A practical guide put together by our local team in Siem Reap — visas, budgeting, transport, health and customs, so you can travel across Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam with confidence.
Most travelers can get a Cambodian e-visa online before departure (around $30, valid for a 30-day stay), or a visa on arrival at major airports and land border crossings. Bring two passport photos and a passport valid for at least 6 months. Combining Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam means a separate visa for each country — we can help you plan the order of your itinerary to make the paperwork easier.
The dry season (November to March) is the most comfortable time to visit Angkor Wat and the Siem Reap temples, with cooler temperatures in December–January. The hot season (April–May) precedes the monsoon rains (June to October), which turn the countryside and Tonlé Sap lake lush and green — great for photography, with fewer crowds.
The US Dollar is used everywhere in Cambodia alongside the Cambodian Riel (KHR) for small change. ATMs are common in Siem Reap and accept most international cards (a withdrawal fee usually applies). Carry cash for local markets, small restaurants and tips — cards are mostly accepted at hotels and larger restaurants.
A private driver remains the most comfortable way to explore the temples and countryside, especially in the heat. We offer tuk-tuks, air-conditioned cars, mini-vans and buses depending on your group size and budget. For travel between cities or countries, flying is often faster, while buses stay affordable for shorter distances.
Light, breathable clothing, one warmer layer for cool-season evenings, closed walking shoes for temple visits, a hat and sunscreen. Shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting temples and pagodas — a light scarf or loose trousers work well. Don't forget a reusable water bottle and mosquito repellent.
No vaccinations are mandatory to enter Cambodia, but routine vaccines plus Hepatitis A/Typhoid are recommended — check with your doctor before you travel. Stick to bottled or filtered water, and get travel insurance that covers medical costs. Cambodia is generally safe for travelers; just keep an eye on your belongings in busy tourist areas.
Greet with the 'sampeah' (palms pressed together) in formal settings, remove shoes and hats before entering temples, and avoid touching someone's head or pointing your feet at a Buddha image. Dress modestly at religious sites. A smile and a few words of Khmer ('Suosdey' — hello, 'Arkoun' — thank you) go a long way.
Khmer is Cambodia's official language, but English and French are widely spoken across Siem Reap's tourism sector. All our guides are fluent in French and English. Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and cafés, and local prepaid SIM cards offer affordable 4G data for the length of your stay.
Browse our private tours or reach out to our team to build a custom itinerary.