Custom travel to Cambodia

Cambodia is one of Southeast Asia's most moving destinations, where the thousand-year-old temples of Angkor meet the preserved beaches of the Gulf of Thailand, where the painful memory of the Khmer Rouge dialogues with people of overwhelming hospitality, and where every region reveals its own character. From the sunrise over Angkor Wat to the floating Mekong markets, from the endless rice paddies of Battambang to the beaches of Koh Rong, through Phnom Penh and its Tuol Sleng genocide museum, the country offers a cultural and human intensity that makes it one of the world's most striking destinations.

Highlights

  • Angkor: Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm, Banteay Srei
  • Siem Reap: Angkor's home base, markets and restaurants
  • Phnom Penh: Royal Palace, Tuol Sleng, Silver Pagoda
  • Battambang and the Mekong: rice paddies, bamboo train
  • South coast: Kep, Kampot, Koh Rong

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time for a Cambodia trip?

November to March offers the best conditions: cool dry season, pleasant temperatures (25-30 °C). December-February is optimal. April-May is extremely hot (38-42 °C). Rainy season (June-October) is still doable but Tonle Sap is at its largest and landscapes very green.

How long for a Cambodia trip?

Minimum 8 days for Phnom Penh + Angkor. 14 days allow a grand tour: Phnom Penh + Battambang + Angkor + Mekong + south coast. 21 days to combine Cambodia + Vietnam or Laos extension.

What budget for a custom Cambodia trip?

As a guideline, €1,600-€2,200 per person for 8-10 days in comfort, excluding flights. For an upscale trip with Amansara or Belmond La Résidence d'Angkor: €4,500-€9,000. Paris-Phnom Penh flights: €700-€1,300.

Do I need a visa to travel to Cambodia?

30-day e-Visa mandatory ($35), apply online before departure on the official evisa.gov.kh site. Passport must be valid 6 months beyond return date. Visa on arrival is also possible ($35) but less practical (queue).

How many days to visit Angkor?

Minimum 3 days to explore the main temples (Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm, Banteay Srei) without rushing. The 3-day Angkor pass ($62) is the best value. For enthusiasts, plan 5 days to add Beng Mealea, Koh Ker, Preah Khan. Visit at sunrise and sunset for the light.

How do I get around in Cambodia?

Private driver recommended for most stops (flexibility, comfort, local knowledge). Phnom Penh-Siem Reap domestic flight (Cambodia Angkor Air, 1 h) saves 5 h on the road. Tuk-tuks in Siem Reap ($10/day for temples) and Phnom Penh. Fast boat to Koh Rong (45 min from Sihanoukville). No reliable public transport.

Should I visit Tuol Sleng and the Killing Fields?

Yes, these visits are essential to understand contemporary Cambodia and the Khmer Rouge genocide (1975-1979, 1.7 million dead). It's emotionally exhausting but it's a memorial duty. Favor an audio-guide or French-speaking guide who places events in context. A half-day per site.

Is Cambodia safe for a trip?

Generally very safe and welcoming. Main risks are taxi and tuk-tuk scams (negotiate beforehand), pickpockets in busy markets, ATM scams. Avoid remote northeastern areas (residual landmines in some zones). Solo female travelers are safe.

How to pay in Cambodia: card, dollar, or riel?

US dollar is widely accepted (often preferred to riel for payments over $1). Also bring riels (KHR) for change and small purchases. Cards accepted in hotels and restaurants in tourist zones. ATMs abundant (prefer those of major banks to avoid scams).

Is Cambodia suitable for a family trip?

Yes, from age 8 (temple visits physically demanding due to heat). Safety, warm welcome for children, kid-friendly experiences (tuk-tuks, bamboo train, Tonle Sap cruise), many family hotels. Favor Siem Reap + Battambang + south coast for a first family trip (limit temple time to 2 hours per day).