Cambodia
Safety | When to visit | How to get to Cambodia | Visas
Safety
Safety is not considered a problem in Cambodia anymore.
Due to Cambodia’s troubled past, a somewhat shaky reputation, and numerous outdated books and travelguides - sometimes completely wrong - we often get enquiries whether it’s safe to go to Cambodia or not.
The Khmer Rouge is gone and landmines have been cleared around Siem Reap and the Angkor complex as well as Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville and other major towns and tourist areas.
Since the last national election, a new era of peace and political stability has been re-established in the country. The current security environment has also been relatively stable since the 1998 elections. Violent criminal activities directed at foreign tourist are almost unheard of. Compared to other major tourist destinations around the world, Cambodia is currently a relatively safe travel destination and Siem Reap and the temples of Angkor are probably safer than most other major tourist destinations in the world.
Be aware that traffic accidents are not uncommon in the somewhat chaotic traffic of Cambodia, and car taxi is the safest way of moving around. As an alternative, a tuk-tuk is safer than riding with a mototaxi. For those who choose to rent a motorcycle and drive yourselves (not possible in Siem Reap), be forewarned about the traffic, and be cautious! Always use a helmet.
As in any country accidents do happen, but there is no need to worry unneccesarily. Do not do in Cambodia what you would not do in your home country, and, as always, use your common sense.
The vast majority of tourists that visit Cambodia will never face any major problems.
When to visit Cambodia:
Cambodia can be visited anytime of the year! However, if one had the ability to choose, the ideal months to travel in Cambodia would arguably be November through January - humidity is bearable, temperatures are cooler and rain is very unlikely. Bear in mind that this is the peak season – so you will not be alone in the temples. From February onwards it starts getting warmer and April really makes you appreciate those cold freshly-squeezed lemon juices! The wet season, from May to October, is also a very good time to visit Angkor as the moats are full and the trees lush and green which gives you loads of excellent photo opportunities. The temples are also less crowded during this season.
Visas
Cambodian Tourist Visas may be obtained in advance at overseas Cambodian embassies. This, however, can be a time consuming and expensive process.
For most nationalities, Cambodian Visas are easily obtained upon arrival at the International airports in either Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. Visas are also available at the boarder crossings from Thailand and Vietnam.
A 1 month Tourist visas costs USD 20, and can be extended by one month.
A Business visa costs USD 25, and is valid for 1 month, but can be extended for as long as you like in-country.
E-Visa are available:
How to get to Cambodia
Depending on your country of origin, there are many different ways to travel to Cambodia.
By Air
There are direct flights to Siem Reap from Bangkok , Guangzhou, Ho Chi Minh city, Hong Kong , Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and Vientiane .
Please check timetables here
Over land
Travellers can also access Cambodia over land from Thailand, Vietnam and Lao. Tourists can pass the border at the following border crossing points:
From Thailand:
Aranyaprathet (Thailand )/Poi Pet (Cambodia )
Trad (Thailand )/Cham Yem ( Cambodia )
Hat Lek (Thailand) /Koh Kong (Cambodia)
From Vietnam :
Moc Bai (Vietnam)/Bavet (Cambodia)
From Laos :
Travellers entering Cambodia from Laos must obtain a Cambodian visa before travelling to the border. Thd boarder crossing is located about 50 km north of the Cambodian provincial centre of Stung Treng. No public transport available, but can be organised in advance. Be aware that this border is sometimes closed to foreign travellers with little notice.
