7 Reasons to Travel to Cambodia with Llama Travel
At Llama Travel, all of our holidays have a maximum of 18 guests or fewer, and we average just 11 guests per group. This means you can get to know your fellow travellers and guide, making for a relaxed and friendly atmosphere even during the busiest days on your itinerary.
When visiting Angkor Wat, a smaller group allows you to move around the site with more flexibility, perhaps spending more time in particular points of interest to you or your fellow travellers. You can easily hear your local guide without the need for a megaphone and ask them questions without having to compete with dozens of other travellers.
Our holidays allow you to mix and match destinations, excursions, and accommodation so you can build your dream holiday to Cambodia. We offer dozens of different holiday combinations to Cambodia, all paired with Vietnam, but some adding Laos for a more comprehensive experience of Southeast Asia.
You can spend more time in the Vietnamese countryside or on the Mekong Delta, return to Angkor Wat on your second or third day in Siem Reap to explore at your own pace, or perhaps venture out to the fascinating My Son Jungle Temples, around an hour-and-a-half from Hoi An.
Angkor Wat is by far and away the biggest draw of a holiday to Cambodia. The ancient temple complex is the largest archaeological site of its kind in the world, occupying a landmass equivalent to modern-day Paris.
Exploring the site’s temples, spires, and towers is a wonderful way to learn about the history of both the site and Cambodia as a whole. Initially built by King Suryavarman II of the Khmer Empire to honour the Hindu god Vishnu, each successive Khmer ruler, up until the late 15th century, sought to outdo their predecessor in grandeur, adding more impressive structures as they went. Eventually, Angkor Wat was deserted for over 500 years, until French colonialists took over much of South East Asia and began the protection, restoration and promotion of Angkor Wat, turning it into the world-renowned landmark it is today.
It remains both well-preserved and still active as a religious site, though it is more popular with tourists than the remaining traditional, orange-robed Buddhist monks who worship there.
Highlights of the complex include the Bayon Temple’s 200+, 4-metre-tall grinning stone faces, the Ta Prohm temple, which is being slowly enveloped by the elephantine roots of cotton-silk trees, and the five lotus towers of the main Angkor Wat temple.
Siem Reap is Cambodia’s second-largest city, and while most known as the gateway to Angkor Wat, its warm welcome, easygoing vibe and vibrant nightlife make it a worthwhile addition to a Cambodia holiday.
Markets throughout Siem Reap are a great place to pick up fresh produce and souvenirs. The night market is especially lively, with a whole host of local sellers lining the aptly-titled Night Market Street.
The city’s French colonial quarter is a charming neighbourhood with classic Indochinese architecture, a lovely riverside area, and ornate historic buildings dating back to the 1890s, when an administrative hub was established in Siem Reap to manage tourism to Angkor Wat.
Pub Street is the heart of Siem Reap’s nightlife; after dark, neon lights, outdoor seating and music completely transform the atmosphere in almost an instant, and its affordable drinks and friendly bars make it a good place to wind away an evening.
All Llama Travel holidays to Cambodia are paired with Vietnam, a destination that complements Cambodia perfectly.
While Cambodia is most defined by Angkor Wat and Siem Reap, Vietnam offers a much broader contrast. The scenic, secluded Lan Ha Bay is a wonderful place to unwind, feeling far away from the bustle of Hue and Hanoi. Living history spanning from ancient tradition in rural Vietnam to the Vietnam war tunnels in Ho Chi Minh (Saigon) adds another dimension to your exploration of Southeast Asia.
As well as combining a holiday to Cambodia with a stay in Vietnam, you can include Laos on your itinerary, too.
Laos is noticeably more relaxed than either Cambodia or Vietnam, largely due to its strong Buddhist cultural foundations and more rural lifestyle. Provincial Luang Prabang is a wonderful reflection of that: the UNESCO World Heritage site is most known for its blend of traditional wooden houses, ancient Buddhist monasteries and colonial-era French structures, but its small-town charm and friendly locals are equally memorable. A long-tail boat ride up the Mekong River and a visit to the Kuang Si waterfalls add a scenic dimension unlike anything in Vietnam or Cambodia.
When you begin planning a holiday with Llama Travel, you will have the chance to talk to one of our Travel Experts, who have all visited our destinations and know our holidays inside out.
They can tailor an itinerary to suit you and provide recommendations and insights about travelling in Southeast Asia and Cambodia specifically.
About Cambodia
KEY FACTS
- When to Travel: All year round
- Population: 18 million
- Area: 181,035 square kilometres (approximately three-quarters of the area of the UK)
- Capital City: Phnom Penh
- Languages Spoken: Khmer
- Time Difference: GMT +7 hours
- Flying time from the UK: 14-18 hours.
- Bordering Countries: Thailand, Laos, Vietnam.
Cambodia is home to one of the world’s greatest ancient structures and warmest welcomes. Occupying a land mass slightly smaller than that of the UK, Cambodia sits on the eastern shore of the Gulf of Thailand and is bordered by Thailand to the northwest, Laos to the northeast, and Vietnam to the southwest.
Cambodia Highlights
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Cambodia Gallery
FAQs
Before You Go
A: Yes, British citizens need a visa to enter Cambodia. The easiest option is to apply for an e-Visa online before travel, or to obtain a visa upon arrival in Cambodia. Visas are typically valid for stays of up to 30 days. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. A mandatory E-Arrival Card must be completed online within 7 days of arrival. For the latest information, visit the Embassy of Cambodia in the UK website.
A: British nationals travelling to Cambodia should ensure they are up to date with routine vaccinations such as Hepatitis A and Typhoid. For the most current guidance, visit TravelHealthPro or speak to your GP before travelling
A: Cambodia has a tropical climate, so lightweight, breathable clothing such as cotton or linen is ideal year-round. Days are hot and humid, while evenings can be cooler, especially during the dry season, so light layers are useful. During the rainy season, brief but heavy showers are common, so a lightweight rain jacket or poncho is recommended.
Comfortable walking shoes are important, as sightseeing often involves exploring temple complexes, uneven paths and city streets. When visiting temples, modest clothing is important; both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees, and you may be asked to remove your shoes before entering religious sites. A headscarf and light shawl are handy for covering up when needed and can also be used for sun protection.
Electricity in Cambodia is generally 230V, and plug types are a mix of Type A, C and G, so a universal adapter is useful.
It is a good idea to carry a photocopy of your passport and any prescription medication you may need, along with a small day bag and a reusable water bottle.
If your holiday includes a Ha Long Bay cruise, time at the beach in Hoi An, or hotels with pools, remember to bring swimwear and a light cover-up. Insect repellent is also recommended, especially in rural areas, and sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat are essential for daytime exploring.
Practical Information
A: Cambodia is located in Southeast Asia, bordering Vietnam, Thailand and Laos. Most travellers to Cambodia visit Siem Reap, near the Angkor temple complex.
Cambodia is often combined with Vietnam as part of a wider Southeast Asian holiday.
A: Cambodia has a population of around 18 million people. The majority live in lowland areas along rivers and around cities, with rural life still playing a major role in the country’s culture and economy.
A: Phnom Penh is the capital of Cambodia. Set at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers, it is the country’s political, cultural and historical centre.
A: Cambodia is 7 hours ahead of the UK during GMT (between late October and late March), and 6 hours ahead of the UK during BST (between late March and late October).
Most Llama Travel holidays to Cambodia take place from October to April, so you will likely be 7 hours ahead of the UK when travelling with us.
A: There are currently no direct flights to Cambodia, so flight time will depend on the layover location and time. On a standard service flying via the Middle East, Bangkok or Singapore, flights from the UK to Cambodia usually take around 14 to 16 hours.
A: Khmer is the official language of Cambodia, and is spoken by over 90% of the nation's population.
English is widely used by locals working in tourism, while French is spoken by mostly older generations and in certain administrative settings like education and government due to Cambodia's French colonial history.
A: English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels and restaurants, particularly in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. Outside these areas, English is less common, but locals are friendly and will often try to help, even if communication is limited.
A: The currency in Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel. Credit and debit cards can be used in hotels, larger shops and restaurants, and can also be used to withdraw money from cash machines.
In Cambodia, you may need identification to use a credit or debit card. Most Cambodian cash machines give out both US dollars and Cambodian Riels.
A: Cambodia has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Daytime temperatures typically range from 28°C to 35°C, while nights are generally warm, averaging around 22°C to 25°C.
The dry season runs from November to April, with temperatures ranging between 20°C and 35°C, with hot days and more comfortable evenings, while the rainy season lasts from May to October, bringing short but heavy showers, usually in the afternoon or evening.
A: Cambodians are friendly and relaxed, and visitors are generally welcomed with warmth. Understanding a few basic customs will help you enjoy your trip:
- Greetings in Cambodia are polite and friendly. A light handshake is common, often combined with a smile. The traditional greeting is the sampeah (formal hello) made by placing your hands together and slightly bowing your head. When greeting women, it is polite to wait for them to initiate a handshake; otherwise, a gentle nod is respectful.
- When visiting temples and religious sites, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees, and remove your shoes before entering temple buildings.
- Photography is usually allowed, but be respectful and avoid photographing monks or worshippers without permission.
- Public displays of affection are uncommon, so it’s best to keep behaviour discreet, especially in rural areas.
A: Tipping is common in tourist areas. If you receive good service, you may want to leave a tip, although this is completely at your discretion. In restaurants, around 5-10% is usual, although service is sometimes included. If you want to tip your guides, around $3-5 per person per day is usual in a group, and about half of this for drivers.
Health and Safety
A: Yes. Cambodia is generally considered safe for visitors, and most travellers experience no problems during their stay. Violent crime is rare, but petty theft, such as pickpocketing, can occur in busy areas and markets. It’s sensible to stay aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secure and follow local advice from guides and hotel staff.
A: If you feel unwell, inform your guide or hotel staff as soon as possible. Medical facilities in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap are reasonable, with clinics offering English-speaking doctors. In rural areas, facilities can be limited, so it’s important to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical treatment and evacuation if needed.
A: Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for Cambodia.
Your policy should cover medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation and any planned activities. It is advisable to carry a copy of your insurance details with you while travelling, and to ensure your policy remains valid for the full duration of your trip.
Llama Travel's booking conditions state that all passengers travelling on our holidays should have adequate travel insurance for their destination.
Connectivity & Communication
A: Staying connected in Cambodia is easy. Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafés and restaurants, particularly in cities such as Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
Local SIM cards are affordable and easy to buy at airports or mobile phone shops in cities such as Phnom Penh & Siem Reap. You will likely need your passport for registration. Major providers include Smart Axiata, Cellcard and Metfone, and staff can usually help set up the SIM on the spot.
eSIMs are also a convenient option if you prefer to arrange mobile data in advance. International providers such as Airalo, Holafly, Nomad and GigSky offer specific data plans for Cambodia. Coverage is good in cities and along main travel routes, though it can be limited in rural areas.
A: Dial 00 855 followed by the area code without the 0, and then the contact number.
A: To call the UK from Cambodia, dial 0044 followed by the UK number, leaving out the first zero in the area code.
Getting Around
A: Getting around Cambodia is straightforward, with a mix of transport options depending on distance and location. For longer journeys between cities such as Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Battambang, domestic flights and private vehicles are the most practical options.
Within cities and towns, getting around is usually done on foot, by tuk-tuk or taxi. Tuk-tuks are widely available, affordable and a popular way to travel short distances. Ride-hailing apps such as Grab and PassApp are commonly used in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap and offer a convenient, reliable way to book transport.
On Llama Travel holidays, all transport is pre-arranged (including tickets, transfers and luggage forwarding between hotels), making travel between destinations smooth and straightforward. In cities, sightseeing is often done on foot or by public transport, offering a chance to experience Cambodia’s daily life up close.
Food & Drink
A: Cambodian cuisine is fresh, flavourful and influenced by its neighbours Vietnam and Thailand, with an emphasis on rice, herbs and lightly spiced dishes. A national favourite is amok, a creamy coconut curry usually made with fish, coconut milk and spices, steamed in banana leaves. Other popular dishes include lok lak (stir-fried beef with lime and pepper sauce) and fresh noodle soups. Meals are often light and well-balanced, with plenty of vegetables and herbs.
A: Tap water is not safe to drink in Cambodia. Bottled water is widely available, and you can get filtered water for filling water bottles at most hotels.
A: Tea and coffee are widely consumed, with strong iced coffee being particularly popular. Fresh fruit juices, smoothies and coconut water are easy to find, especially in warmer weather.
A: Yes, alcohol is widely available in Cambodia. Local beers such as Angkor and Cambodia Beer are common, and wine and spirits are served in most hotels, restaurants and bars, particularly in tourist areas.
What to See
A: Cambodia is best known for its ancient temples, rich history and warm, welcoming culture. The Angkor temple complex near Siem Reap is the country’s standout highlight, with Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm set among jungle surroundings.
Beyond Angkor, Cambodia offers lively local markets, traditional villages, and a slower pace of life along rivers and in rural areas.
A: At least three days is ideal for a first visit to Cambodia. This allows time to explore the Angkor temples at a relaxed pace, enjoy Siem Reap’s markets, and gain a deeper understanding of the country’s history and culture at an unrushed pace.
A: Siem Reap is a lively town that acts as the gateway to the Angkor temples. Explore its bustling markets, charming cafés, and the French Colonial Quarter with its pastel buildings and colonial architecture. Evenings come alive with night markets, street performances, and local restaurants serving Khmer cuisine.
A: The Angkor Wat temple complex is vast, encompassing around 400 square kilometres. Highlights include Angkor Wat, the iconic temple with its intricate carvings and symmetry; Angkor Thom, the ancient walled city with the Bayon Temple and its famous smiling faces; and Ta Prohm, where massive tree roots grow over the ruins, creating a dramatic jungle atmosphere.
A: Tonle Sap, the largest lake in Southeast Asia, is about 15 km from Siem Reap. Day trips can be arranged locally to visit floating villages, see traditional fishing communities, and learn about life on the water. Boat tours offer a fascinating glimpse into rural Cambodian life.