CAMBODIA

OVERVIEW

Cambodia is a Southeast Asian country known for its rich history, ancient temples, and warm hospitality. Home to the magnificent Angkor Wat, it offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, vibrant cities, and tropical landscapes—from the bustling streets of Phnom Penh to the peaceful charm of Siem Reap and its floating villages.

  • Official name: Kingdom of Cambodia

  • Capital: Phnom Penh

  • Major cities: Siem Reap, Battambang, Sihanoukville.

  • Population: ~ 17 million (in 2024)

  • Language: Khmer

  • Religion: Theravada Buddhism (official, majority)

  • Currency: Cambodian Riel (KHR), USD widely accepted.

© 2025 Vidotour. All rights reserved.

CLIMATE

Cambodia has a tropical climate—hot, humid, and influenced by monsoons.

  • Dry Season: November to April (sunny and cooler)

  • Rainy Season: May to October (humid with frequent showers)

GASTRONOMY

Cambodian Cuisine
Khmer cuisine is light, fragrant, and balanced—rich in herbs, rice, and freshwater fish. It blends sweet, sour, salty, and bitter flavors, with influences from China, Vietnam, India, and France.

  • Amok Trey: Steamed fish curry in banana leaves.

  • Lok Lak: Stir-fried beef with lime-pepper sauce.

  • Bai Sach Chrouk: Grilled pork with rice.

  • Nom Banh Chok: Rice noodles with green curry sauce.

  • Samlor Korkor: Traditional vegetable and fish soup.

  • Nom Ansom Chek: Sticky rice cakes, bananas in coconut milk.

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

  • 1st January: New Year’s Day

  • 7th January: Victory over Genocide Day

  • 8th March: International Women’s Day

  • Mid-April: Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey)

  • 1st May: Labour Day

  • 24th September: Constitution Day

  • October-November: Bon Om Touk (Water Festival)

  • 9th November: Independence Day

  • 29th December: Peace Day (end of Khmer Rouge era)

DESTINATIONS

PHNOM PENH - Capital with character

At the meeting point of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, Phnom Penh blends royal heritage, colonial charm, and a vibrant urban spirit. From golden palaces to moving historic sites, the city offers a compelling gateway to Cambodia.

Key sights:

  • Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda – Iconic complex showcasing Khmer architecture and sacred treasures.

  • National Museum – Home to the world’s finest collection of Khmer art and artifacts.

  • Wat Phnom – Historic hilltop temple and the city’s founding site.

  • Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) – A powerful memorial to Cambodia’s tragic past under the Khmer Rouge.

  • Choeung Ek Killing Fields – Sobering site honoring victims of the genocide, located just outside the city.

  • Central Market (Phsar Thmei) – Art Deco market bustling with local life, food, and souvenirs.

  • Russian Market (Phsar Toul Tom Poung) – Popular for handicrafts, fabrics, and antiques.

  • Independence Monument & Norodom Sihanouk Statue – National landmarks marking Cambodia’s modern history.

  • Mekong Riverside Promenade – Scenic riverside walkway lined with cafés and views of daily life.

Our handpicked hotels:

  • Raffles Hotel Le Royal Phnom Penh: A true Phnom Penh institution, Raffles has welcomed guests since 1929. Its restored colonial elegance blends seamlessly with modern comforts such as blackout curtains, soundproofing, and a full spa. Jackie Kennedy famously stayed here, inspiring the signature Femme Fatale cocktail served at the iconic Elephant Bar, renowned for its gin collection and afternoon tea.

1/7

  • Rosewood Phnom Penh: Occupying the top floors of the Vattanac Capital Tower, Rosewood Phnom Penh is a modern landmark of luxury with sweeping city views. Its 175 rooms, including 37 suites, blend refined design with contemporary comfort. Plush furnishings, intuitive technology, and panoramic vistas create residential-style spaces ideal for both business and leisure stays.

1/7

  • La Rose Suites: Tucked away in the leafy Tonle Bassac district, La Rose Suites is a tranquil luxury 5-star boutique hideaway offering classic Khmer-inspired elegance. With 68 spacious suites, a peaceful courtyard, graceful architecture, and warm Cambodian hospitality, the hotel provides a serene escape in the heart of Phnom Penh — ideal for travellers seeking comfort, charm, and a true sense of place.

1/7

SIEM REAP – Angkor’s timeless wonders

Siem Reap is Cambodia’s cultural capital and the starting point for exploring the legendary Angkor temples, including the iconic Angkor Wat. Beyond ancient ruins, the city charms with vibrant markets, Khmer arts, eco-friendly stays, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Key sights:

  • Angkor Wat – The world’s largest religious monument and Cambodia’s national symbol.

  • Angkor Thom & Bayon Temple – Ancient royal city known for its giant stone faces.

  • Ta Prohm – The famous “jungle temple” with tree roots growing through its ruins.

  • Banteay Srei – A smaller pink sandstone temple known for its detailed carvings.

  • Tonle Sap Lake & Floating Villages – Boat tours offer a glimpse into unique lakeside life.

  • Old Market (Psar Chas) – A lively market for souvenirs, spices, and local snacks.

  • Angkor National Museum – A modern museum showcasing Khmer art and history.

  • Phare, the Cambodian Circus – A high-energy performance blending theater, music, and acrobatics by local artists.

Our handpicked hotels:

  • Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor: Dating back to 1932, Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor was one of the first luxury hotels in Siem Reap. Many famous travellers have stayed here over the years, including Somerset Maugham, the Clintons, and Charlie Chaplin.

1/8

  • Zannier Phum Baitang: Phum Baitang offers an immersive Khmer-inspired experience, modelled on a traditional Cambodian village. Its 45 wooden villas, inspired by rural farmhouses, are set amid lush rice fields and swaying palm trees, creating a serene and deeply atmospheric retreat.

1/8

  • Shinta Mani Angkor: An elegant boutique hotel in Siem Reap’s quiet French Quarter. Designed by Bill Bensley, it blends modern chic with Khmer-inspired details. The hotel features 105 rooms and suites, including 10 duplex Bensley Pool Villas with private pools, rooftop lounges, and butler service.

1/8

BATTAMBANG - Cultural soul & countryside

A peaceful riverside town, Battambang charms with colonial architecture, local art, scenic landscapes of rice paddies and rural villages. It’s a perfect blend of culture and countryside.

Key sights:

  • Bamboo Train – A fun countryside ride on a bamboo platform over old tracks.

  • Phnom Sampeau & Bat Caves – Hilltop views, wartime history, and a dramatic bat flight at sunset.

  • Wat Ek Phnom – 11th-century temple ruins near the river.

  • Central Market (Phsar Nath) – Art Deco architecture and local life.

  • Phare Ponleu Selpak – Circus shows and local art from a creative community.

  • Wat Samraong Knong – Historic pagoda and Khmer Rouge memorial.

  • Banan Temple – Small hilltop temple with scenic views.

  • Laang Spean – Prehistoric cave with ancient archaeological finds.

UNTAMED HIGHLANDS – Wild landscapes & tribal life

Mondulkiri is a wild and remote province known for its protected forests, rescued elephants and scenic jungle landscapes. Home to the Bunong people, Mondulkiri is ideal for trekking, wildlife spotting and nature-based adventures.

Key sights:

  • Jungle Treks – Explore dense forest, hidden waterfalls and rare wildlife.

  • Cultural Encounters – Learn about the daily life and traditions of Bunong communities.

  • Scenic Landscapes – Enjoy sweeping views of rolling hills, valleys and winding rivers.

  • Ethical Elephant Encounters – Meet rescued elephants in their natural habitat at trusted sanctuaries, where your visit supports their protection.

  • Elephant Valley Project  – An NGO-run initiative offering day hikes and volunteer opportunities with rescued elephants, while supporting mahouts and preserving traditional ways of life.

  • Mondulkiri Elephant & Wildlife Sanctuary – A non-profit sanctuary providing ethical elephant walks and caring for rescued wildlife, including monkeys, gibbons, civets, otters, porcupines and leopard cats.

Ratanakiri is a remote province famous for red-earth landscapes, ancient forests and diverse ethnic communities, offering crater lakes, powerful waterfalls and immersive cultural experiences.

Key sights:

  • Yeak Laom Volcanic Lake – A perfectly round crater lake with clear water, ideal for swimming and relaxing.

  • Ka Chon & Katieng Waterfalls – Beautiful jungle waterfalls surrounded by pristine rainforest.

  • Indigenous Villages (Jarai, Kreung, Tampuan) – Traditional stilt houses and living tribal cultures.

  • Tompuon Communities – Known for handicrafts, animist beliefs and strong cultural identity.

TONLÉ SAP - The Heart of Cambodia

Tonlé Sap is Cambodia’s great freshwater lake, home to floating villages where life is shaped by the water, traditions and community.

Key sights:

  • Kompong Khleang Floating Village – One of the largest stilted villages on Tonlé Sap, offering an authentic glimpse into traditional lake life.

  • Tonlé Sap Biosphere Reserve – A UNESCO-protected natural area known for its rich wildlife, flooded forests and wetlands, supporting local communities and aquatic life.

  • Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary – A renowned wetlands sanctuary home to rare water birds and important migratory species.

KAMPONG CHHNANG - Empowering communities

A peaceful riverside province known for its traditional pottery villages and rural charm. Here, Smiling Gecko supports local communities through education, vocational training and sustainable livelihoods. Founded in Switzerland in 2012, Smiling Gecko Cambodia was established in 2014.

Our focus:

  • Kindergarten and School – Founded in 2017, the SGC HISF Education Campus now educates 500+ children and aims to reach 1,000, providing a vital pathway out of poverty in rural Cambodia.

  • Agriculture and Livestock Farming – Produces organic food and sustainable livelihoods, helping families become self-reliant and support their communities.

  • Craftsmanship and Production – Produces essential goods and serves as key training centres for youth and adults, providing skills, dignified work and stable income.

  • The Gong – A centre of performing cultural arts for Cambodia.

  • Humanitarian Emergency Aid – Guiding people to help themselves while delivering emergency food, medical supplies and clean water.

  • Farmhouse Resort & Spa – A meaningful holiday at the award-winning Farmhouse Resort, where travel supports community impact.

(Source: https://farmhouse-smilinggecko.com/)

KAMPOT - Peaceful and authentic

A riverside town with colonial charm, Kampot is known for its pepper farms, relaxed vibe, and scenic countryside. With its mix of culture, nature, and seaside breezes, Kampot offers the perfect escape for those seeking authenticity and relaxation.

Key sights:

  • Bokor Hill Station – Eerie colonial ruins with sweeping mountain views.

  • Pepper Plantations – Visit world-famous Kampot pepper farms.

  • Green Cathedral – Peaceful river loop, ideal for kayaking.

  • Phnom Chhnork & Phnom Sorsia – Ancient cave temples and bat-filled caverns.

  • Salt Fields & Big Durian – Rural scenery and quirky local landmarks.

  • Kampot Town – Colonial charm, markets, and riverside strolls.

  • Tuek Chhu Rapids – Bamboo platforms and natural pools.

  • Kep (Day Trip) – Fresh crab, beach, and seafood market by the sea.

NATIONAL PARKS

Wildlife and nature

Cambodia’s national parks and protected areas safeguard vast rainforests, wetlands and mountain landscapes, offering rich wildlife encounters and immersive nature experiences.

Major National Parks & Protected Areas:

  • Phnom Kulen National Park – A sacred mountain near Siem Reap, featuring waterfalls, ancient carvings and rich forest habitats supporting diverse birdlife.

  • Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary – A protected wetland on Tonlé Sap Lake, famous for rare water birds and seasonal breeding colonies.

  • Preah Monivong Bokor National Park - Located in southern Cambodia, is known for its cool climate, misty views and dense jungle, offering rich wildlife and scenic hiking opportunities.

  • Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary – One of Cambodia’s most biodiverse areas, supporting rare primates including douc langurs and gibbons, with guided wildlife tracking experiences.

  • Virachey National Park – Located in the northeast, this remote wilderness shelters rare wildlife such as gibbons, hornbills and sun bears. Ideal for multi-day jungle treks and nature exploration.

  • Southern Cardamom National Park – Cambodia’s largest protected rainforest, home to Asian elephants, pangolins and clouded leopards. Known for community-based ecotourism and conservation projects.

  • Botum Sakor National Park – A coastal forest reserve with mangroves, river systems and diverse wildlife, ideal for eco-exploration.

BEACH & ISLANDS

Tranquil and untouched

With white sands, clear waters, and a laid-back vibe, Cambodia’s islands like Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem offer the perfect escape for beach lovers and nature seekers.

Koh Rong & Koh Rong Samloem – Pristine white sands, tranquil private shores, and rich marine life in a luxury eco-island setting. Our handpicked hotels:

1/3

Koh Russey – White and copper-sand beaches, dense tropical jungle, water sports, and luxury resorts. Our handpicked hotels:

1/2

Koh Krabey – A private island with clear waters, lush forests, and a tranquil atmosphere, offering a peaceful barefoot-luxury escape.

Home to the eco-luxury Six Senses Krabey Island, this 30-acre sanctuary offers tropical rainforest, secluded coves, organic gardens, sea pools, and sustainably crafted villas connected by scenic boardwalks.

1/2

Kep Beach – Relaxed and picnic-friendly, with the lively Crab Market, Kep National Park, and Rabbit Island close by.

A sanctuary by the sea, Knai Bang Chatt Resort is where nature sets the pace. With just 18 rooms, it offers an intimate and private haven that blends relaxation, culture, and community.

1/4

MEKONG RIVER CRUISES

Scenic and storied

Unforgettable journeys along the legendary Mekong River, tracing the rich cultures of Cambodia and Vietnam.

Selection of Mekong River Cruises operating between Cambodia and Vietnam

  • Aqua Mekong: Ultra-luxury, small ship, high-end suites, Michelin-chef dining, design-driven.

(Source: https://www.aquaexpeditions.com/)

1/7