Cambodia
Discover forgotten temples cloaked in jungle mystery and a warm and welcoming culture.
The first place that springs to mind when thinking of Cambodia is Angkor Wat and the astounding ruins here and visiting these temples is certainly one for the bucket list. Take time to explore the ruins, intertwined with the surrounding jungle and marvel at these incredible structures. Visit at sunrise or sunset for some beautiful and atmospheric views. Not all of Cambodia’s history is so charming and no trip to this country is complete without some understanding of the Khmer Rouge and their terrifying regime.
The capital city of Phnom Penh is a delightful mix of the historical and the modern. Enjoy French colonial architecture and cuisine that combines traditional Khmer and French flavours. Siem Reap, the gateway to the complex of temples at Angkor is also known for its vibrant food scene. Explore delightful street food stalls right up to fine dining restaurants.
For nature lovers, Cambodia has much to offer. The Mekong River starts to form the Mekong Delta in Cambodia and a cruise along these iconic waterways is the perfect way to explore. Experience bucolic Cambodia in all its glory with charming riverside villages, fishing boats and rice paddies. If you prefer to venture inland, Cambodia is home to some spectacular rainforest and the Cardamom Mountain range, one of the largest ranges in Southeast Asia. Discover crashing waterfalls, deep jungle and a variety of birds and wildlife.
Cambodia is not famous for its beaches, but this misplaced reputation is soon forgotten once you experience the coastline. Think tropical white sands, pristine beaches and relatively few visitors. Without doubt our favourite spot is the Koh Rong Archipelago and Song Saa Private Island. Enjoy all that this stunning resort has to offer with luxurious accommodation in a tropical paradise and a strong focus on community and the environment.
Whether you visit Cambodia on its own or easily combine it with one or two other surrounding countries, you will not forget your trip to this captivating, vibrant country.
- Currency
- Time Zone
- Language
- CAPITAL CITY
- NATIONAL DISH
- PEAK TIME
Key Experiences
- Nature
Cruise the Mekong River past rice paddies and riverside villages, or explore the lush rainforests and waterfalls of the Cardamom Mountains, home to diverse birds and wildlife.
- Food & Wine
From vibrant street food in Siem Reap to refined Khmer-French fusion cuisine in Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s culinary scene is full of flavour and character.
- History
Cambodia’s rich and complex history is best experienced at the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor Wat, especially at sunrise or sunset, and through a deeper understanding of the country’s recent past under the Khmer Rouge.
Key Locations
When to Visit Cambodia
Cambodia is a year-round destination, but the dry season from November to April is generally the most comfortable for travel. The country’s rich temples, rivers and beaches can be visited throughout the year.
BEST WEATHER IN Cambodia
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- Good
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Sample Itineraries
Our Cambodia
The Humboldt team’s Cambodia highlights
You simply must try this…
“You can’t go to Cambodia and not try fish amok, the country’s signature dish. It’s a rich, fragrant curry steamed in banana leaves, and I loved how comforting and flavourful it was. Pair it with an ice-cold local beer and you’ve got the perfect taste of Cambodia.”
TRAVEL CONCIERGE
FAQs
A focused trip to Cambodia can be done in 5 to 7 days, particularly if you’re concentrating on the main highlights such as the temples of Angkor, the colonial town of Battambang and the capital Phnom Penh. However, for a more in-depth journey, including time to relax on the southern coast or explore lesser-known cultural sites and countryside, we recommend 10 or more days. Cambodia is a relatively compact country, so travel times are manageable, allowing for a well-paced itinerary even within a shorter timeframe.
Cambodia combines effortlessly with Vietnam, and one of the most rewarding ways to link the two is via a Mekong River cruise. These multi-day journeys between Siem Reap or Phnom Penh and Ho Chi Minh City offer a relaxed, scenic route through rural landscapes, floating markets and traditional riverside villages, providing a unique perspective on both countries. Cambodia also pairs well with Thailand, thanks to good flight connections.
Most travellers, including those from the UK, US, EU, Canada, Australia and New Zealand require a visa to enter Cambodia. Fortunately, visas are easy to obtain either online as an e-visa, or on arrival at international airports and major land borders. The tourist visa typically allows for a stay of up to 30 days. It’s recommended to apply online in advance to avoid any delays upon arrival.
There are no vaccinations legally required for entry into Cambodia, but hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus and MMR vaccines are recommended. Malaria risk is generally low in major tourist areas like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, but precautions may be needed in more remote regions. A consultation with a travel clinic 4 to 6 weeks before departure is the best way to prepare.
Cambodia is considered safe for tourists, especially in well-travelled areas such as Siem Reap, Phnom Penh and Kampot. Petty crime can occur, particularly in cities and crowded markets, so it’s wise to remain vigilant and keep valuables secure. The country is welcoming to foreign visitors, and tourism infrastructure is well developed in key destinations. As with any destination, using reputable guides and transport and being mindful of local customs, helps ensure a smooth trip.
While it’s possible to explore Angkor independently, we strongly recommend visiting with a knowledgeable local guide to fully appreciate the scale, history and symbolism of the temple complex. A guide can help you navigate the more hidden corners of Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm and Bayon, explain the cultural context and time your visits to avoid the busiest periods.
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