Travel guide
Planning a trip to Cambodia
Cambodia is smaller and quieter than its neighbours, and its highlights are easy to link in one or two weeks: the temples of Angkor, the capital Phnom Penh, the pepper coast around Kampot and Kep, and the islands off Koh Rong.
Best time to go
The dry season runs from about November to April. November to January is the most comfortable, and March to May is very hot. The rainy season, roughly May to October, brings short afternoon storms, green rice fields and fewer visitors at Angkor.
The Tonle Sap lake is at its highest from about September to November, when the stilt villages are surrounded by water.
Where to go
- Siem Reap and Angkor: Angkor Wat, the Bayon, Ta Prohm and the Tonle Sap.
- Phnom Penh: the Royal Palace, markets and the country's modern history.
- Kampot and Kep: river towns, Bokor Mountain and pepper farms.
- Koh Rong: white-sand islands off the south coast.
- Battambang, Kratie and Mondulkiri: the countryside, river dolphins and elephants.
Before you go
- Canadians need a visa. You can apply online for an e-visa or get one on arrival at international airports and main land borders. A tourist visa is valid for 30 days.
- Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after you arrive.
- Fill in Cambodia's e-Arrival form online in the days before you travel.
- US dollars are used almost everywhere alongside the Cambodian riel. Bring small, clean US notes.
- Check the latest rules on travel.gc.ca.
Getting around
Siem Reap and Phnom Penh both have new international airports and are about a 45-minute flight apart, or around 6 hours by road. Our packages include the transfers, drivers and boats listed on each trip page.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do I need in Cambodia?
Five days covers Angkor and Phnom Penh. With a week you can add Kampot and Kep or a few nights on Koh Rong.
Can I combine Cambodia with Thailand or Vietnam?
Yes. There are short flights from Siem Reap and Phnom Penh to Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Ask us to combine trips.
Do I need cash in Cambodia?
Yes. Cards work in most hotels and bigger restaurants, but markets, tuk-tuks and small shops take cash, usually US dollars.