambodia, neighboring Southeast Asian countries, present distinct travel experiences.

Vietnam boasts diverse landscapes, from the northern rice terraces to the iconic Ha Long Bay, and is rich in history with influences from China, France, and the United States. Its vibrant cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer a blend of traditional and modern charm, and the cuisine is celebrated for its freshness and flavors.

On the other hand, Cambodia is renowned for the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat and the Khmer Empire's historical sites, set amidst lush landscapes. The country embraces Khmer culture, featuring unique dishes such as amok and showcasing a slower pace of life.

Top Things to Do in Vietnam

1. Explore the Old Quarter in Hanoi : explore the city's charm by visiting sites like the elegant Bach Ma Temple and Dong Xuan Market, the oldest local market in the city.

2. Stay overnight on a cruise to see Halong Bay : exercise with water activities like swimming, kayaking, or canoeing, and enjoy the sunset on the cruise deck with a cup of beer in hand.

3. Trek in Sapa among the rice fields : bring yourself closer to the raw nature of Vietnam.

4. Track back to the last emperor's life in Hue : a good destination for history buffs.

5. Soak in the beauty of Hoi An Old Town : strolling around the lantern-lit streets, you will have a sense of peace and tranquility.

6. Visit the floating markets along the Mekong Delta via a boat ride : they have retained their traditional way of doing business.

7. Relax on a wonderful beach on Phu Quoc Island in South Vietnam : enjoy sunbathing, and fresh seafood, as well as fantastic scuba diving and snorkeling.

Top Things to Do in Cambodia

1. Explore the ancient temple complex of Angkor Wat , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant archaeological sites in Southeast Asia.

2. Take in the charming countryside scenery on a quad bike in Siem Reap : pass the seldom-visited local villages, rice fields, and temples, and reward yourself with an amazing countryside sunset.

3. Take a boat trip on Tonle Sap , the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. See Siem Reap from another perspective as you pass the floating villages, which still retain the lifestyle of the ancient Cambodians.

4. Sense the misery of the Khmer Rouge period in Phnom Penh : Although it's sad and even disturbing to visit the Killing Fields and S-21 Prison, this will get you acquainted with one of the worst human tragedies of the last century.

How Long Do You Need in Vietnam and Cambodia?

We highly recommend allocating a minimum of 12 days for your inaugural journey to Vietnam and Cambodia. For an even more enriching experience, consider extending your trip to 14 days . This extended timeframe allows for a leisurely exploration, enabling you to cover a broader range of destinations and partake in a diverse array of activities, all at a relaxed pace.

Vietnam: (8-12 days)

• Hanoi (2-3 days)
• Halong Bay (2-3 days)
• Hoi An (2-3 days)
• Ho Chi Minh City (2-3 days)

Cambodia: (3-7 days)

• Siem Reap (3-4 days)
• Phnom Penh (2-3 days)
• Optional: Sihanoukville or Kampot (2-3 days)

Vietnam and Cambodia Itinerary Ideas: 12 Days and 2 Weeks

Our 12-Day Cambodia and Vietnam Highlights Tour is a classic tour for your inspiration, designed for those who want to visit all the must-see destinations and essential sights in both Vietnam and Cambodia within a limited timeframe.

What we are suggesting is the hardest-to-easiest approach. Cambodia's cultural attributes demand more of your engagement: emotions are drawn at the Killing Fields and S21 Museum and a lot of walking is required at the Angkor Wat Complex. Vietnam is relatively relaxing and can be a good wind-down after Cambodia.

• Day 1: Phnom Penh Arrival, Cambodia
• Day 2: Phnom Penh (Heart-Breaking Past and Hopeful Present)
• Day 3: Phnom Penh – Siem Reap (1-hour flight or 6-hour drive along Tonle Sap), Tomb Raider Experience
• Day 4: Siem Reap (Angkor Wat in Depth)
• Day 5: Siem Reap – Ho Chi Minh City by flight | Saigon at Dusk
• Day 6: Ho Chi Minh City | Mekong Impression
• Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City – Hoi An (Danang Airport)
• Day 8: Hoi An Ancient Town
• Day 9: Hoi An (Danang Airport) – Hanoi
• Day 10: Hanoi from a Different Angle
• Day 11: Hanoi – Halong Bay | Relaxing Cruising in Halong Bay
• Day 12: Halong Bay – Hanoi, Hanoi Departure

What sets apart this tour is the presence of a dedicated scholar of Angkor culture who will guide you through the intricacies of Angkor Wat. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to soak in breathtaking views of Halong Bay on a carefully selected cruise , characterized by its smaller size, providing more privacy and intimacy. Glide through a hidden canal in the less-touristy area of the Mekong Delta aboard a traditional sampan, and experience more unique and memorable moments throughout the journey. See the detailed itinerary .

More itinerary options are suggested in 2 weeks in Vietnam and Cambodia >>>

How Much Does It Cost to Travel to Vietnam and Cambodia?

When traveling to Vietnam and Cambodia, you can expect lower prices than in Thailand and Singapore. For a private trip, the daily cost usually ranges from US$170 to US$250 per person .

Travel with us , beyond regular sightseeing, you can enjoy more exclusive activities : foodie adventures, a fishing tour with a basket boat ride, sunset quad bike rides, and an Angkor Wat walking tour led by our Khmer scholar.

We've also carefully selected various hotels at the best agent rates whether you are looking for a family resort or a boutique hotel with unparalleled views.

You can see our two handpicked private tours to get more details about costs and itineraries. The prices are based on a group of 2+ people.

• 12-Day Cambodia and Vietnam Highlights Tour : from US$2,819 per person
• 14-Day Vietnam and Cambodia Family Tour : From US$2,366 per adult, US$1775 per child

What Is the Best Time to Visit Vietnam and Cambodia?

Both countries are subject to a monsoon climate. There are three main seasons in Vietnam and Cambodia:

• Dry season : November to February
• Hot season : March to May (temperatures consistently get up to around 38°C (100°F))
• Rainy season : June to October (it usually rains in the afternoon and at night, so it's easy to plan around the weather)

The best time to visit both Vietnam and Cambodia is during the dry season, which typically spans from November to March . This period generally offers more comfortable temperatures, lower humidity, and less rainfall, making it ideal for exploring cultural sites, outdoor activities, and enjoying landscapes.

The shoulder seasons , such as late November or early December and late March or early April, can offer a balance between favorable weather and fewer tourists.

The hot season and the rainy season are not so comfortable for travel, but you will find fewer crowds and lower prices for flights and accommodation.

Typhoons from July to September

Typhoons typically strike the northern to central coast of Vietnam during the July-to-September typhoon season, potentially leading to cruise cancellations in Halong Bay and the risk of flooding in Hoi An Ancient Town.

Cambodia seldom gets struck by storms, except for Sihanoukville during the typhoon season.

How to Get to Vietnam and Cambodia?

If you are traveling from the USA or Europe, it's advisable to consider starting your journey in one of Vietnam's prominent cities, like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, due to their accessibility from international destinations. In Cambodia, major airports include Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.

To travel between Vietnam and Cambodia, you have three options: by boat, by plane, or by road.

• Flying: Opting for air travel is the most convenient choice, requiring only 1–2 hours for the journey.
• Boat Travel: Choosing to travel by boat provides a unique experience along the Mekong River. You have two notable options—a 5-hour ferry departing from Chau Doc in Vietnam to Phnom Penh or a longer cruise option, either a 4-day cruise between Ho Chi Minh and Phnom Penh or an 8-day cruise between Ho Chi Minh and Siem Reap.
• Road Travel: While not recommended due to its extended duration of about 7 hours, traveling by road is a feasible but time-consuming option.

How to Obtain Visas for Vietnam and Cambodia?

Vietnam visas.

Holders of normal passports issued by the following countries do not require a visa to visit Vietnam:

• Europe : United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Belarus, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Russia, Sweden
• South and Middle America : Chile, Panama
• Asia : Japan, South Korea, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, Kyrgyzstan, Philippines, Brunei

Starting from August 15, 2023, Vietnam e-visas are issued to citizens of all countries and territories, and they are issued for multiple entries for up to 90 days . You can now apply for the e-visa online . The e-visa fee is approximately 25 USD, and your application will usually be processed within 3 working days. Applying for an e-visa is efficient and convenient.

Cambodia Visas

Regular passport holders from the following countries do not require a visa to visit Cambodia (for the following periods):

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

If you are from other countries, you can apply for an e-Visa online for US$37 before arrival, or you may do it on the spot when you enter Cambodia as a Visa-on-Arrival (30 USD for single entry). Visa-on-Arrival is not available at the border-crossing from Chau Doc in Vietnam, but it is at most other ports.

Visit Vietnam and Cambodia with Asia Highlights

Traveling is all about experiences. That is the very thing that you cannot cut corners on. It is also nice to get inspired by experiences. Here, we have designed classic tour itineraries catering to almost all palates for inspiration. If that doesn't strike your fancy, talk to us and get started here: Help Me Plan Now .

• 12-Day Cambodia and Vietnam Highlights
• 12-Day Essential Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour
• 15-Day Best of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour
• 19-Day Highlights of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam

Why Asia Highlights (10,000+ reviews & 98.8% 5-star rating)

• Save Your Time:
• Less research, more enjoyment!
• Real-time 1V1 expert planning
• Maximize Your Flexibility:
• Personal local guide and ride
• Explore at your own pace
• Celebrate Your Journeys:
• Specially-crafted family adventures
• Celebrate milestones with style!
• 12-Day Best of Thailand and Cambodia Tour
• 12-Day Cambodia and Vietnam Highlights Tour
• 2-Week Vietnam-Cambodia Tour with a Luxurious Mekong Cruise
• 13-Day Private Singapore and Bali Journey of Discovery
• 14-Day Classic Vietnam and Thailand Tour
• 14-Day Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos Itinerary: Premium Private Tour
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Jessie was amazing ! Everything from her level of English to her understanding of what we valued .

We had a good time exploring the city with Selinda!

Our guide lele is a wealth of information, Lele is very professional and very attentive to our needs. Lele is amazing. Lele got everything spot on. It probably helps that Guilin is a brilliant place to visit so Lele has great material to work with but that doesn't take anything away from how much Lele helped make it a great trip.

Our guide for Beijing was super knowledgeable and experienced and able to help us to achieve as much as we wanted within the time given. We had a fun time guided by him as he is also super humorous and you can see how he interacts with the vendors and people whom he comes by. Thank you for a very enjoyable time in Beijing and accommodating to all our needs!

Our China Highlight guide. Michael, was attentive, thoughtful and knowledgeable. He narrated many interesting historical events about Chengdu while touring around the city and having afternoon tea with us. He was thoughtful to provide us with snacks during long hikes at Leshan or walks around the city.

She was very flexible and added extra time when we needed it and we felt extremely well taken care of. She also chose the best restaurants for us,

Our tour guide Helen, was excellent, she was very kind, professional and passionate for her work and she also loves Pandas! She will take you to take the best panda photos and to know more about Chengdu city. Our tour was great, she took us to all our destinations always with the best spots: Temples, pagodas, famous streets, theaters, pandas...you name it! Everything was great.

He picked up our pre-booked boat/other excursions tickets so we were able to avoid all the long lines and chaos. He is knowledgeable of the places we visited, courteous, fun to travel with and well-versed in Chinese classics.

Tom is the guide that will take you to where no other guide will. We pushed for the experience and Tom and the team delivered more than what we could have ever asked for. His English speaking ability and his Chinese history knowledge is second to none.

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

Mar 24, 2022 • 7 min read

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A month-by-month planner

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

January–March is the busiest time of year

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

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

April–June brings festivals and the start of the rains

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

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

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

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

July–September sees more celebrations and crowds of backpackers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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How to Travel to Cambodia and Laos in 2 Weeks

Southeast Asia is one of our favorite places to visit. The rich culture, food, history, and affordable travel are the top reasons to visit the area. If you have only two weeks, plan a trip to Cambodia and Laos!

Why a 2 week trip to Cambodia and Laos?! Cambodia and Laos are next to each other, so it’s easy to travel between the two countries. Two weeks is the perfect amount of time to learn about Cambodia’s history, see beautiful temples at Siem Reap, experience Laos’s laid-back culture, and visit Luang Prabang, the UNESCO World Heritage site.

Our 2-week itinerary to Cambodia and Laos has the following stops: Phnom Penh – Battambang – Siem Reap – Luang Prabang – Vientiane. What is great about this plan is that you can visit either country first depending on your initial departure location. We suggest going to Cambodia first as the environment is more chaotic and hectic versus Laos. This plan starts in Cambodia and includes 2 travel days. Feel free to change around your travel locations and add more days based on your interests.

The itinerary also includes things to see, places to eat, and accommodations for Cambodia and Laos. If you don’t want to travel to two countries, consider staying in Laos or Cambodia for two weeks . Don’t forget to check out these helpful tips for planning a trip to Cambodia .

Although we didn’t get the chance during this trip, we have several places that we want to visit in the future – Tonle Sap and Koh Rang in Cambodia. Check out this guide to Koh Rang for more information. For Laos, we still want to stop by V ang Vieng for river tubing and adventures and the southern part of Laos.

We hope you get some inspiration to travel to Cambodia and Laos. You’ll have a fabulous time between the two countries no matter what.

Isn’t the countryside of Laos beautiful? Photo credit: AdrianBe via Pixabay

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General Information For Cambodia and Laos in 2 Weeks

Visas for cambodia and laos.

Cambodia and Laos require a tourist or business visa which can be obtained on arrival at the airport or international checkpoints. Visas are valid for 30 days.

• Cambodia: Learn about Cambodia’s visa here and how to receive a visa on arrival . Consider applying for an e-visa prior to arrival.
• Laos: Laos implemented a new e-visa process for over 120 locations, including those from the U.S. Use this site to apply for an e-visa . 

*Update: We’ll continue to monitor this area as an entry for tourists may change due to the current travel situation.

Currency in Cambodia and Laos

Cambodia and Laos use different currencies, so you’ll need to use the ATM or exchange money at a currency exchange store or at the airport. Both countries are cash-centric. Credit cards aren’t as widely accepted except at the larger hotel chains, such as Marriott.

• Cambodia: Accepts U.S. dollars and Cambodian riels. If you buy something in U.S. dollars, you may receive Cambodian riels for change. Make sure that you have small bills such as $1 and $5 USD for tipping, shopping, and restaurants.  The exchange is 4 riels to $1 USD.
• Laos : Accepts Laotian kip. Some vendors may accept U.S dollars or Thai baht.

Best Time to Visit Cambodia and Laos

Cambodia is hot all year round. The dry season is from November – April (or to February if closer to the Southern part of Cambodia), while the rainy season is May – October. The rainy season in Battambang is September and October.

Laos has a similar dry and wet season as Cambodia. If you’re thinking about visiting Laos during the rainy season , definitely go for it!

We went during the December time frame and it was a lovely time to visit.

Accommodations in Cambodia and Laos

Each country has various accommodations from hostels, guesthouses, to large hotel chains. We prefer to stay at local Airbnbs or guesthouses when possible. Many of the guesthouses that we stayed at were clean and served a hearty breakfast, which reduced our food expenses. We’ll share where we stayed in the various sections below and also share a splurge option if you’re interested.

Transportation in Cambodia and Laos

• Plane:  You can easily travel within the country by airplane. However, it can get pricey. We used planes to travel into Cambodia, between Cambodia and Laos, and out of Laos.
• Bus: Taking the bus is one of the more affordable ways to travel. We used buses in Cambodia and Laos to travel between cities. The buses were great with reserved seatings, air conditioning, and comfy seats. There were several stops along the way for a bathroom/eating break. We went to the local bus station 1-2 hours before to purchase tickets in person. Bus rides were very cheap. Our bus from Phnom Penh to Battambang was $5.50 USD per person for a 6+ hour ride. You can also take mini-vans but it’ll cost a bit more starting at $8 USD for a ride (between Phnom Penh to Kampot).
• Tuk Tuks: Taking tuk-tuks is a fun way to see the city. Although it may be hot and dusty on the road, it is quite an adventure. Don’t forget to negotiate the price ahead of time if you plan to go for a longer distance (ie: Killing Fields and S21 tour). You may want to bring a face mask so you don’t ingest dust.
• Cambodia: Grab is available for cars and tuk-tuk. It is our go-to app during our Southeast Asia travels. Download the app for iOS or Android . Another option is the Pass App for tuk-tuk rides which we heard is slightly cheaper than Grab. Download the app for iOS or Android .
• Laos: LOCA is a new rideshare app. Download the app for iOS or Android .
• Slow Boat: If you’re headed to Luang Prabang directly, a unique way is to travel is via a slow boat over 3 days.
• Pre-booked transportation: If you’re not comfortable with any of these options, pre-book your transportation ahead of time.

Need a ride in Cambodia?

Travel Day & Arrival (1 Day)

Depending on your departure location, it may have taken you a whole day to arrive in Cambodia. We’re starting out in Phnom Penh, Cambodia so you’ve landed at the Phnom Penh International Airport.

Head to your accommodations by tuk-tuk, taxi, or pre-booked transportation to freshen up and/or rest. If you’re not jet-lagged, explore the area in the evening.

Phnom Penh, Cambodia (2 days)

Now that you’ve rested for the day. It’s time to explore Phnom Penh. If you enjoy the hustle and bustle of the large city with crowds and traffic, then Phnom Penh is your city. As the capital of Cambodia, the environment is gritty with pollution, unmaintained sidewalks (or no sidewalks) and streets, and an occasional sighting of garbage burning. It took some time to warm up to the city, however, we gained more compassion and understanding after learning about the Khmer Rouge regime and what the people went through just a few decades ago.

Things to Do in Phnom Penh in 2 Days

• Visit the Silver Pagoda (also known as Wat Preah Keo Morakot) and Royal Palace . It’s one of the highlights of Phnom Penh. You’ll love the beautiful architecture and temples. The king may be staying over at the Royal Palace when you visit. Remember to dress conservatively as you’re entering the spiritual area and respect the local customs.

Reserve a half day tour of the Royal Palace, National Museum, and Wat Phnom .

We jumped for joy as we started our 2 week trip to Cambodia and Laos!

• Walk to the main park area to see the Cambodia/Vietnam Friendship Museum , Statue of King Norodom Sihanouk , and the Independence Monument . Join the fun with the locals walking or running laps around the park in the late afternoon/early evening as the weather is cooler.
• Hire a tuk-tuk or pre-book a tour for the day and learn about Cambodian history. Visit the Killing Fields ( or the “Choeung Fields”) and Toul Sleng Museum (or “Security 21 or S21”), and to listen to the audio tour (included in your admission ticket) in your native language. It’s tragic to hear about the Khmer Rouge’s genocide and victims’ stories. Seeing the Choeung Ek at the Killing Fields with the glass encasing full of skulls is chilling. Although heartbreaking to listen to, it’s an important part of history. These two places are on the outskirts of Phnom Penh center. The Killing Fields is 15km away from the Phnom Penh city center. The roads are a bit dusty. You may want to bring a face mask for the tuk-tuk ride.

The heartbreaking rules that one must follow when housed at Security 21/S21.

• Take a shopping break at the various markets around the area – Russian Market, Central Market (Phsar Thmei), Old Market (Psar Chas), or the Night Market . Or, head to Street 240 , which is nearby the Royal Palace for stylish clothes at boutique stores along the street. You’ll find some unique Cambodian souvenirs that will be perfect as gifts for family members and friends. 

Where to Stay in Phnom Penh

• Alibi Guesthouse – We stayed here and enjoyed our visit. Room was affordable and came with a complimentary breakfast with toast, eggs, and juice. Plus, it’s close to the Royal Palace. Find availability and make a reservation for Alibi Guesthouse here .
• Rosewood Phnom Penh – If you want to splurge, consider staying at Rosewood. You’ll love the views of the Tonle Sap River. Find availability and reserve a room at Rosewood.

Research and book hotels in Phnom Penh here .

Where to Eat in Phnom Penh

• Night Market – What is not to love about eating street food? The area can be a bit touristy but you can get affordable Cambodian cuisine here.
• Khmer Surin – If you’re looking for traditional Cambodian food, visit Khmer Surin. Consider sitting on the second level and you can even sit on the ground with pillows. We enjoyed the moist and flavorful fish amok at the restaurant.

Read More: Learn How to Cook Cambodian Food

Battambang, cambodia (1 day).

Battambang is less visited by tourists even though it is the city with the second largest population in Cambodia. The sleepy, small-town is a 6+ hour bus ride from Phnom Penh. From the bus stop, you’ll take a tuk-tuk to the main area for a $2 USD ride.

With only one day in Battambang, we were limited to what we could do. Definitely check out the main area with shops and restaurants with colonial architecture and cool street art. We hope to come back to spend more time at Battambang.

Things to Do in Battambang in 1 Day

• Ride the Bamboo Train (also called “Norry” by the locals) in Battambang. We know, it’s touristy, yet so much fun to sit on a makeshift train out of bamboo and watch the countryside pass by.
• Explore the street art along Pub Street. During the afternoon, it’s a quiet street, yet has hidden gems with finding street art along the way. Otherwise, admire the architecture in the area.
• Browse through Phsar Nhat Market , one of the local markets that sell produce and has food stalls. You may be encouraged by the sellers to enjoy a meal at their kiosk.
• Walk along the Mekong River . During the evening, there are several vendors who set up shop on the sidewalk. Enjoy a meal and a drink.

Where to Stay in Battambang

• The Place – With hip decorations and one of the cheaper options, consider staying at “The Place.” Read reviews and book a room at The Place here.
• Sanctuary Villa Battambang – If you want to the full-on pampering, come to this place. It has a swimming pool, restaurant, and massages on-site. Find availability and reserve a room at Sanctuary Villa here .

Reserve a hotel room in Battambang here.

Where to Eat in Battambang

• Khmer Delight – If you want delicious Cambodian food, come to this place! The Khmer tom yum soup had a good kick to it.
• Battambang Town Restaurant – It’s where the locals eat for a cheap meal. We went here for breakfast and the place was packed with people. You can’t beat an affordable meal for $2-$3 USD.

Siem Reap, Cambodia (4 days)

It’s time for a few days of temple hopping. Siem Reap is a 3-hour bus ride from Battambang. The first thing that you’ll notice is the scorching hot weather at over 86+℉ / 30+℃. Prepare yourself for an afternoon break or to leave the temples early due to the heat. Don’t forget to hydrate often!

Things to Do in Siem Reap in 4 Days

• It’s time to go temple hopping at Siem Reap . Hire a tuk-tuk driver and spend 3 days at Siem Reap seeing the various temples. Purchase a 3-day pass for $62 USD). Three days is sufficient to prevent temple fatigue. One helpful trick is to purchase your ticket at sunset (after 5pm) on the day before you start the full day of temples. You’ll have access to go to the temples, specifically Angkor Wat, to view the sunset. The visit won’t count towards one of your ticket days. If you’re interested in a tour, book this day one:

If you have one day to explore Siem Reap, book a one day tour of the temples here .

Watching the sunset at Angkor Wat is a highlight to add to your 2 weeks in Cambodia and Laos.

• Take a hot air balloon ride at Angkor Wat . It’s an incredible way to see the view of Siem Reap during the sunrise or sunset.
• Visit the Old Market ( Psah Chas) . Similar to the other local markets that you’ve been to in Cambodia, it provides an insight into what locals buy from produce to clothing and more. A few streets over is Pub Street where you can visit at least once. If you want to see the nightlife of Siem Reap, visit Pub Street. Although it’s not the authentic Cambodian lifestyle, you can get cheaper foods, drinks, and meet other foreigners.
• Find a location with a swimming pool . You’ll need to have an afternoon siesta break to cool down from the heat.

Where to Stay in Siem Reap

Siem Reap has incredible places to stay depending on your budget. Some recommendations are below:

• Onederz Siem Reap – Want to be near Pub Street and also have access to a swimming pool for the sweltering heat? Check out this hostel which has bunk bed accommodations and also private rooms. Learn more about this place and reserve at Onederz .
• Le Méridien Angkor – If you want to splurge for accommodations, stay here in Siem Reap. It’s the closest hotel to the entrance of Angkor Wat. We stayed here for four nights and had a lovely time at this beautiful hotel. The downside is that there aren’t a lot of restaurants in the area. Find availability and book a room at Le Méridien Angkor .

Find hotels in Siem Reap here.

Where to Eat in Siem Reap

• Head to the main area and Pub Street for affordable, local cuisine, and also Western foods. If you’re adventurous, try various insects !
• Maom Restaurant – If you want some local Cambodian food and are staying nearby Le Méridien Angkor, come to this place. It’s cozy and the waiters are very friendly.

Luang Prabang, Laos (4 days)

You’ll take a plane ride from Siem Reap, Cambodia to Luang Prabang, Laos. The town of Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . With the numerous reasons to visit Luang Praban g and things to do, you’ll never be bored in Luang Prabang. The easy-going and extremely walkable town has plenty of activities to keep you occupied for a few days.

Things to Do in Luang Prabang in 4 Days

• Take a half-day cooking class. We’re fans of taking cooking classes around the world . Take a tour of the local market, learn how to make Laotian food, and eat your own creations. Come hungry as there will be a lot of food for you to eat.
• Spend a few days at the elephant conservation , such as at Elephant Conservation Center . You can stay overnight, see the elephants, watch them bathe, or even stay longer and volunteer there.
• Visiting the Kuang Si waterfall (one of our favorite waterfalls in Asia !) to observe this beautiful waterfall. You can swim in the waters if it’s not too cold. During your visit, you’ll also pass through the Bear Rescue Center.

Kuang Si Waterfalls is one of our favorite waterfalls!

• Visit Pau Ou caves since it’s one of the magnificent caves in Asia .
• Learn about the Luang Prabang and see the ornate decor at the Royal Palace Museum . During our last visit, photography isn’t allowed inside the museum.
• Hike up Mount Phousi for sunrise or sunset.
• Visit the daily Night Market to shop and eat your way throughout the evening.
• Witness the morning alms by the Buddhist monks.
• Take a sunset cruise along the Mekong River. Book a tour here .

Where to Stay in Luang Prabang

• Sita Norasingh Inn – Super basic room that was enough for our stay. Shoes aren’t allowed in the hotel rooms. Find your dates and reserve a room at Sita Norasingh Inn here .
• Sofitel Luang Prabang – Want to stay at a luxury hotel in Luang Prabang? Consider staying at the Sofitel. With the French architecture, fine dining, and stunning views, you won’t be disappointed with this stay. Read more about the highlights of Sofitel Luang Prabang .

Find the availability of hotels in Luang Prabang here.

Where to Eat in Luang Prabang

• Night Market – It’s a daily market that has amazing street foods to try. Go for skewered foods, grilled fish, and top the meal off with coconut cake.
• Xieng Thong Noodle Shop – Crave homemade noodles and noodle soup? Check out this place to get your fix. We went here a few times during our trip. Remember to go early. Once the soup runs out, the shop is closed.

Don’t want the stress of planning a trip to Laos? Book a 5-day tour of Vientiane and Luang Prabang .

Vientiane, Laos (1 day)

Vientiane, the capital of Laos, has a large city/capital environment. The city is clean and had a robust local city bus system in place.

With our limited time in Vientiane, we didn’t get to explore much. It takes over 10 hours to get here by bus from Luang Prabang. There aren’t as many tourist attractions in Vientiane compared to Luang Prabang.

Things to Do in Vientiane in 1 Day

• Visit Buddha Park , an unusual sculpture that depicts Hinduism and Buddhism. It’s located near the border of Laos and Thailand. Learn about Buddha Park and how to take public transportation.

• Admire the architecture of the Patuxay Monument or take an elevator up to see the views of the city from above.

• Visit the Night Market along the Mekong for souvenirs and lots of stylish clothing. You can also find desserts and food around the area.
• Shop at Talaat Sao (also called the “Morning Market”). This mall is nearby the bus stop and is a good place to take a break from the outside heat. You can find various items such as household goods and souvenirs at this place.

Where to Stay in Vientiane

• Lucky Backpacker Hostel is a no-frills type of place. The hostel is nearby the Mekong River and the Night Market. Private bedrooms with bathrooms are available, although space is tight. This place comes with breakfast. Reserve a room at Lucky Backpacker Hostel here .
• Muong Thanh Luxury is a fancier hotel that has tennis courts, massages, swimming pools, and restaurants for guests. The rooms are gorgeous and will satisfy any traveler. Find availability and book a room at Muong Thanh Luxury here .

Find accommodations in Vientiane here .

Where to Eat in Vientiane

• Night Market – You can easily find some dessert and noodle stalls to check out.
• Jamil Zahid Punjabi – This is a change from Laotian food, yet this place has amazing Indian and Pakistani food. Authentic flavors and reasonable prices for their food. The curries and naan are delicious. Just note that the owner loves to take photos and videos of his guests and publish them on Facebook.

Travel Day & Departure (1 Day)

We have to say goodbye to Cambodia and Laos and head back to your next destination or hometown. It’s been an epic journey through Cambodia and Laos for two weeks! We hope you have good memories, learned more about the countries’ history, and come back home with more knowledge and positive experiences from these places.

If you’re heading to Vietnam for your Southeast Asia, check out these fun things to do in Vietnam and learn how to spend 2 weeks in South Vietnam .

What are some of your top places to visit in Cambodia and Laos? Where should we visit next time?

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Featured photo & pin #1 photo credit by DEZALB via Pixabay

Pin #2 photo credit by rmac8oppo via Pixabay

I'm Jackie - world explorer, hiker, and wanderer. I love planning things whether it is a trip or an upcoming event, exploring nature, hiking up mountains, and seeing new places. I'm notorious for getting lost, so you may see me circling a place a few times.

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Very detailed and useful tips. I had already visited Cambodia but still have Laos on my list. Buddha Park looks amazing I didn’t know about it, albiet I am guilty of not researching enough.

Thanks Arunima. You’ll love Laos as it’s such a different vibe compared to Cambodia. Definitely check out Buddha Park for its quirkiness. Let us know if you have any questions during your future holiday in Laos.

Cambodia has been on our “We have to go here” list for like forever. This is such a detailed post – I am going to refer to this whenever I plan my trip to Cambodia.

Thank you Richa. We’re glad that you enjoyed the Cambodia and Laos post! You’ll have an amazing time in both places.

This is a great post. Can you advise how to fly from Siem Reap to Luang Prabang? Also, if we had to skip Vientiane would we be missing much?

Hi Allan – You can easily fly from Siem Reap to Luang Prabang via an airplane. We took Vietnam Airlines, but there are Bangkok Airlines and Lao Airlines as other options. Skipping Vientiane is fine as you’ll have plenty of activities at Luang Prabang. Enjoy your upcoming travels!

I love how easy it is to travel between Cambodia and Laos. The Buddha Park looks so interesting, I love the statue! And I want to visit Angkor Wat so bad, a hot air balloon would be amazing!

Hi Melissa. Hope you can visit Cambodia in the future! We would love to go back to Siem Reap to explore Angkor Wat again.

Kuang si Waterfalls looks amazing!!

Hi Mimmie. Kuang Si Waterfall is gorgeous and was one of our highlights when visiting Luang Prabang, Laos.

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How to visit Cambodia

A ncient temples, toasty temperatures, delicious food and low hotel prices — these are some of the best parts of traveling to Cambodia.

Some Americans might view traveling to Asia as a daunting experience, but Cambodia is a great place to start. The exchange rates for the U.S. dollar is high, so your dollar carries you fairly far. And although the national currency is the Cambodian riel, the main currency that is exchanged is the U.S. dollar.

Siem Reap is a vibrant city where tourists are ubiquitous, so it’s easy to get around, and many people speak English. Tourism is a key part of the country’s economy, so the people are kind, open and welcoming to tourists. It also hosts Angkor Wat — “the world’s largest religious monument and a UNESCO World Heritage site,” per National Geographic .

Here are some of my best tips for visiting Cambodia.

1. Book hotels, flights well in advance to Cambodia

If you’re flying from the U.S., the plane ticket will likely be your most expensive item, so it helps to book early. The best time to visit to avoid the rainy season is between November and May. I went in March, and it was mostly sunny — with just a couple hours of rain my first day there.

Luxury hotels are shockingly affordable in Siem Reap — just do a little research on what you would like — and some even offer tours included in your stay. Depending on how much research and planning you want to do, it could be worth it.

Also, be sure to bring cash with you. There are automated teller machines in the airport and the city, if you need. Most transactions in shops and restaurants are done through cash, not card, and you will also need cash to tip service workers if you take a taxi or eat out.

2. Go early to visit Angkor Wat and the other Buddhist temples

One of the most iconic stops in Cambodia is the ancient temple of Angkor Wat.

According to National Geographic, the no longer active temple “attracts nearly 2.5 million foreign visitors annually.

Angkor Wat translates to “temple city” in the Khmer language and was built by Emperor Suryavarman II in the first half of the 12th century to be the state temple. It was “originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu,” but by the end of the 12th century, it had been converted to a Buddhist temple.

If you can get to Angkor Wat early in the morning, that is ideal to avoid the crowds and somewhat beat the heat. To visit the temples, plan to wear pants and clothing that covers your shoulders — the religious beliefs of the region doesn’t allow female visitors to enter the temples if those body parts are not covered.

You can book a guided tour beforehand, but there are usually tour guides waiting outside the site who are willing to walk you through the entire site and explain the history. Our guide that we met in front of the temple was extremely knowledgeable about Cambodian history, had impeccable English, and he only charged $15 for all three of us. I highly recommend only going with a tour guide — it brings a much deeper meaning and richer understanding to the whole experience. And again, it’s helpful to have cash to also tip any tour guides you come across.

We met a taxi driver at the airport who offered to drive us to our hotel and to pick us up the next day to take us to the most iconic ancient sites, as well as to The Floating Villages. And he offered to take me and my two friends I was traveling with to those locations the following day in his taxi — all for just $45.

While you’re in Siem Reap, Angkor Wat isn’t the only mind-blowing historical site to see. Another key stop is Bayon — a temple consisting of 54 towers, with the main tower showcasing four faces that “are generally believed to be the four faces of King Jayavarman VII demonstrating the omnipresence of the king,” according to Visit Angkor .

There are also more than 11,000 carved figures on the outer gallery of the Buddhist Bayon temple that are a majestic window into the past.

3. Plan to stop at The Floating Villages on Tonle Lake

Most boat tours you can purchase will take you to the main temples, as well as one of the most fascinating places in Siem Reap — The Floating Villages on Tonle Lake.

It’s composed of four main villages where communities have created their homes, restaurants, businesses and schools on floating houses on the lake. The Insider’s Guide To Siem Reap recommends booking through Tara River Boat or Sam Veasna Conservation Tours to visit the unique and fascinating floating villages.

4. Try the street food in Cambodia AND reserve a fine dining experience

The street food in Cambodia is an experience that is really special and unique to Southeast Asia. And a lot of the food is truly delicious. I highly recommend getting a fruit shake ... or two!

Another thing I would recommend is seeking out a fine dining experience while you’re there — there are some truly talented chefs in Cambodia, and it’s an opportunity to experience fine dining at a more affordable price.

One that The New York Times recommends is Cuisine Wat Damnak, which offers “dishes from the longtime resident French chef Joannès Rivière’s kitchen (that) are firmly rooted in Cambodian flavors.” The tasting menus come down to just $28 for five or six courses.

Cambodia is a great place to relax with many spas and opportunities to get pedicures, manicures and massages at a more affordable price than what you would find in the U.S. Just make sure to tip well and show appreciation for the kind service workers offering the incredible services.

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These hidden temples in Cambodia will take you off the beaten path

Avoid the crowds at these lesser known alternatives to Angkor Wat—which include Cambodia’s newest addition to the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Nearly 1.4 million people plan to trek to Cambodia ’s 900-year-old Angkor Wat temple complex this year, but 68 miles northeast is a site once considered “the center of the Angkorian world,” says archaeologist Sarah Klassen. Koh Ker , home to Cambodia’s largest pyramid, is the country’s newest addition to the UNESCO World Heritage List and one of the nation’s many historically significant archaeological marvels often missed by travelers. Here are four lesser known sites built by the prosperous Khmer Empire during its heyday from the ninth to the 15th centuries.

The rise of Angkor and the Khmer Empire

Founded around A.D. 802, the Khmer Empire grew to become one of the most influential in Southeast Asia, spanning from modern-day Vietnam to Myanmar . It was ruled by a dynasty of powerful god-kings from the capital of Angkor, home to the 400-acre Angkor Wat complex. Featuring elaborately carved spires, elevated towers, covered galleries, and spacious courtyards, the 12th-century “temple-mountain” is one of the world’s largest religious structures and is Cambodia’s most renowned sacred site—so much so that it appears on the nation’s flag.  

“The ability to harness all of the people that would have been required to build something like the big monument at Angkor is really spectacular,” says Klassen, who is the co-director of the Cambodian Archaeological Lidar Initiative and director of the Koh Ker Archaeological Project , adding that these structures are “a testament to the power and wealth” of the civilization.  

( The world’s most remarkable—and little known—dynasty comes to life in south India .)

Due to Southeast Asia’s protracted dry season, a sophisticated system of reservoirs and canals was also integral to governance. “Water management was closely associated and tied to kingship,” says Klassen, who points out that the empire’s failing water system likely contributed to its eventual downfall.  

Best alternatives to Angkor Wat

Prasat Prang, Cambodia’s largest pyramid, is the centerpiece of Koh Ker, a former capital of Angkor. “It’s the only other site to have that [position] other than Angkor itself, but it only lasted for 16 years,” says Klassen. The shift of power back to Angkor is one of the mysteries researchers like Klassen are still investigating about Koh Ker.  

Built by King Jayavarman IV , the 10th-century Shiva complex is known for its abundant linga carvings (short cylindrical, pillar-like symbols of the deity). According to Ea Darith, director of the Department of Monuments and Archaeology at the National Authority for Preah Vihear , more than 20 temples house linga, not only the pyramid.  

Due to its proximity to quarries, everything at Koh Ker—the 115-foot-tall pyramid, lintels, and statues—is more elaborate than those at Angkor. “Big monolithic stones were first used at Koh Ker,” says Darith. Travelers can pair a visit with the nearby Beng Mealea , a 12th-century Hindu complex built in the same style as the Angkor Wat.

Sambor Prei Kuk  

The Sambor Prei Kuk complex features over 180 brick temples with Hindu iconography scattered through a dense forest in eastern Cambodia. “[It] was the head of a network of various pre-Angkorian settlements spread across Cambodia but interconnected by the waterways,” says Siem Reap-based archaeologist David Brotherson.  

( Here’s how World Heritage status helps destinations around the world .)

Three temple groups feature a central tower on a platform surrounded by smaller structures, which Darith says “are considered the highest and biggest brick towers in Cambodia.”  

Preah Vihear

Perched on a dizzying 2,000-foot-high escarpment on the Dângrêk Range at the Thailand border, this 10th-12th-century Shiva temple was a royal pilgrimage site. “It’s the geographic setting that sets it apart completely,” Brotherson says.  

A half-mile-long linear causeway connects five pavilions “built completely out of sandstone,” says Darith, noting that the stone was sourced from quarries on the mountain. Visitors can book a motorcycle ($5) or 4WD pickup truck ($25) for the four mile between the ticket center and the temple.  

Banteay Chhmar  

Built by King Jayavarman VII, the primary temple in this remote 12th-century site is one of Cambodia’s most extensive. It features elements from more famous Buddhist temples, such as Bayon ’s face-towers and narrative bas-reliefs, Ta Prohm ’s wild tree roots, Preah Khan ’s elaborate balustrades, and an intricately carved 32-armed Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva adorning the western wall.  

( Discover 20 of the world’s most beautiful Buddhist temples .)

Brotherson says the strategic western Cambodia location was “to project the royal power authority” to rivals. “It’s largely unrestored,” he adds. “You’re going to have that full-on ‘Tomb Raider’ jungle-temple experience.”

Several companies, such as the Banteay Chhmar Community-Based Tourism group , offer off-the-beaten-path tours to the satellite temples hidden within the jungle.

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Related topics.

• WORLD HERITAGE SITES
• CULTURAL TOURISM
• HISTORIC PRESERVATION
• OVERTOURISM

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