Cambodia, the land of the Khmer kingdom, continues to captivate travelers with its timeless beauty, rich culture, and awe-inspiring landscapes. While Angkor Wat remains the star attraction, this hidden gem offers so much more. From rice paddies and remote jungles to pristine beaches, Cambodia is a destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Join me as we explore the best things to see and do in this enchanting country.
Best Time to Visit Cambodia
When planning your trip to Cambodia, it’s essential to consider the weather. The country experiences four seasons:
- Cool and Dry Season (November-February): This is considered the best time to visit, with sunshine, temperatures in the high 70s°F to low 80s°F (26°C-29°C), and infrequent showers.
- Hot and Dry Season (March-May): Temperatures can reach the upper 90s Fahrenheit (mid-30s Celsius) with high humidity. May marks the transition to the wet season.
- Hot and Wet Season (June-August): Heavy downpours provide relief from the sticky weather, usually occurring in the late afternoon or evening.
- Cool and Wet Season (September-October): Although comfortable temperatures return, this is not an ideal time to visit due to peak rainfall and potential road and beach conditions.
To make the most of your trip, aim for November through February, coinciding with the northern hemisphere’s winter. Be aware that weather patterns have become less predictable in recent years, so it’s always good to check a reliable source for up-to-date information.
How to Get to Cambodia
For international travelers, Cambodia offers three main airports:
- Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH): Located near the capital, it is the country’s main international airport.
- Siem Reap International Airport (REP): Serving the city of Siem Reap, it is the gateway to the famous Angkor Wat.
- Sihanoukville International Airport (KOS): Cambodia’s third-largest international airport, it connects to the beautiful Sihanoukville area.
Consider flying into one airport and departing from another to optimize your travel plans. This reduces the need for long transfers and backtracking. Before booking your flight, check out my tips and tricks for finding the cheapest tickets.
Travel Requirements for Cambodia
Before visiting Cambodia, ensure you meet the entry requirements:
- Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least six months from your date of entry. Damaged passports or missing pages may result in entry refusal.
- Visa: Currently, you need to obtain a visa before arrival. You can apply for a tourist visa online or purchase one at a Cambodian embassy.
To avoid any last-minute surprises, check with your government or the nearest Cambodian embassy or consulate for specific travel requirements.
Getting Around Cambodia
Getting around Cambodia can be comfortable but time-consuming due to narrow roads and traffic. Here are some transportation options:
- Bus: Buses are the cheapest and most convenient way to travel to remote destinations. Several companies operate privately-run buses, such as Phnom Penh Sorya and Capitol Tours.
- Minibus Services: Deluxe minibusses are available for intercity and international routes, offering slightly faster travel times and additional onboard comforts like WiFi and air conditioning.
- Domestic Flights: Domestic flights within Cambodia can save you time. Airlines like Cambodia Angkor Air, Lanmei Airlines, Sky Angkor Airlines, and Bassake Air offer affordable fares if booked in advance.
- Trishaws (Tuktuks): For short journeys within towns and cities, tuktuks are a popular mode of transportation. Always agree on a fare beforehand.
Inspiration, Highlights, and Travel Tips
Cambodia offers a range of experiences that should not be missed:
- Explore the magnificent ruins of Angkor Wat.
- Visit the sobering Killing Fields, a reminder of Cambodia’s tragic past.
- Relax on the stunning beaches of the Koh Rong Archipelago.
- Cruise along the mighty Mekong River.
- Indulge in world-class hospitality at Cambodia’s luxurious resorts.
- Discover the historical and cultural treasures of the capital, Phnom Penh.
For more inspiration and in-depth information, check out my articles on the top 10 things to see and do in Cambodia, the best luxury resorts in the country, tips for getting the best hotel deals, and advice on finding affordable plane tickets.
Suggested Itineraries
With Cambodia being a compact country, it’s easy to explore its highlights within a short time frame. Consider this suggested 10-day itinerary:
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Days 1, 2 & 3: Explore Siem Reap, including a tour of Angkor Wat.
- Recommended hotel: Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang.
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Days 4, 5 & 6: Take a direct flight to Sihanoukville and enjoy beachside relaxation.
- Recommended hotels: Song Saa Private Island, Koh Russey, or Senses Krabey Island.
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Days 7, 8 & 9: Transfer to Shinta Mani Wild and immerse yourself in the jungle.
- Recommended hotel: Bensley Collection – Shinta Mani Wild.
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Day 10: Transfer to Phnom Penh and depart.
- Recommended hotel (if staying overnight): Rosewood Phnom Penh.
If you have more time, consider extending your trip by visiting the breathtaking Soneva Kiri resort in Thailand.
Recommended Luxury Hotels in Cambodia
For a truly memorable stay, I have handpicked the top luxury hotels in Cambodia. Check out my detailed reviews and find your perfect retreat:
- Review: Shinta Mani Wild – Bensley Collection
- Review: Alila Villas Koh Russey
- Review: Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang
- Review: Raffles Le Royal (Phnom Penh)
- Review: Park Hyatt Siem Reap
For more reviews and money-saving tips, visit my list of the most fabulous hotels in Cambodia.
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