Cambodia tours & holidays
From tree-tangled temples to sizzling street food, Cambodia has adventure written all over it
In the shadow of the Cardamom Mountains or along the banks of the Mekong, village life follows traditions that have lasted generations. And when you’re watching the sunrise over Angkor Wat or exploring the ruins of Ta Promh, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to an ancient era. Despite its tragic past, the Khmer people are resilient, welcoming and eager to share their culture. Phnom Penh’s riverside boulevards and galleries are thriving, and Siem Reap continues to grow as a foodie hotspot. A Cambodia trip is so much more than temple-hopping – though we must admit, the temples are pretty darn spectacular.
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Cambodia at a glance
CAPITAL CITY
Phnom Penh (population 2.5 million)
POPULATION
17.5 million
CURRENCY
Cambodian riel (KHR)
LANGUAGE
Khmer
TIME ZONE
(GMT+07:00) Bangkok, Hanoi, Jakarta
CALLING CODE
+855
ELECTRICITY
Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type C (European 2-pin)
Learn more about Cambodia
Best time to visit Cambodia
Cambodia has a distinct wet and dry season with high humidity and consistent temperatures of 20°C to 30°C all year. The north generally experiences slightly colder winters (dry seasons) than the south. It’s a true year-round destination, with each season having its advantages.
The dry season (November to May) is the most popular season to travel by far, as showers usually only occur in the late afternoon and for a matter of minutes before passing over. The wet season (June to October) is still a great time to visit, as the paddies are extra lush, Angkor Wat's moats are full of water and floating villages are, well, even more floaty. Crowds tend to be smaller across the country, too.
History and culture
Various empires arose in Cambodia's early history, with the Funan and Chenla Kingdoms reigning before the rise of the Khmer Empire from the 9th to the 13th centuries. The Khmer Empire is regarded as one of the most powerful in history. Many of Cambodia's artistic and archaeological treasures from this era, including the temples of Angkor, have inscriptions that provide fascinating insights into daily life, religious ceremonies and military exploits of the time.
There are many theories about the Khmers' decline. Likely, a combination of drought, the Plague and the rise of neighbouring Thai superpower Ayutthaya resulted in its decline from the 15th century onwards.
The events that shaped Cambodia’s recent history began with the Communist Party of Kampuchea overpowering the Khmer Republic after more than 100 days of fighting. What followed was a radical and brutal change in society under Pol Pot's Khmer Rouge regime. Awful atrocities were committed against civilians, religion and education were repressed, currency was abolished, and people were forced to work in the fields.
Almost two million people died at the hands of the Khmer Rouge before they were overcome by the Vietnamese Army in 1979 and the People’s Republic of Kampuchea was established.
Despite a tragic past, Cambodians are known for being some of the warmest, most hospitable and humble people in the world, and continue to gain strength from a burgeoning tourism industry. The enduring spirit of Khmer culture is based on tradition, honouring ancestors, respecting elders and living a life of honesty, humility and kindness.
Most Khmer people are Buddhist. Monks are highly respected and religious festivals and ceremonies are central to daily life. Expect to see orange-robed monks and many displays of faith, from people visiting elaborate temples to praying over shrines. Traditional Khmer customs are also sustained through dance, art and festivals.
Geography and environment
Bordered by Vietnam, Thailand and Laos, much of Cambodia is covered by forested area, although sadly, this is rapidly changing due to the growth of agriculture and logging. Home to South East Asia’s largest lake, Tonle Sap (Great Lake) connects to the mighty Mekong River. It swells four times its normal size during the monsoon season and is a key food source.
Most of the country is low-lying, except for pockets of mountains in the southwest along the Thai border. Large cities like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh are typically built-up, busy and filled with modern conveniences like nightclubs, bars, public transport and restaurants. Smaller towns and rural areas enjoy more peace and space, with low-density, simple housing and a reliance on agriculture for income.
Eating and drinking
Rice, noodle soups and stir-fries are the main players in Cambodian, or Khmer, cuisine. With culinary influences from Thailand, China and Vietnam, Cambodian cuisine balances salt, sweet, sour and spicy flavours, but is usually not as spicy – with Kampot pepper replacing chilli.
Foods to try in Cambodia
1. Amok
Amok is fish that’s marinated in coconut, ginger, lemongrass and turmeric and steamed in banana leaves. It has a wonderful silky texture and is served with rice. You can also get amok with chicken, tofu or veggies.
2. Nom banh chok
A popular breakfast meal, nom banh chok is a rice noodle soup made with green fish gravy, beansprouts, banana flowers, cucumbers and lots of green veggies.
3. Lap Khmer
Not your typical cold salad, this Khmer specialty is made with thin slices of lightly seared beef dressed with lemongrass, shallots, garlic, fish sauce, herbs, greens and lots of red chillies.
4. Ongkrong saek koo
One of the more palatable insect options you’ll find on a Cambodian menu, this dish is a stir fry of beef, basil, garlic, ginger, lemongrass and lots of ants, topped with chilli and served on a bed of rice.
5. Baguettes
Similar to the Vietnamese banh mi, baguettes are a remnant of Cambodia’s French colonial past. Filled with an assortment of grilled or cold meats, salad and herbs, they make a great low-cost breakfast or snack.
6. Tropical fruit
Jackfruit, mangoes, bananas, pineapple, dragon fruit and watermelon are all plentiful in Cambodia. Get a street vendor to mix up a fresh juice or smoothie for a refreshing treat.
7. Iced coffee
Sweetened with condensed milk, the beloved iced coffee is the drink to try in Cambodia. If the caffeine gets too much, you can always switch to fresh coconuts to quench your thirst.
Must-visit places in Cambodia
1. Angkor Wat
After watching in awe as the sun rises over Angkor Wat temple, join a local guide to uncover the history and mysteries of this incredible 12th-century complex. You may also like to visit a monastery to experience an ancient ritual where you’ll be sprinkled with holy water and blessed with good luck for the rest of your travels.
Experience an ancient ritual in a monastery
2. Tonlé Sap
Known as the Great Lake of Cambodia, Tonle Sap Lake is South East Asia's largest freshwater lake and an essential food source for many Cambodians. Hop in a boat and cruise through floating villages where people live in silted houses, study in floating schools, pray in floating churches and temples, and eat in floating restaurants.
3. Kampot
International chefs regard Kampot’s delicious pepper as the world’s best. Visit the Pepper Project to learn about (and taste!) why it's so famous, explore the ghostly but beautiful buildings near Kep’s waterfront, or enjoy a massage by a blind masseur or masseuse while supporting the local charity, Seeing Hands.
4. Phnom Penh
Welcome to the capital of Cambodia. There’s lots to see and do in Phnom Penh, whether exploring the Royal Palace’s grandeur, feasting on nom banh chok (Khmer noodles) or people-watching at the night market. Many travellers also visit Tuo Sleng Genocide Museum, a former prison of the Khmer Rouge, to learn about Cambodia’s sobering history.
5. Battambang
Discover the well-preserved architecture and welcoming people of Battambang – Cambodia's second-largest city – and its surrounding countryside. Enjoy a leisurely bike ride through villages, join locals for early morning yoga or folk dancing, or learn how to make spicy fried chicken at a cooking class.
6. Siem Reap
The gateway town to the UNESCO-listed Angkor complex has heaps to do once you’ve had your fill of ancient history. Watch a traditional shadow puppetry show, peruse the old market for silks, silver and sarongs, or get to know other travellers and locals over a cold beer on Pub Street. Don’t forget to try amok, the city’s signature dish of steamed fish curry in a banana leaf.
Money matters
Credit cards are usually accepted by hotels, large retailers and shops in tourist areas, but less so by smaller shops and cafes or in rural areas. Always carry enough cash for smaller purchases in case credit card payments aren’t available.
The same goes for ATMs. Ensure you have enough cash before travelling outside urban areas.
Cambodia travel FAQs
Most foreign nationals need a tourist visa to enter Cambodia. You can apply for an e-visa online or get a visa on arrival at Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville airports or the land border crossings between Cambodia and Thailand, Laos and Vietnam.
To enter Cambodia, you may also need:
Valid passport with at least six months of validity after you arrive and at least two blank pages for stamping
Arrival card (completed within seven days of your arrival)
A recent passport photo
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
Tipping isn’t part of Cambodian culture, but it's becoming more common in touristy areas and is appreciated. Feel free to tip drivers and restaurant staff if the service has been good.
Cambodia has two types of weather: hot, and hot and wet. Loose, breathable clothing is appropriate year-round – think: linen, cotton and athletic wear made to repel moisture. If you’re travelling during the monsoon from June to November, you’ll want to pack a lightweight raincoat. A day pack and a comfy pair of trainers and flip-flops/sandals are also essential.
If you’re visiting temples, be sure to cover from shoulder to below the knee – this applies to all genders.
It isn't recommended to drink tap water in Cambodia. Remember to avoid drinks with ice and to peel fruit before eating it. To help the environment, try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, fill a reusable water bottle with filtered water. Your leader or hotel will tell you where to find filtered water.
Internet access is stable and fast in cities and popular tourist destinations, but when you travel to more remote areas, expect it to be patchy or slower.
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 or look into buying a local SIM card.
Squat toilets are 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're not always provided.
Cambodia is generally a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers, but it’s important to be mindful of local customs, particularly in rural areas where conservative attitudes are more common. Public displays of affection – even between heterosexual couples – aren’t common in Cambodian culture, so discretion is advised.
Big cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap tend to be more accepting and have a growing rights movement and venues for LGBTQIA+ people.
We recommend you visit Equaldex or ILGA before you travel.
If you’re travelling with Intrepid, you’ll be roomed with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned to your passport, please let us know when booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some trips for travellers who don’t wish to share a room.
Cambodia is a relatively safe destination for travellers; however, like other popular travel destinations, there are times when visitors should be more cautious. Petty crime and scams can occur in tourist hotspots and in some regional areas, there may be safety advisories to stick to marked paths.
There can also be severe weather in Cambodia, especially during the wet season (July to November), which can see extreme storms and flooding, so keep tabs on the weather if you visit during this time.
Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:
From Australia?
Go to: Smart Traveller
From Canada?
Go to: Canada Travel Information
From the UK?
Go to: UK Foreign Travel Advice
From New Zealand?
Go to: Safe Travel
From the US?
Go to: US Department of State
The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.
Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveller. Trips to Cambodia directly support our foundation partner, Cambodia Rural Students Trust (CRST).
CRST
CRST are helping to break the cycle of poverty by inspiring and empowering children in Cambodia with education opportunities. Donations help them provide their students with the best available education, leadership mentoring and life skills.
Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.
We believe travel should be accessible to everyone. Although some destinations and itineraries may be more accessible than others, we'll do our best to accommodate your needs, make reasonable adjustments where possible or guide you toward the most suitable trips. Get in touch with our friendly adventure consultants to chat about your options.
Our Tailor-Made team can also help you plan a customised trip just for you.