One Week in Cambodia

What You Should Know Before Going On A Cambodia Tour

Most tours in Cambodia are an average of one to two weeks and focus on cultural sites, or are combined with nearby countries in the Southeast Asia region.

You’ll find a wide range of Cambodia tour types, from luxury to extremely basic. It’s a country that’s welcoming and accessible for all kinds of travelers. Aside from the famous archaeological site at Angkor Wat, nature lovers will find a wonderfully biodiverse place to hike and cultural travelers will find a unique gem in Tonle Sap Lake.

The Weather in Cambodia

Cambodia weather is consistently hot, with temperatures averaging in the mid-80’s all year round. Cambodia is also known for its fairly regular rain and moisture in the air. This leads to high levels of humidity, which can be abrasive, especially if you’re not used to it.

Tours visit Cambodia throughout the year, but the best time to go during the dry season, which starts in November and goes until March. If you don’t mind getting drenched, avoid the tourist season and reap cheap prices during monsoon season, from May or November.

Will My Cambodia Tour Visit Angkor Wat?

Most likely, yes. Angkor Wat is an ubiquitous fixture of Cambodia, and most Cambodia tour itineraries include a visit to the famous site.

What many travelers don’t realize at first is that Angkor is really an enormous city with dozens of temples to explore. For first time travelers to Cambodia, you’ll want to make sure the Angkor day includes enough time to explore these other amazing temples!

What Should I Wear On My Cambodia Tour?

Dress comfortably, but do take note that you may be visiting temples and these require conservative dress. Covered shoulders and bottoms below the knee are advised. Closed toed shoes are generally preferred when visiting these establishments.

Lightweight, breathable, and ideally waterproof material is going to help you stay cool in the warm climate. Be sure to have a small compact umbrella with you!

Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand Tours

Many travelers prefer to experience Cambodia on a tour of several, South East Asian countries, including Thailand and Vietnam. To make the most of your time, this kind of trip is best done when it is escorted by a knowledgeable tour guide, who can make sure you see all of the sights and aren’t wasting any time planning your pathway.

Tours of these three countries usually stop at the primary attractions in each. In Cambodia, this means the prominent symbol of the Khmer Empire, Angkor Wat, and learning about the Cambodian genocide by visiting the Killing Fields.

In Thailand, expect at least a day in Bangkok to visit the Royal Palace and the Emerald Buddha. In Vietnam, you will likely explore the Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) to learn about the Vietnam War, as well as visit the Mekong Delta.

5 Best Souvenirs from Cambodia

1. Betel Nut Box

The betel nut is an addictive nut found in South East Asia. The nut has been chewed for over 2,000 years, but only recently has become exposed for its serious health risks when frequently used. Despite this, the betel nut is still culturally significant part of many countries, including Cambodia, and crafting a small metal box to hold one’s betel nut grinds is a thousand year old craft in Cambodia.

These distinctive silver boxes are a great way to get a unique, beautiful gift.  On a similar note, any silver craft bought in Cambodia is a good souvenir, and there will be plenty of places to bargain for it.

2. A Krama Scarf

A checkered scarf worn locally, the Krama is an item uniquely from Khmer. Buy one early on in your travels, and you can mimic the locals in all the ways to use it -- as a bandana, a head scarf, a sling-like bag are just some of the ways it is used by both men and women alike!

3. Rice Paper Print

These cheap pieces of art are made by placing a piece of paper over the relief of a temple carving, and then rubbing a piece of charcoal over them. Buying a rice paper print is a great way to remember the art you will have seen in Angkor Wat and throughout Cambodia, and it’s easily transported home. Once home, we recommend that you frame your piece of art at home to make it look its best.

4. Cambodian Silk

Cambodia has long been known for its high quality silks, which can be bought cheaply inside the country. Most Khmer people use the traditional method to hand make silk cloth, making the dress, purse, or scarf you pick up even more valuable.

5. A Woven Basket

Weaving baskets out of reeds is a long-practiced tradition in Cambodia, stemming from the Khmers. Buying one of these practical and stunning baskets is not only a great way to remember your trip to Cambodia, but also support rehabilitation programs for victims of landmines.