Cambodia Holidays

Best things to do in Cambodia

Cambodia, a land of timeless ruins, vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes, offers a plethora of activities that promise an enriching experience for travellers. Here's a glimpse into the best activities and sights that Cambodia holidays have to offer.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Phnom Bakheng: The hilltop temple offers panoramic views over Angkor Wat and the surrounding forests – a must-see for its magical vistas at sunset.

• Sambor Prei Kuk: Explore this pre-Angkorian temple complex set amid forested surroundings, offering a serene escape with few crowds and stunning views.

The best districts

• Phnom Penh: Cambodia's capital city is known for its beautiful riverfront, shady streets, royal palaces, French influence and bustling markets.

• Siem Reap: The gateway to Angkor, Siem Reap is the country's most tourist-friendly destination. It boasts a blend of colonial and Chinese architecture in the Old French Quarter and the bustling Pub Street for nightlife.

• Kampot: Famous for its laid-back riverside vibe, colonial architecture and prolific agricultural areas, it's a great spot to explore the rural side of Cambodia.

Parks and gardens

• Royal Gardens in Siem Reap: A tranquil spot near the Royal Residence with a colony of fruit bats, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

• Botum Sakor National Park: A national park on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand, offering rich biodiversity and wildlife-viewing opportunities.

Regional highlights

• Angkor Wat: The largest religious monument in the world, and an architectural masterpiece that's a symbol of Cambodia.

• Battambang: Ride the famous bamboo train, visit the ancient temples and explore the scenic countryside.

• Kep: The resort town of Kep offers beaches, fishing or enjoying seafood and Kep crabs at the famous crab market. There's also hiking in Kep National Park.

• Ratanakiri: Venture into the protected areas of the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries to spot macaques, gibbons, elephants and sometimes even tigers. Or visit the hills, waterfall and lake around Yeak Laom for hiking, swimming and picnicking.

Activities for families in Cambodia

Cambodia offers numerous family-friendly activities that cater to all ages.

• Phnom Penh Water Park: A fun-filled day with water slides and large pools – perfect for cooling down in the heat.

• Siem Reap Butterfly Garden: A delightful experience for younger children with the beauty of hundreds of butterflies.

• Horseback Riding at Happy Ranch: Outside of Siem Reap, this place offers a unique way to explore the Cambodian countryside on horseback.

• Angkor National Museum: Interactive displays and educational tours that make learning about the region's history fun for kids.

Free things to do in Cambodia

Exploring Cambodia doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag. There are plenty of enriching activities that are free of charge.

• Explore the markets: Phnom Penh's Central Market and Siem Reap's Night Market are bustling with activity and offer a taste of local life.

• Walking tours: Join a free walking tour in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, focusing on history, architecture or daily life.

• Visit pagodas: Most Buddhist pagodas are free to enter, like Wat Langka in Phnom Penh or Wat Bo in Siem Reap. Here you can experience serenity and architectural beauty.

• Art galleries: Several galleries in Phnom Penh offer free entry, showcasing contemporary art from local and international artists.

• Public beaches: Visit the public beaches in Sihanoukville or Kep for a perfect day of relaxation by the sea.

Wellness in Cambodia

• Spas and thermal baths: Cambodia's luxury resorts and hotels, particularly in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, feature world-class spas that offer a range of services from traditional Khmer massages to herbal compresses and aromatic body treatments.

• Traditional body care: Experience the traditional Khmer massage, an essential part of Cambodian wellness culture. It's known for its stretching and pressure point techniques that aim to clear energy blockages and provide relaxation.

• Yoga and meditation centres: Numerous retreats around Siem Reap or along the southern coast and on the islands offshore provide serene environments for yoga and meditation, helping visitors connect with their inner peace amidst tranquil settings.

Nature and outdoor activities

• National parks: Explore areas like the Cardamom (Kravanh) Mountains, one of Southeast Asia's last remaining rainforests. The area offers hiking, wildlife watching and eco-tours that all support conservation efforts.

• Watersports: Coastal towns like Sihanoukville and Kep are perfect for water activities such as snorkelling and diving around the coral reefs, and island-hopping to pristine beaches like those on Koh Rong.

• Hiking: Virachey National Park, one of Cambodia's top wilderness areas, provides rugged trekking opportunities through remote jungle terrain, where you can encounter diverse flora and fauna.

• Cycling and mountain biking: The countryside around Siem Reap and the rural regions offers excellent biking routes that pass through traditional villages and alongside ancient temples, offering a unique perspective of the Cambodian landscape.

• Bird-watching and eco-tours: Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary on the Tonle Sap Lake is renowned for its bird-watching, where visitors can see rare species in their natural habitat. Eco-tours in this area also offer insights into the local communities' way of life.

Explore the stunning beaches on your Cambodia holidays

Cambodia is not just about ancient temples and rich history; it also boasts some of Southeast Asia's most beautiful and serene beaches. Whether you're looking to relax on soft sands, dive into crystal-clear waters, or explore vibrant marine life, Cambodia's beaches offer something for everyone. Here's a guide to some of the top beaches to visit during your Cambodia holidays:

• Otres Beach, Sihanoukville: Otres Beach is one of the most popular and picturesque beaches in Cambodia, located just outside the bustling city of Sihanoukville. Known for its soft white sand and clear blue waters, Otres Beach offers a more relaxed and laid-back vibe compared to the busier Serendipity Beach. It's divided into two sections‚ÄîOtres 1 and Otres 2‚Äîwith plenty of beachfront bungalows, cafes, and bars where you can unwind and enjoy the view. The calm waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking, or simply lounging by the sea.

• Koh Rong: For a more secluded and tranquil beach experience, head to the island of Koh Rong. This island is home to some of Cambodia's most pristine beaches, including the famous Long Beach, which stretches for nearly 7 kilometres. With its powdery white sand and turquoise waters, Long Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling. The island offers a variety of accommodations, from simple beach huts to more upscale resorts, making it ideal for travellers looking to escape the crowds and enjoy nature at its finest.

• Sok San Beach, Koh Rong: Also known as Long Beach, Sok San Beach on Koh Rong is a slice of paradise that feels like it's straight out of a postcard. With its pristine sands, clear waters, and relatively untouched surroundings, this beach is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of Cambodia's coastline in a more natural setting. It's a great spot for snorkelling, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life just offshore.

• Koh Rong Samloem: Just south of Koh Rong lies its quieter sibling, Koh Rong Samloem. This island is perfect for travellers seeking peace and tranquillity. Saracen Bay is the main beach on the island, offering crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and a range of accommodations, from rustic bungalows to more comfortable resorts. The bay is ideal for swimming, snorkelling, or simply relaxing with a good book. The lack of large-scale development on Koh Rong Samloem ensures a serene and unspoiled beach experience.

• Lazy Beach, Koh Rong Samloem: Tucked away on the western side of Koh Rong Samloem, Lazy Beach lives up to its name by offering a secluded and peaceful environment perfect for unwinding. The beach is accessible via a short hike through the jungle, rewarding visitors with golden sands, gentle waves, and a stunning sunset view. This private stretch of beach is ideal for those looking to disconnect and enjoy nature.

• Kep Beach: If you're visiting the coastal town of Kep, you'll find Kep Beach to be a charming and quieter alternative to the more touristy beaches. Although smaller in size, Kep Beach is known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful views of the surrounding hills and islands. The beach is close to Kep National Park, making it a great spot to relax after a day of hiking or exploring the area. The nearby crab market is also a must-visit, where you can enjoy fresh seafood right by the sea.

Tips for enjoying Cambodia's beaches

• Best time to visit: The best time to enjoy Cambodia's beaches is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is warm and the seas are calm.

• Water activities: Many of Cambodia's beaches offer excellent opportunities for snorkelling, kayaking, and diving. Be sure to check with local operators for equipment rentals and guided tours.

• Eco-conscious travel: Cambodia's beaches are beautiful but fragile environments. Be mindful of your impact by avoiding single-use plastics, disposing of waste properly, and respecting local wildlife.

Cambodia's beaches provide a perfect complement to the country's rich cultural and historical attractions, offering a peaceful retreat where you can relax and recharge. Whether you're exploring the islands or soaking up the sun on the mainland, the beaches of Cambodia are sure to make your holiday unforgettable.

Local dishes in Cambodia

With everything from street food stalls to upscale restaurants, the array of tastes and textures in Khmer cooking is sure to enchant any food lover.

Some typical dishes

• Amok: A classic Khmer dish of fish or meat wrapped in banana leaves with coconut milk and steamed, known for its delicate balance of spices.

• Bai Sach Chrouk: Grilled pork marinated in coconut milk and garlic, served over fragrant rice – popular at breakfast.

• Num Pang: A Cambodian sandwich consisting of a baguette filled with ingredients such as pork, cucumber and pickled carrots. It's perfect for a light bite or snack on the go.

Meat dishes

• Lok Lak: Stir-fried beef strips in oyster sauce served with rice, often accompanied by a fried egg on top and salad on the side.

• Khor: A slow-cooked stew commonly made from beef (khor ko), chicken or pork, featuring a rich blend of Khmer spices and tender meat.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Prahok Ktis: A spicy and savoury dip made from fermented fish paste (prahok) combined with pork and coconut milk, served with assorted fresh vegetables for dipping.

• Grilled squid: Often sold by beachside vendors, grilled squid (Ang Dtray-Meuk) is marinated in lime and chilli before cooking, then served with garlic and chilli sauce.

Street food

• Deep-fried tarantulas: A famous snack in markets, these come seasoned with salt and garlic or chilli. They're crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and taste a little like crunchy fried prawns.

• Banh Chao: The Cambodian version of the Vietnamese crepe, filled with pork, shrimp and bean sprouts, and served with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce.

Local drinks

• Tuk Umpow: Sugar-cane juice is refreshing and not overly sweet. It's often flavoured with a squeeze of orange or lime – ideal for cooling down in the tropical heat.

• Beer: A staple in virtually all restaurants and night-market stalls, lagers such as Angkor and Cambodia are the most popular.

• Rice wine: When not drinking beer, the locals go for this potent drink, which can be found infused with herbs, honey or animal parts for additional flavour.