Cambodia is a must-see country in Southeast Asia, overflowing with ancient history, lovely people, dense jungle and beautiful beaches.
Many travellers head there to tick Angkor Wat off their list, but there is plenty more to see and do in this Asian country.
This article is a first-time traveller’s guide to visiting Cambodia, covering everything from preparing for your trip to the natural wonders that await you there.
Before You Leave Australia
Cambodian Visa
Before you book a trip to Cambodia, the first thing you need to think about is tourist visas.
You need a visa to enter Cambodia, but it is free. You can either apply for an e-visa online or wait for a tourist visa on arrival. Both of these are valid for 30 days, but you might be asked to show proof of onward travel out of the country.
If you want to stay in Cambodia for more than 30 days, you can contact your nearest embassy or Cambodian consulate to find out more. It’s also important to know that if you overstay your visa, you will be fined.
The Best Time to Visit Cambodia
The best time to visit depends on what you plan to do in Cambodia, but as a general rule, October to May is ideal. Between October to May is the dry season in Cambodia, so you’ll see blue skies and warm temperatures.
From May – October it’s the wet season, so if you visit at this time you might get caught in downpours! That being said, the jungles will be luscious, and the waterfalls and rivers will be at their best.
Visiting in April to June or September/October might save you money on accommodation and tours, as this is Cambodia’s low season, but you might not get the best weather as these periods are partially in the rainy season.
Travel Vaccinations
About eight weeks before you leave for Cambodia, you should visit a travel clinic to check what travel vaccinations you need. The nurses there will check which immunisations you are up to date with and what extras you might need.
Recommended vaccinations could include:
- Hepatitis A: Hep A is spread by infected poo. In areas of poor sanitation, this can contaminate food and drinks, causing infection.
- Tetanus: Tetanus is spread through contaminated cuts, burns and wounds. You will probably have received tetanus vaccinations throughout your life, but you might need a top-up if you travel to Cambodia.
- Hepatitis B: Hep B is spread through body fluids. It can be spread through sexual contact or contaminated medical instruments.
- Rabies: Rabies is spread through the saliva of infected animals, particularly dogs and monkeys. If you are staying in an especially remote area or working with animals, you might be considered at higher risk, and if so, you might need the rabies vaccination.
- Typhoid: This is mainly spread through contaminated food and water.
- Cholera: Most travellers should be able to avoid cholera with basic hygiene methods, but if you are doing any humanitarian work, you might need this vaccination.
- Yellow fever: You do not need the yellow fever vaccination to travel to Cambodia unless you have travelled through a yellow fever-risk country en route. If so, you must show proof of vaccination to get into Cambodia.
If you have any questions about vaccinations for Cambodia, book an appointment at our clinic to discuss your trip with one of our team.
Places to Visit in Cambodia
Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is Cambodia’s capital, and if you plan to travel around the country, you’ll have to stop here at least once.
It’s also a disservice to go to this country and not take the chance to learn about the tragic history of Cambodia, with Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge regime.
The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek Genocidal Center (also known as the killing fields) will teach you about the genocide that happened to the Khmer people in Cambodia, in the 1970s. If you only have one day to visit Phnom Penh, these museums are a must.
If you have longer to stay in the capital, Phnom Penh is a great place to try a Cambodian food cooking class. Cambodia is home to some delicious food like Fish Amok (dried fish fillets covered in curry), Lap Khmer (beef salad) and Yaohon (a noodle hot pot), which you can learn to make from scratch!
Siem Reap
Siem Reap is another must as it is the gateway to the largest religious structure in the world, Angkor Wat.
Angkor Wat is a national park and one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia (and the world!), stretching over 400 km2.
There are 72 major temples in this area, along with countless other buildings and the remains of several hundred more in the surrounding jungle. It marks the high point of the Khmer empire, with the buildings dating back to 1116–1150.
The park is so big that the best way to get around is by tuk-tuk! You can arrange day trips and group tours in coaches and minibuses from hostels and hotels in Siem Reap, but it’s much more authentic to travel in tuk-tuks.
Speak to one of the drivers in town and agree on a price for the day. The driver should pick you up nice and early the following morning to watch the sunrise over one of the temples of Angkor, then they’ll take you temple hopping for the rest of the day.
If you have more time to play with, you could easily spend a few days exploring Angkor Wat alone. Then, there’s plenty more to see and do in Siem Reap. The town is surrounded by national parks, waterfalls and floating villages and in the evening there are night markets to wander and street food with Cambodian cuisine to sample!
Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem
Once you’ve learnt about the rich history of the country and explored the sprawling temples, some relaxation might be in order.
Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem are two idyllic islands off the south coast of Cambodia. The best way to reach them is by boat from Sihanoukville.
These southern islands have a big party scene, with all-night raves on the beaches until sunrise.
The islands are a great, affordable place to try scuba diving too. The islands are surrounded by rich coral reefs and diverse marine life.
But one of the most special things to do is to swim in the glowing plankton. You can only see the plankton in dark areas with no light pollution. There are plenty of boat tours on offer, so make sure you book one of these and avoid swimming out in deep water late at night alone!
Kampot
Kampot is a little more off the beaten path. It’s relatively close to one of the neighbouring countries, Vietnam and the Vietnamese nearby islands of Phu Quoc.
Whilst it’s not on the Mekong River, the beautiful Preaek Tuek Chhu River runs through the town. In Kampot, you can stand up paddleboard on the river, explore the pepper plantations and visit the Bokor National Park.
Cardamom Mountains
The Cardamom Mountains are not too far from the Thai border. They are one of the most peaceful, beautiful, and special places in Cambodia. There is nothing but lush jungle, nature and rolling hills for miles.
You can find a mixture of private rooms and budget accommodation to suit any price range. This area is Southeast Asia’s largest surviving rainforest, so it is definitely worth a visit.
Staying Safe in Cambodia
Cambodia is a relatively safe country to travel to. The Australian Smart Traveller site recommends travellers exercise ‘normal safety precautions’.
That being said, there are certain crimes and risks you should be aware of. Below is some travel advice for staying safe in tourist hotspots whilst on land border crossings and in rural areas.
- Street crimes happen regularly, with thieves targeting bags and phones, especially in major towns like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Be prepared to hand over your belongings to avoid getting injured in a struggle.
- Be careful when visiting regions near the Thai border, as there are unexploded landmines. Stay on marked roads at all times, and don’t attempt to walk through the countryside alone.
- Petty crimes like scams and credit card fraud are fairly common. Check ATMs for card skimming devices, and don’t keep all of your money in the same account.
- Protests can quickly turn violent, so stay out of large gatherings. Officials might arrest foreign nationals who are involved in protests.
- Sexual assaults happen, often after drink spiking. Stay with people you know and trust, and don’t leave your drink unattended.
- Many people in Cambodia own guns, and shootouts are fairly common, usually between locals.
- Pickpocketing happens in hostel dorms and on bus travel. Keep your belongings locked away in lockers whilst you stay in the hostels and keep them on/in your sight whilst you travel.
Whilst visiting Cambodia, always be aware of your surroundings and take personal safety measures, like not walking alone at night or being too intoxicated in public.
Local Laws To Be Aware Of
Before you travel anywhere, it’s always a good idea to research the laws in that country. Often, there are laws that you might not have thought of. Knowing about these (and adhering to them) is the best way to stay safe.
- In Cambodia, it is illegal to insult/criticise the king/monarchy.
- Flying drones in public is illegal.
- The penalties for drug offences are severe, even for small amounts.
- Cambodian authorities enforce ‘modesty’ laws at religious sites, including Angkor Wat. You’ll be expected to cover your shoulders and knees.
- It’s illegal to take photographs near sensitive sites like military bases.
- Be aware of job offers; foreign nationals have been trafficked into Cambodia and forced to work in fraudulent activities.
Medical Care in Cambodia
Medical care in Cambodia is not of the same standards as in Australia. Also, whilst it is one of the cheapest countries in SE Asia, hospital stays can be expensive, and hospitals might keep your passport until you have paid.
You must purchase travel insurance before you go to Cambodia. Make sure your travel insurance covers hospital stays, medical evacuation and any extra sports you might do, like scuba diving.
Whilst it can be tempting to arrange cover with a high excess, to save money, we suggest avoiding this. If you need medical help, the last thing you want to worry about is your excess bill.
Buying medication in Cambodia can be tricky. Pharmacies might sell fake medication, so ensure you bring any regular meds with you. You might need a doctor’s note to travel with some medications.’
If You Need Help
If you need help whilst you are in Cambodia, contact the Australian Embassy in Phnom Penh. The embassy can help you with lost/stolen passports, serious illnesses/accidents, or if you have been a victim of crime.
Enjoying This Fascinating Country
From Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, we’re sure this fascinating country will touch a place in your heart.
One of the most special things about Cambodia is the people that call it home. They are some of the friendliest and most welcoming people in Southeast Asia, an area well-known for its hospitality. Once you’ve visited Cambodia and seen the smiling faces of the locals, you’ll quickly see what we mean!
To make the most of your trip, make sure you properly prepare before you jet off. Whether you speak to travel agents or do your own research, remember to look into things like visas, health and safety warnings, vaccinations and weather conditions.
Whilst you’re there, stay aware of local customs, laws and crime. Long trousers and a scarf are Cambodia travel essentials; you’ll need these to cover your shoulders and knees in temples. Money belts can also protect you from petty crimes like pickpocketing.
And, if you need help, remember that the Australian consulate is there to support you should you need it.
