How to plan a trip to Cambodia

Plan for 7-10 days, budget $30-50 per day, get your visa before you go (e-visa or on arrival), and book flights and accommodation in advance. The dry season (November to February) is best. Most travelers fly into Phnom Penh or Siem Reap.

1. Decide how long you're going. Cambodia works best as a 7-10 day trip. Three days minimum if you're only hitting Angkor Wat, but you'll rush. Add 2-3 days if you want Phnom Penh, 2-3 for the south coast, or a mix. Most first-timers do Siem Reap (Angkor Wat area) for 3-4 days, then Phnom Penh for 2 days.
2. Check visa requirements. Most visitors need a visa. Apply online for an e-visa ($25) at evisa.gov.kh before you go—it takes 3 business days and arrives by email. You can also get a visa on arrival at the airport ($30 for a tourist visa), but e-visa is faster and worth the small extra cost. Your passport needs at least 6 months validity.
3. Pick your dates. Go between November and February. This is cool and dry. Avoid May-September (rainy season, 40°C heat, difficult travel). March and April are possible but brutally hot (45°C+). December and January are peak season with higher prices but perfect weather.
4. Book your flights. Fly into Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. Most international flights land in Phnom Penh; flights to Siem Reap cost $10-30 more but save you a 6-hour bus ride. Book 6-8 weeks ahead for dry season travel. Budget $500-900 for a round-trip flight from North America or Europe.
5. Plan your route. Standard loop: fly into Siem Reap (3-4 days for Angkor Wat temples), bus to Phnom Penh (2 days for Royal Palace and killing fields), optionally continue south to Sihanoukville or Kampot (coastal towns, 2-3 days). If short on time, just do Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. Buses connect all cities; overnight buses save accommodation costs.
6. Book accommodation. Book Siem Reap and Phnom Penh guesthouses 2-4 weeks ahead during dry season. Budget $10-20 per night for basic rooms, $25-40 for something nicer. Use Booking.com or Agoda. Siem Reap has more options. You don't need to book smaller towns in advance unless you're traveling in December.
7. Arrange ground transport. Buses connect all major cities. Siem Reap to Phnom Penh is 6 hours, $8-15. Use companies like Mekong Express or Paramount. Book overnight buses to save a night's accommodation. Tuk-tuks are cheap ($2-5 for short trips in cities); agree on price before you get in, or use Grab app. Flights between cities cost $40-80 if you're short on time.
8. Get travel insurance. Buy insurance that covers medical evacuation and trip cancellation. Standard travel insurance runs $80-150 for 10 days. Cambodia has decent hospitals in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, but evacuation insurance matters if you get seriously ill or injured.
9. Handle money and phones. Notify your bank you're traveling. The Cambodian riel (KHR) is the official currency, but USD works everywhere. Withdraw cash at ATMs in cities (they charge $2-3 per withdrawal). Bring US dollars as backup. Get a local SIM card at the airport ($3-5) for data. Expect to spend $30-50 per day on food, transport, and basic tourism.
10. Research what to actually see. Angkor Wat temples are why most people come. Buy a 1-day pass ($37), 3-day pass ($62), or 2-day pass ($47) depending on your interest. Book a tuk-tuk guide the night before ($12-15 per day). In Phnom Penh, the Royal Palace and National Museum take a half day. The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields are important but heavy. Research both before deciding if they're right for you.

How many days do I really need?

7-10 days is ideal. 3-4 days works if you only want Angkor Wat temples. Add 2 days for Phnom Penh if you want the full experience. Most first-timers spend 4 days in Siem Reap and 2 in Phnom Penh.

Is Cambodia safe?

Yes, if you follow basic precautions. Violent crime against tourists is rare. Watch your belongings on buses and in crowded places. Avoid riding motorcycles if you're not experienced. Don't travel between cities at night. Ask your accommodation about safe areas before exploring at night.

Do I need vaccines?

Hepatitis A and Typhoid are recommended. Japanese Encephalitis if you're staying in rural areas or coming during wet season. Dengue and malaria exist, so bring mosquito repellent. See a travel doctor 4-6 weeks before you go. Your regular doctor can refer you or you can find one at a travel clinic.

Can I drink the tap water?

No. Drink bottled water (cheap, everywhere) or use a water filter. Ice in drinks is usually made from tap water. Brush your teeth with bottled water. Street food is generally safe if it's cooked fresh in front of you.

What's the cheapest way to get between cities?

Buses. Siem Reap to Phnom Penh costs $8-15 and takes 6 hours. Book overnight buses to save a hotel night. Tuk-tuks and shared vans are slower but cheaper for short distances. Flights cost $40-80 if you want to save time.

How much should I budget for a guide at Angkor Wat?

Tuk-tuk drivers double as guides for $12-15 per day (4 people in a tuk-tuk). You can also hire a licensed guide through your hotel for $25-35. A guide is worth it—you'll understand the history and avoid standing in crowds taking photos blind.

Is it OK to visit the Killing Fields?

It's a genocide memorial at Tuol Sleng and the Killing Fields sites near Phnom Penh. It's sobering and important history. Many visitors feel it's valuable but emotionally heavy. Go if you're prepared for that. It's not a typical tourist attraction.

What's the best way to avoid scams?

Agree on prices before hiring tuk-tuks or guides. Use Grab app for transport if you're unsure. Book accommodation and tours through reputable sites. Don't change money on the street. Beware of 'gem deals' and offers to visit factories—these are common scams.