CAMBODIA
TRAVEL GUIDE
Explore the enchanting allure of Cambodia with our comprehensive Cambodia Travel Guide. From the ancient wonders of Angkor Wat to the bustling markets of Phnom Penh, uncover the rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes of this Southeast Asian gem. Whether you seek temple-hopping adventures or serene river cruises, our guide offers essential tips and insights to ensure an unforgettable journey through Cambodia’s diverse tapestry of experience
Cambodia Itineraries
Top 5 Things To See & Do In Cambodia
Need To Know - Cambodia Travel Guide
November to February is the High Season with cooler weather and little to no rain. It is also the busiest time of the year.
April and October is the Shoulder Season. The days are still warm and humid with the rainy season starting late April and tapering off in October.
May to September is the Low Season and the rainy season. This means lots of rain usually in the form of thunderstorms. It also means lush green countryside and less crowds.
Cambodia Travel Guide
Cambodia Travel Guide To Money – US dollar (USD) officially used, Khmer riel (KHR) is only for small transactions.
ATM’s available in cities and larger towns however if travelling in remote or less touristed areas it is advisable to carry cash.
Cambodia Travel Guide
Cambodia Travel Guide To Visas – Most countries require a visa to enter Cambodia unless you are from a visa exempt country (listed below). Other countries can get a visa on arrival or and e-visa. A passport with 6 months validity and a full empty page is required.
** Do not be surprised if when entering via a ‘remote’ border you are charged and extra $1 – $2 as a ‘processing fee’ – this fee is not official but is the way it is so just go with it.
Visa Map
Visa Exempt Countries
- Brunei (14 days)
- Indonesia
- Laos
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- Seychelles (14 days)
- Singapore
- Thailand (14 Days)
- Vietnam
**Information is a guide only do your own research
Cambodia Travel Guide
Cambodia Travel Guide To Getting Around –
Plane
There are airports at Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and limited services to Sihanoukville.
Bus
Travelling by bus is the most common way of getting around Cambodia. Roads between major centres are now (mostly) paved with road house type affairs along the way for food and toilet stops. Coaches travel between the major centres and mini vans ply the less travelled routes. The website Camboticket is a platform that allows you to view and book bus tickets across a multiple of sites.
Local Transport
The quickest and easiest way to get around town is by Tuk Tuk or Taxi motorbike. Flag on down or head to the closest tuk tuk stand.
Boat
Ferries operate seasonally on the major rivers and between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
Train
Cambodia has been restoring its railway and you can now travel on a train between Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville and between Phnom Penh and Poipet on the Thai border. Bookings can be made on the Royal Railway website
Cambodia Travel Guide
Cambodia Travel Guide To Border Crossings – Cambodia shares borders with Thailand, Vietnam and Laos and as such has multiple border crossings which are broken into two types of crossing – international and local which as the names suggest are for either international visitors or locals.
Border that issue visas are listed below, alternately an e-visa can be obtained on line.
Cambodia/Lao borders
Veun Kham/ Dom Kralor
This is the only border crossing between Cambodia and Laos. Both Cambodian and Lao visa on arrival is available.
Cambodia/Thailand borders
There are six border crossing between Cambodia and Thailand.
Aranyaprathet / Poipet
The busiest and most chaotic, disorganised border crossing in Cambodia. Cambodian visa on arrival is available and e-visas are accepted. It can take up to 3 hours to cross so be prepared for a lengthy wait.
Hat Lek / Ko Kong
The best crossing to use if heading to Sihaniukville and the surrounding beaches from the coast of Thailand.
Chong Jom / O Smach
Great for when travelling from Surin in Thailand and Siem Reap in Cambodia. Regular buses run from Surin to the border. Once over the border get a shared taxi to Siem Reap.
Chong Sa Ngam / Anlong Veng
This crossing is very convenient to Anlong Veng but little else. There is no public transport once you cross into Thailand and you will have to hitch a ride to a sizeable town to connect with public transport.
Ban Pakard / Phsa Prum
Rarely used and a long way from anywhere on the Cambodian side. In Thailand mini buses run to Chanthaburi an hour away. Visas are available on arrival.
Ban Laem / Daun Lem
Another rarely used crossing it is 45 minutes from Palin on the Cambodian side. In Thailand mini buses run to Chanthaburi an hour away.
Cambodia/Vietnam borders
Bavet / Moc Bai
The first crossing between Cambodia and Vietnam to open to foreign travellers and still the most popular. Daily buses run from Saigon to Phnom Penh which are both fast and cheap. Cambodian visa on arrival is available here, but Vietnamese visas must be arranged in advance.
Kaam Samnor / Ving Xuong
This is a river border crossing and again is busy and popular. Fast and slow boast travel between the Viet town of Chau Doc and Phnom Penh. At the crossing personal usually take all passports from passengers to passport control to be processed.
Phnom Den / Tinh Bien
This border is open now to foreigners and sits halfway between Ha Tien and Chau Doc. In Cambodia the closest towns are Kampot or Takeo both of which are a couple of hours away. Cambodia visas are available at the border.
Prek Chak / Xa Xia
This is a coastal border although you need a valid Vietnamese visa to enter Vietnam. Cambodian visas are available on arrival.
Le Thanh / O Yadao
A remote crossing linking Ban Lung in northeast Cambodia to Pleiku in Vietnam with the trip taking up to 6 hours. In Vietnam buses run from Pleiku to Duc Co, then get a xe om for the last 20km to the border. From the border to Ban Lung is a trip of about 70km.
** Vietnamese visas are not available at lands crossings and must be obtained before hand.
Cambodia Travel Guide | How To Travel To Cambodia
Cambodia Travel Guide: Your Ultimate How to Travel to Cambodia Resource
Getting Started: How to Travel to Cambodia
When planning your journey to Cambodia, it’s essential to understand the best ways to get there and what to prepare for. Cambodia Travel Guide offers all the information you need to ensure a smooth entry into the country. The most common way to travel to Cambodia is by air, with Phnom Penh International Airport and Siem Reap International Airport serving as the main gateways. Airlines from major cities around the world offer direct flights to these airports, making it convenient for international travelers.
If you’re wondering how to travel to Cambodia from neighboring countries, overland routes are also available. You can cross into Cambodia from Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos via several border checkpoints. However, it’s crucial to have your travel documents in order, including a valid passport and a Cambodian visa, which can be obtained online or upon arrival.
The Cambodia Travel Guide emphasizes the importance of understanding the visa requirements and entry regulations. Depending on your nationality, you may be eligible for a visa-free entry, a visa on arrival, or an e-visa. Researching the visa process in advance will save you time and hassle when you arrive in Cambodia. Additionally, familiarizing yourself with Cambodia’s local customs and etiquette will enhance your travel experience, helping you to navigate the cultural landscape with respect and ease.
Exploring the Best Destinations: A Comprehensive Cambodia Travel Guide
Cambodia is a land of rich history and breathtaking landscapes, offering a diverse range of destinations to explore. From the ancient temples of Angkor Wat to the bustling streets of Phnom Penh, Cambodia Travel Guide is here to help you discover the must-see spots. Angkor Wat, located near Siem Reap, is undoubtedly the crown jewel of Cambodia’s attractions. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the largest religious monuments in the world and a testament to the ingenuity of the Khmer Empire.
When considering how to travel to Cambodia’s top destinations, it’s worth noting that domestic flights, buses, and private tours are available to help you get around. Siem Reap is easily accessible from Phnom Penh, and many travelers choose to fly between the two cities for convenience. However, taking a bus or a private car will allow you to experience Cambodia’s countryside and connect with smaller towns along the way.
The Cambodia Travel Guide also highlights other must-visit locations, such as the coastal town of Sihanoukville, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, and Battambang, famous for its well-preserved colonial architecture and artistic scene. No matter where you go, Cambodia’s warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage will leave a lasting impression.
Practical Tips for Travelers: How to Travel to Cambodia Safely and Efficiently
Safety and efficiency are key when planning your trip, and the Cambodia Travel Guide offers essential tips on how to travel to Cambodia without any hiccups. One of the first things to consider is the best time to visit. Cambodia experiences a tropical climate, with the dry season from November to April being the most popular time for tourists. During this period, you’ll enjoy pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Another crucial aspect of your Cambodia Travel Guide is understanding the local currency and budget considerations. The Cambodian Riel (KHR) is the official currency, but the US dollar is widely accepted throughout the country. It’s advisable to carry small denominations of both currencies for convenience. ATMs are available in major cities, but it’s wise to have cash on hand, especially when traveling to remote areas.
Health and safety are also top priorities when considering how to travel to Cambodia. It’s recommended to get vaccinations for common travel-related diseases such as hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus before your trip. Additionally, purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, theft, and trip cancellations will provide peace of mind during your journey. The Cambodia Travel Guide emphasizes the importance of staying hydrated and protecting yourself from mosquito bites, especially in rural areas.
Immersing Yourself in the Culture: A Cultural Cambodia Travel Guide
Understanding the local culture is a vital part of the Cambodia Travel Guide. When planning how to travel to Cambodia, it’s important to learn about the country’s rich traditions, religions, and customs. Buddhism plays a significant role in Cambodian society, with many locals practicing Theravada Buddhism. Visiting temples requires appropriate attire—covering your shoulders and knees—as a sign of respect.
Learning a few basic phrases in Khmer, the official language, will go a long way in enhancing your travel experience. Simple greetings like “Sous-dey” (Hello) and “Arkun” (Thank you) will be appreciated by locals and can help break the ice. Additionally, being aware of social norms, such as not touching someone’s head or pointing with your feet, will help you avoid cultural misunderstandings.
The Cambodia Travel Guide also suggests exploring local markets to immerse yourself in the country’s culinary delights. Cambodian cuisine, known as Khmer cuisine, offers a variety of flavors, with dishes like Amok (a coconut milk curry) and Bai Sach Chrouk (grilled pork with rice) being popular choices. Street food is also a big part of the local culture, providing an authentic taste of Cambodia’s food scene.
Conclusion: How to Travel to Cambodia with Confidence
This Cambodia Travel Guide has provided a comprehensive overview of how to travel to Cambodia, including tips on getting there, exploring top destinations, staying safe, and immersing yourself in the local culture. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Cambodia offers something for everyone, from its stunning landscapes and historical sites to its warm and welcoming people.
By following the advice in this Cambodia Travel Guide, you’ll be well-prepared for your journey, allowing you to fully enjoy the beauty and charm of this incredible country. Remember to plan ahead, respect local customs, and stay open to new experiences—Cambodia will reward you with memories that will last a lifetime.
