Planning your Cambodia adventure but overwhelmed by choices? Crafting the perfect Cambodia travel itinerary transforms scattered ideas into an unforgettable journey. From ancient Angkor temples to pristine island beaches, Cambodia packs incredible diversity into a compact, affordable destination.

The challenge? Most first-time visitors either rush through highlights in 5 days (missing hidden gems) or wander aimlessly for weeks without structure. Neither approach maximizes your experience or budget.

After years of exploring Cambodia and helping hundreds of travelers plan trips, I’ve developed Cambodia travel itinerary templates that balance must-see attractions with authentic experiences, comfortable pacing with adventure, and tourist favorites with local secrets.

Whether you have 7, 10, or 14 days, this guide provides detailed daily schedules, transportation logistics, accommodation recommendations, and insider tips for creating your perfect Cambodia journey.

Let’s design your ideal Cambodia travel itinerary.

Why You Need a Structured Cambodia Travel Itinerary

Cambodia rewards planning without requiring rigid schedules.

Benefits of thoughtful itinerary design:

Efficient routing saves time and money. Cambodia’s attractions spread across the country. Poor planning means wasted days backtracking. Smart Cambodia travel itinerary design flows logically from north to south or vice versa, minimizing redundant travel.

Balanced pacing prevents exhaustion. Temple touring is intense. Beach time provides recovery. Cultural experiences offer perspective. Well-designed itineraries alternate activity intensity, ensuring you enjoy rather than endure your trip.

Advanced booking secures better prices. Popular destinations like Siem Reap and island resorts fill quickly during high season. Your Cambodia travel itinerary timeline enables booking 4-8 weeks ahead, saving 20-40% on accommodation.

Structured flexibility optimizes experiences. Knowing your general route allows spontaneous detours without derailing entire trips. Framework with wiggle room beats both rigid scheduling and complete improvisation.

Budget clarity prevents overspending. Daily itineraries reveal true costs. Three temple days plus two beach days plus transportation between equals realistic budget calculations. No surprises.

That said, flexibility remains crucial. Use these itineraries as foundations, not commandments. Skip destinations that don’t interest you. Extend stays at places you love. Cambodia forgives improvisation better than most destinations.

Choosing Your Cambodia Travel Itinerary Length

How long should you spend in Cambodia?

5-7 Days: Express Highlights

Realistic for:

• Limited vacation time
• Cambodia portion of larger Southeast Asia trip
• Quick temple experience
• Weekend warriors with long flights

What you’ll see:

• Siem Reap and Angkor temples (3-4 days)
• Phnom Penh (1-2 days)
• ONE beach or cultural destination (1-2 days)

What you’ll miss:

• Relaxed pacing
• Hidden gems
• Beach recovery time
• Countryside experiences
• Cultural depth

Verdict: Possible but rushed. Better than nothing but leaves you wanting more.

10-12 Days: Balanced Experience (Recommended)

Realistic for:

• Standard two-week vacation (accounting for travel days)
• First-time Cambodia visitors
• Couples and families
• Balance seekers

What you’ll see:

• Siem Reap and Angkor (3-4 days). Check our Siem Reap Travel Guide
• Phnom Penh (2 days). Check our Phnom Penh Travel Guide
• Battambang OR Kampot/Kep (2 days)
• Beach islands (3-4 days)

What you’ll miss:

• Remote provinces
• Extended beach time
• Every single temple
• Slow travel pace

Verdict: Sweet spot for most travelers. Covers highlights with breathing room. Our detailed Cambodia travel itinerary below focuses on this timeframe.

14-21 Days: Comprehensive Exploration

Realistic for:

• Extended travelers
• Slow travel enthusiasts
• Repeat visitors going deeper
• Digital nomads

What you’ll see:

• Everything in 10-12 day itinerary PLUS
• Multiple beach destinations
• Battambang AND Kampot/Kep
• Mondulkiri OR Ratanakiri
• Floating villages
• Countryside immersion

What you’ll miss:

• Nothing major if planned well

Verdict: Ideal for truly experiencing Cambodia beyond tourist highlights. Allows spontaneous extensions when you discover magical places.

21+ Days: Deep Dive

Realistic for:

• Long-term travelers
• Those combining work and travel
• Expat life exploration
• Complete Cambodia immersion

What you’ll see:

• Literally everything
• Multiple remote provinces
• Extended stays everywhere
• Volunteer opportunities
• Language learning
• Local friendships

Verdict: Cambodia reveals its soul to patient travelers. This timeframe allows genuine cultural immersion.

Essential Cambodia Travel Itinerary Planning Tips

Before diving into daily schedules, master these fundamentals.

Best Time for Your Cambodia Travel Itinerary

Dry Season (November-February): Peak Perfection

Weather: 70-85°F, dry, comfortable, perfect for everything Crowds: Maximum at major sites Prices: 40-60% higher than low season Activities: Everything fully operational

Best for: First-timers, families, those prioritizing weather certainty Book ahead: 6-8 weeks for accommodation

Hot Season (March-May): Budget Sweet Spot

Weather: 85-100°F, very hot (especially April), minimal rain Crowds: Moderate and thinning Prices: 25-35% cheaper than peak Activities: All available but temple touring exhausting

Best for: Budget travelers, heat-tolerant adventurers, photographers (dramatic skies) Strategy: Visit temples early morning (6-9am), rest midday, explore late afternoon

Rainy Season (June-October): Ultimate Savings

Weather: 80-90°F, afternoon rain showers (1-3 hours), humid Crowds: Minimal at major sites Prices: 50-70% off peak season Activities: Some roads impassable (Mondulkiri, Ratanakiri), islands less ideal

Best for: Extreme budget travelers, photographers (lush landscapes), those avoiding crowds Reality check: “Rainy season” means brief afternoon downpours, not all-day rain

Recommended for most: November-December or March-April balances weather, crowds, and costs.

Transportation Between Destinations

Buses (Most Common):

Budget operators: $5-10 per route, basic but functional Premium operators: $10-15 (Giant Ibis, Mekong Express), comfortable, reliable Sleeper buses: $12-20, overnight routes save accommodation costs

Book: Online (reliable operators) or hotel front desk (small commission but convenient)

Domestic Flights:

When worth it: Siem Reap ↔ Sihanoukville (saves 6-8 hours) Cost: $50-100, book 2-4 weeks ahead Operators: Cambodia Angkor Air, Lanmei Airlines.

Private Taxis:

Cost: $40-80 per day with driver When worth it: Groups of 3-4 splitting costs, custom routing, comfort priority Flexibility: Stop for photos, adjust timing, door-to-door

Boats:

Sihanoukville ↔ Islands: $18-25 return, 45 minutes, essential Siem Reap ↔ Battambang: $20-25, 6-8 hours, scenic but uncomfortable (dry season only)

Accommodation Booking Strategy

High season (November-February):

• Book 4-8 weeks ahead for Siem Reap, popular islands
• Walk-ins risky for mid-range and up
• Prices firm, little negotiation

Shoulder season (March-April, September-October):

• Book 2-3 weeks ahead for popular spots
• Walk-ins possible but booking ahead still wise
• Some negotiation possible

Low season (May-August):

• Book 3-7 days ahead sufficient
• Walk-ins often get better deals than online
• Negotiate aggressively (30-50% discounts common)

Booking platforms: Booking.com and Agoda dominate Cambodia. Direct hotel contact sometimes yields better prices.

Daily Budget Planning

Budget backpacker: $30-45/day

• Hostels/basic guesthouses: $6-10
• Street food: $10-15
• Local transport: $5-8
• Budget activities: $8-12

Mid-range comfort: $60-90/day

• 3-star hotels: $25-40
• Mixed dining: $20-30
• Private transport: $12-18
• Standard activities: $15-25

Luxury experience: $150-300+/day

• 4-5 star properties: $80-200
• Fine dining: $40-80
• Private drivers/flights: $30-60
• Premium experiences: $40-100

Use these daily rates when calculating total trip costs based on your chosen Cambodia travel itinerary length.

Complete 10-Day Cambodia Travel Itinerary

This balanced Cambodia travel itinerary covers highlights with comfortable pacing.

Day 1: Arrival in Siem Reap

Morning:

• Arrive Siem Reap International Airport
• Visa on arrival: $30 (or e-visa arranged ahead)
• Airport taxi to hotel: $9-12 (pre-arranged) or tuk-tuk: $7-9
• Check into accommodation (Wat Bo area recommended for character, Old Market for convenience)

Afternoon:

• Rest and recover from travel
• Explore immediate neighborhood on foot
• Purchase 3-day Angkor pass: $62 (valid one week, allows temple exploration Days 2-4)
• SIM card if needed: $10-15 (Metfone, Smart, Cellcard at phone shops)

Evening:

• Dinner at local restaurant: $5-8 (try amok, lok lak, Khmer curry)
• Gentle stroll around Old Market area
• Early bed (temple touring starts early!)

Accommodation: $25-40 for comfortable hotel with pool, breakfast included

Budget: $100-150 (including Angkor pass purchase)

Pro tips:

• Don’t book temple tours yet; assess energy after arrival
• Avoid Pub Street first night (save for later celebration)
• Set multiple alarms for tomorrow’s sunrise

Day 2: Angkor Wat Sunrise & Major Temples

Very Early Morning (4:45am departure):

• Pre-arranged tuk-tuk picks you up: $15-20 for full day
• Angkor Wat sunrise viewing (5:30-6:30am)
• Position yourself at left reflection pond for classic photo
• Crowds gather but experience still magical

Morning (6:30am-12pm):

• Explore Angkor Wat interior (now emptier as day-trippers arrive)
• Three levels, galleries, and thousands of carvings
• Allow 2-3 hours minimum
• Angkor Thom complex and Bayon Temple (216 smiling stone faces)
• Baphuon Temple (pyramid mountain)
• Terrace of Elephants and Leper King

Lunch Break:

• Return to Siem Reap or eat near temples (simple restaurants $3-5)
• Rest during hottest hours (12-2pm)

Afternoon (2:30-6pm):

• Ta Prohm Temple (“Tomb Raider” temple with tree roots)
• Pre Rup for sunset (less crowded than Angkor Wat, beautiful views)

Evening:

• Return to hotel, shower, rest
• Dinner in Wat Bo or Old Market area: $6-10
• Optional: Traditional Apsara dance performance: $12-15

Budget: $35-50 (transport, food, optional performance)

Pro tips:

• Bring water, hat, sunscreen (ruthless tropical sun)
• Download maps.me offline maps
• Dress modestly (shoulders, knees covered for temples)
• Pace yourself; temple fatigue is real

Day 3: Remote Angkor Temples

Morning (7am departure):

• Longer tuk-tuk journey to outer temples: $20-25 full day
• Banteay Srei (30km from Siem Reap, exquisite pink sandstone carvings)
• Allow 1.5-2 hours
• Banteay Samre (underrated, beautifully restored)

Lunch:

• Simple restaurant near Banteay Srei: $3-5

Afternoon:

• East Mebon (island temple, brick towers)
• Preah Khan (sprawling monastic complex, fewer tourists)
• Ta Som (small but charming, strangler fig tree over east gate)

Late Afternoon:

• Neak Pean (unique water temple design)
• Return to Siem Reap by 5:30-6pm

Evening:

• Relaxed dinner at local favorite: $6-10
• Optional: Pub Street exploration (if energetic)
• Massage ($6-10/hour, well-deserved after temple days)

Budget: $40-55

Pro tips:

• Outer temples offer authentic atmosphere minus crowds
• Photography golden hour at Preah Khan (4-5pm)
• This day less physically demanding than Day 2
• Banteay Srei justifies longer journey

Day 4: Angkor Exploration & Tonle Sap

Morning (Flexible start):

• Sleep in slightly (temple fatigue recovery)
• Revisit favorite temple from previous days
• OR explore Angkor Wat’s upper terraces (limited daily visitors, quieter morning)
• OR bicycle temple circuit (rent: $2-4/day)

Lunch:

• Return to Siem Reap: $4-7

Afternoon:

• Tonle Sap Lake floating village tour (Kompong Khleang recommended over touristy Chong Kneas)
• Half-day tour: $20-30 including boat and transport
• Witness unique water-based communities
• 3-4 hour experience

Evening:

• Celebratory dinner at nicer restaurant: $12-18
• Pub Street if you haven’t yet (drinks $2-4)
• Pack for tomorrow’s departure to Phnom Penh

Budget: $50-70

Accommodation checkout: Settle bill if not done

Day 5: Siem Reap to Phnom Penh

Morning:

• Breakfast at hotel
• Check out
• Bus to Phnom Penh: $10-15 (6 hours)
• Departure times: 7:30am, 8:30am, 12pm, 2pm
• Book online or hotel arranges (small commission)

Afternoon:

• Arrive Phnom Penh (2-3pm depending on bus)
• Check into accommodation (Riverside or BKK1 neighborhoods recommended)
• Rest and refresh

Late Afternoon:

• Gentle riverside walk
• Orient yourself to neighborhood
• Locate dinner options

Evening:

• Riverside dinner: $6-12
• Easy night after travel day
• Plan next day’s heavy historical sites

Accommodation: $25-35 for comfortable Phnom Penh hotel

Budget: $60-80 (bus, accommodation, meals)

Pro tip: Book Phnom Penh accommodation near riverside for best atmosphere and restaurant access

Day 6: Phnom Penh Historical Immersion

Morning:

• Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda: $10 entry, 2-3 hours
• Dress modestly (covered shoulders, long pants/skirts)
• Beautiful Khmer architecture, royal artifacts
• National Museum: $10, 1-2 hours
• Cambodia’s finest Khmer art collection

Lunch:

• Riverside or Russian Market area: $5-8

Afternoon (Emotionally Heavy):

• Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21 Prison): $5 + $5 audio guide
• Allow 2-3 hours
• Former high school turned interrogation center
• Sobering, essential history
• Prepare mentally for difficult experience

Late Afternoon:

• Return to hotel
• Processing time often needed
• Light walk or rest

Evening:

• Quiet dinner: $6-10
• Avoid heavy evening activities
• Reflect on day’s lessons

Budget: $50-65

Pro tips:

• Tackle historical sites early when fresh emotionally
• Audio guides provide crucial context
• Take breaks as needed
• This day affects everyone differently; be patient with yourself

Day 7: Killing Fields & Departure to Coast

Morning:

• Choeung Ek Killing Fields: $6 entry + $6 audio guide
• Located 17km from city (tuk-tuk $15-20 return)
• Allow 2-3 hours
• Memorial stupa contains 8,000+ skulls
• Audio tour essential for understanding
• Completes S-21 historical narrative

Late Morning:

• Return to Phnom Penh
• Lunch: $5-8
• Check out of accommodation

Afternoon:

• Bus to Sihanoukville: $6-10 (4-5 hours)
• OR bus to Kampot: $6-8 (3 hours) if choosing that route
• This itinerary continues to islands; Kampot alternative detailed separately

Evening:

• Arrive Sihanoukville (evening)
• If catching morning boat to islands: Stay near port in basic hotel ($15-25)
• OR take evening boat if available (last usually 1-2pm)
• Light dinner near accommodation: $5-8

Budget: $55-75

Pro tip: Sihanoukville itself isn’t highlight (heavy Chinese development); it’s gateway to islands

Day 8: Island Paradise – Koh Rong Sanloem

Morning:

• Fast boat to Koh Rong Sanloem: $18-25 return (keep return ticket)
• Departures: 8am, 9am, 11am, 1pm typically
• 45-minute journey
• Arrive Saracen Bay (main beach)

Late Morning:

• Check into beach bungalow: $15-40/night depending on comfort level
• Lunch at beach restaurant: $4-7
• Beach relaxation begins!

Afternoon:

• Swimming in crystal-clear water
• Hammock time
• Beach walking
• Snorkeling (rent gear $3-5)
• Absolutely nothing (perfectly acceptable)

Evening:

• Sunset watching (stunning from Saracen Bay)
• Beach barbecue dinner: $6-10
• Bioluminescent plankton swim (magical night experience)
• Beach bar socializing or quiet stargazing

Accommodation: $25-40 beach bungalow

Budget: $60-85 (boat, accommodation, meals, activities)

Pro tips:

• Book accommodation ahead high season
• Walk-ins possible low season for better deals
• Bring cash (limited ATMs, many places cash-only)
• Reef-safe sunscreen (protecting marine environment)

Day 9: Island Bliss Continues

All Day:

• Complete beach recovery mode
• Swimming, reading, hammocking
• Optional activities:
  • Snorkeling trips: $15-25
  • Kayak rental: $5/hour
  • Jungle hike to Sunset Beach: 45 minutes, free
  • Dive trips for certified divers: $40-60
  • Absolutely nothing (highly recommended)

Meals:

• Breakfast: $3-5
• Lunch: $4-7
• Dinner: $6-10
• Fresh fruit shakes: $1.50-2.50

Evening:

• Another spectacular sunset
• Beach dinner
• Bioluminescence if you missed last night
• Early bed (island life is exhausting relaxation)

Budget: $45-65

Pro tip: This is recovery time after intense temple/history days. Resist urge to overschedule. Embrace doing nothing.

Day 10: Island to Siem Reap Departure

Morning:

• Final beach breakfast: $4-6
• Morning swim
• Pack and check out
• Boat back to Sihanoukville: 10am-2pm options

Afternoon:

• Arrive Sihanoukville (1-3pm)
• Options:
  • Option A: Afternoon/evening bus to Siem Reap: $12-15 (8-10 hours, overnight arrival)
  • Option B: Stay Sihanoukville night, morning bus tomorrow (extends trip one day)
  • Option C: Fly Sihanoukville to Siem Reap: $50-100 (1 hour, if budget allows)

Evening (if Option A):

• Overnight bus (sleep, arrive early morning)

Evening (if Option B):

• Otres Beach dinner: $6-10
• Beachside accommodation: $15-25

Budget: $50-90 depending on choices

Departure day logistics: International flights usually depart Siem Reap afternoon/evening, allowing morning flexibility.

Alternative 10-Day Cambodia Travel Itinerary: Countryside Focus

For travelers preferring culture over beaches:

Days 1-3: Siem Reap & Angkor (same as main itinerary)

Day 4: Siem Reap to Battambang

• Morning bus: 3-4 hours, $6-8
• Afternoon: Bamboo train experience
• Evening: Bat caves at Phnom Sampeau

Day 5: Battambang exploration

• Countryside cycling
• Apsara Arts Association
• French colonial architecture
• Local markets

Day 6: Battambang to Phnom Penh

• Morning bus: 5-6 hours, $8-10
• Afternoon: Settle in, riverside walk
• Evening: Dinner and rest

Day 7: Phnom Penh historical (same as main itinerary)

Day 8: Phnom Penh to Kampot

• Morning bus: 3 hours, $6-8
• Afternoon: River kayaking or relaxation
• Evening: Sunset cruise

Day 9: Kampot & Kep

• Morning: Pepper plantation tour
• Midday: Drive to Kep (30 minutes)
• Afternoon: Crab Market lunch
• Late afternoon: Beach relaxation
• Evening: Return Kampot

Day 10: Kampot to Siem Reap

• Morning bus or internal flight
• Departure connections

This countryside Cambodia travel itinerary offers:

• More cultural depth
• Authentic local experiences
• Less touristy atmosphere
• Beautiful river/coastal scenery
• More budget-friendly (cheaper than islands)

14-Day Extended Cambodia Travel Itinerary

For those with extra time, this comprehensive Cambodia travel itinerary adds depth:

Days 1-4: Siem Reap & Angkor (as 10-day itinerary)

Day 5: Siem Reap to Battambang

• Bus journey
• Afternoon bamboo train
• Evening bat caves

Day 6: Battambang exploration

• Full day countryside
• Villages, rice paddies, temples
• Arts and cultural experiences

Day 7: Battambang to Phnom Penh

• Morning bus
• Afternoon arrival and settling
• Riverside orientation

Day 8: Phnom Penh history

• Royal Palace, National Museum
• S-21 Prison

Day 9: Killing Fields & travel to Kampot

• Morning Choeung Ek
• Afternoon bus to Kampot
• Evening riverside arrival

Day 10: Kampot relaxation

• Pepper plantations
• River activities
• Bokor Mountain option
• Laid-back atmosphere

Day 11: Kep day trip

• Morning drive to Kep
• Crab Market lunch
• Kep National Park hiking
• Beach relaxation
• Evening return Kampot

Day 12: Kampot to Koh Rong Sanloem

• Early bus to Sihanoukville
• Midday boat to island
• Beach arrival and relaxation

Day 13: Island day

• Complete beach recovery
• Snorkeling, swimming, nothing
• Bioluminescence

Day 14: Island to departure

• Morning boat
• Bus/flight to Siem Reap
• International departure

This 14-day Cambodia travel itinerary includes:

• All major highlights
• Countryside experiences
• Historical depth
• Beach recovery
• Balanced pacing
• Cultural immersion
• No rushing

7-Day Express Cambodia Travel Itinerary

For time-limited travelers, this condensed cambodia travel itinerary hits essentials:

Day 1: Arrive Siem Reap, rest, Angkor pass

Day 2: Angkor Wat sunrise, major temples

Day 3: Outer temples, Tonle Sap

Day 4: Morning temples, afternoon bus to Phnom Penh

Day 5: Phnom Penh historical sites (Royal Palace, S-21, Killing Fields)

Day 6: Morning in Phnom Penh, travel to beach OR Battambang

Day 7: Final destination exploration, evening departure

This rushed Cambodia travel itinerary sacrifices:

• Relaxed pacing
• Recovery time
• Hidden gems
• Spontaneity
• Deep experiences

Possible but not recommended unless absolutely necessary.

Specialized Cambodia Travel Itineraries

Adventure-Focused 10-Day Itinerary

Days 1-3: Siem Reap (temples by bicycle)

Days 4-6: Mondulkiri Province

• Jungle trekking
• Ethical elephant sanctuary
• Waterfall exploration
• Indigenous villages

Day 7: Travel day to Kampot

Days 8-9: Kampot adventure

• Kayaking
• Cave exploration
• Bokor Mountain

Day 10: Return/departure

Culture-Deep 12-Day Itinerary

Days 1-4: Siem Reap (temples + villages)

Days 5-6: Battambang (arts, crafts, countryside)

Days 7-8: Kratie (Irrawaddy dolphins, Mekong life)

Days 9-10: Phnom Penh (museums, history)

Days 11-12: Kampot/Kep (colonial architecture, local life)

Beach-Focused 10-Day Itinerary

Days 1-3: Siem Reap (temples efficiently)

Day 4: Travel to Sihanoukville

Days 5-7: Koh Rong (party atmosphere)

Days 8-9: Koh Rong Sanloem (quiet relaxation)

Day 10: Return/departure

Essential Packing for Your Cambodia Travel Itinerary

Clothing:

• Lightweight, breathable fabrics (cotton, linen, moisture-wicking)
• Modest temple attire (covering shoulders, knees)
• Swimsuits (multiple for beach days)
• Light rain jacket (even dry season sees occasional showers)
• Comfortable walking shoes (broken in!)
• Sandals (flip-flops for casual wear)
• Sun protection layers

Electronics:

• Phone with international plan or local SIM slot
• Camera with extra memory cards and batteries
• Portable charger (power banks save lives)
• Universal adapter (Type A, C, G for Cambodia)
• Headphones

Health & Hygiene:

• Prescription medications (in original containers with copies of prescriptions)
• Basic first aid kit
• Anti-diarrhea medication (just in case)
• Insect repellent (DEET 30%+ for jungle areas)
• SPF 50+ sunscreen (reef-safe for islands)
• Hand sanitizer
• Wet wipes
• Toiletries (widely available but bring favorites)

Documents:

• Passport (6+ months validity remaining)
• Passport photos (2 for visa on arrival backup)
• Travel insurance documents
• Accommodation booking confirmations
• Emergency contact list
• Photocopies of important documents (stored separately)
• Credit/debit cards (notify banks of travel)

Comfort Items:

• Reusable water bottle
• Quick-dry towel (for beach days, guesthouses without towels)
• Daypack for daily excursions
• Ziploc bags (protecting electronics from humidity)
• Tissues/toilet paper (not always available)
• Book or e-reader
• Journal for travel memories

What NOT to Pack:

• Excessive clothing (laundry cheap: $2-4/load)
• Expensive jewelry (leave valuables home)
• Too many shoes (2-3 pairs maximum)
• Heavy guidebooks (phone apps sufficient)
• Full-size toiletries (buy locally or bring travel sizes)

Money Matters for Your Cambodia Travel Itinerary

Currency:

• US Dollars and Cambodian Riel both accepted
• Dollars for ease (most tourists use)
• Receive Riel as change for small amounts
• $1 USD = approximately 4,000 Riel

How much cash to carry:

• $300-500 USD initially
• Withdraw more as needed
• ATMs widely available (except remote islands)
• ATM fees: $4-5 per withdrawal (withdraw larger amounts to minimize fees)

Credit cards:

• Accepted: Hotels, upscale restaurants, tour operators
• Cash needed: Street food, markets, tuk-tuks, small guesthouses
• Fees: Most cards charge 3-4% foreign transaction
• Get fee-free travel card if possible

Tipping:

• Not mandatory but appreciated
• Guides: $5-10/day
• Drivers: $3-5/day
• Restaurants: 10% for good service
• Tuk-tuk drivers: Round up fare
• Spa/massage: $1-2

Budget tracking:

• Track daily spending first few days
• Adjust itinerary if over/under budget
• Hidden costs: Visas, insurance, tips, shopping, alcohol, Western food cravings

Health & Safety for Your Cambodia Travel Itinerary

Pre-trip preparations:

• Consult travel doctor 6-8 weeks before departure
• Vaccinations: Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus, Japanese Encephalitis (rural areas)
• Malaria: Risk in remote areas (Mondulkiri, Ratanakiri); antimalarials recommended
• Dengue: No vaccine; use insect repellent religiously
• Travel insurance: Essential (medical, evacuation, trip cancellation)

Food & water safety:

• Drink only bottled water
• Ice generally safe in tourist areas (made from purified water)
• Street food usually safe (choose busy stalls, watch preparation)
• Avoid raw vegetables in questionable establishments
• Peel fruit yourself

Common health issues:

• Traveler’s diarrhea: Usually mild, resolves 1-3 days
• Heat exhaustion: Stay hydrated, rest during hottest hours
• Sunburn: Relentless tropical sun; reapply SPF 50+ constantly
• Mosquito-borne illness: Use repellent especially dawn/dusk

Safety considerations:

• Cambodia generally safe for tourists
• Watch belongings in crowded areas (pickpockets exist)
• Use registered taxis/Grab app (avoid unmarked late-night transportation)
• Avoid unlit areas alone after dark
• Political demonstrations: Stay away
• Landmines: Stick to marked paths in remote areas

Emergency contacts:

• Tourist Police: 012 402 424 (Siem Reap), 012 942 484 (Phnom Penh)
• Ambulance: 119
• Fire: 118
• Your embassy contact info (save in phone)

🧭 Conclusion: Is Cambodia Worth Visiting in 2026?

Cambodia is one of Southeast Asia’s most rewarding destinations in 2026.
With the right itinerary, you can experience ancient temples, vibrant cities, relaxed beaches, and authentic local culture—all at a very affordable cost.

Whether you have 7 days or 14 days, Cambodia offers incredible value, easy transportation, and warm hospitality that makes it ideal for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike.

This itinerary is designed to help you travel more, spend less.

Final Tips for Travelling Through Cambodia

• Plan a slow, balanced itinerary and avoid rushing through too many destinations.
• Visit Angkor Wat early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and crowds.
• Carry small USD bills and avoid torn or old banknotes.
• Use tuk-tuks for short rides and tourist buses for intercity travel.
• Travel between November and February for the best weather and comfort.
• Pack light, breathable clothing suitable for temples and hot weather.
• Dress modestly at religious sites and remove shoes when required.
• Book accommodations early during peak season to secure better prices.
• Keep a flexible schedule for weather changes and local events.
• Bookmark or save this itinerary for easy offline reference during your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to start planning your Cambodia journey?

Your next steps:

1. Choose your timeframe (7, 10, 14, or 21+ days)
2. Research destinations matching your interests
3. Book flights 8-12 weeks ahead for best prices
4. Apply for e-visa 1-2 weeks before departure
5. Plan rough itinerary (stay flexible!)
6. Pack appropriately (light, modest, practical)
7. Download essential apps (Grab, Maps.me, Google Translate)
8. Purchase travel insurance (non-negotiable)
9. Inform banks of travel dates
10. Embrace adventure!

Plan Your Perfect Cambodia Adventure

📧 Have questions about planning your Cambodia trip? Drop a comment below or Contact us for personalized budget travel advice

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Need more South East Asia Travel guidance?

Explore our other comprehensive guides:

• Best Places to Travel in Cambodia – Discover top destinations beyond Angkor
• Cambodia Travel Packages – Compare tour options and find the best deals
• Best Time to Visit Cambodia and Vietnam – Optimize your timing
• Vietnam Travel Package – Travel More, Spend Less

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Cambodia is calling. Will you answer?

The temples are waiting. The islands are pristine. The adventures are endless.

Start planning your unforgettable Cambodian journey today!

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Have you visited Cambodia during different seasons? Share your experiences and timing recommendations in the comments below to help fellow travelers choose the best time for their adventures!

Last Updated: December 2025