cambodia travel highlights

14 Top-Rated Places to Visit in Cambodia

Written by Jess Lee Updated Mar 18, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

1. Angkor Wat (Angkor Archaeological Park)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can access these islands from Sihanoukville.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can access Sambor Prei Kuk from Kompong Thom.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More on Cambodia

20 Must-Visit Attractions in Cambodia

Cambodia is full of diversity and offers a variety of activities for visitors to quickly fill up their agendas with. From its array of glorious temples and religious structures, rich heritage and culture to the rare wildlife and stunning eco-tourism spots, the country has it all.

1. angkor wat archaeological park.

2. National Museum of Cambodia

3. The Royal Palace

Buddhist Temple, Museum, Shrine

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5. Cambodian Living Arts

The Preying Mantis Dance |© Jim Huston

6. Banteay Srei Butterfly Centre

7. Cambodia Landmine Museum

8. Wat Phnom

Park, Buddhist Temple

9. Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center

10. Sambor Prei Kuk

Sambor Prei Kuk |© Perfect Lazybones / Shutterstock

11. Phare, the Cambodian Circus

12. Bokor Mountain, Kampot

Casino, Church, Hill Station

13. Crab Market, Kep

Market, Seafood

14. Koh Dach

15. Phnom Sampeau, Battambang

Aerial scenery around Phnom Sampeou in Cambodia |© PRILL / Shutterstock

16. Bamboo Train, Battambang

The bamboo train in Battambang |© Cristina Stoian / Shutterstock | © Cristina Stoian / Shutterstock.com

17. Preah Vihear

Hindu Temple

Fishermen on the Mekong River at Kratie |© Tepikina Nastya / Shutterstock | © Tepikina Nastya / Shutterstock

19. Bassac Lane

Hangar 44, one of the bars at Bassac Lane |© Kampuchea Party Republic

20. Russian Market

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Guides & Tips

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Places to Stay

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Travel Guide Cambodia

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

Cambodia travel facts

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

• How to get to Cambodia

Cambodia’s cities

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

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

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

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

Temples of Angkor

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

Southwest Cambodia & The Southern Islands

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

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

Eastern Cambodia

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

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

Discover more places in Cambodia

• Battambang Travel Guide

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

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

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

Find out more from our Cambodia Travel Guide about when to go to Cambodia .

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

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

Find out more Cambodia travel information in Getting to Cambodia .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

22 days  / from 4799 USD

The Ultimate Southeast Asia Grand Tour

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

21 days  / from 4545 USD

Impressions of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos

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

4 days  / from 1025 USD

Siem Reap Family Adventure

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

Tailor-made trips for   Cambodia

The Grand Tour takes in the best Cambodia has to offer including the capital Phnom Penh, the magnificent Angkor temples, floating villages, mountains, jungle and the hedonistic beach islands in the south.

The Wild Cambodia travel tour includes kayaking, forest hikes and jungle trekking to find waterfalls, dolphins, elephants, gibbons, and more. You’ll also explore rivers, lakes and floating villages.

Combining remote locations that are as yet not overrun with tourists is the aim of the Undiscovered Cambodia itinerary, which includes trips to quiet tucked away townships and villages. The itinerary includes a trip to Koh S’dach archipelago which offers an authentic taste of Cambodia’s coastline. You’ll also take in Khmer Rouge history at Anglong Veng and have a lost-in-the-jungle experience in Cambodia’s far northwest.

Travel advice for Cambodia

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

• Eating and drinking in Cambodia
• Getting around Cambodia: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips Cambodia for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Cambodia
• Weather in Cambodia in May
• Weather in Cambodia in April
• Weather in Cambodia in March

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

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

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

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

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

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

Find out more in the Cambodia guide to accommodation .

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

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

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

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

Diving in Cambodia

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

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

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

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

Top image © Efired/Shutterstock

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updated 26.04.2021

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Travel guide to Cambodia

Cambodia was once the home of the powerful Khmer kingdom, and to this day, the country dazzles with its timeless architectural treasures, rich cultural offerings, and breathtaking natural landscape. Of course, the main reason for traveling to Cambodia is Southeast Asia’s most magnificent archaeological treasure, Angkor Wat. But Cambodia is an undiscovered gem of a country, and there’s much more to it than just the Angkor temples. A blend of rice paddies, remote jungles, and white sand beaches, as well as a fascinating history combined with delightful culture and welcoming people make Cambodia a must-visit travel destination. Here’s my list of the best things to see & do in Cambodia.

Get the most out of your (luxury) trip to Cambodia with my travel guide. Find out more about:

• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• Travel requirements
• Getting around
• Inspiration, highlights, & travel tips
• Suggested itineraries
• Recommended luxury hotels (+ reviews)

CAMBODIA TRAVEL GUIDE: BEST TIME TO VISIT

Cambodia experiences four annual seasons:

• The  cool and dry season – which lasts from November to February – is considered the best time to visit Cambodia, with plenty of sunshine and day temperatures in the high 70s°F to low 80s°F (26°C-29°C). Sporadic showers may occur in the cool season but are infrequent events.
• The  hot and dry season  lasts from March to May, with humidity reaching uncomfortable levels and temperatures averaging in the upper 90s Fahrenheit (mid-30s Celsius). Although this period usually remains dry, rains may gather force in the month of May, which is more of a transition period towards the wet season.
• The  hot and wet season , which lasts from June to August, is marked by daily heavy downpours, which bring relief for the sticky, humid weather. The days often start sunny, with showers mostly occurring in the (late) afternoon or evening, lasting for 3 to 4 hours.
• The  cool and wet season occurs in September and October and sees the return of more comfortable temperatures, although it’s probably the worst time to visit Cambodia because the torrential rains are coming to a peak, often bringing floods and making roads impassable. Most days are cloudy and beach conditions are poor. It’s not all bad news since low visitor numbers means great hotel deals.

The best time to visit the Kingdom coincides with the northern hemisphere’s winter period, November through February. However, it has the be noted that the weather in Thailand has become less predictable over the past few years as a result of global warming, with the rainy season often starting in April and lasting through all of November. For a month to month weather report in Cambodia, check this excellent website .

CAMBODIA TRAVEL GUIDE: HOW TO GET THERE

Most tourists will arrive in Cambodia via one of the following three international airports:

• Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) is Cambodia’s main international airport and is located near the capital. Click here for a list of airlines that offer direct flights to Phnom Penh.
• Siem Reap International Airport (REP) serves the city of Siem Reap, a popular tourist destination due to nearby Angkor Wat. Click here for a list of airlines that offer direct flights to Siem Reap
• Sihanoukville International Airport (KOS) is Cambodia’s third largest international airport, and serves the area around Sihanoukville, alos known as the Cambodian Riviera. Click here for a list of airlines that offer direct flights to Sihanoukville.

When traveling to Cambodia, consider flying in and out from different airports (for example flying in via Siem Reap and flying out via Sihanoukville) to avoid long transfers and backtracks during your holiday. Also, defore you buy a plane ticket, make sure to read my tips & tricks for buying the cheapest plane ticket .

CAMBODIA TRAVEL GUIDE: TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

Requirements for entry into Cambodia differ from country to country, and are subject to change. Prior to departure, always check with your government and your nearest Cambodian embassy or consulate what documents you need for travel to Cambodia.

• Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Cambodia. Entry is normally refused if you have a damaged passport or pages missing.
• Currently you need to get a visa before arrival. You can get a tourist visa online , or you can purchase one at a Royal Cambodian Embassy abroad.

Before you travel, make sure you read my 10 tips to plan a worry-free trip .

CAMBODIA TRAVEL GUIDE: GETTING AROUND

Getting around Cambodia is comfortable but time-consuming (roads are narrow and there’s a lot of traffic). Significant improvements to the national highway network in the past few years have made traveling around the country much easier than it once was, with many formerly dirt roads now surfaced and new highways built.

• Travel by  bus is the cheapest and most convenient way of getting around Cambodia, especially to the farthest and most remote destinations in the country. Longer bus trips usually depart in the evenings to arrive at their destination early in the morning. All buses are privately run, operated by a growing number of companies. Phnom Penh Sorya  is the biggest; others include Rith Mony, GST,  Paramount Angkor  and  Capitol Tours .
• There are also a few deluxe minibus services on the main intercity and international routes. Mekong Express is the main operator and tickets can be booked online. Fares are relatively high compared to regular bus service, although they tend to be slightly faster and passengers are guaranteed a reasonably comfortable seat and onboard service (such as WiFi and A/C).
• Cambodia Angkor Air (considered the country’s flagship carrier)
• Lanmei Airlines
• Sky Angkor Airlines
• Bassake Air
• Trishaws (tuktuks) are ideal for short journeys within towns and cities, and for short excursions, the country’s many trishaws would be happy to offer you a ride. Most tuktuks are not metered. Always agree on a fare beforehand.

CAMBODIA TRAVEL GUIDE: INSPIRATION, HIGHLIGHTS, & TRAVEL TIPS

There are several good reasons why you should put Cambodia on your bucket list:

• Explore Angkor Wat, one of the world’s most fascinating ruins
• Visit the killing fields, a reminder of Cambodia’s atrocious recent past
• Relax on world-class beaches in the Koh Rong Archipelago
• Sail along the mighty Mekong River
• Enjoy world-class hospitality at Cambodia’s fabulous resorts
• Explore the capital Phnom Penh

The following, in-depth articles may also inspire you and help you plan your holiday to Cambodia:

• Top 10 best things to see & do in Cambodia
• Top 10 most fabulous luxury resorts in Cambodia
• Tips & tricks for getting the best deal at a luxury hotel
• Tips & tricks for buying the cheapest plane ticket

CAMBODIA TRAVEL GUIDE: SUGGESTED ITINERARIES 

Cambodia is a small country and it’s easy to explore all of its highlight within a short time frame. I suggest the following 10-day itinerary in Cambodia :

• Recommended hotel: Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang
• Recommended hotels:  Song Saa Private Island , Koh Russey , or Senses Krabey Island
• Recommended hotels: Bensley collection – Shinta Mani Wild
• Recommended hotel (if staying overnight): Rosewood Phnom Penh

If you have more time, I highly recommend to end your holiday in Cambodia with some additional nights at Soneva Kiri in Thailand, my favorite resort in the world.

CAMBODIA TRAVEL GUIDE: RECOMMENDED LUXURY HOTELS (+ REVIEWS)

Visit my top 10 list of the most fabulous hotels in Cambodia if you are eager to know how I rank the Kingdom’s top hotels, based my own experience.

Below, you find my reviews of hotels in Cambodia (with pros, cons, & tips to save money per hotel).

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What to do in Cambodia: our highlights guide

By Cambodia specialist Gareth

Angkor Wat remains the biggest pin in the map for most travellers to Cambodia. Of all the temples of Angkor, it's the focal point but just one of over 1,000 temples spread across some 400 sq km.

At the times of day when Angkor Wat buckles under the footfall of visitors, other temples — such as the delicately carved Banteay Srei — are near-deserted. And, as well as being peppered with ancient temples, Cambodia is skirted by white sandy beaches and swathed in pristine jungle.

Yet, for me, it's the Cambodians themselves that leave the biggest impression on you. They’re exceptionally hospitable, and post the despotic reign of Pol Pot’s Khmer Rouge in the 1970s, gladly welcome visitors.

Cambodia's capital

Of the many markets in Phnom Penh , the Russian Market — so called because in the 1980s it was only the Russians who came to Cambodia — is the best. Its warren of alleyways overflows with stalls selling everything from CDs to woodcarving, Buddhist religious paraphernalia to ‘sampots’ (the local sarong) in every conceivable colour.

The Foreign Correspondents’ Club, or FCC, is open to all and is a very busy colonial-style hotel, bar and restaurant, with ceiling fans and wooden roller blinds. Its large terrace bar overlooks the Mekong and is very popular for sundowners. The river from here is memorable, but I tell people to turn 180 degrees to face the better view of the delicate silhouette of the National Museum’s many roofs.

The city’s architecture is beguilingly varied: from grand French colonial to intricate Buddhist. We can arrange a tour led by an architect graduate of the striking Vann Molyvann (a disciple of Le Corbusier) buildings that dot the city.

It’s easy to visit Phnom Penh and be unaware of the Khmer Rouge atrocities, but a visit to the Killing Fields (where the regime executed over a million of its citizens) and the Tuol Sleng former prison, reveal the regime’s extraordinary depravity.

Locals' picnic site just outside the city

Just 18 km from Phnom Penh is Kien Svay, a place I’d strongly recommend visiting to experience a slice of daily life, as locals escape the city at the weekend.

It’s a riverside picnic area, which despite its proximity to the city sees few foreign visitors.

There are bamboo huts by the river in which to picnic, and a small market selling fresh produce for anyone arriving without their own food. The atmosphere is delightfully convivial; so don't be surprised if locals practise their English on you.

Angkor Wat and the temples of Angkor

Built between the 9th and 15th centuries, Angkor Wat is the largest religious building on the planet still in use. Overgrown and largely forgotten, it was ‘discovered’ by Frenchman Henri Mouhot in 1860.

The temples of Angkor are a representation of the God’s abode and capital of the ancient Khmer Empire, and they are exactly everyone’s idea of what an ancient jungle temple should look like.

Siem Reap is the surprisingly lively tourist town just a few kilometres from the entrance to the temples, and with visitor numbers growing each year, getting the most from your visit involves some planning.

• Read more about the temples of Angkor in our travel guide

One of Angkor's smaller temples

As one of the smaller temples of the Angkor complex, Banteay Srei isn’t grand in scale, rather its beauty is in the sharpness and detail of the carvings that smother almost all of its surfaces.

Banteay Srei translates as ‘citadel of women’ (hence its smaller and more delicate form) and the intricate carvings depict Apsara dancers, women carrying lotus flowers and scenes from the Hindu epic tale of the Ramayana.

Banteay Srei is 40 km from Siem Reap, surrounded by the jungle, and I’d say a great option for anyone who wants to venture away from Angkor’s main temple complex.

Combining a visit here with Ta Prohm, another temple, captures the best of each. Begin early in the morning at Ta Prohm before you head out into the Phnom Kulen National Park — where you’ll have a waterfall almost to yourself, and lunch sitting by it. The tour loops back to Banteay Srei to catch the temple at its deserted best, in the late afternoon when the red sandstone flushes pink in the dipping sun.

Cambodia's second city

Battambang makes a good stopping point for anyone who prefers not to fly between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, the closest town to Angkor.

A former French colonial town on the sinewy Sangker River, it became a Khmer Rouge stronghold in the 70s and has yet to recover its vim.

Therein lies its charm, and with little traffic and no hills, riding past its dilapidated colonial-era villas and occasional temple ruin on a bicycle is a good way to experience the city.

Elephant conservation in the hills

In the lush and remote hills of Sen Monorom , a six-hour drive from Phnom Penh, there’s an excellent conservation project called the Elephant Livelihood Initiative Environment , or ELIE.

It rescues Cambodian domestic elephants from lives of work and abuse and encourages the indigenous Bunong people to protect wild elephants.

You can stay for a few days and enjoy time with the animals — including visiting a nearby waterhole where you’ll get to know some of the herd and help the mahouts wash their elephants.

This is very much an education, rather than the usual travelling experience of just riding the animals.

Angkor's Bayon Temple

This startling temple contains over 11,000 carved figures and 216 stone carved faces. The symmetry and dense jungle setting are what makes this in my eyes one of Angkor’s most impressive temples. And, it’s now thought that all of the likenesses are of the extremely vain King Jayavarman VII.

The Bayon bass reliefs include massed figures in a naval battle scene, a military procession, and a victory parade. There’s also a section showing a circus coming to town, complete with a strongman and tightrope walkers.

Bayon is another contender for a dawn viewing, as it's off most people’s radar and away from Angkor Wat itself, but it’s impressive at any time of the day.

Stay floating on the river in the Cardamom Mountains

Nothing can quite prepare you for the 4 Rivers Floating Lodge , built on a river deep in the Cardamom Mountains. Despite the remote and unspoilt location, you’re well looked after and sleep in one of 12 safari-style tents on floating pontoons.

Arriving involves some effort, but it’s well worth the four-hour drive from Phnom Penh and 30-minute boat ride.

Swimming in the slow-flowing river from the private landing stage in front of my tent still stands out. One late afternoon I swam in a torrential downpour and then fished with a simple rod and hook while the water reflected the pink skies.

Cambodia’s lake of floating villages

Cambodians live alongside Vietnamese on the ‘floating villages’ of Tonle Sap , the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. It’s an important bird-watching area — with several rare species to look out for — but my highlight is exploring the communities that have settled on the lake.

The ‘floating villages’ are built on stilts, but appear to be floating when the lake is deepest — between July and February. With a longtail boat you can visit several of them, to see the curious sight of ‘floating’ post offices, chemists and restaurants.

Tonle Sap is distinguished from other lakes as the water flowing out reverses direction when there is heavy snowmelt from the Himalaya. This phenomenon bloats the lake to almost six times its dry-season size.

The best time for bird-watching is in the dry season from March to June, and the Prek Toal Biosphere is the place to head for.

The villages are less photogenic at this time of year, being marooned on the dry lakebed, but you’ll have a better chance of seeing water birds like the spot-billed pelican, lesser adjutant and black headed ibis.

Some of the species of storks and cranes, especially the sarus crane, are depicted on bass reliefs at the Angkor temples.

Best place to relax on the coast

An ideal place to kick back and relax at the end of a trip is the small coastal town of Kep . Once the preserve of French colonial rulers, and latterly the Cambodian elite, few foreign visitors come here, yet it has charming faded villas, good seafood markets and the white-sand beaches on Rabbit Island.

Apart from watching the locals going about their daily lives on the little main street, for something a little different you should pay an early morning visit to the crab market and pick up some ingredients for lunch. Then get a local to ferry you in a boat to Rabbit Island.

It would only take 40 minutes to walk around the island, but I’d say opt to relax on the beach, get a local chef in one of the huts to prepare the seafood for you, and then picnic looking out to sea.

Welcome the dawn at Ta Prohm

Many travellers make a beeline for sunrise at Angkor Wat, but if you were to choose only one temple sunrise experience, I’d strongly recommend heading to Ta Prohm instead.

The temple stands out from others as it’s been left in the state in which it was found, with giant creeper tree roots entwined with the masonry.

With luck, you may even have daybreak here to yourself when the dawn mist clears and darkness fades to reveal the atmospheric tangle.

It’s an early start — arriving at the park by about 5:45am, but you’ll be back at your hotel in time for breakfast.

Plan your trip to Cambodia

Cambodia's cities & the southern coast

14 days from £3,745pp

Grand tour of Cambodia

18 days from £5,190pp

Luxury tour of Cambodia

13 days from £11,900pp

Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They’re just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

Further reading

• Our top 7 experiences in Cambodia
• Angkor Wat & the temples of Angkor
• Ultimate Cambodia: a guide to the cities and beyond
• Top 5 luxury experiences in Cambodia
• Cambodia family holidays: timeworn temples and jungle adventures

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Cambodia: Travel Guide | Itineraries and Highlights

After Singapore, Cambodia was the second country on my month-long trip in Southeast Asia . Travelers flock to Cambodia for the majestic temple of Angkor Wat, but this country deserves to be visited in greater depth. Here are my highlights and strategies for saving money on your travel with points.

It’s inconceivable to travel to Cambodia without visiting Siem Reap. Even forgetting the famous temples, I found that Siem Reap had a lot to offer and I spent a week there. The atmosphere is so relaxed that time seems to stand still.

The center is small enough that everything is close at hand, but the city extends into the suburbs, offering a wide range of activities.

For tips on the best places to visit in Siem Reap, check out this article by Jean-Maximilien :

The only thing I’d like to add to the activity list is APOPO . This small establishment is located halfway between the city center and the entrance to Angkor. This is a center where demining rats are trained.

I loved my visit to APOPO and learned more about the history of the war in Cambodia and the hard work of demining that has been going on for many years.

The guided tour includes a presentation on their mission and rat training, a demining demonstration and time to interact and pet the rats if you wish. Admission is US$5, with proceeds going to support their humanitarian mission.

A visit to the capital is an interesting way to learn more about Cambodia ‘s tragic past. The Tuol Seng Museum (US$5) and the Choeung Ek killing fields (US$6) are well worth a visit.

To admire Khmer architecture, visit the Royal Palace (US$6.50), the Silver Pagoda (free) or the National Museum of Cambodia (US$5).

In the late evening, a stroll along Sisowath Quay offers a magnificent view of the sunset. Phnom Penh’s main attractions can be visited in one full day.

The country’s most beautiful beaches can be found on this island and its neighbor, Koh Rong Samloem. Koh Rong is quite developed and the island is a destination of choice for backpackers looking to party.

Just next door, tourism is not yet fully developed on Koh Rong Samloem. The facilities are somewhat rudimentary, but that’s what makes this place special. You’ll have the white sand beaches and turquoise waters almost to yourself.

To reach the islands, boats leave from the port of Sihanoukville. This city is now a victim of overdevelopment and under constant construction. There’s nothing to see here, and you should avoid spending the night. Take your boat to Koh Rong as soon as you arrive in Sihanoukville.

This is where the best pepper in Cambodia (some would even say in the world) is grown: Kampot pepper. You can visit La Plantation , a family farm owned by a French couple. The establishment offers free guided tours, tastings and a store.

Pepper aside, Kampot is a relaxing place where you can unwind by walking the streets or spending the afternoon in a café.

Another beach destination, although the beaches in Kep are much less beautiful than those on Koh Rong. You can rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards for a leisurely water activity.

What’s more, Kep National Park is a great place for hiking in the mountains. Just 30 minutes from Kampot, Kep is worth a day trip.

A pleasant visit to add to your itinerary if you have the time. Battambang is an authentic Cambodian town, with a peaceful atmosphere.

Take a leisurely stroll through the village and cycle through the surrounding countryside. The traditional bamboo train is also a popular activity.

For a little inspiration, here’s a suggested two-week itinerary that includes all of Cambodia ‘s must-sees:

• Day 1 : Arrival in Phnom Penh
• Day 2 : Visit of Phnom Penh, overnight transport to Siem Reap
• Day 3 : Visit Siem Reap and the spas
• Day 4 : Visit to the temples of Angkor
• Day 5 : Visit to the temples of Angkor
• Day 6 : Visit to the floating villages on Tonlé Sap
• Day 7 : Battambang
• Day 8 : Transport to Sihanoukville, boat to Koh Rong
• Day 9 : Koh Rong
• Day 10 : Koh Rong Samloem
• Day 11 : Kampot
• Day 12 : Kep
• Day 13 : Return to Phnom Penh
• Day 14 : Return flight

If you don’t want to plan the whole trip yourself, consider organized tours like the one with G Adventures . This 14-day trip visits Cambodia in depth, and since all transport and activities are taken care of by the company, all you have to do is enjoy the adventure.

Getting around

Transport in Cambodia is long and delays are to be expected. The roads are not always in good condition, and you have to be patient. The main means of transport between towns are sleeper buses and minivans.

It is not necessary to book well in advance, but it is advisable to buy your ticket the day before rather than on the day itself.

Here is a summary table of travel times and prices for popular routes:

In addition, a meagre network of domestic flights is operated by the national airline, Angkor Air. The three airports served are Siem Reap (REP), Phnom Penh (PNH) and Sihanoukville (KOS). Their fleet is made up of small ATR 72s, and tickets cost a minimum of US$100 one-way.

There’s also the rail network, which has been quietly reopened since 2010. Although tickets are very inexpensive, the train is slow and infrequent. For these reasons, I recommend taking the bus.

In Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, Grab (Southeast Asia’s equivalent of Uber) has a strong, safe presence. You can order rides by tuk tuk or regular car.

In smaller towns like Battambang or Kampot, tuk tuks are the preferred means of transport. Negotiate the price of your trip directly with the driver.

Organize your trip with points

Cambodia is one of the most affordable countries in Southeast Asia. See how you can save even more with reward points and travel for almost free.

Cambodia is a little harder to reach than its neighbors, Vietnam and Thailand. From Montreal, a minimum of two layovers is required. First, you’ll need to position yourself in a hub in Southeast Asia, such as Bangkok or Singapore.

To book these flights with points, you have suggestions in this article :

Then there are the two international airports in Phnom Penh (PNH) and Siem Reap (REP). The SIN-REP and SIN-PNH routes are served by Singapore Airlines and can be booked on the Air Canada website for 8,000 Aeroplan points .

From Vietnam, you can use 9,000 Flying Blue miles for a HAN-REP ticket on Vietnam Airlines.

From Thailand or Malaysia, you’ll have to turn to low-cost airlines like AirAsia .

Accommodation

The Marriott Bonvoy chain offers just three hotels in Cambodia , two in Phnom Penh and one in Siem Reap. Le Méridien Angkor is currently closed for major renovations. Points rates are low, from 10,000 to 17,500 points per night.

For all other locations, you can book independent hotels on platforms such as Booking.com or Expedia . Then, several types of rewards points can be applied to these expenses in exchange for a statement credit.

Here are a few examples of flexible travel rewards programs:

• American Express Membership Rewards points (1000 points for $10)
• Scene+ (1000 points for $10)
• CIBC Aventura (800 points for $10 if the transaction is in Canadian dollars )
• National Bank À la carte Rewards (1100 points for $10)
• HBSC Rewards (2000 points for $10)

Bottom line

Cambodia has much more to offer than the temples of Angkor. What’s more, I was impressed by the kindness and hospitality of the locals. Although the majestic Angkor Wat is the country’s main attraction, I recommend spending more time here to discover at least Phnom Penh, Kampot and the island of Koh Rong.

Practical information

Do i need a visa to travel to cambodia.

Canadian passport holders need a visa to enter Cambodia . This can be obtained in the form of an electronic visa (eVisa). before departure or upon arrival in the country. It is advisable to obtain the electronic visa in advance to reduce the wait at immigration. The processing fee is US$36 and the maximum stay is 30 days.

What's the best time of year to visit Cambodia?

The ideal time to visit Cambodia is from November to March. During these months, rain is almost non-existent and temperatures are milder. The climate is warm (28°C on average) and humid all year round.

How long to spend in Cambodia?

You can breeze through the country in a week by only visiting Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. However, to fully explore the whole country, you’ll need two to three weeks.

What language is spoken in Cambodia?

The official language of Cambodia is Khmer. Signs are in Khmer and English. Generally speaking, people in the tourism industry speak good English.

What sockets are used in Cambodia?

Sockets are type A (American), type C (European) and type G (UK). The voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. You’ll need a power converter to use certain electronic devices.

All posts by Alexandrine

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Best 10 Days in Cambodia – Highlights & Tips

This varied 10 days in Cambodia itinerary will show you the highlights of Cambodia, from the ancient jungle temples at Angkor Wat to the popular beaches of Sihanoukville. Visit the glittering Royal Palace in the Khmer capital, Phnom Penh, and be moved to tears by the war memorials at the Tuol Sol Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields. End your 10 days in Cambodia relaxing in a tropical paradise with palm-fringed beaches and perfect sunsets.

This itinerary includes essential travel tips for Cambodia to help you plan where to stay, what to see, where to eat and the best places to visit. With 10 days in Cambodia, you’ll have enough time to see the highlights and experience the colourful markets and the warmth of the local people.

Table of Contents

Solo Travel in Cambodia

This 10-day Cambodia itinerary is perfect for solo travellers. If you’re a bit nervous about traveling solo these travel tips for solo female travellers will help you to have a successful and fun experience even if it’s your first time travelling alone. Cambodia is safe and friendly and I had an amazing time travelling solo in Cambodia.

But if you’re looking for a more in-depth experience, my 18-day Cambodia itinerary will show you even more of this fascinating country. You’ll have time to travel by riverboat to Battambang and explore the provinces of Kep and Kampot as well as see the highlights of Cambodia in Siem Reap, Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville. So definitely spend more time in Cambodia if you can.

**Covid-19 restrictions are in place in Cambodia. Check with your local government for the latest advice for travel to Cambodia.

This page contains affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission on purchases made through those links. This does not cost you any extra and helps to keep this website running! I appreciate your support!

10 days in Cambodia – Highlights & Travel Tips

These 10 days in Cambodia begin in Siem Reap with one of the highlights of Cambodia, visiting the ancient jungle temples of Angkor Wat. You’ll need to book return flights to Siem Reap International Airport. And book a domestic flight from Sihanoukville back to Siem Reap to meet your flight home.

Alternatively, you can fly into the capital Phnom Penh and travel overland to Siem Reap by bus but you’ll need to allow an extra day for travel. You’ll be visiting Phnom Penh anyway on this itinerary so it’s easiest to start your trip in Siem Reap.

TIP: Book a transfer from the airport to your hotel in Siem Reap or Phnom Penh and take the stress out of your arrival in Cambodia.

Buses and trains can be booked in advance with 12Go Asia

Highlights of Cambodia – Siem Reap

You’ll have 3 days in Siem Reap to explore the largest temple complex in the world at Angkor Wat. Visiting Angkor Wat is one of the highlights of Cambodia. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and the immense size of the temple complex is astounding.

Hire a tuk-tuk or book a 2-day Angkor sunrise tour in advance.

Day 1: The best time to visit ancient Angkor Wat is at sunrise on the Grand Temple Circuit Tour.

Day 2: Take the Smaller Temple Circuit Tour and visit more stunning temple ruins in the Angkor complex.

Day 3 : Visit stunning temple ruins at Bantay Srei with its intricate carvings or Beng Melea in the jungle.

More fun things to do in Siem Reap

When you’ve seen enough temple ruins there are lots of things to do in Siem Reap.

• Visit the Angkor National Museum and learn more about ancient Khmer history.
• Take a Cambodian cooking class at Le Tigre Papier Restaurant – I enjoyed this!
• Visit the local Buddhist Temples & the monastery in Siem Reap
• See the floating villages on the Tonle Sap River
• Take a day tour to the Phnom Kulen Waterfall
• Explore the ancient trails around Siem Reap on a motorbike

Shopping in Siem Reap

Siem Reap has some fantastic places to shop. If you enjoy shopping, the markets in Siem Reap will be one of the highlights of Cambodia. For souvenirs head to the Old Market in town & visit the Night Marke t by the river. Look out for Cambodian silk scarves, clothes and homeware, fresh Cambodian pepper, and wooden carvings.

Don’t forget you’ll be returning to Siem Reap so you can shop for gifts and souvenirs just before your return flight.

Artisans Angor sells quality clothing and gifts made by local artisans. It’s a business with a social conscience that provides jobs for young people making traditional arts and crafts. Visit the workshops and the gift shop in Siem Reap. It’s just a 2-minute walk from the Old Market in the centre of town. The silk clothing and homewares are really lovely and it’s a great place to buy gifts.

Pubs & Nightclubs in Siem Reap

If you feel like a night out on the town head to Pub Street, There are many restaurants, bars and nightclubs on this strip so take your pick and have a great night out in Siem Reap.

Where to eat in Siem Reap

There are some great places to eat in Siem Reap. I liked Khmer Kitchen and Le Tigre Papier on Pub Street. I loved the delicious fresh iced mango drink at Le Tigre Papier and the fresh spring rolls.

Where to stay in Siem Reap

Mid Range: I stayed at The Kingfisher Angkor Hotel , located away from the noisy nightclubs of Pub Street but just a short walk to restaurants, the Night Market and all the action on Pub Street. The service here was OK. My room on the top floor was spacious with a huge bathroom & a balcony. I loved the pool area but the lift was sometimes out of service & the front rooms were a bit noisy. Ask for a room away from the street.

Luxury: For a more upmarket option try The Night Hotel . It has a great location and gets exceptional reviews.

Travel D ay 4: Travel by bus to Phnom Penh (5 Hours)

Visiting the capital, Phnom Penh is one of the highlights of Cambodia . You’ll have 2 days here to explore the Royal Palace grounds and learn about Cambodia’s tragic war history.

Day 4: Take an early morning bus from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh (5 hours). You should arrive in Phnom Penh in the afternoon with enough time to visit the beautiful Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda . Next door to the Palace is the National Museum of Cambodia and it’s a beautiful building with some interesting cultural & historical exhibits.

Wander around the riverfront and visit Wat Ounalom . You’re likely to meet a friendly monk wanting to practise his English

Visit the Russian Market to buy souvenirs. It takes about 20 minutes from the riverfront in a tuk-tuk to get there. I liked the markets in Siem Reap better so maybe give this a miss if you’re short of time.

End the day with a sundowner and watch the sunset over the Tonle Sap River with a cocktail in your hand. I watched the sunset from the legendary Foreign Correspondents Club but unfortunately, it has closed.

Day 5: You’ll spend today learning about the tragedy of Cambodia’s modern history. Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum . Take the audio tour to get a better understanding of the Cambodian Genocide during the Khmer Rouge Regime (Open from 8 AM – 5 PM)

Visit the Cheung Ek Killing Field s. They are around 17km outside Phnom Penh so booking a tour is a good option.

Take a Sunset river cruise on the Tonle Sap River.

Where to stay in Phom Penh

Mid-Range : I stayed at the Red Hibiscus Hotel and this was a good mid-range option. My room was comfortable and the location near the Tonle Sap Riverfront was very good, just a short walk to the Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda and the National Museum.

Luxury: For more upmarket accommodation try The Frangipani Royal Palace Hotel with river views, a pool & a fantastic location right next to the Royal Palace. This hotel looks amazing although I didn’t stay here.

If you enjoy a colonial atmosphere, the Foreign Correspondents Club has guest rooms, a view of the river and a great location.

Travel Day 6: Take a bus to Kep (4 x hours) or Sihanoukville (approx. 5 x hours)

TIP: Book transport in Cambodia online with 12Go Asia.

Beaches of Cambodia

With just 10 days in Cambodia, you’ll have the choice of visiting popular Sihanoukville or sleepy Kep. Sihanoukville is a busier more touristy option with tropical islands just offshore, busy nightlife and 16 casinos to choose from. Sihanoukville has its own airport and you’ll be flying back to Siem Reap from Sihanoukville so it’s a logical choice for a beach break with only 10 days in Cambodia.

However, low-key Kep is also a good choice but you’ll spend more time travelling. From Kep, it’s almost 2 hours by taxi or 3 hours by bus to the airport at Sihanoukville. I loved staying in Kep and for me, it was one of the highlights of Cambodia. It’s smaller and much quieter than Sihanoukville with a lovely beach, a tropical island offshore and hiking in the forest. You’ll see some stunning beach sunsets at both Kep and Sihanoukville.

This 18 day Cambodia itinerary includes both Kep and Sihanoukville and more.

Sihanoukville – Otres Beach

One of the highlights of Cambodia is the beautiful beaches on the Gulf of Thailand. In this itinerary, you’ll have 3 days soaking in the sun and sand at Otres Beach in Sihanoukville.

If partying at night and chilling out on the beach during the day is your scene, then you’ll be happy here. Sihanoukville is a backpacker haven and has its own airport. It’s more touristy and more expensive than Kep or Kampot.

I stayed at Otres Beach because it’s quieter than the main parts of Sihanoukville. The sunsets are stunning and Otres has a lovely beach, lined with palm trees.

Day 7 – 8: Relax in Sihanoukville & choose from a few things to do.

• Chill out on the beach, go for a walk
• Take a yoga class.
• Take a tuk-tuk into town, swim at Serendipity & Independence Beach and stroll along the pier.
• Head out to Kbal Chhay Waterfall for a change of scene.

Day 9: Take a small boat out to Ko Ta Tiev Island for snorkelling and beautiful scenery. If you prefer to island-hop on a high-speed ferry you can visit Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samleom in 45 minutes.

If you fancy staying overnight on a tropical island, head to Koh Samleon for a low-key atmosphere and stunning sunsets, or to Koh Rong to party on one of the best beaches in Cambodia.

Travel Day 10: It’s time to fly back to Siem Reap or Phnom Penh to meet your flight home. Sihanoukville is 20km from the airport and it takes around 40 minutes in a taxi so allow plenty of time before your flight.

Alternatively, you can travel by bus to Siem Reap (11 hours) / Phnom Penh ( 5.5 hours)

Where to stay in Sihanoukville

Mid-Range: I stayed at White Moon Bungalows at Otres Beach. The bungalow was new, clean & unremarkable but the location was very good near the beach & restaurants. **There was no safe box in the room or at reception.

Luxury: For more upmarket accommodation try Naiya Resort . It has a fantastic location right on Otres beach and gets great reviews.

Travel tips for Cambodia

If busy, touristy Sihanoukville does not appeal, low-key Kep or Kampot may be more your style. You’ll have 3 days to see the sights of the area from either Kep or Kampot. Kampot has pretty river views but sleepy Kep is on the coast and there are islands and forests to explore. Kep is where I would stay if I had to choose.

Kep has a pretty beach with restaurants near the water and a small shopping centre. Otherwise, the town is quiet and very spread out.

Kep – Alternative Itinerary

Day 6 : If you catch a morning bus from Phnom Penh you’ll arrive around midday. You can chill out on the beach for the afternoon and enjoy a beautiful sunset with a cocktail & dinner at the Kep Sailing Club. This was my favourite place to hang out for an evening in Kep.

Day 7: Spend the day on Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island). It takes 20 minutes in a small boat from Kep

Cycle to the Kep Crab Market & try the local speciality Pepper Crab, for lunch or dinner at Kimly Restaurant. Be warned eating crab is very messy but it’s delicious!

Day 8: Take a Tuk-tuk tour to Phnom Chnork Cave Temple, Secret Lake & the Pepper Plantation .

End the day in Kampot with a cocktail at the bar overlooking the river at  Rikitikitavi .

Day 9: Go hiking in the Kep National Park to enjoy lush, green forest views.

Watch the sunset in Kep from Veranda Natural Resort and enjoy a cocktail at the bar with a view. Very nice!

Travel Day 10: On the last of your 10 days in Cambodia you’ll fly back to Siem Reap. Your flight will leave from Sihanoukville Airport,110 kilometres away from Kep. It takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes in a taxi (cost US$65)

Alternatively, you can catch a bus from Kep to Sihanoukville (3 hours) / Kampot to Sihanoukville (2 hours) / Kep to Phnom Penh (4 hours). There is no direct bus from Kep to Siem Reap.

Where to Stay in Kep & Kampot

Mid-Range: I can recommend the Botanica Guest House in Kep. The rates were very reasonable and I had a lovely bungalow with a private balcony & hammock. The pool was very refreshing & they offer free pushbikes to help you get around.

Luxury: Alternatively, Veranda Natural Resort has more upmarket accommodations with lovely views over Kep and out to sea. If you’re looking for a bit more luxury, consider staying here.

If you prefer to sleep in Kampot I can recommend mid-range Villa Vedici or, for a more upmarket option in the centre of town, Rikitikitavi gets great reviews.

Travelling to Vietnam from Kep

If you’re travelling to Vietnam from Cambodia you can stop in Kep on the way. Kep is around 20 kilometres from the border crossing at Ha Tien.

Kep to Phu Quoc Island (4 x hours) / Kep to Can Tho (5 x hours) / Kep to Ho Chi Minh City (11 x hours)

Travel essentials

#1. A Travel Guide for Cambodia will help you plan your trip and always comes in handy when you’re away. I rarely travel without a trusted Lonely Planet Guide .

#2. Travel Insurance is a travel essential. For peace of mind, I use and recommend travel insurance for all overseas travel

You might also enjoy

Vibrant Phnom Penh in Cambodia – 8+ Highlights

The Best of Cambodia in 18 Days

Why Angkor Wat in Cambodia is so Special

How to Visit Charming Battambang in Cambodia

S olo Travel in Cambodia – What you Need to Know

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Linda is a travel blogger and teacher from Australia. She loves to travel solo and over the years she’s visited around 50 countries on 5 different continents. Her recent trips include volunteer teaching in an orphanage in Uganda, swimming with sea turtles on the stunning islands of the Great Barrier Reef and a jaunt to Java and Bali climbing volcanos, visiting ancient sacred places and zipping around on the back of a motorbike.

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20 Comments

I’d love to visit Cambodia, especially after reading all these incredible things to do there. Love the idea of a cooking class – definitely one of my favorite travel activities. And of course Angkor Wat is a must even I eventually get to Cambodia

I am so looking forward to getting to Cambodia one day. I’d love to see all the temples.

Cambodia is still on my bucket list! Thanks for highlighting what one can do in 10 days.

This took me back! I visited Cambodia with a friend a few years ago & pretty much followed your exact itinerary. We did the whole sunrise at Angkor Wat (along with everyone else in Cambodia I think) but I actually prefered Ta Prohm. Also, the Killing Fields is not to be missed. Heartbreaking, sickening but essential to understand the dark history of the country.

I love itinerary posts. They are so helpful for building my own travel itinerary. As I have been to Cambodia, your article brings back nice memories about my visit. Thanks for useful information and great tips!

I am currently il Thailand waiting to get into Cambodia. Cannot wait for this trip!! Great post!

Thanks Francesca. I’m sure you’ll have an amazing time in Cambodia!

Cambodia looks like such an enchanting place! The beaches look magical and the architecture looks incredible! I’d love to visit Angkor Wat at sunrise! The Royal Palace at Phnom Penh looks incredible too! Thanks for the great guide!

This is such a comprehensive guide. I haven’t been in Cambodia since 2017 and I’m itching to go back ASAP. Definitely saving this for my next trip.

This is such a helpful guide! I was supposed to go to Cambodia last year but borders closed so I’m hoping to finally get there in 2022 or 2023. Will use this post to help plan my trip when I do 🙂

This is reliving my memories of my trip to South East Asia, I didn’t spend nearly enough time in Cambodia. I totally missed out on Sihanoukville! Although I really like your suggestion Kep for a more laid back vibe and the chance to wander about in the forests. Great article, thanks for sharing.

I visited Cambodia about 10 years ago – I’d love to go back and see how it’s changed

Oh, I miss Cambodia so so much. One day I will go back and explore Kep! The hotel looked lovely!

I would love to spend 10 days in Cambodia. The beaches look amazing!

I think I only spent a quick week in Cambodia back when I was a naive backpacker for the first time and I definitely rushed it! I visited Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville and Siem Reap but there is clearly so much more to do in these places, 10 days looks like a great length of time. I’d love to go back and slow down!

Great article, this looks like a fantastic adventure! Cambodia looks so cool, the temples and nature are amazing! I loved your photos too! I hope I can go there soon, definitely saving this to get inspired! thanks a lot for sharing this!

Hi! A beautiful post, making me wish to return to Cambodia! Although Angkor Wat gets really crowded, I wouldn’t miss it for anything. Just a heads up: I read somewhere the Foreign Correspondents Club is currently closed. Well, it was looking a bit staid and tired, and I hope when it reopens, it will be fresh and exciting!

There are so many beautiful places to visit in Cambodia. I’d love to spend a week or more exploring the different areas!

Cambodia is on my bucket list and this makes me want to go even more! The beaches especially look so, so incredible!

Cambodia sounds like such a paradisical country! I’ve been wanting to visit for the longest time – definitely coming back to your post whenever the time is right 🙂

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5 Days in Cambodia, a Great Cambodia Itinerary

This post is also available in: French

A visit to Cambodia could span weeks, yet for many a five-day trip is enough to experience the richness of Angkor Wat and the bustle of Art Deco-era Phnom Penh. There are so many exciting things to see in Cambodia, and this five-day itinerary will help you make the most of your trip.

Cambodia is a country rich in history both charming and tragic. Visitors to Siem Reap begin to understand the Khmer Empire of the 11th and 12 centuries and their impressive architectural skills, while another Khmer regime plays heavily in Phnom Penh history. Sometimes it is not pretty. The Khmer Rouge murdered millions of people in the mid-20th century, yet it is an important part of Cambodia’s history and for that reason, it is included in this 5-day Cambodia itinerary.

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Cambodia

Cambodia is a perfect year-round destination. It has a warm, tropical climate and is warm and lush all year long. Like other tropical destinations, Cambodia has a dry and a wet season.

The best time to visit Cambodia is between October and April, which is the dry season. There are often seasonal rains during the wet season (May to September), but if you don’t mind getting a little wet, there’s not a bad time to go. Temperature-wise, March through June can be unbearably hot, while December temperatures stay in the mid to high 20s — perfect weather for exploring Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

Tips on Visiting Cambodia

While Cambodia is, in general, a safe place to travel, there are always things you can do to ensure your safety while in a new and foreign country.

• Always drink bottled or boiled water, or use a reliable water filter bottle to avoid stomach discomfort during your trip. Make sure to check the seal on store-bought water bottles to ensure they haven’t been tampered with.
• Keep valuables and travel documents in your in-room safe when they are not in use. Do not take passports or valuables out of the hotel with you.
• Always be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.
• Wear cross-body bags or money wallets to keep your valuables close to you at all times. These can deter thieves who might try to rip a shoulder bag off as they pass.
• Remember to wear appropriate and respectful clothing at all times, especially when visiting temples, palaces, and pagodas. This includes long pants or skirts and long-sleeved tops (covering knees and shoulders) for both men and women.
• Be vigilant when crossing the road as traffic in Southeast Asia is notoriously chaotic, and vehicles usually come from all directions.
• Be careful when purchasing food and drink from street vendors. While often food cooked on the street is perfectly safe, they may not use filtered water or other ingredients that might mess with a western constitution.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission.

5 Day Cambodia Itinerary: What to Do in Cambodia in 5 Days

5 days in cambodia: day 1 – siem reap.

The best way to experience Angkor Wat is by tuk-tuk. The site is incredibly huge, and it will take quite a while to get around on foot. To make the most of your time, strike a deal with a tuk-tuk driver who will charge you a fixed price for the entire day. Alternatively, you can get a guided tour like this that includes sunrise at Angkor Wat. 

On day one of your Cambodia itinerary, begin with sunrise at Angkor Wat . Ticket sales open at 4:30 am. I don’t suggest actually going into the site for sunrise, as it will be very busy. Instead, find a spot a short distance away to watch the sun come up at this famous temple.

After witnessing the sunrise and getting some beautiful photos of the sun coming up over the peaks, head for Bayon Temple , one of the largest and most impressive temples in the Angkor Wat complex. Bayon was built by King Jayavarman in the late 12th century.

It is a multi-towered, multi-faceted temple with over 11,000 impressive bas reliefs of not just warfare but also of everyday life in the Khmer Empire. They also depict a naval battle on Tonle Sap Lake. However, Bayon’s most distinctive feature is the 216 stone faces on the towers which jut out from the upper terrace and cluster around its central peak. 

From Bayon, head for Ta Phrom , one of the most famous temples in Siem Reap thanks to Lara Croft/Tomb Raider. Chances are, Ta Phrom will be busy, but it’s well worth the time to explore. Here, massive tree roots curl around the temple entrances and over the roofs, left in situ as they grew over when the temple was abandoned in the 15th century. Despite its look of neglect, Ta Phrom is actually well preserved and maintained due to the influx of tourists, and it is fascinating to explore!

Next on your list should be Prasat Kravan , a grand, symmetrical temple with five brick towers surrounded by a moat. The 10th century Prasat Kravan is dedicated to Vishnu, preserver god, and protector of the universe. 

Another monumental visit is the Neak Pean, a structure in the center of Jayatataka baray. Many believe that Neak Pean has healing powers and was built for medicinal purposes; it is also believed that the lake surrounding the temple has healing powers. 

Finally, end your day at Angkor Wat with sunset at Phnom Bakheng Temple , one of the oldest temples within the archaeological site. It is set on a hillside 60m above the surrounding temples and is constructed over seven levels representing the seven Hindu heavens, so there are plenty of places to watch the sunset from.

When you get back to town, head for the Siem Reap night market , a bustling market with all sorts of handicrafts, clothes, fabrics, souvenirs, and street food. After exploring, go for dinner on the neon-lined Pub Street , a vibrant street lined with a variety of Asian and Western restaurants, all filled with locals and tourists grabbing a tasty bite before going out for the night.

If you’re not up for a night out, after the early morning and a full day of exploring Angkor Wat, you might want to opt for a traditional massage back at your hotel.

5 Days in Cambodia: Day 2 – Siem Reap

Today is the day to visit the main Angkor Wat temple . Go whenever you like, though you might want to wait until the sunrise tourists have moved on to other temples. You have time to explore the complex up close and at leisure, today, walking through the great doorways and up the ceremonial steps. 

Upon returning to Siem Reap, spend your last evening at the Smile of Angkor Grand Epic Show, a multi-audio-visual live celebration of Cambodian history, portrayed through song, dance, martial arts, lights, lasers, and acrobatics. It is a fascinating walk through time, beginning with the building of the Angkor temples through the various religious celebrations and more. The show employs local Cambodians to share their story and culture with the world. 

You might also be interested in: How to spend 2 days in Siem Reap.

5 Days in Cambodia: Day 3 – Siem Reap to Phnom Penh 

This morning, head out to Tonle Sap Lake . This vast fresh water expanse is the largest inland lake in Southeast Asia and is home to a number of Vietnamese who have lived and worked here for decades. It is a unique place to visit. The settlers are mostly fishermen who supply fresh fish to the Siem Reap restaurants. They live and work in floating houses or ones on stilts, and you’ll find entire communities in the water here. There’s even a crocodile farm you can visit to learn more about the trade of Tonle Sap. More tamely, you can also see the lotus flower fields on the lake.

Click here to book a half-day guided tour to the Tonle Sap Lake. 

After leaving Tonle Sap, you’ll head to Phnom Penh. It is a five to seven-hour drive, depending on the type of transport used, or an hour-long flight. A private car is the fastest land transport, at around five hours and $75-100. A small public bus will cost around $12-15 and take six or so hours, while a large public bus will take up to seven hours but only cost a few dollars. A flight is the most expensive, but the fastest. There are several carriers that operate small propellor planes between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.

Once you arrive into Phnom Penh, settle into your hotel so you can rest up before tomorrow!

5 Days in Cambodia: Day 4 – Phnom Penh

The bustling Phnom Penh is very different from the vibrancy of Siem Reap, but you’ll start off your time here in a familiar spot, a temple. Wat Phnom is the largest temple in the city, a temple that began as a shrine to Buddha and was raised to its higher status in the 15th century. The complex contains a large pagoda, stupa, shrine, and statues and art that tells the story of Buddhism and local Cambodian culture.

Like other Southeast Asian cities, Phnom Penh was under French colonial control in the early 20th century, so it has plenty of interesting Art Deco buildings. One such architectural gem is the iconic central market , which is home to hundreds of stalls selling everything from flowers to silks to souvenirs. You can easily spend hours here, browsing and bartering.

Next, begin to learn more about the history of Phnom Penh and Cambodia during the difficult years of the Khmer Rouge Regime. The National Museum stands as a memorial to the many curators and employees, as well as the millions of Cambodians, who were murdered during the regime. Numerous works of art were also destroyed, making the collection that remains at the museum a source of national pride for Cambodians. 

After lunch, visit the Royal Palace , located on the banks of the Mekong River. While still the home of the King of Cambodia, visitors can explore the grounds and buildings, including highlights like the Throne Hall, the Moonlight Pavilion and the Silver Pagoda. When you leave the Royal Palace, visit the modern Independence Monument , a striking lotus-shaped stupa created to mark the independence of Cambodia from France in 1953. 

End your first day in Phnom Penh with a dinner cruise along the Mekong River . This sunset cruise is a great way to get an overview of the city sights and hear a little more about the city’s history and daily life.

For more information check this sunset Mekong river cruise that includes a BBQ buffet.

5 Days in Cambodia: Day 5 – Phnom Penh

Today is likely going to be an emotional day, as it’s time to visit the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng, two of the most important sites in the Khmer Rouge history. You can visit them in either order and the best way to get between the two is to hire a tuk-tuk driver. 

The Killing Fields of Choeung Ek are located a short way outside of the city and are where thousands of executions took place during the Khmer Rouge regime. Today, it is a place of memorial to those who lost their lives during the regime. There are hundreds of mass graves. An audio guide will allow you to learn more about the history of the site while remaining quiet and respectful.

Check out this tour that combines a visit to the Killing Fields with the Genocide Museum (see below) for more information. 

Tuol Sleng, or S-21 , is a former high school that became an interrogation prison during the Khmer regime. Over 17,000 people passed through its doors, and only 7 survived. Their stories are shown throughout the museum.

After leaving this emotional site, and after taking time to reflect, you can spend the remainder of the day at the Tuol Tompoung Market, also known as the Russian Market. Like the Central Market, Tuol Tompoung hosts a number of stalls with all sorts of goods and foods, and you can explore at your leisure.

In the evening, if you’re feeling up to going out, the best place to go is one of the Sky Bars . These many rooftop bars have great views of the city and excellent cocktail lists. 

You might also like my 2-day Phnom Penh itinerary. 

Where to stay in Cambodia 

Where to stay in siem reap.

I stayed at the Royal Angkor Resort in Siem Reap, a luxury hotel located out along the main road between the airport, Angkor Wat, and the town center. It is the perfect place to stay to explore the archaeological site. Rooms are spacious and clean, with touches of local culture featured throughout. There are also public dining rooms, a large outdoor pool, a traditional Cambodian spa, and lush gardens.

Siem Reap has plenty of accommodation choices, from budget backpacker hostels to five-star resorts.

Click here for more information and to check the latest prices. 

Where to Stay in Phnom Penh

I stayed at the Sunway Hotel , a four-star business hotel with a great location for visiting all of the city center highlights in Phnom Penh. It is located on a wide, tree-lined boulevard in CBD and features spacious rooms with all the Western comforts, and a spa, fitness center, and business center. 

Like Siem Reap, Phnom Penh also has a plethora of accommodations, from luxury hotels like the Rosewood to budget backpackers. 

This five-day Cambodia itinerary is a starting point, with two days in Siem Reap and two days in Phnom Penh. If you have more time, you can explore more of the exciting Siem Reap or spend more time in the capital, Phnom Penh.

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Cambodia Highlights

This 2-week example holiday takes in all the main highlights in Cambodia, starting in Siem Reap and finishing in Phnom Penh. You will see the ancient ruins of Angkor Wat and kayak through the mangroves. You will laze around on a beautiful tropical beach and explore the picturesque seafront town of Kep.

There are a wide number of different accommodation types available including many hotels with pools. Also remember that the itinerary can be tweaked to ensure that this is suitable for the ages of your children.

15 days from £1,625 pp

Plus international flights starting at £1,000

Cambodia Highlights day-to-day itinerary

Siem Reap is the gateway city to the Temples of Angkor. These are absolutely incredible and will be a highlight of your trip. Angkor Wat is the name of the largest and most famous temple but there are literally hundreds. Some of these have been fabulously preserved and restored. Others are almost completely over-run by the jungle and feel very remote.

Day 2 Siem Reap A full day to explore the Angkor Temples. You will start at the magnificent ‘South Gate’ of Angkor Thom. Here there is a colonnade of colossal human faces, carved from stone. Continue on from here to see the extraordinary Bayon Temple as well as Angkor Wat itself.

If your children are old enough we can arrange bikes for you to use as this is a great way to get around. The countryside is flat and it can be fun to cycle along some of the quieter roads, stopping off at the less visited temples. Alternatively we can arrange for you to get around by tuk tuk as this is a fun mode of transport that the children will enjoy.

Day 3 Siem Reap A full free day to further explore the temples. We can either arrange for you to be accompanied by a guide or you can choose to explore on your own.

When you have had your fill of temple-hopping, Siem Reap is a very pleasant town with fantastic restaurants, markets and shops. Perhaps stop in a foot massage parlour. Here you can dip your weary feet in a fish tank and tiny fish will nibble off the dead skin!

There are plenty of other activities that we can include if of interest. These include cookery classes, ziplines through the jungle, quad bikes and village visits.

Day 4 Beng Melea & Tonle Sap The first stop today is Beng Melea Temple, an enormous ruin the size of Angkor Wat but still completely part of the jungle. This is real Indiana Jones stuff with giant lianas that grow through the temple walls, thick undergrowth and dilapidated carvings.

From here you will continue to a stilt village built over the vast waters of Tonle Sap. This freshwater lake is home to traditional fishing communities and is best explored by a small wooden boat. You can sail amongst the stilt houses and through the flooded mangrove forest.

Return to Siem Reap for the night. In the evening perhaps watch a performance at the Phar Ponleu Selpak Big Top. This is a school of performing arts that puts on excellent productions of acrobatics and dance in a traditional circus big top.

Day 5 Siem Reap – Cardamom Mountains This morning you will be transferred to the airport for a short flight to Sihanoukhville on the coast. From here continue to a resort in the Cardamom Mountains. You will stay in a lovely eco-lodge in the middle of a beautiful landscape of lush virgin forest. You can spend your time following quiet trails into the jungle, a haven for wildlife and many tropical birds. Alternatively borrow one of the lodge kayaks and explore from the water.

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Day 6 Cardamom Mountains This morning take a walk through the jungle to a waterfall and swim in the pool at the base of the falls. In the afternoon relax back at your lodge and enjoy the gorgeous views.

Day 7 Cardamom Mountains This morning take a kayaking tour through the mangrove forest near your lodge. Navigating up narrow river inlets, with butterflies flitting through the gnarled roots, you feel as though you have entered another world.

Return to your lodge for a cooling dip in the river. In the late afternoon take a sunset boat ride on the river. Keep your eyes peeled for monkeys and brightly coloured birds.

Day 8 Cardamom Mountains – Sihanoukhville – Koh Rong / Koh Rong Samloem After breakfast transfer to Sihanoukhville and take the ferry over to an idyllic island (either Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem depending on hotel choice). Here there are picture-perfect white sandy beaches backed by swaying palms. Bag a hammock or a beach lounger, find a quiet spot and soak up the views.

Day 9-10 Koh Rong Two blissful days to relax and enjoy the beach.

Day 11 Koh Rong – Sihanoukhville – Kep This morning you will return to the mainland. From here, continue along the coast to Kep, a quiet coastal town in the south. En-route you can visit the ghost city of Mount Bokor. This was built in the 20s by the French but abandoned by the 70s, leaving deserted ramshackle buildings often shrouded in mist and fog.

The twin towns of Kep and Kampot are very picturesque with lovely ocean and river views and distinctive crumbling French colonial architecture. They are a great base for a couple of days of gentle exploration of the surrounding countryside. This is a verdant landscape of emerald green paddy fields and pepper plantations, flocks of white egrets and small stilt villages.

This area has fantastic seafood and a strong restaurant scene. Dine on crab and giant prawns, freshly cooked on a barbeque.

Day 12 Kep A free day to explore the local area.

Day 13 Kep – Phnom Penh This morning you will leave the coast behind you with a transfer back to Phnom Penh. After a relaxing afternoon, take a picturesque sunset cruise along the Mekong, the best vantage point for a view of the city.    

Day 14 Phnom Penh Phnom Penh is a small but attractive city that can be explored on foot or from the back of a tuk tuk. Your guide will take you to visit the Royal Palace, home to Cambodia’s Royal Family (and also to a small ice-cream shop if that proves necessary!). You will also stop at one of the many pleasant cafes that line the Mekong River in the centre of town. Depending on the age of your children, you may also want to visit the Tuol Sleng. This is a museum on the site of a former Khmer Rouge prison. The exhibits are grisly but a visit can provide a fascinating insight into this traumatic period of Cambodia’s history.

This evening perhaps check out one of the local restaurants for a final Cambodian ‘fish amok’ curry before your adventure comes to an end.

Day 15 Phnom Penh Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Call us and we will be happy to provide you with a free-of-charge no obligation itinerary and quotation designed for you.

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10 Days in Vietnam and Cambodia 2024: Top 6 Itineraries

Vietnam and Cambodia are a popular combo for those who have limited time in Southeast Asia. You can enjoy Halong Bay, the Mekong Delta and Angkor Wat in one trip.

Is 10 days enough to explore Vietnam and Cambodia? Yes. By bordering each other, you can save time in transportation. With 10 days, you're usually suggested to allocate 3-5 days for Cambodia, mainly focusing on Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.

Well, Vietnam has more to explore, typically divided into three regions: northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa), central Vietnam (Hoi An, Hue and Da Nang), and south Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta and Phu Quoc island). For a comfortable tour pace, consider spending 5 to 7 days on just one or two regions.

You can continue reading to explore our well-planned itineraries for inspiration.

Itinerary 1: Best of Vietnam and Cambodia

• Itinerary 2: Best for Families
• Itinerary 3: Best for Couples

Itinerary 4: Vietnam to Cambodia by Mekong Cruise

Itinerary 5: northern vietnam and siem reap, itinerary 6: great for cultural immersion, how much is a 10-day vietnam and cambodia tour.

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

Don't miss this itinerary if you'd like to have a quick taste of the best of Vietnam and Cambodia on your first visit.

You'll travel through Vietnam from the north to the south and conclude your trip in Siem Reap, Cambodia. The must-sees include picturesque Halong Bay, historical Hoi An, rustic Mekong Delta and great wonder Angkor Wat.

You can see the following outline.

• Days 1–3: Hanoi and an overnight cruise on Halong Bay
• Days 4–5: Hoi An, including ancient town walking tour
• Days 6–7: Ho Chi Minh City with visits to the Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta
• Days 8–10: Siem Reap with Angkor Wat

For first-time travelers, your Vietnam trip is not completed without visiting Halong Bay, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City.

As the gateway to Halong Bay, you'll have a short stay in Hanoi to explore its old quarter and say hi to locals.

For Halong Bay , an overnight cruise helps you to enjoy the stunning seascape leisurely and escape from the big day-trip groups. For a more exclusive experience, contact us to book a private junk or smaller luxury cruise.

After 3 days in the north, fly to the central city— Hoi An . During your 2-day stay, have a walking tour in its lantern-lit ancient town, indulge in a foodie tour, and cycle through the picturesque countryside.

Continue your trip to Ho Chi Minh City . You'll explore this bustling metropolis with visits to the Vietnam War sites and the vibrant floating markets of the Mekong Delta.

For the last 3 days, cross the border into Cambodia and immerse yourself in the ancient splendor—Angkor Wat, Siem Reap. Walk with our scholar to unveil the secrets behind the relics, cycle to less-known temples, and top off your experience with a sunset balloon ride .

This is a tight schedule that includes the top highlights of both countries. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, you're suggested to extend 2 more days.

Itinerary 2: Family Getaway with Beach Vacation

If you're travelling with family, this itinerary is specially crafted for you. It perfectly balances historic wonders, educational opportunities and beach fun.

To engage your teenage kids, we specially arranged kid-oriented activities: going through the Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City; street food tour, farming activities, a traditional basket boat tour in Hoi An, and a sunset quad bike ride around Angkor Wat.

here is a sample itinerary for your information.

• Days 1–3: Siem Reap (Angkor Wat, Apsara Dance Show, 1-hour sunset quad bike ride)
• Days 4–6: Ho Chi Minh City (sampan trip in Mekong Delta, the War Remnants Museum and the Cu Chi Tunnels)
• Days 7–10: beach time in Da Nang with a day trip to ancient Hoi An

If you seek a tranquil beach holiday, you can also consider Phu Quoc Island.

For a longer family holiday, you can check our 14-day Vietnam and Cambodia family tour for inspiration.

Itinerary 3: Romantic Holiday with Historical Immersion

This itinerary well blends history exploration, natural beauty and romantic experiences for couples.

You and your beloved can enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences by our exclusive activities. In Siem Reap, you'll attend a blessing ceremony by local monks, take a sunset balloon ride for a panorama view of Angkor Wat, and have sunset drinks near Tonle Sap.

In Hoi An, you can create your Vietnamese dishes together in a cooking class and wear traditional Vietnamese clothing for romantic photos like Vietnamese Newly-webs.

Instead of popular big cruises designed for groups, private junk is more suggested for enjoying quality time alone on Halong Bay.

A classic route is suggested below for your reference.

• Days 1–2: Phnom Penh (city cyclo trip, the Killing Fields and Genocide Museum, Khmer Puppet Show)
• Days 3–5: Siem Reap (Angkor walking tour with a local scholar, sunset balloon ride, sunset cocktail on Tonle Sap Lake)
• Days 6–7: Hoi An (cooking class, sunset boat ride, an evening foodie tour)
• Days 8–10: Hanoi and Halong Bay

Want more exclusive for milestone celebrations? Contact us to create memorable moments just for you two!

If you seek an off-the-beaten-path at a slow pace, look no further than this itinerary.

In this itinerary, you'll indulge yourself in the hidden gems along the Mekong Delta , such as the real on-trade floating markets, rustic life and tranquil river scenery.

With just 14 rooms on the Mekong cruise, you can enjoy more quality intimate time alone and exclusive service , perfect for couples. By cruise, you'll save on frequent transportation and hotel changes.

Here is the well-organized itinerary.

• Days 1–2: Ho Chi Minh City (city tour with coffee experience, Cu Chi tunnels)
• Days 3–7: Mekong Cruise (Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Tre, Can Tho, Gieng Island, Phnom Penh - Cambodia, Phnom Penh City tour)

If you prefer an in-depth exploration of the Mekong Delta, go further with our 13-day Vietnam-Cambodia Tour with a luxurious Mekong cruise.

This itinerary seamlessly blends outdoor adventure with a leisurely vacation. Beyond Siem Reap, your trip would focus on northern Vietnam, an outdoor paradise.

After discovering the capital, Hanoi, you'll head to the mountain area of Sapa. Home to the minority groups, you can experience their rustic life, trek the highest mountain in Vietnam , or enjoy a short hike among the rice terrace .

Following the energetic exploration, what could be better than winding down on a 3-day Halong Bay cruise ? Away from the big groups, you can swim, kayak and bike in the less-beaten area of Halong Bay.

You can see the brief itinerary:

• Days 1–2: Hanoi (1-hour cyclo tour around the Old Quarter, water puppet show)
• Days 3–4: Sapa with hiking through hill tribes alongside rustic rice terrace view
• Days 5–7: Halong Bay (Trung Trang Cave, squid fishing, cooking class, biking around a rustic village near Ha Long Bay)
• Days 8–10: Siem Reap with Angkor Wat and Tonle Sap boat trip

If you are history buffs, this itinerary would be a treat for you. You'll step back in time while exploring the ancient town of Hoi An, the sacred My Son temple complex and Angkor Wat in Siem Reap .

Beyond the majestic relics, the Halong Bay cruise and beach hours can offer a great escape for active travelers. You can also go for an island-hopping tour from Da Nang with snorkeling experiences .

• Days 4–5: Hoi An, including a day trip to My Son
• Days 6–7: beach time in Da Nang

Travelling to Vietnam and Cambodia is quite affordable. A private tour will add a little luxury to your dream trip with exclusive and worry-free experiences for your loved one(s). You would usually need to prepare around US$180–250 per day per person. Kids under 10 get 30–50% off.

With 20+ years of experience working on customized tours, travelling with us allows you to enjoy our premium service and our exclusive activities. For example, with our expertise, we've handpicked the perfect hotels from a vast selection, tailored to your preferences —whether you're looking for a family-friendly atmosphere or an adult-only retreat. What's more, we often have better prices or upgrade services for the same hotel.

Visit Vietnam and Cambodia with Us

We once created over 10,000+ big trips, mostly for families and couples. So we specialize in creating bespoke milestone trips, whether it's your 25-year anniversary, 60-year birthday, or retirement...

Simply sit back and use our Create My Trip service. Your expert will contact you with a personalized private tour within 24 hours! Take inspiration from the following hand-picked private tours:

• 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!
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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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What you need to know before visiting Cambodia: health care, currency, and culture

Mar 26, 2022 • 7 min read

From what to pack to being prepared for health and safety concerns, here's what you need to know ahead of a trip to Cambodia © Jim Purdum / Getty Images

Cambodia is considered one of the friendliest countries in Southeast Asia . Thanks to an unbreakable spirit and infectious optimism, the Khmers have prevailed. No visitor comes away without a measure of admiration and affection for the inhabitants of this enigmatic kingdom. 

General health is more of an issue here than in many other parts of Southeast Asia, due to a lack of international-standard medical-treatment facilities, a prevalence of tropical diseases, and poor sanitation. Once you venture into rural areas you are on your own, although most provinces have a reasonable clinic for minor health problems.

Cambodia is generally a very safe country to visit, but occasional crimes and scams do happen so it is best to minimize the risks where possible. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning once again, this guide can help you plan the essentials for your trip.

Cambodia's use of currency can be confusing 

Cambodia’s official currency is the riel (4000r = US$1). The US dollar is used as a parallel currency and accepted everywhere, although small change may arrive in riel. Just to confuse matters, in towns bordering Thailand Thai baht (B) is also accepted.

Get yourself a  krama  as soon as you arrive

Purchase a krama , a traditional Cambodian checked scarf, as soon as you arrive – it's a multipurpose travel towel that the locals use in a multitude of ways. The primary use is protection from the sun, dust, and wind, but you can also use it as a quick cover-up sarong-style, to towel yourself down after a dip in the pool, and as a makeshift pillow. Essentially the list is as long as your imagination and it takes up virtually no space in your backpack compared to the multiple equivalent products it dupes.

Pack lightweight gear and casual clothes for Cambodia

Lightweight and loose-fitting clothes are the best plan in Cambodia, including cottons and linens to combat the humidity. Cambodia is not a particularly dressy place unless you're spending time at high-end bars and clubs in  Phnom Penh or Siem Reap , so smart clothes are rarely a necessity. If heading to the upland northeast in November to March, pack a warm top for the cool nights. 

What to pack

• Lightweight, light-colored clothing to reflect the sun
• Comfortable sandals or shoes
• Refillable water bottle
• Powerful sunscreen and long-lasting deodorant
• Earplugs to block out the noise
• Unlocked mobile phone for use with a Cambodian SIM card (roaming charges are very expensive, it’s worth buying a cheap SIM upon arrival)
• A light raincoat if traveling in the wet season.

There is some important etiquette to keep in mind

Cambodian people are very gracious hosts, but there are some important spiritual and social conventions to observe.

Always be respectful at a Buddhist site 

When visiting temples, cover up to the knees and elbows, and remove shoes and any head covering when entering temple buildings. Sit with your feet tucked behind you to avoid pointing them at Buddha images. It's also good to leave a small donation. Women should never touch a monk or his offering bowl – the Buddhist faith believes it is contrary to a monk's sacred vows to be in close proximity to a woman that isn't a relative.

Use the local greeting when meeting new people

Called the sompiah , the local greeting in Cambodia involves putting your hands together in a prayer-like manner. Use this when introduced to new Khmer friends. When beckoning someone over, always wave towards yourself with the palm down.

Bargaining is expected in markets and for transportation

It's important to haggle in markets in Cambodia, otherwise, the stallholder may "shave your head" (local vernacular for "rip you off"). Negotiation is also the rule when arranging share taxis, pickups, and local transportation like tuk tuks if ordering in person and not via a ride-hailing app. The Khmers are not ruthless hagglers, so a persuasive smile and a little friendly quibbling are usually enough to get a price that's acceptable to both you and the seller.

It's important to dress modestly 

Avoid wearing swimsuits or scant clothing around towns in Cambodia, even in beach destinations. Wear a sarong or krama to cover up.

Tipping is appreciated

Tipping is not essential but is commonplace in establishments catering to tourists such as hotels and restaurants, and it is standard practice to tip tour guides and drivers on organized tours. 

Local health care in Cambodia is basic

Do not visit Cambodia without medical insurance. Hospitals are very basic in the provinces and anyone who has a serious injury or illness while in Cambodia may require emergency evacuation to Bangkok. If you fall seriously ill in Cambodia you should head to Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, as these are the only places in the country with decent emergency treatment. 

Pharmacies in the larger towns are remarkably well stocked and you don’t need a prescription to get your hands on anything from antibiotics to antimalarials. 

When it comes to tap water, play it safe and avoid it where possible. Bottled water is widely available in Cambodia and many hotels and guesthouses have refill tanks. Ice is generally fine to use, as it is produced in bottled water factories around the country, a legacy of the French colonial period.

Elephant rides are not recommended

Though not yet illegal in Cambodia, elephant rides have been repeatedly called out by animal welfare groups as cruel and painful for the animal – some private companies are finally rethinking the practice . Do your research to ensure any animal sanctuary you'd like to visit is ethical and prioritizes the welfare of the inhabitants.  

Stay safe in Cambodia with these top tips

The most common crime is bag or mobile-phone snatching, usually perpetrated by thieves on motorcycles. Smartphones are a particular target, so avoid using your phone on the side of the street, especially at night. Walking or riding alone late at night is not ideal, as there have been several incidents of solo women travelers being assaulted in isolated areas, usually after dark.

Most scams are fairly harmless, involving a bit of commission here and there for local drivers. There have been one or two reports of police set-ups in Phnom Penh, involving planted drugs, but these seem very rare and usually involve business owners. Beware the Filipino blackjack scam – don't get involved in any gambling with seemingly friendly folks unless you want to part with plenty of cash.

There is quite a lot of fake medication floating about the region, so only buy prescription drugs from reliable pharmacies or clinics. Be very careful if being offered chemical drugs on the street in Cambodia, as not only are they illegal but may be laced with all sorts of dangerous toxic substances. 

Due to the presence of landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) in some rural areas, it is essential to stick to marked paths. Keep a close eye on small children in rural areas to make sure they don't stray and do not go off road if you're cycling.

Roads have improved massively in recent years, but conditions can vary widely from the dry to the wet season. Although motorcycles are a popular way to get around in Cambodia, do not attempt it if you're not an experienced driver. The tangled traffic in the big towns and cities is no place for a novice.

Run through this pre-departure checklist before you go

• Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months or you won't be allowed into Cambodia
• Arrange any recommended inoculations at a travel-health clinic
• Purchase travel insurance with decent health coverage
• Double-check to see if you need to arrange a visa before arrival

You might 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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Nov 17, 2023 • 5 min read

Leadership in Data-Driven Travel Insights: Deciphering 12Go's Top 2024 New Year Destinations in Asia

In a sector as dynamic as travel, leadership is often demonstrated not through sheer market presence but through the strategic use of data to guide decision-making and customer experience. This form of leadership is vividly exemplified in 12Go 's recent revelation of the top travel destinations for the 2024 New Year in Asia , a list meticulously compiled through a thorough analysis of their extensive travel data. 

12Go, known for its focus on leveraging travel statistics and data, has taken a leadership stance in the industry by utilizing this data to uncover patterns and preferences in travel. Their approach goes beyond traditional travel metrics, delving into the nuances of traveler behavior and destination popularity. This level of detail provides an invaluable resource for understanding current trends in the travel market. 

Unveiling the Top Destinations  

The insights derived from 12Go’s data paint a vivid picture of the diverse travel preferences across Asia. The range of destinations and the specific attractions they offer reflect the varied interests of modern travelers. 

Thailand: Topping the list, Thailand offers a plethora of experiences. The historical and cultural allure of Chiang Mai, the bustling city life of Bangkok, and the tropical paradises of Koh Phangan and Koh Samui cater to different groups. Chiang Mai, with its cultural festivals and beautiful temples, is a hit among those seeking a cultural immersion, while Bangkok’s shopping, cuisine, and nightlife appeal to a wide range of travelers. For those seeking a more laid-back beach experience, Koh Samui's family-friendly resorts and Koh Phangan's vibrant party scene are unmatched. 

Vietnam: In second place, Vietnam's blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a top choice. Da Nang with its scenic beaches and bridges, Hanoi's rich history, and the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City offer varied experiences. Sapa, with its mountainous landscape, provides a serene retreat, especially for families seeking a quiet holiday. 

The Philippines: Ranking third, the Philippines promises a unique blend of urban and natural attractions. Manila's cityscape, El Nido’s pristine beaches, Legazpi's adventurous offerings for solo travelers, Coron’s romantic settings for couples, and El Baguio's family-friendly appeal make it a destination with something for everyone. 

India: Taking the fourth spot, India’s diversity shines through in its popular New Year destinations. Agra’s iconic Taj Mahal, Jaipur’s royal heritage, Delhi’s historical landmarks, and Goa’s festive beaches present a spectrum of choices for travelers. 

Cambodia: At number five, Cambodia offers a mix of urban and historical attractions. Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, and Siem Reap each offer unique experiences, from urban explorations to ancient temple visits. 

Other notable destinations in the list include Indonesia, renowned for Bali’s cultural landscape and the Gili Islands’ serene beaches; Sri Lanka, with its charming towns like Ella and Kandy; Laos, offering the tranquility of Vang Vieng and the cultural richness of Luang Prabang; Malaysia, known for the diverse experiences of Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Langkawi; and Japan, where Osaka’s vibrant streets, Tokyo’s modernity, and Kyoto’s historical charm provide a captivating New Year getaway. 

Leadership in Navigating and Influencing Travel Choices  

12Go’s findings reflect a leadership quality in providing tailored travel experiences. By identifying particular destinations that resonate with various traveler groups - solo adventurers, families, or couples - 12Go demonstrates a deep understanding of their customer base. This level of customization in travel recommendations is a prime example of leadership through customer-centricity. 

The leadership shown by 12Go extends to influencing and navigating travel choices during significant global challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Their ability to provide relevant and timely travel insights despite these challenges underscores a commitment to reliable and adaptive leadership in the travel domain. 

The 2024 New Year travel data analysis by 12Go is a clear indication of leadership through data utilization in the travel industry. It highlights how an in-depth understanding of travel trends and customer preferences, underpinned by solid data, can lead to informed and customer-focused travel solutions. This approach not only sets a precedent for others in the industry but also enhances the overall travel experience for consumers looking for their next destination.