Beneath the Cardamom Mountains or on the banks of the Mekong, Khmer village life goes on pretty much as it always has (give or take the odd iPhone). And when you’re watching a sunrise over Angkor Wat or the ruins of Tha Promh, the modern world feels a long way off. While progress was for years dampened by a tragic history, Cambodia is now a country on the move. With riverside boulevards and art galleries popping up in Phnom Penh, and Siem Reap’s growing reputation for hip cafes and dining, Cambodia tours aren’t all about the temple-gazing (although we have to admit, the gazing is pretty darn good!).
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Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.
Depending on which trip you're on while in Cambodia, you may find yourself travelling by:
Take the slow road and see Cambodia from the ground level while being pedalled through the streets by a friendly cyclo rider.
The Cambodian version of the tuk tuk is a fun way to get around and perfect for short trips.
Get to know the countryside of Cambodia while riding a bicycle. Glide past fields of rice and wave hello to passing locals.
Travelling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavour to provide travellers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.
When travelling with us in Cambodia you may find yourself staying in a:
Experience rural life while staying with a local family. Make new friends, eat traditional, home-cooked meals and explore the Cambodian countryside.
E-VISAS
E-visas are now available for most nationalities through the official website: www.evisa.gov.kh
Please note there have been reports of fraudulent e-visa websites that mimic the official site. Intrepid recommends only using the official website listed above or arranging your visa through your booking agent.
VISA ON ARRIVAL
Visa on arrival is available for most nationalities at airports or land border crossings for approx. US$30 (cost subject to change). You will need a passport photo for your visa.
OTHER VISAS
If you are not eligible for an e-visa or visa on arrival you may need to submit an application through your local consulate. Allow up to 3 weeks for processing.
Tipping isn’t expected in Cambodia, but is appreciated. Feel free to tip drivers and restaurant staff if you feel the service has been good.
Internet access is growing in Cambodia. Internet cafes are easily found in large cities, but the speed may be slower than what you’re used to.
Mobile phone coverage is generally good in Cambodia’s urban areas, but may not be available in rural areas. Ensure global roaming is activated with your service provider before leaving home.
Squat toilets are the most common in Cambodia, but western-style toilets can be found in large hotels and in tourist areas. Be prepared to pay a small fee when visiting public toilets, and always carry your own toilet paper and soap as they are usually not provided.
Cambodia's unit of currency is the riel. Prices here are approximate and shown in US dollars for ease of comparison.
Street snack = USD 0.50–1
Bottle of local beer = USD 1.50
Simple meal at a local restaurant = USD 5–10
Sit-down dinner at a nice restaurant = USD 25–50
Drinking tap water isn’t recommended in Cambodia. Remember to avoid drinks with ice and to peel fruit before eating it. Help the environment and try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, fill a reusable water bottle with filtered water. Ask your leader or the hotel where to find filtered water.
Credit cards are usually accepted by modern hotels, large retailers and tourist sites but are less commonly accepted by smaller shops, cafes and market stalls in rural areas. Always carry enough cash for smaller purchases in case credit cards are not an option.
ATMs are widely available in larger cities, like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, but are less common in small villages or rural areas. Make sure you have enough cash before leaving urban areas.
Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.
For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance
For a current list of public holidays in Cambodia go to:
https://www.worldtravelguide.net/guides/asia/Cambodia/public-holidays/
Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.
Cambodia is not always an easy country to travel to for people with mobility or vision disabilities, due to uneven and often broken footpaths, bumpy and potholed roads, crowded public transport and steps galore at temples. In saying this, local people are extremely hospitable and are likely to help out any travellers in need. The country’s biggest drawcard, the temples of Angkor, has had some ramps added in recent years but the paths are generally uneven and stairs challenging even for travellers without disabilities. Siem Reap and Phnom Penh airports have had recent upgrades in terms of wheelchair ramps and some higher end hotels may have accessible rooms. Many guesthouses and hotels have ground floor rooms although may not have other accessible facilities. Taxi and remorks can be easily and affordably hired to get around for city tours.
Everyone should feel comfortable when they travel with Intrepid and we know that many of our travellers are part of the LGBTQI community. It’s important for our travellers to be aware of the local laws and customs in the destinations we visit as some countries have laws that discriminate against LGBTQI people. We recommend you visit Equaldex and/or ILGA before you choose your trip for up-to-date advice and information about LGBTQI-related laws.
On the whole, Cambodia is a hassle-free destination for LGBTQI-travellers. The former King was a keen supporter of equal rights for same-sex partners, and as a result, most of the population is fairly accepting. Both Phnom Penh and Siem Reap have small gay scenes, though they are decidedly more low-key compared to some parts of Asia. Be aware that Cambodian people typically do not engage in public displays of affection, regardless of sexual orientation.
If you are travelling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travellers who do not wish to share a room.
Cambodia has two types of weather: hot, and hot and wet. Loose, breathable clothing will be appropriate year-round, and if you’re travelling from June through to the beginning of November, you’ll want to pack a raincoat.
Intrepid is committed to travelling in a way that is respectful of local people, their culture, local economies and the environment. It's important to remember that what may be acceptable behaviour, dress and language in your own country, may not be appropriate in another. Please keep this in mind while travelling.
Friends-International helps marginalised youth and their families in south-east Asia, and around the world, build a better future.
Learn more about Friends-International
Rehash Trash is a social enterprise that provides a safe place for disadvantaged women to learn a skill and earn an income, while at the same time cleaning up the environment.
We have a variety of similar destinations, trips and routes that you could consider! Tie another trip into your holiday, or, see how we can help you get from A to B. We have tours departing from a variety of locations within Cambodia. The options below may be of interest: