Cambodia, a destination of timeless beauty and rich history, offers multiple travel modes to fit any traveler’s style. Whether you’re interested in a scenic road trip, a convenient flight, or a unique cruise experience, Cambodia has something for everyone.
How to Travel to Cambodia?
With various transport options, Cambodia’s major tourist spots are now more accessible than ever.
Border Crossings and Entry Points
Cambodia shares borders with Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam, each offering multiple entry points. Travelers from neighboring countries can easily cross over by car or bus, as Cambodia has made visas available at all primary land crossings. Notably, new border crossings primarily support trade but are gradually becoming more tourist-friendly. Important: Travelers with South Asian passports may face additional requirements, especially if planning to enter for casino visits.
Cambodia Travel by Flight
Flights are one of the quickest and most convenient ways to reach Cambodia. Seasonal price fluctuations are common, with peak prices from Europe, North America, and Australia during Christmas and summer. Thailand often serves as the primary transit hub, making it easier for international visitors to connect flights into Cambodia.
Best Time to Book: For budget-friendly flights, consider traveling during off-peak months like February, June, or October.
Nearby Connections: Those in Vietnam can book flights from Ho Chi Minh City, offering easy access to Cambodia’s main airports in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
Cambodia Travel by Bus and Car
Traveling by road provides a scenic view of Cambodia’s countryside and is a popular choice among budget travelers.
By Bus
Buses from Thailand and Vietnam make crossing into Cambodia easy and affordable. Common routes include:
Vietnam-Cambodia: A direct bus via Bavet (Cambodian side) and Moc Bai (Vietnamese side).
Thailand-Cambodia: Many travelers choose the Bangkok to Siem Reap route, crossing the Poipet–Aranya Prathet border.
By Car and Motorcycle
Driving to Cambodia requires proper documentation, such as an international driving license and vehicle registration papers. Motorcyclists, in particular, enjoy more flexible entry, especially with a carnet de passage for temporary duty waivers, making cross-border travel smoother. Thai-registered vehicles are frequently seen on Cambodia’s roads, adding to the convenience of road travel.
Traveling to Cambodia by Cruise
The Mekong River is not only a scenic marvel but also an adventurous way to reach Cambodia.
River Border Crossing with Vietnam: Fast passenger boats operate between Phnom Penh and Chau Doc (Vietnam), providing a scenic route along the Mekong.
Luxury Cruises to Angkor: For a luxurious experience, travelers can embark on a cruise from Vietnam to the temples of Angkor, a journey that blends travel with immersive cultural experiences.
Other Routes: While there’s a Mekong crossing with Laos, most travelers prefer road routes due to increased accessibility and transport options.
Additional Travel Tips for Cambodia
Visa Requirements: Cambodia’s visa-on-arrival policy applies at most major entry points. However, ensure your passport has a validity of at least six months.
Currency & Payment: While Cambodian riel is the official currency, U.S. dollars are widely accepted. It’s wise to carry small denominations for convenience.
Health & Safety: Vaccinations for hepatitis, typhoid, and tetanus are recommended. Also, avoid drinking tap water and rely on bottled water during your travels.
The best time to visit Cambodia is during the cool and dry season, from November to March. During this period, temperatures are more comfortable, generally ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), and humidity is lower, making it ideal for exploring temples, beaches, and outdoor markets.
Here’s a breakdown of Cambodia’s seasons to help you decide:
1. Cool and Dry Season (November to March)
Weather: Cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall
Highlights: The ideal time to visit Angkor Wat, the beaches of Sihanoukville, and Phnom Penh’s cultural sites
Events: Cambodia’s Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) in November is a vibrant spectacle, celebrated along the Tonle Sap River.
2. Hot Season (March to May)
Weather: High temperatures, often exceeding 35°C (95°F), with dry air
Travel Tips: It can be a bit intense for outdoor activities, so if visiting during this time, plan to explore early in the morning and late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
3. Rainy Season (June to October)
Weather: Frequent rains, with temperatures around 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)
Advantages: Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and discounts on hotels and tours
Highlights: The Angkor temples look stunning against the lush green surroundings, and the Tonle Sap Lake reaches its peak water levels, making floating villages particularly scenic.
For most travelers, the cool and dry season (November to March) offers the most pleasant conditions for sightseeing and enjoying Cambodia’s outdoor attractions.
Explore more about Cambodia’s tours and experiences on our tour page.