How to plan a trip to Cambodia

Thinking about Cambodia? It’s an adventure full of history, culture, and unforgettable sights. From the incredible Angkor Wat to the energetic streets of Phnom Penh, this guide breaks down everything you need to know for your first visit. Whether it’s the right time to go, where to stay, or what to see, here’s how to plan a trip to Cambodia.

Step 1: Define your trip's parameters

When to do this: 4-6 months before (6+ months if traveling November-February)

The first step in planning your trip is figuring out the basics: when you want to go, how long you’ll stay, and what kind of experience you’re after. It helps to break it down—start with your travel dates and budget. There’s no rush to plan everything at once, but setting a loose framework early on makes it easier to fill in the details later. 

If you're feeling stuck, checking sample itineraries can give you a sense of what’s realistic for your timeframe and interests (see our 7 days, 10 days, and 14 days Cambodia itineraries).

Decisions to make:

• What time of year to go?
• How much to spend?
• How many days are enough? 

When's the best time to visit Cambodia?

The best time to visit Cambodia is, arguably, the dry season, which runs from November to February, bringing cooler temperatures and little rain. It’s a good time for sightseeing, but also tends to be busier and more expensive. If you’d rather avoid the crowds, March to April and October are good middle ground, though April can be especially hot. 

What month is the rainy season in Cambodia?

May to September is monsoon season, with short but heavy afternoon rains. Mornings are usually dry, so it’s still possible to explore before the showers roll in. The upside is that landscapes are greener, major sights are quieter, and the rain can be a nice break from the heat. If you don’t mind adjusting your schedule a bit, this season can be a good option.

What is the hottest month in Cambodia?

April is typically the hottest month, with temperatures often above 95°F (35°C). Cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap feel especially warm due to humidity and concrete streets. If you’re visiting in April, plan outdoor activities for the early morning or late afternoon and take breaks somewhere cool during the hottest part of the day. This is also when Khmer New Year happens, so you might see street celebrations, temple ceremonies, and water fights across the country.

How much does a trip to Cambodia usually cost?

You can see Cambodia on a range of budgets. Siem Reap tends to be pricier than Phnom Penh, while along the coast,  like in Sihanoukville, you’ll fnd a good mid-range value. Rural areas are the most budget-friendly.

• Budget ($20–50 per day / 80,000–200,000 KHR): You’ll be staying in hostels or basic guesthouses, eating local street food, and getting around by tuk-tuk or public buses. Multi-day passes for major attractions help stretch your money.
• Mid-range ($50–150 per day / 200,000–600,000 KHR): This covers comfortable hotels with pools, meals at mid-range restaurants, and private drivers for day trips. Most travelers find this budget offers a good balance between comfort and cost.
• Luxury ($150+ per day / 600,000+ KHR): High-end resorts, fine dining, private tours, and even helicopter rides over Angkor Wat fall into this category. You’ll get exclusive temple access and personal guides for a more tailored experience.

How many days are enough for Cambodia?

Give yourself at least 7 days to cover the best places to visit in Cambodia. Spend 3–4 days in Siem Reap — not just for Angkor Wat, but for the jungle temples, night markets, and local food. Add 2 days in Phnom Penh for history, riverfront strolls, and a glimpse of modern Cambodia. Use your final day for a trip out to Tonlé Sap Lake or the Killing Fields.

Got more time? With 10 to 14 days, you can slow things down. Head to the southern coast, explore Kampot’s pepper plantations, or lose the crowds at Preah Vihear and other remote temples.

Should I combine my trip to Cambodia with another country?

Southeast Asian experience. Each country has a distinct culture, cuisine, and history, so it’s worth spending time in both.

For an easy combo:

• Siem Reap + Bangkok (just a 1-hour flight)
• Phnom Penh + Ho Chi Minh City (a 6-hour bus ride)

That said, don’t cram too much in—give yourself at least 5 days per country to actually enjoy the experience instead of just checking places off a list.

Step 2: Make your trip "wish list"

When to do this: 4-6 months before

This is the fun part—getting everything down on paper (or map) that you want to see and do. Don’t worry about the details just yet; this is all about dreaming big. Try marking places on a map to visualize where everything is. You might notice that some attractions cluster together, which could help shape your itinerary.

If you're planning with a group, use a shared Google Map or a group chat to keep track of everyone’s must-sees. It’ll help make sure no one’s left out and prevent last-minute disagreements.

What to see at Siem Reap & Angkor Archaeological Park

This area is home to an incredible collection of temples, once the center of the Khmer Empire. Angkor Wat is the star, but other temples like Ta Prohm and Bayon are definitely worth checking out too. Getting there early is key—cooler weather and fewer crowds make a big difference. 

• Angkor Wat (អង្គរវត្ត): This is the largest religious monument in the world, just 7 km from Siem Reap. Best to visit at sunrise for stunning views and to avoid the crowds. The intricate carvings tell Hindu stories, and the upper level offers panoramic views, though you’ll need to dress modestly to access it. It’s worth booking a guide for a deeper understanding of the temple’s symbolism and architecture.
• Ta Prohm (ប្រាសាទតាព្រហ្ម): About 12 km from town, Ta Prohm is famous for its dramatic tree roots wrapping around the ruins. It’s especially atmospheric in the early morning light, and if you’re trying to avoid crowds, go after 2 PM when most tour groups leave.
• Bayon (ប្រាសាទបាយ័ន): Situated 14 km from Siem Reap in Angkor Thom, this temple is known for the 216 giant faces carved into its towers. The bas-reliefs here show scenes of daily life in ancient Cambodia, and the late afternoon light gives great photo opportunities with dramatic shadows.
• Pub Street: Just a 10-minute walk from the Old Market, this pedestrian street is the place to go for Siem Reap nightlife. After dark, the area fills with restaurants, bars, and street food vendors. Skip the tourist-heavy spots and wander into quieter alleys for more authentic Khmer food.
• Angkor National Museum: A short 2 km from the city center, this museum is perfect for learning about the history of the area before you visit the temples. The air conditioning is a welcome break in the midday heat.
• Old Market (Psar Chas): Located in the heart of Siem Reap, this market offers local handicrafts, textiles, and a variety of street food. The northern part of the market is especially good for breakfast foods, and it’s a good spot to visit early in the morning to see the locals shopping for fresh produce.
• Banteay Srei (បន្ទាយស្រី): About 37km from Siem Reap, Banteay Srei is a 10th-century temple carved from pink sandstone. Its intricate reliefs are some of the most detailed in Cambodia. It’s best to go in the morning, and you can combine the visit with a stop at the Landmine Museum on the same route.
• Tonlé Sap Lake: Located 15 km from Siem Reap, this is Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake. Take a boat trip through the floating villages of Kampong Phluk or Mechrey to see life on the lake. Early morning tours are best for cooler temperatures and great photo opportunities.

What are the most important cities to see?

Cambodia’s cities have a mix of old temples, colonial architecture, and modern touches. If it’s your first time visiting, these cities should definitely be on your list. 

• Siem Reap (សៀមរាប): Aside from the temples, Siem Reap has a lot of charm. The French Quarter has some lovely boutique hotels and art galleries, while Kandal Village is full of cool cafes and shops by local designers. You should check out Wat Damnak’s free library if you’re into learning more about Khmer culture—it has the largest public collection of books on the subject outside of Phnom Penh.
• Phnom Penh (ភ្នំពេញ): The capital city is lively, especially along the riverside promenade, Sisowath Quay. You’ll find food vendors and exercise classes at sunset, making it a fun place to hang out. The Central Market is worth a visit for its art-deco style, and Street 240 is great for boutique shopping. If you’re up early, Wat Phnom is a nice spot to see elderly residents practicing tai chi.
• Battambang (បាត់ដំបង): Known for its well-preserved French colonial buildings, Battambang has a great arts scene. You can take a ride on the famous bamboo train or check out some ancient temples. If you’re interested in the city’s history, the colonial walking tour by Kinyei Cafe is a great way to learn more.

Coastal areas and beaches

If you’re planning to spend time at the beach in Cambodia, you will have plenty of choices.

• Sihanoukville Area (ក្រុងព្រះសីហនុ): Home to Cambodia's most developed beaches, including Serendipity Beach and Otres Beach. Clear waters and gentle waves make it perfect for swimming. Victory Beach offers a more local experience with excellent seafood restaurants. Visit Otres Beach 2 during the low season (May-October) for a quieter, more authentic experience.
• Kep (កែប): Famous for its crab market and French colonial villas, Kep Beach offers calm waters and stunning sunsets. The nearby Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay) provides excellent snorkeling opportunities. The town's national park features hiking trails with sea views and ancient ruins.
• Kampot Coast (ក្រុងកំពត): The riverside town opens to the Gulf of Thailand, with secret beaches like Kep Thmey and White Beach. The area is known for its pepper plantations and salt fields. Visit the old French lighthouse at Bokor Mountain for spectacular coastal views.

The best islands of Cambodia

Cambodia has around 60 islands off its coastline, each with its own charm:

• Koh Rong (កោះរ៉ុង): Cambodia's largest island offers pristine white beaches and vibrant marine life. Long Beach stretches for 7km with bioluminescent plankton visible at night. The interior jungle harbors diverse wildlife. Stay in the quieter northern beaches for a more secluded experience.
• Koh Rong Sanloem (កោះរ៉ុងសន្លឹម): The more laid-back sister island to Koh Rong, featuring crystal-clear waters and peaceful beaches. Saracen Bay offers upscale resorts, while M'Pai Bay provides a authentic fishing village experience. Perfect for snorkeling and diving.
• Koh Ta Kiev: An undeveloped paradise just two hours from Sihanoukville. Basic bungalows and tent camping offer a true island experience. The western beach provides spectacular sunsets, while the eastern coast features hidden coves perfect for snorkeling.
• Koh Thmei: Located within Ream National Park, this unspoiled island offers serious wildlife watching opportunities. Bird enthusiasts can spot over 150 species. Basic accommodation in wooden bungalows provides an eco-friendly experience.

Off-the-beaten-path options

For a more authentic experience, you can explore Cambodia’s lesser-known towns and hidden gems. These areas are great to visit and you aren’t likely to find tourist crowds.

• Mondulkiri (មណ្ឌលគិរី): About a 6-hour bus ride from Phnom Penh, Mondulkiri is a mountainous region home to indigenous Bunong people and ethical elephant sanctuaries. You can trek through forests, visit coffee plantations, and stay in traditional longhouses. Bou Sraa waterfall is a must-see, especially in the rainy season when it’s at its most impressive.
• Kratie Dolphin Pools (ក្រចេះ): Located about 5 hours from Phnom Penh, Kratie is known for its Irrawaddy dolphins. Local guides can take you on kayaking tours to see these rare creatures up close. The town also has some historic French colonial buildings and nearby silk-weaving villages you can visit by bike.
• Preah Vihear Temple (ប្រាសាទព្រះវិហារ): This temple sits on a clifftop, offering amazing views of both Cambodia and Thailand. It’s about a 4-hour drive from Siem Reap, and you’ll often see locals picnicking here at sunset. If you’re looking for authentic Khmer food, stop by the nearby village of Sra’aem.
• Kampong Cham (កំពង់ចាម): A quiet riverside town about 3 hours from Phnom Penh, Kampong Cham has French colonial buildings and ancient temples. One highlight is the bamboo bridge, which is rebuilt every year. You can also join locals for sunrise exercises along the Mekong River promenade.

Step 3: Start any administrative tasks

When to do this: 3-6 months before (or longer depending on your country)

It’s always a good idea to get the administrative tasks out of the way early. Sorting out things like visas, vaccinations, and other necessary paperwork in advance can save you time and stress later on. A common mistake people make is waiting until the last minute to handle these tasks, and that can cause unnecessary delays. Getting them done ahead of time just makes everything easier.

Decisions to make:

• Do you need a visa?
• Do you need travel insurance?
• What vaccines or paperwork do you need to gather?

Do you need a visa to go to Cambodia?

Most visitors need a visa to enter Cambodia. The e-visa (available at evisa.gov.kh) is the most convenient option for tourists, valid for a 30-day stay. Alternatively, visas are available on arrival at major entry points like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh airports. Bring US dollars, a passport photo, and ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining. Some land border crossings only accept visas on arrival.

The e-visa typically processes within 3 business days, though applying at least a week before travel is recommended. Print multiple copies of your e-visa, as you'll need them for entry and at various checkpoints. Processing can be expedited to 24 hours for an additional fee.

What vaccines do you need to go to Cambodia?

You'll need Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and your routine vaccines (like MMR and DPT). Depending on your travel plans, your doctor might also suggest hepatitis B and Japanese encephalitis. It's best to get your vaccines at least 4-6 weeks before you leave. Make sure you bring your vaccination record along with your travel documents, even though it’s rarely checked at the border.

Make sure to check our Cambodia travel health tips

Should you bring malaria tablets?

Malaria risk is mostly found in rural areas and near the Thai border, especially around Preah Vihear. Cities like Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and the coastal areas have a very low risk. You should check with your travel doctor to see if you need malaria tablets based on your itinerary. If you're sticking to the cities and temples, you probably won’t need them, but it's a good idea to use mosquito repellent and wear long sleeves at dawn and dusk.

Step 4: Plan your route through Cambodia

When to do this: 2-4 months before

It’s helpful to figure out the main details of your trip early on. Having a clear idea of things like transport and how long you’ll stay in each place means you won’t waste time or miss out on what you want to do. One thing to avoid is not leaving enough buffer days—you’ll want a little flexibility in case plans change.

Decisions to make:

• How many places can you visit during your trip?
• How will you travel from place to place?
• How many days of your trip do you want to be traveling?

How do you get around Cambodia?

You’ve got options for getting around Cambodia, from flights to buses to boats. The main cities are connected by comfortable, air-conditioned buses, and tuk-tuks or motorcycle taxis (remorks) are great for short trips in town. Many people also hire a private driver for longer journeys between cities, which gives you the freedom to stop along the way. It’s best to book through your hotel or a reliable company to make sure you get a good vehicle and an English-speaking driver.

Is it better to fly or take a bus in Cambodia?

Flying is quicker, but it comes with a higher price tag. For example, the flight from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap is about 45 minutes, while the bus takes around 6 hours. Buses are a better deal, plus they give you a chance to see the countryside. That said, night buses aren’t always the best choice for safety reasons. If you’re traveling for more than 6 hours, flying might make more sense to save time.

Can you travel Cambodia by boat?

Yes, boats are an option between Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Battambang, but only during the high-water season (July to February). The boat ride from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap is scenic, and it takes about 6-8 hours. The downside is that boat services can be unreliable during the dry season when the water levels are low. For short local trips, you can also take smaller boats to floating villages or nearby islands.

How many days should you spend in each place?

This will look a little different for each person, but here’s a general guideline. Try to keep 1-2 flexible days each week to accommodate any surprises or just to rest when you need it.

• Siem Reap & Angkor Wat: Plan for 3-4 days. You’ll want 2-3 days to explore the temples and 1 day to check out the town.
• Phnom Penh: 2-3 days is enough to visit the main sights and soak in the vibe of the capital.
• Beach and island stays: A minimum of 2-3 days per spot, though 4-5 days is great if you want more time to relax.

Step 5: Lock in the major bookings

When to do this: 3-4 months before (or earlier for high season)

Once I know where I want to be more or less, I try to book my flights and accommodation as soon as I can. I find it’s easier to get these large purchases out of the way to really know what I can budget for the rest of the trip. If you wait too long, you might find yourself paying higher prices or missing out on your first choices—especially during busy seasons.

Decisions to make:

• How are you getting to Cambodia?
• Where to stay?

How to save money on plane tickets

To get the best flight prices, try to book 3-4 months ahead, especially if you're traveling during peak season (November-February). Use flexible date searches to see if you can adjust your travel days a bit, and be sure to check airlines like AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, and Cambodia Angkor Air. 

How to get to Cambodia from the US

Most flights from the US will connect through major hubs in Asia, like Bangkok, Singapore, or Seoul. A common route is to fly into Bangkok, then catch a quick flight to Siem Reap or Phnom Penh. Korean Air and EVA Air both have solid connections through Seoul and Taipei. Depending on your layovers, the whole trip can take anywhere from 20 to 30 hours, so be prepared for a long journey.

Where to stay in Siem Reap

If you want to be close to everything, the Old Town/Pub Street area is a great choice, with plenty of restaurants, markets, and nightlife. For something a bit quieter, head to Wat Bo Road, where riverside hotels offer peaceful gardens, yet you're still just a short walk from the center. If you're into boutique hotels, the Old Market area has a lot of charm. And if you’re after more space, the Airport Road area has larger resorts, though it’s a little further from the main attractions.

Where to stay in Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh has several neighborhoods, each with its own vibe. Riverside (Sisowath Quay) is the most central, making it easy to visit landmarks like the Royal Palace and National Museum, with great views of the Mekong River. If you want a quieter, more relaxed feel, BKK1 is a good option, with cafes, restaurants, and boutique hotels. For a more local experience, the Central Market area is full of street food, markets, and budget guesthouses. 

Best islands to stay on in Cambodia

Cambodia’s islands have a mix of places to stay depending on what kind of experience you’re after. Koh Rong is the largest and has both lively spots like Long Beach as well as quieter areas like Coconut Beach with smaller boutique resorts. 

If you want something more peaceful, Koh Rong Sanloem is a good choice, especially around Saracen Bay, where you’ll find beachfront bungalows and mid-range options. For something simpler, M'Pai Bay has guesthouses and a laid-back vibe. Koh Ta Kiev is perfect for those looking to disconnect, with eco-friendly bungalows and tent camping, with electricity only available in the evenings.

Step 6: Plan and book your activities

When to do this: 2-3 months before

It’s smart to get your activities planned early—it helps you set expectations for your trip and make sure everything fits into your schedule. Booking ahead also gives you access to the best spots and avoids the frustration of missing out on popular experiences. A common mistake is waiting too long to book, especially during peak seasons, and then realizing you’ve missed your chance for key activities.

Decisions to make:

• What activities are most important?
• What attractions need advance booking?

What attractions need advance booking?

These are some of the best things to do in Cambodia, so you’ll want to make sure you have booked it ahead of time:

• Angkor Wat sunrise photography pass (Siem Reap): If you want exclusive early access for a sunrise shoot, you’ll need to book this 3 days in advance through your hotel or a licensed operator. They limit it to 100 visitors daily, and entry starts at 4:30 AM. With premium access, you’ll get to visit special viewpoints, away from the bigger crowds.
• Phare Circus (Siem Reap): Shows tend to sell out quickly, especially during high season, so it's a good idea to book 2-3 weeks ahead for the best seats. The show features talented students from the NGO circus school and runs every night except Sundays.
• Elephant Valley Project (Mondulkiri): Only 12 visitors are allowed each day to ensure a more personal, ethical interaction with elephants. It’s best to book 1-2 months ahead for full-day visits, especially during peak season. You can still do a morning visit with just 48 hours' notice if you're short on time.
• Cooking classes at La Table Khmère (Siem Reap): The morning market tours are limited to 8 participants. It’s a good idea to reserve at least a week in advance during the high season, especially if you want to join the popular morning sessions, which include a trip to the market.

How do you visit Angkor Wat?

To visit Angkor Wat, head to the main entrance on Charles de Gaulle Boulevard to get your passes (bring passport photos). If you’re planning to see the sunrise, aim to arrive by 5 AM to grab a spot by the reflection pool. Start with Angkor Wat at dawn, then visit Bayon before the crowds roll in. The smaller temples are best explored during the midday heat when the larger temples are packed. You might also want to try the “reverse” route, starting at Ta Prohm to avoid the typical tour groups.

What is the best Angkor Wat pass to buy?

The three-day pass ($62) is probably the best value—it gives you enough time to explore without rushing and lets you space out visits over the week. The one-day pass ($37) is fine if you're just hitting the highlights, while the seven-day pass ($72) works best for serious photography. You can also buy your pass after 5 PM for sunset access, and that counts toward your full day.

Should you get a guide for Angkor Wat?

A licensed guide is a good idea, especially if it's your first time visiting. They’ll give you insights into the temples' history and significance, which can really make the experience richer. You can book a guide through your hotel or the official guide association, and they typically charge $60-80 per day. English-speaking guides can fill up during the busy season, so booking ahead is important. If you want more flexibility, a private guide can adjust your schedule and help you avoid the larger crowds.

Where to go to learn about Cambodia's history

The Angkor National Museum in Siem Reap is a great spot to learn about the temples' historical context. It has galleries showcasing Khmer artifacts and multimedia exhibits explaining the rise and fall of Angkor, which will help you appreciate the temples much more.

For a look at Cambodia’s more recent history, head to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) in Phnom Penh. The museum’s audio guide features survivor testimonies and historical context from the Khmer Rouge era. It’s heavy, so it’s best to visit early in the day when it’s quieter. The nearby Killing Fields of Choeung Ek is another important stop, with an excellent audio tour that explains the tragic events and Cambodia’s healing process. It’s a deeply emotional experience, so it’s a good idea to leave some free time afterward to reflect.

Cultural experiences in Cambodia

Cambodia’s living culture is easy to find in its monasteries, villages, and markets. Here are a few authentic ways to immerse yourself in local traditions:

In Siem Reap, you can visit local families in the outskirts to learn how to make traditional palm sugar, a practice that dates back generations. From December to April, they climb palm trees at dawn to collect sap and reduce it over wood fires. This can be arranged through community tourism groups in Preah Dak village.

You can also spend time at a Buddhist monastery stay in Battambang, where you can join monks for alms rounds and meditation. This practice is central to Cambodian spirituality. Book your overnight stay through Wat Kor monastery about two weeks in advance.

In Kampong Chhnang, master potters in Andong Russey village are happy to teach you about traditional Khmer ceramics, using clay from the nearby Tonle Sap Lake. You can arrange a visit through the Kampong Chhnang Artisans Association.

If you’re near Phnom Penh, you can head to Silk Island (Koh Dach) to see traditional silk weaving firsthand. The weavers there use centuries-old methods and you can join in the process of dyeing and weaving, learning about the patterns that have cultural meaning. Morning visits are best for good light and a closer look at the intricate work.

Adventure activities in Cambodia

If you’re looking for some adventure while in Cambodia, here are a few options:

• Zip-lining through Angkor Park (Siem Reap): Soar above the jungle canopy on a 1km course featuring 21 platforms. The unique aerial perspective of ancient temples combines adventure with archaeological wonder. Early morning flights offer cooler temperatures and better wildlife spotting opportunities.
• Mountain biking in Phnom Kulen (Siem Reap Province): Navigate single-track trails through dense jungle to hidden temples and waterfalls. Local guides share knowledge of medicinal plants and wildlife. Best experienced during the dry season from November to February.
• Rock climbing in Kampot: Scale limestone cliffs overlooking pepper plantations and the Gulf of Thailand. Routes suit all levels, from beginner to advanced. Climbers Paradise offers gear rental and guided experiences with safety-certified instructors.
• Kayaking the 4000 islands (Si Phan Don): Paddle through flooded forests and around river islands, spotting rare Irrawaddy dolphins. Best water conditions from July to January. Local guides know the safest channels and dolphin hotspots.

Best hiking trails and national parks

Cambodia has some great hiking options if you enjoy exploring on foot:

• Phnom Kulen National Park (ភ្នំគូលេន): Sacred mountain featuring ancient temples, waterfalls, and the River of 1000 Lingas. Best visited November-February. The 5 km Thousand Lingas Trail follows the sacred river, while the Peak Trail offers panoramic views of the Angkor plain.
• Kirirom National Park (ឧទ្យានជាតិគិរីរម្យ): Pine forests and mountains providing cool relief from lowland heat. Popular December-February. The 3-hour Pine View Trail offers scenic vistas, while the Chambok Community Trail includes local village visits.
• Virachey National Park (ឧទ្យានជាតិវីរជ័យ): Remote wilderness along the Laos-Vietnam border featuring pristine rainforest and indigenous communities. Best March-May. Multi-day treks follow the Gan Yu Trail through traditional villages and waterfalls.

What should you eat in Cambodia?

Cambodian food is all about balancing flavors—sweet, sour, salty, and bitter—and it’s known for using fresh herbs and spices. Rice is a key part of every meal, reflecting the country’s agricultural roots. The food here has a subtle, delicate flavor compared to its Thai and Vietnamese neighbors, with prahok (fermented fish paste) and kroeung (herb paste) as staples.

A few of my favorites:

• Fish Amok (Sugar Palm Restaurant, Siem Reap): A traditional Cambodian dish that combines river fish with coconut curry, steamed in banana leaves. The version at Sugar Palm is well-balanced, thanks to their family-recipe kroeung spice paste.
• Kuy Teav Phnom Penh (Kuy Teav Phnom Penh Tek Leng, Street 130): A clear rice noodle soup with pork, shrimp, and fish balls. It’s served early in the morning, and the pork bone broth is made with years of expertise, topped with fresh herbs and fried garlic.
• Kampot Pepper Crab (Kimly Restaurant, Kep): Fresh crab stir-fried with the famous Kampot green peppercorns. It’s best to go at sunset when the fishing boats return with the day’s catch, and they’ve been serving up their secret sauce for generations.
• Num Banh Chok (Royal Independence Gardens, Siem Reap): Fresh rice noodles in a fish-based green curry, served with wild herbs and flowers. If you’re up early, join locals for breakfast when the noodles are freshest.

Best street food

Street food is a big part of the Cambodian experience, and it’s available during early mornings and evenings. In Phnom Penh, Street 13 near the Night Market is great for grilled skewers and papaya salad. In Siem Reap, Road 60 comes alive at night with grilled meats and seafood.

To stay safe, look for busy stalls with a high turnover, as they’re more likely to serve fresh food. Many vendors specialize in just one dish, and these are often the best options.

Step 7: Handle the last details

When to do this: 1 month before

With most of your trip planned, what’s left are the last couple details. Deciding on things like insurance, how you'll stay connected, and what to pack helps avoid last-minute stress. It also means you're less likely to forget something important, so you're ready for whatever comes up.

Decisions to make:

• How do you stay connected?
• What should you pack?
• Other details to check

Should you get travel insurance for Cambodia?

Travel insurance is essential for Cambodia, especially for medical coverage since healthcare facilities can be basic, particularly outside major cities. You’ll want a policy that covers emergency evacuation to Bangkok or Singapore for serious health issues. If you’re planning to rent a motorcycle, make sure it includes coverage for that, too. Also, check if your policy covers temple climbing activities at Angkor – some higher-end hotels require insurance proof for adventure activities.

How do you stay connected in Cambodia?

You’ll find SIM cards from Cellcard or Smart at the airport and in convenience stores. They have solid coverage and affordable data packages, though you’ll need your passport to buy one. If you want an alternative, eSIMs are available, but they tend to cost more. Wi-Fi is generally reliable in hotels and cafes, though the speed can vary. A good tip is to download offline maps and temple guides before you arrive, especially for more remote areas. It’s also worth bringing a portable battery pack for long days at the temples.

What currency is used in Cambodia?

Cambodia uses both US dollars and Cambodian riel (KHR). For bigger purchases, USD is the way to go, but for smaller transactions and change, you’ll use riel. ATMs in major cities will give you both currencies, but they can charge high fees. You’ll get better rates at banks or official money changers compared to hotels. It’s a good idea to carry a mix of large and small bills, all in good condition, and keep some cash on hand for emergencies.

What should you pack for Cambodia?

You’ll want lightweight, breathable clothes, especially things that cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples. Sturdy walking shoes are a must for exploring temples, and flip-flops work well for downtime. Pack a hat, high-SPF sunscreen, and insect repellent. When visiting temples, conservative dress is required – think long skirts or pants and sleeved shirts. If you’re traveling during the rainy season (May-October), bring quick-dry clothing and a lightweight rain jacket. A reusable water bottle and power bank are also helpful for long days exploring.

Planning a trip to Cambodia with kids

Cambodia has more than just temples to keep kids entertained. They can enjoy interactive exhibits at the Angkor National Museum, take cooking classes, or try pottery workshops. It’s best to visit the temples in the morning when it’s cooler, and then balance that with some pool time. In the evening, the Phare Circus is a fun activity, and Kongkear Gardens gives kids the chance to try hands-on farming. Look for hotels with pools and family rooms, and try not to schedule too many activities in one day—it’s nice to have some downtime too.

Planning a solo trip

Solo travel in Cambodia is straightforward and rewarding. The country has a solid backpacker scene, and the locals are generally friendly. Hostels in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh have a social vibe and usually organize activities for guests. Joining group tours for temple visits can be a great way to share costs and meet others. Use tuk-tuk drivers recommended by your accommodation, particularly if you’re out at night. If you’re a female traveler, it’s best to take regular safety precautions, especially in the evenings (see our Cambodia travel advice for more info).

Planning a trip with experts

Overwhelmed by all the details? You're not alone. Researching and planning takes time, but with our bespoke travel experiences, you can enjoy a journey designed just for you by a local expert who knows the area inside and out. Plus, you’ll have 24/7 support throughout your trip.

Remember to enjoy

It’s easy to feel like you need to rush through the must-see spots, but some of the best experiences come from slowing down and savoring the quiet moments. Now that you’re all set, let go of the need to check off every box and focus on truly enjoying your time—that's the real magic. For more inspiration, check out our trip ideas gallery.