Oh, Beautiful Cambodia
Cambodia is one of those countries that leave you absolutely speechless. With its rich culture, beautiful nature, ancient temples and its horrible history, you are in for an experience that you will never forget.
During our travels through southeast asia, we spent one month in Cambodia, including a volunteering in a school, and loved it! So stay with me, when I tell you exactly what you should do and show you the best places to visit, so you have the most amazing time in Cambodia.
In this Blog post, I want to share with you a detailed 2-week Cambodia Travel Itinerary, full of adventure and history. Are you ready to explore ancient temple-ruins, beautiful beaches, national parks and historic sites? Let’s get into it!
Why Cambodia should definitely be on your Travel itinerary
Somehow, Cambodia is not really popular amongst travelers like its neighbors Vietnam, Thailand and Laos yet. I’m wondering why – for us, Cambodia is definitely very high up on the list of the favorite places we have visited.
The country has everything that a traveler could ask for: They have the bustling city life with the opportunity of learning more about Cambodia’s rich culture in Phnom Penh, beautiful white sand beaches on Koh Rong, lush National parks in Kep, Kampot, Battambang and several other places, and of course the temples of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap. To add to it, the Cambodian people are super friendly and the local food is amazing!
Cambodia Travel Itinerary (2 weeks)
Day 1-3: Phnom Penh
Welcome to Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia. Located at the meeting point of three rivers (Tonle Sap, Mekong & Bassac), it is full of history and culture.
The main activities in Phnom Penh are:
- Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
- Killing fields of Choeung Ek
- National Museum
- Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda
- Wat Phnom
Phnom Penh is also known for its bustling markets and tasty street food! Whether you are exploring its rich history or enjoying its vibrant street life, Phnom Penh offers something for everyone.
Day 1 – Arrival & City exploring
Welcome to Cambodia and welcome to Phnom Penh! This is your arrival day and you can look forward to 2 full weeks of adventure.
To get to your accommodation from the airport, the best option is to order a Tuk tuk with the Grab App, so you can avoid being scammed at the airport. Don’t worry, it will fit all your luggage and you will already get to know the best way of transportation in Cambodia – the legendary Tuk tuks.
After arriving at your Hotel or Hostel, you can relax a bit and start wandering the streets to get a feel for the city, once you feel recovered enough. At night, definitely visit a nightmarket, like the Russian market.
Restaurant recommendations for Phnom Penh:
Taj Mahal Restaurant – https://maps.app.goo.gl/JmC1pzVSHtQmF5QN6
Sony Side Up – https://maps.app.goo.gl/AABdn1DrinJMWSuNA
126 Restaurant – https://maps.app.goo.gl/dDKr9nix8fcvhb6q6
Day 2 – Learn about Cambodias history
If you can only do one thing in Phnom Penh, let it be visiting the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killings fields of Choeung Ek. Get ready for a very informational but emotional day – Day 2 is all about Cambodia’s history.
Did you know that there was a genocide in Cambodia from 1975 to 1979, during which an estimated 1.7 million people were killed? This atrocity, orchestrated by the Khmer Rouge regime under Pol Pot, resulted in the deaths of approximately one-quarter of the Cambodian population through mass executions, forced labor, and starvation. The scale of the tragedy is staggering and deeply heartbreaking.
I’m still shocked that we haven’t heard more about the history of Cambodia and the horrors that occurred. Learning about the genocide and the brutality inflicted upon innocent people left me in tears more often than I thought it would. The stories of survival and suffering are powerful reminders of the human capacity for both cruelty and resilience.
It is crucial to continue spreading awareness about this dark chapter in history. Visiting the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh is an important step in honoring the memory of the victims and understanding the impact of the Khmer Rouge regime. The museum, which was once a high school converted into a prison and interrogation center, offers a sobering yet essential glimpse into the atrocities that took place.
I highly recommend taking the audio guide during your visit. It provides detailed explanations and personal testimonies that are vital for fully grasping the historical and emotional weight of the museum’s exhibits. The audio guide is exceptionally well-produced, offering context and depth that you might miss without it.
After the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, you should take a lunch break and try to process the things you have just learned. Afterwards, take a Tuk tuk and drive to the Killing fields of Choeung Ek. This site will be hard to process well.
Between 1975 and 1979, this site was used as a mass execution ground where thousands of Cambodians were brutally murdered by the Khmer rouge regime. Visitors to the site can see the remnants of mass graves and the famous Stupa, a memorial filled with thousands of skulls and bones that were exhumed from the graves. The audio tour provides a detailed account of the events that took place and offers personal testimonies from survivors, providing a deeper understanding of the impact of the atrocities.
Day 3 – Exploring Phnom Penh and its temples
After the emotionally stressful day before, we will take it a bit slower today and do some city exploring.
Start your day with a visit to the Royal Palace, the stunning residence of the Cambodian monarchy. This architectural gem showcases classic Khmer design, with its intricate details and grandeur reflecting the nation’s rich cultural heritage. Take time to explore the beautifully manicured gardens and admire the impressive Throne Hall and the exquisite murals that adorn the walls.
Next, head to the adjacent Silver Pagoda, also known as Wat Preah Keo. This sacred site is renowned for its dazzling floor covered with silver tiles, each weighing around 1 kilogram. Inside, you’ll find an array of remarkable artifacts, including a magnificent emerald Buddha statue and several lavishly decorated gifts from various world leaders.
In the afternoon, make your way to Wat Phnom, the city’s oldest temple and a significant historical landmark. Situated on a hilltop, Wat Phnom provides panoramic views of Phnom Penh and is a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets. The temple is not only a spiritual center but also a vibrant part of local life, often frequented by worshippers and visitors alike.
To get from spot to spot, just book a Tuk tuk and ask them if they would drive you around!
Day 4 – Kep
Kep is a charming coastal town in Cambodia. It has more of a relaxed vibe, so it is a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. Stroll along the quiet shores, explore the local crab market, and savor delicious seafood dishes.
Kep is also home to the beautiful and lush Kep National Park, where you can hike through the forest, enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and possibly see animals like monkeys or snakes.
Main acitivites in Kep include:
- Kep National Park
- Check out the beach, though it is not super nice (not main activity)
- Crab market
Morning: Arrival and National Park Exploration
Start your day early to make the most of your trip. Upon arrival, head straight to Kep National Park. Spend your morning exploring the park’s lush trails, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The park is known for its serene environment and diverse wildlife. Enjoy a leisurely hike to the top of the Phnom Kep hill for panoramic views of the coastline and the Gulf of Thailand.
Afternoon: Crab Market Visit
After your hike, make your way to the famous Kep Crab Market. This bustling market is renowned for its fresh seafood, especially the local crabs. Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the seafood stalls or restaurants, where you can sample the renowned Kep crab cooked with pepper or other local flavors.
Optional – Beach Visit
If you have enough time, take a brief visit to Kep Beach. While not the most spectacular beach, it offers a pleasant spot to relax and take in the coastal scenery. It’s a good place to unwind after your market visit if you have some extra time before departure.
Restaurant recommendations for Kep:
Led Zep Cafe – https://maps.app.goo.gl/7RYiweBJuZTewTjJ6
Captain Chims – https://maps.app.goo.gl/JdD91p1Drb6KpdCv7
Arts Cafe – https://maps.app.goo.gl/pzRSmfchZjLREgh77
Day 5-6: Kampot
Just 30 minutes from Kep, Kampot is a serene town in southern Cambodia and world-famous for its Kampot-pepper.
Nestled along the Kampot River and surrounded by lush countryside, this destination is perfect for a peaceful retreat. Kampot is also a gateway to stunning natural sites like Bokor National Park, where you can hike through dense forests and take in breathtaking views.
There is a lot to do in Kampot. A few of the best things you can do in a short time include:
- Explore the city
- Bokor Nationalpark
- La Plantation: Visit Pepperfarm and do a pepper tasting
Day 5 – Bokor National Park
After arriving in Kampot, head straight to the Bokor National park. This National park has beautiful landscapes with forests, waterfalls, highland views and some abandoned buildings that offer nice photography opportunities.
The best way to explore the National park is by scooter. The roads are well maintained and fairly easy to drive, promising you a pretty safe adventure. You can explore the national park as long as you like, just don’t underestimate how big it actually is!
Restaurant recommendations for Kampot:
Cafe Espresso Roastery – https://maps.app.goo.gl/WMWMaTPcJzEb8jK19
Epic Arts Cafe – https://maps.app.goo.gl/3ZQzaA2Jax7VURcX6
Aroma House – https://maps.app.goo.gl/2qJ1uJPppfRXWw2L9
Day 6 – Visit a Pepper plantation
A trip to the pepper plantations is a great way to spend the day in Kampot. The city is world-famous for its pepper, and the best part is that the tours are free, and you even get to taste a variety of peppers at the end during the free pepper tasting!
The pepper plantation we visited is called “La Plantation” and offers these free tours, starting every half hour until 4pm. We can really recommend that tour and you should definitely also try one of their ice creams. They are chocolate or vanilla flavored and spiced with Kampot pepper – Yummy!
Just a heads-up: Either go to the pepper plantations by Tuk tuk or book a guided tour that brings you there with a minivan. Only go there on your own by scooter when it hasn’t rained the day before and it’s unlikely to rain during the day, as the roads can get REALLY bad. Trust us, we’ve been there.
Our Pepperfarm adventure
To this day, we are still talking and laughing about our way to the pepper plantation. Here is the story: Visiting Cambodia during the rainy season meant that the streets were almost never dry. Normally that would not be a problem, right? Well, in Cambodia some of the streets outside of the tourist areas are partly made out of clay.
We were already warned by the host of our accommodation that we should better not drive to the pepper plantations on our own, because the street conditions were supposed to be bad. We thought he was exaggerating – I mean, how bad could it be?! We found out the hard way.. After driving on good streets for 20 minutes, the road started to change into gravel. We were already triumphantly saying “Oh this is the bad street? Haha that is not bad at all, easy peasy!”
Fast forward 5 minutes and we were slipping and sliding around the streets with our scooter. The street had turned into a muddy-clay mess, which even made the locals slip and fall with their scooters or bikes. A local told us to turn around because it was too dangerous, but we didn’t come this long way to just give up, so we parked our scooter on the side of the road and decided to just walk the rest of the way (1 hour). This was better, but still super hard because our shoes started sticking to the mud.
At one point we were laughing so hard, because a huge clay block started forming under my sandals, becoming bigger and bigger with each step. After walking for 40 minutes, occasionally slipping, a car with other tourists passed us and offered to take us with them for the rest of the way – our angels! We were super happy!
On the way back, they were so kind and brought us to our scooter. Still, we had to make our way back through some muddy passages. On the last muddy part, we slipped and fell. Luckily, it was nothing tragic, we didn’t get hurt and the scooter didn’t even have a scratch. We then made it home safely.
I guess that is how you create stories that you will be telling for a long long time.
Day 7-8: Koh Rong Sanloem
Renowned for its remote charm, white sand beaches and clear blue waters, this island is a perfect destination for relaxation and nature lovers. You can bask in the sun on soft, white sands, swim in calm, clear waters, and explore the island’s lush jungle trails.
The remote setting ensures a peaceful getaway, perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature.
This island is similar to its more famous neighbor “Koh Rong”, but it is even more remote and has less of a party vibe when compared to Koh Rong. If you are looking for relaxing and partying, consider visiting Koh Rong instead.
The best things you can do in Koh Rong Sanloem are:
- Take a boat trip to see blue algae
- Chill out on the beach
- Watch the sunset at Sunset beach
Day 7 – Arrival in Paradise
After getting to Koh Rong Sanloem, make your way to your accommodation. You will have to do so by walking on the beach, as there are no streets and thus also no cars on the island. Luckily, most hostels or hotels are just a 10 minute walk from the harbor.
We can really recommend staying in the Onederz Hostel, especially if you are visiting during rainy season. It is THE backpacking Hostel on the island and especially when you are traveling during rainy season, it is the only one where any people are.
As Koh Rong Samloem is a great place for relaxing, the only activity for this day should be to chill on the beach, maybe drink some cocktails, play beach volleyball or just read a little.
In the evening, head to Sunset beach, to watch an amazing sunset. On this island we witnessed one of the best sunsets we have ever seen! You can get there by just taking the footpath to sunset beach – they even put signs up, so it is hard to miss.
Day 8 – Jungle, Waterfall and Blue Algae
Koh Rong Sanloem isn’t really a place where you can do a lot, so you can either spend another day relaxing on the beach or exploring the island and its jungle.
There’s also a small waterfall with a natural pool at the bottom that you can jump in! Just a heads-up, though: the locals want you to pay a few coins for swimming in there, so make sure you bring some money.
If you’re looking for something unique to do at night, why not book a boat tour to see the bioluminescent plankton that Koh Rong Sanloem is famous for? It’s an amazing experience to swim in the ocean by night and be surrounded by little blue sparkles!
Day 9-10: Battambang
Step into the heart of Cambodia with a visit to Battambang, a city rich in history and culture. Often less crowded than other tourist spots, Battambang offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Cambodian life.
Just outside the city, there are some great experiences waiting to be had in the surrounding countryside. You can take a ride on the nostalgic bamboo train, visit ancient temples and enjoy the serene rural landscapes.
We absolutely loved this city and I’m sure, you will too!
These are the main things to do in Battambang:
- Nationalpark: Temples, Bat cave, Killing cave
- Bamboo Train
- Explore city
Day 9 – City exploring
You will most likely arrive very early in the morning, as the best way to get to Battambang is by taking the night bus!
After arrival, test your luck and see if you can already check into your accommodation, or head straight out for breakfast.
On this first day, your best options are exploring the city and a local market, like Psar Battambang and Battambang Night Market.
Also, you can visit ancient temples such as Wat Banan, a well-preserved Angkorian-era temple offering stunning views from the top, and Wat Ek Phnom, known for its impressive ruins.
Restaurant recommendations for Battambang:
The Lonely Tree Cafe – https://maps.app.goo.gl/UtaVyPdBEDQDCx4h9
The Fringe – https://maps.app.goo.gl/52gdPxZqvGQr26aB8
Cafe Eden – https://maps.app.goo.gl/1gDfCTPM7su7kzAAA
Kinyei Cafe – https://maps.app.goo.gl/RQsnLVS7v1cioXiTA
Day 10 – Bamboo train, Bat Caves & more
It is time for the highlights of Battambang – The Bamboo train, Wat Phnom Sam Pov, the Khmer rouge killing caves and the Bat caves!
I know, this sounds a lot for a day, but almost everything is in the same national park, making it easy and fast to get from one place to another.
Start off your day trip by taking a Tuk tuk to the Bamboo train. Here you will be able to drive on a bamboo platform on wheels, powered by a small engine, for around 35-40 minutes. It runs on old railway tracks and is used to transport people and goods. Though the ride is a bit bumpy, it is a great way to see the countryside and a unique experience in itself.
Upon arrival, ask your Tuk tuk driver to wait for you and tell him where you want to go next: Phnom Sampeau – This is the site where the rest of today’s activities are located.
The entry to all sites costs 1$ in total, which you will have to pay upon entering the park.
The Killing Cave
The Killing Caves in Battambang are a grim reminder of the Khmer Rouge’s brutal acts, where many people were executed and thrown into the caves to hide the evidence of their crimes.
Wat Phnom Sam Pov
This temple marks the end of the trail in the national park. It is quite beautiful and definitely worth seeing. Be prepared to be accompanied by some monkeys though.
Bat caves
The last activity of the day – maker sure you are there around sunset, so you can witness the millions of bats flying out of the cave. We couldn’t even grasp how there could be SO MANY bats. Truly an unforgettable sight!
Day 11-14: Siem Reap
Welcome to Siem Reap, a charming city in Cambodia that serves as the gateway to the famous Angkor temples. In addition to the temples, Siem Reap has plenty to enjoy. You can wander through the lively night markets, try some traditional Khmer food, and experience local performances.
Here are the best things to do in Siem Reap:
- Angkor Wat
- Apopo rats
- City exploring
Day 11 – Arrival in Siem Reap
Siem Reap – the most popular city in Cambodia, and rightfully so!
After you most likely arrived via Bus, head to your accommodation and then make your way into the city! Explore the city a bit by wandering through the streets, along the river or through the markets. The best 2 markets are the Angkor Night Market and Psar Chaa (Old Market).
Restaurant recommendations for Siem Reap:
The Source Cafe – https://maps.app.goo.gl/571d5mD7LbMus5dG6
Khmer Taste – https://maps.app.goo.gl/xJ8ZwxDk24ZaSTdN6
Nick Restaurant – https://maps.app.goo.gl/r6pM7JKFP3rMeyf3A
Sister Trey Cafe – https://maps.app.goo.gl/qSqZSNGiVNo8faZh8
Day 12 – Angkor Wat
Today is the big day, you have been waiting for! It is time to visit Angkor Wat. Make sure you plan enough time, as this will be a full day experience.
Angkor Wat is a huge temple complex near Siem Reap in Cambodia. It’s the largest religious monument in the world. It was built in the early 12th century during the Khmer Empire and was originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. It later became a Buddhist temple. Angkor Wat is famous for its amazing architecture, intricate carvings and iconic lotus-bud towers. It represents Cambodia’s cultural and historical heritage.
There are lots of other temples surrounding Angkor Wat, each with their own distinctive features.
Bayon Temple: This temple is a real highlight, with over 200 stone faces. It’s the centrepiece of the Angkor Thom complex.
Ta Prohm: This is another highlight. It’s got a really mystical atmosphere, and the ruins are partially reclaimed by nature, with massive tree roots intertwining with them.
Angkor Thom: This was the last capital of the Khmer Empire, and it features some impressive gates and the Terrace of the Elephants.
Banteay Srei: It is often called the ‘Citadel of Women’ and is famous for its detailed pink sandstone carvings.
Preah Khan: A huge temple complex that was once a monastery and school, blending architecture with the jungle.
These temples, along with Angkor Wat, make up the Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. They offer visitors a fascinating insight into Cambodia’s rich history and artistry.
To explore these beautiful sights, we can definitely recommend renting a scooter and exploring it on your own. Of course, you can always book a tour or a private driver – this is offered everywhere in Siem Reap.
Make sure to watch the sunrise at Angkor Wat – this is a must-do! Afterwards, I would advise against exploring Angkor Wat immediately, as everyone will be doing it and it will be very full. Instead, head to Ta Prohm (also called the Tomb raider temple) and visit Angkor Wat later.
Ta Prohm opens at 7pm, so you can have some breakfast or coffee at one the footstalls that are on the street. Once the temple opens, you will have the whole place almost yourself and can peacefully explore it and take pictures without the crowds.
Afterwards, just visit any temples you like, they will most likely be equally crowded. Still, I would focus on a few that you picked beforehand, as it will be hot and you will be exhausted. At the end, go back to Angkor Wat and explore.
Day 13: Apopo rats
These trained African giant pouched rats are playing a really important role in a country that’s still dealing with the aftermath of war, which left millions of unexploded mines in the ground. These mines are a real problem for local communities, making it difficult for people to farm.
The APopo rats have a great sense of smell, which helps them find landmines without triggering them. This method is both effective and faster than traditional techniques. By helping to clear land, these rats are making it safer for farming and housing, which is supporting the recovery of communities affected by conflict.
You are lucky, because you have the chance to see these rats in action! Visit the APopo Center and take a tour! It really is worth it and super interesting. It was definitely one of our highlights.
The rest of the day, continue exploring the city, buy some last souvenirs and indulge in your last Khmer Curry or Beef Lok Lak!
Day 14 – Goodbye Cambodia
Your time in Cambodia has already come to an end and so has this Cambodia Travel Itinerary! Head to the airport and make your way back home – I hope you liked the country as much as we did, maybe until next time!
This experience changed our outlook on life
During our time in Cambodia, we really wanted to give back to the local community, so we volunteered in a school, teaching children English in a remote and small town near Siem Reap. We stayed there for around 2 weeks, sleeping and working in the school, with no running water, crazy heat & humidity and TONS of bugs.
We were sleeping on tiny mattresses on the floor, around us was literally nothing but a few local houses and when it rained the whole street became a muddy-clay-mess. Still, I consider this the best thing I have ever done. The children and teacher in this school were so incredibly kind.
They don’t have a lot, as they are living in poverty, but still they gave us so much. When the class ended, the students always came to us, to hug us goodbye. We played their stone-games together, at least high-fived each student 3 times and they taught me traditional dances. The teachers made us feel welcome from the minute we entered the school. We became friends that taught, cooked, ate, worked and also relaxed together.
During our time in this school, we also got the chance to teach monks in a Pagoda, which was an incredible experience in itself. Those are memories I will savor forever.
To see their way of life and how they manage to live in such a happy way besides the circumstances that poverty brings, did change my own outlook on life.
FAQ
Is 2 weeks in Cambodia too long?
In my opinion, 2 weeks is the perfect amount of time to spend in Cambodia! It gives you enough opportunity to see the highlights, like Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh, and the beautiful beaches on the islands. You could also take some time to visit smaller towns or enjoy local culture.
How many days are needed in Cambodia?
It really depends what you are interested in, but generally, everything between 1 week to 2 weeks is a good amount of time to see the major highlights.
How many days can a tourist stay in Cambodia?
Tourists can usually stay in Cambodia for up to 30 days on a tourist visa, which is often issued when you arrive or you can get it online. If you want to stay longer, you can apply for an extension or think about a different type of visa, depending on what you want to do. Just make sure you check the latest rules, as they can change.
What is the best period to visit Cambodia?
Cambodia has two main seasons: dry season and rainy season.
If you’re planning a trip, the dry season is probably your best bet. We went during the rainy season and had lots of rain, but it also meant there were almost never crowds, which was great. If you can, go in the dry season, as the street conditions can get pretty bad when it rains a lot.
I hope this 14-day Cambodia Travel Itinerary helped you plan your own trip!
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