Cambodia
This highly condensed itinerary presents a taste of Siem Reap and Angkor Wat.
Arrival, check into hotel. Head directly to Angkor Wat for focused exploration of the main complex. Explore Siem Reap town. Visit the Old Market and walk along Pub Street. Enjoy dinner with an Apsara dance show or attend Phare, The Cambodian Circus. Depart from Siem Reap.
Tailor your itinerary to your specific interests and preferences.
Prioritize visiting all temples within Angkor Park, including the Roluos Group, Beng Mealea, and Koh Ker. Allocate ample time at the Angkor National Museum.
Focus on street food tours, enroll in multiple cooking classes, and visit local markets. Seek out authentic local Khmer dishes.
Include quad biking tours, ziplining, cycling tours within Angkor Park, and trekking at Phnom Kulen. Opportunities for rural exploration are present.
Plan shorter temple visits to avoid fatigue, or use a private driver for flexibility. Book hotels with swimming pools for downtime. Phare Circus is excellent for all ages. Visit floating villages.
Tailor your journey to niche interests beyond general sightseeing.
Dedicate more time to detailed exploration of temple carvings and bas-reliefs. Visit Artisans Angkor to observe traditional craft production. Explore local art galleries in Siem Reap.
Incorporate yoga or meditation sessions. Enjoy traditional Khmer massages. Spend time in the quieter, spiritual aspects of the temples, focusing on contemplation.
Plan visits around sunrise and sunset for optimal light at temples. Seek out unique village scenes and natural landscapes. Use a guide for photography-specific locations and timing.
Adjust your travel style to suit your budget considerations.
Stay in hostels or budget guesthouses. Eat street food and at local eateries. Rent a bicycle for exploring temples. Use PassApp for tuk-tuks for fixed prices.
Stay in boutique hotels or guesthouses that include pools. Enjoy a mix of local and mid-range restaurants. Hire a private tuk-tuk driver for temple tours for convenience and flexibility.
Stay in 5-star resorts with extensive amenities. Indulge in fine dining. Arrange a private car with a driver and guide for all excursions. Enjoy private tours and spa treatments. Seek out unique, high-end experiences.
Travel during the shoulder or low season for better prices on accommodation and flights. Take advantage of happy hours and dining deals.
Plan your visit to align with seasonal highlights or specific events.
From June to October, lush green landscapes characterize the wet season. Significantly fewer crowds are present. Dramatic skies enhance photography. Rain creates beautiful reflections in waterlogged temple grounds.
From November to February, the dry season presents ideal weather for extensive temple exploration. Expect higher prices and larger crowds at popular sites during this period.
Plan your trip around Khmer New Year (mid-April) or the Water Festival (October/November) to experience unique cultural festivities. Book well in advance if traveling during these times.
During peak seasons or major festivals, secure your accommodation and flights well in advance due to high demand and increased prices.
Some local businesses may have reduced operating hours or temporary closures during national holidays, specifically during Khmer New Year.
