Your Ultimate Guide: Unforgettable Cambodia Travel Tips for a First-Time Adventure
So, you’re thinking about Cambodia? Ahh, I’m buzzing for you already!
My first time there? Honestly, it was one of those trips, the kind that sticks with you long after you’ve unpacked your bag. Before I went, I remember feeling equal parts excited and overwhelmed. I had no clue what to expect, and I really could’ve used a mate to give me the lowdown. So that’s what I’m here to be, your travel buddy with all the juicy tips (and a few “don’t do what I did” moments).
This guide’s packed with everything I wish I’d known before setting off, the helpful stuff, the funny stuff, and the kind of advice you only get from someone who’s been there, done that, and probably got bitten by a mosquito while doing it.
Let’s dive in and make your first Cambodian adventure one for the books. 🇰🇭
When to Go Cambodia: Timing is Everything ✈️
☀️ Dry Season (November to April)
Let’s be real, we’re all chasing that dreamy holiday weather, right? If you’re after sunshine, clear skies, and the best shot at golden hour over Angkor Wat, this is your window. The dry season is the most popular time to visit Cambodia, and for good reason.
I’m especially fond of November to February , the temps are more manageable, the humidity chills out a bit, and you can explore without turning into a sweaty puddle by lunchtime. Perfect for long temple days, countryside adventures, and beach escapes down south 🏝️.
Just a heads-up: because it’s peak season, things can get booked up fast, accommodation, tours, buses, so if you’re going during this time, it’s worth getting your plans locked in early.
Come March and April, things start heating up… and I mean really heating up. We’re talking 35°C+ kind of heat 🥵. So, if you’re visiting during these months, pack breezy clothes, drink all the water, and give yourself permission to slow things down.
🌧️ Wet Season (May to October)
Okay, don’t scroll past just because you saw the word “wet”, hear me out. The rainy season in Cambodia isn’t all doom and gloom. In fact, it can be absolutely stunning.
Yes, it rains, but usually in short, dramatic afternoon downpours that make everything smell fresh and come alive. The rest of the day? Often still bright and warm. And the landscapes? Gorgeous. Think lush green rice paddies, moody jungle skies, and far fewer crowds.
I’ve visited in this season and honestly, it felt like I had entire temples to myself. Plus, flights and hotels tend to be cheaper, which is always a win 💸. Just keep your plans a bit flexible, and pack a decent rain jacket or poncho. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did.
🗺️ Guide to Cambodia: The Best Time To Visit Cambodia
✨ Good to Know:The Cambodian New Year, called ‘Choul Chnam Thmey’, usually falls in mid-April and is a massive, joyous celebration involving water fights 💧. If you don’t mind getting drenched, it’s a fantastic cultural experience!
Flights from Trip.com (Great for Asia)
Getting Around Cambodia: Navigating Like a Pro 🚗
Getting from A to B in Cambodia is part of the fun, and trust me, it’s rarely boring. In cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, tuk-tuks are the go-to ride. They’re everywhere, they’re cheap, and there’s nothing quite like weaving through the streets with the breeze in your face. I’ve had some cracking chats with tuk-tuk drivers, a bit of banter, a few local tips, and the occasional life story thrown in 😊.
If you’re heading between cities, buses are your best bet. They’re super affordable and easy to book. Go with reliable companies like Giant Ibis or Mekong Express, they’ve got air con, comfy seats, and even onboard loos (always a win on long rides 🚍).
Feeling adventurous? You can also take the boat between Siem Reap and Battambang. It’s a slower journey, but honestly one of my faves, floating villages, peaceful river views, and that feeling of being far off the beaten track. Totally worth it.
💡 Tinker’s Fact: Cambodia also has a train service connecting Phnom Penh with destinations like Kampot and Sihanoukville. It’s not the fastest option, but it offers a unique and authentic glimpse into rural Cambodian life 🚂.
🗺️ Cambodia Related: How Many Days in Siem Reap? Ideal Itinerary
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Money Matters in Cambodia: Let's Talk Riel and Dollars 💵
Here’s something I wish I knew sooner. Cambodia has a dual currency system, which can feel a little confusing at first, but you’ll get the hang of it quickly. The official currency is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), but the US Dollar is everywhere and used for most transactions, especially in tourist areas. You’ll often pay for bigger things like your hotel room, tours, and meals in nice restaurants in US dollars. However, you’ll almost always receive your change in Riel for anything less than a dollar. It’s a great idea to keep a stash of small US dollar bills ($1, $5, $10) on you.
ATMs are easy to find in all major towns and cities, and they give out US dollars. Just be aware that most will charge a foreign transaction fee, so it can be wise to withdraw larger amounts at once. Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels, upmarket restaurants, and some boutiques, but for day-to-day spending at local markets and smaller eateries, cash is absolutely king.
🗺️ More Guides to Cambodia: Angkor Wat Guide: Plan the Perfect Sunrise Visit
🔹 Tinker’s Tip: Try to use up all your Cambodian Riel before you leave the country. It’s very difficult to exchange it anywhere else in the world, so it’s best to spend it on those last-minute souvenirs or snacks.
Tipping Etiquette: Clearing Up the Confusion
Tipping isn’t traditionally a big thing in Cambodia, but as tourism has grown, it has become more common and is always appreciated, especially in the service industry. A small tip for good service can make a real difference to the staff. In restaurants, if a service charge isn’t already on your bill, leaving a small tip of around 5-10% is a lovely gesture for excellent service. For tuk-tuk drivers, rounding up the fare or giving an extra dollar for a friendly and helpful driver is a common practice. If you’ve hired a private guide or driver for the day who gave you a fantastic experience, a tip of a few dollars is a great way to show your appreciation. We’ve all been there, wondering what the right thing to do is. In Cambodia, a little generosity goes a long way
🗺️ Recommended Read: Travel Cards vs Cash: Which One Should You Carry?
💡 Good to know: Cambodia is still a developing country, and wages in the service industry can be quite low, so even small tips really do matter. A couple of dollars might not seem like much to you, but to someone working long hours, it’s genuinely appreciated. Think of it as a simple way to say thanks and pay it forward with kindness.
Finding Your Perfect Cambodian Stay: Accommodation Tips 🏡
Whether you’re looking for a sociable hostel (I recommend HostelWorld), a charming guesthouse, or a luxurious hotel, Cambodia has you covered. You’ll be amazed at the quality and affordability of the accommodation on offer. In Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, you can find a huge range of options to suit any budget. I’ve stayed in some wonderful family-run guesthouses that offered a truly authentic experience, complete with home-cooked breakfasts. You’ll also find some incredibly stylish boutique hotels with swimming pools. Trust me, a pool is a perfect antidote to a long day of temple-hopping in the Cambodian heat! 🏊♀️
If you’re heading to the coast, places like Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem offer everything from rustic beach bungalows to more upscale resorts. Waking up to the sound of the waves just a few steps from your door is a magical experience. My advice for booking accommodation is to read recent reviews and look at the location carefully. Booking a place that’s centrally located can save you time and money on transport. You don’t need a big budget to have a comfortable and enjoyable stay in Cambodia. It is best to use TripAdvisor for finding the best hotels!
💡 Pro Tip: Many hotels and guesthouses, even budget-friendly ones, offer breakfast included in the room rate. It’s often a delicious mix of local noodle soups and western options, setting you up perfectly for a day of exploring.
Use Booking.com for your perfect Cambodian stay!
Savouring Cambodia: A Foodie's Paradise 😋
Cambodian (or Khmer) cuisine is seriously underrated. It often gets overshadowed by Thailand and Vietnam, but honestly? It deserves its moment. The flavours are gentler than spicy Thai dishes, think fresh herbs, fragrant spices, and lots of balance.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fish Amok – Cambodia’s national dish. It’s a creamy, coconutty fish curry, steamed in banana leaves. Rich, fragrant, and absolutely dreamy.
Beef Lok Lak – A tasty stir-fry usually served with rice, a fried egg on top, and a zingy lime-pepper dipping sauce. So good.
Where to Eat:
Head to local markets and street food stalls for the real deal. That’s where you’ll find the cheapest, most authentic eats. Don’t be put off by the tiny plastic stools, that’s where the magic happens!
Some of my faves:
- Grilled pork skewers
- Fresh spring rolls
- Kuy Teav – a comforting noodle soup packed with flavour
Feeling brave? You might spot fried tarantulas on offer 🕷️. Yep, they’re a thing! Not for everyone, but if you’re feeling adventurous, give it a go, even just for the story. A little crunchy for me!
To drink: Grab an ice-cold Angkor Beer, or try a sweet and strong iced coffee with condensed milk. Total lifesaver on a hot day ☀️.
🔹 Pro Tip: Be open, be curious, and try a little bit of everything — Cambodia’s food scene has plenty of surprises (the good kind!).
✨ Further guides to this gorgeous country: 14 Things to Do in Siem Reap, Cambodia
Recommended Tours and Tickets across Cambodia
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Get lifetime access to our endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in the area. You simply open the Google Map on your device and all our pins are at the touch of your fingertips.
Speaking the Lingo in Cambodia: Your Secret Superpower 💬
You certainly don’t need to be fluent in Khmer, the official language of Cambodia, to have an amazing time. English is widely spoken in tourist areas. However, learning a few basic phrases is like having a secret superpower. It shows respect, opens doors, and will almost always be met with a warm and appreciative smile. I’ve found that even a simple greeting can transform an interaction. Cambodians are incredibly friendly people, and any attempt to speak their language is a wonderful icebreaker.
Here are a few essential phrases to get you started:
Hello: Susadei (Soos-a-day)
Thank you: Arkoun (Ar-koon)
Goodbye: Lea Sey Hauer (Lee-a San How-ee)
How are you?: Sok Sabay Te? (Sok Sa-bye Teh?)
Delicious: Chnganh (Ch-nagn) 😋
Keep these in your back pocket, and you’ll be making new friends in no time!
💡 Good to know: Cambodians really appreciate it when visitors make the effort, even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect. A smile and a “Susadei” can go a long way, sometimes even leading to better service, local tips, or just a lovely connection you weren’t expecting. It’s not about getting it right, it’s about showing you care.
Cultural Know-How: The Little Things ❤️
Understanding and respecting local customs is key to being a thoughtful traveller. In Cambodia, the culture is deeply rooted in Buddhism and a strong sense of family and community. A respectful and friendly attitude will be warmly received. When visiting the temples of Angkor or any other religious site, it’s important to dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees. I always carry a scarf or sarong with me for this reason. It’s a simple way to show respect.
The head is considered the most sacred part of the body, so avoid touching people on the head. Conversely, the feet are considered the lowest part of the body, so try not to point your feet at people or religious statues. When giving or receiving something, it’s polite to use your right hand or both hands. These might seem like small things, but they show that you’re a considerate visitor. Let’s be honest, we all want to be good guests when we travel.
✋🏼 Be a culture master: Travel Etiquette: Your Guide to Being a Charming Globe-Trotter
Beyond the Obvious: Discovering Cambodia's Hidden Gems ✨
While Angkor Wat is undoubtedly the star of the show, there’s so much more to Cambodia than its famous temples. I urge you to venture beyond Siem Reap and discover some of the country’s other amazing spots. The riverside town of Kampot, with its sleepy French colonial architecture and surrounding pepper plantations, is one of my favourite places to unwind. You can spend your days kayaking on the river, exploring caves, and learning about the world-famous Kampot pepper.
Not far from Kampot is the charming coastal town of Kep, famous for its fresh crab market 🦀. I wasted hours just sitting by the sea, watching the world go by and feasting on delicious grilled crab. For a taste of rural Cambodia, consider a trip to Battambang. Here you can ride the famous bamboo train, a truly unique experience, and explore the surrounding countryside, with its picturesque rice paddies and ancient temples. We don’t gatekeep around here, so I’m telling you, these places are special.
⛰️ Fact: The Battambang Bamboo Train, known locally as a “Norry,” isn’t exactly a train. It’s a simple bamboo platform powered by a small engine. If two Norries meet on the track, the one with the lighter load is disassembled and taken off the tracks to let the other pass!
Safety First: Stay Smart & Secure
Cambodia is generally a safe country for travellers, and the local people are known for their warmth and hospitality. However, like anywhere in the world, it’s wise to take some sensible precautions to have a trouble-free trip. Petty theft, such as bag snatching, can happen, particularly in busy cities like Phnom Penh. My advice is to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded markets and on public transport. Keep your valuables secure and out of sight. I only recommend what I actually use, and a good quality anti-theft bag can give you real peace of mind.
When it comes to your health, drink bottled or filtered water and be mindful of what you eat. Stick to busy street food stalls where you can see the food being cooked fresh 🔥. Before you travel, it’s always smart to chat with your doctor about any recommended vaccinations. Here’s what you need to know before booking: a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a safe and healthy adventure.
🔹 Peace of Mind: Always have comprehensive travel insurance. It’s one of those things you hope you never need, but you’ll be incredibly glad you have it if you do. It covers everything from medical emergencies to lost luggage, giving you the freedom to explore without worry.
🚨 We like to help out at The Travel Tinker: Don’t Get Done! 20 Crafty Travel Scams and How to Dodge Them
What to know How to Plan or Save for a Trip? Here are our best:
If you’ve made it this far — first off, yay you! — and second, I hope you’re feeling a bit more ready (and a lot more excited) for what’s ahead. Cambodia has this rare magic about it. It’s beautiful, humbling, and packed with soul — from the jaw-dropping Angkor sunrises to the warmth of locals who’ll smile at you like you’re already a friend. Have a great time! 🇰🇭
Now, over to you…
Now it’s your turn! Have you been to Cambodia? Do you have any other tips to share? I’d love to hear about your experiences and thoughts in the comments below. Let’s build a community of Cambodia-loving travellers!👇🗣️
Adventure on,
The Travel Tinker Crew 🌍✨
Simliar Articles:
- Top 10 Places to Visit in Cambodia: Land of the Khmers
- Is Cambodia Safe? Tips for Solo Female Travelers
- Siem Reap vs. Chiang Mai: Which is Right for You?
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FAQs about Travel in Cambodia
What is the best currency to use in Cambodia?
The best approach is to use a combination of US Dollars and Cambodian Riel. US Dollars are used for most transactions like hotels, restaurants, and tours. You will receive your change for amounts less than a dollar in the local currency, Riel, which is handy for small purchases like drinks and street food.
Do I need a visa to travel to Cambodia?
Most nationalities need a visa to enter Cambodia. You can get a visa on arrival at the major airports and land borders, or you can apply for an e-visa online in advance for a smoother entry process. Always check the latest visa requirements for your specific nationality before you travel.
Is it safe to drink tap water in Cambodia?
No, it’s not recommended to drink tap water in Cambodia. To stay safe and healthy, you should stick to bottled water, which is widely and cheaply available. Many hotels and guesthouses also provide free filtered water, so carrying a reusable water bottle is a great idea.
What is the dress code for visiting temples in Cambodia?
When visiting the temples of Angkor and other religious sites, a modest dress code is required. This means you should cover your shoulders and your knees. T-shirts and long shorts or trousers are fine. It’s a sign of respect, and entry to some areas might be denied if you are not appropriately dressed.
What is the power socket type in Cambodia?
Cambodia generally uses Type A, Type C, and Type G power sockets. The standard voltage is 230V. To be safe, it’s highly recommended you bring a universal travel adapter. That way you can charge all your devices without a problem.
Travel Planning Resources
Ready to book your next trip? These trusted resources have been personally vetted to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Book Your Flights: Kick off your travel planning by finding the best flight deals on Trip.com. Our years of experience with them confirm they offer the most competitive prices.
Book Your Hotel: For the best hotel rates, use Booking.com . For the best and safest hostels, HostelWorld.com is your go-to resource. Best for overall Hotel ratings and bargains, use TripAdvisor.com!
Find Apartment Rentals: For affordable apartment rentals, check out VRBO. They consistently offer the best prices.
Car Rentals: For affordable car rentals, check out RentalCars.com. They offer the best cars, mostly brand new.
Travel Insurance: Never travel without insurance. Here are our top recommendations:
- EKTA for Travel Insurance for all areas!
- Use AirHelp for compensation claims against flight delays etc.
Book Your Activities: Discover walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more on Get Your Guide. They have a vast selection of activities to enhance your trip. There is also Tiqets.com for instant mobile tickets.
Book The Best Trains: Use Trainline to find the most affordable trains or Rail Europe for rail passes!
Travel E-SIMS: Airalo Worldwide! Use your mobile phone anywhere!
Need More Help Planning Your Trip? Visit our Resources Page to see all the companies we trust and use for our travels.
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Author
Logan Riley
Hey there, I'm Logan, a wandering soul with a passion for uncovering the world's hidden gems. From sipping coffee in cozy Parisian cafés to hiking rugged trails in Patagonia, I chase experiences that spark joy and curiosity. My blog is a scrapbook of adventures, filled with tips, stories, and photos from off-the-beaten-path destinations. Whether it's savoring street food in Bangkok or stargazing in the Sahara, I’m here to inspire your next journey.
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