When I first added Cambodia to my travel bucket list, my mind was filled with images of the towering stone faces of Angkor Wat. But as I actually stepped onto the ground and began navigating this beautiful country, I quickly realized that the smoothest journeys require a few insider secrets.
I don’t think Cambodia deserves a travel tips post because it has a long, rigid list of rules to follow. Instead, I wanted to write this as a warm conversation with you—the exact kind of advice I would share with a good friend over a cup of coffee before they pack their bags and set off.
Based on my own real, lived experiences, here are the things I learnt along the way to make your Cambodian adventure smooth, respectful, and unforgettable.
Some of the tips I’d include are:
- Getting your visa – I found obtaining my Cambodian visa online from the UK straightforward and convenient, although visas are also available on arrival.
- Carry some US dollars – While the Cambodian Riel is the official currency, US dollars are accepted almost everywhere, so having small notes is very useful.
- Dress respectfully – Lightweight clothing is ideal in Cambodia’s heat, but remember to dress modestly when visiting temples by covering your shoulders and knees.
- Start early – The tropical heat builds quickly during the day, and beginning your sightseeing early makes exploring much more comfortable.
- Stay hydrated and use insect repellent – Especially if you’re visiting temples, countryside areas or places near water.
- Allow plenty of time for Angkor – It’s far larger than most people imagine. Trying to rush through it would mean missing many of its hidden treasures.
- Don’t miss Cambodia’s recent history – Visiting places such as Tuol Sleng and the Killing Fields provides important context and a deeper appreciation of the country’s resilience.
- Expect to be surprised – I travelled to Cambodia for Angkor Wat, but I left with so much more: warm people, fascinating history, memorable food and experiences that will stay with me for years.
- Hire a guide at Angkor Wat – This would probably be my biggest recommendation. My guide transformed the visit by explaining the stories behind the temples, the intricate bas reliefs and the fascinating history of the Khmer Empire. Without that insight, I would have admired beautiful buildings; with it, I truly understood what I was seeing.
Explore More About Cambodia
This article is part of my Cambodia collection. You may also enjoy:
Do you have any Cambodia travel tips to add? I’d love to hear them in the comments below.
Let’s Stay Connected!
Never miss a single story. Sign up for my newsletter, and let’s find out where the next adventure takes us. Inspiring you to experience the world, one journey at a time.
