Entry Requirements: 

Most travelers, including those from the US, UK, and Canada need a visa to enter Cambodia and a passport valid for six months beyond the date of entry.  Visas may be obtained online officially at: evisa.gov.kh.  Tourists may also obtain a visa upon arrival at the airports in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap and at a few of the major overland entry checkpoints.  Tourist visas are valid for one month from the date of entry into Cambodia.  The cost is currently $30.  Note, if obtaining a visa on arrival you will need a photo and you have to pay in US dollars.  Cambodia has also implemented a mandatory “e-arrival card,” it is designed to streamline the customs and immigration process and takes the place of the old paper forms you used to fill out on the plane.  This may be submitted up to 7 days prior to your arrival.  It is separate from the visa requirement.

For more information and to check for any recent entry requirement updates visit: embassyofCambodia.dc (or) travel.state.gov (for us citizens)

Currency: 

The official currency of Cambodia is the riel, but US dollars are widely accepted and considered legal tender for almost all transactions and in some cases (like visa on arrival) may even be required.  ATMs dispense US dollars and are found throughout major tourist destinations.  As a tourist you might still use the riel, as it is often used in place of change (i.e. US coins).

Getting Around:

Traveling longer distances between towns is usually done by bus or hired car.  When traveling within a town the most common form of transportation is the tuk tuk, or Cambodia’s version, the remork-moto.  Always make sure to agree upon the fare before getting inside.

There are very few train lines in Cambodia although this could change in the future as China seems eager to invest in Cambodian railway projects.   Currently you can travel by train from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville and from Phnom Penh to Battambang, however the condition of the tracks is very poor and you should check whether any segments are closed for repair before making plans.

The easiest option for getting around is to hire a car for the day through your hotel.  Renting a car and driver is a lot more affordable in Cambodia than elsewhere.  

CDC Recommendations: 

The CDC Travelers’ health website for Cambodia can be found at: wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list

Water: 

Tap water is not drinkable.  Always drink sealed bottled water.  Sometimes people forget this when they go to brush their teeth, unless I have a reliable purification system I always use bottled water for this as well.

Average Weather:

Siem Reap

Things of Note:

The Angkor Complex and many other sights in Cambodia have dress code requirements. These dress codes usually require visitors to cover their shoulders and knees out of respect for the sights cultural and religious significance.