Family Holiday in Cambodia: What You Should Know Before You Go

1. Visa Process – What You Need to Enter Cambodia

Travelers from France, Belgium, Switzerland, and many other European countries need a visa to enter Cambodia, even for short stays. There are two main options:

• E-visa: Apply online before your trip. Valid for 30 days, single entry. This is the easiest and most recommended option.
• Visa on arrival: Available at major international airports such as Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville.

2. Health and Vaccinations: What Should You Prepare?

No vaccines are required to enter Cambodia from Europe. However, some are recommended, including hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and depending on your itinerary and length of stay, Japanese encephalitis or rabies. The risk of malaria is low in tourist areas but may exist in rural or forested regions. You can learn more in our guide to vaccines in Southeast Asia.

As for medical supplies, pack a basic travel kit with mosquito repellent, paracetamol, band-aids, disinfectant gel, and medicine for digestive issues. Pharmacies in larger cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap are generally well stocked, but options can be limited in the countryside. It's best to bring the essentials with you.

3. What Should You Pack for Cambodia?

Cambodia has a hot and humid climate year-round, with a rainy season from May to October. Here are some must-haves to include in your luggage:

• Light, breathable clothing made of cotton or linen
• Hat or cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• Rain jacket or poncho if traveling during the wet season
• Comfortable walking shoes for temple visits, plus flip-flops for everyday use
• Scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders when visiting pagodas
• Mosquito repellent, especially useful in the evening or rural areas
• Basic medical kit with band-aids, paracetamol, antiseptic gel, and any personal medications
• Power adapter (types A, C, or G). European plugs often work, but not always
• Photocopies of your passport and visa, stored separately from the originals
• Waterproof bag or plastic pouch to protect your belongings during rain or boat trips

4. When Is the Best Time for a Family Trip to Cambodia?

Cambodia has a tropical climate with two main seasons: the dry season (November to April) and the rainy season (May to October).

4.1 Dry season (November to April)

This is the most comfortable time for family travel. The weather is sunny, roads are in good condition, and temperatures range from 25 to 35°C. From December to February, conditions are ideal, with pleasant warmth and less intense heat.

In March and April, temperatures rise significantly, especially inland in places like Siem Reap or Phnom Penh, often reaching 38°C. If you're traveling with young children, make sure they stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.), and plan regular breaks in the shade or in air-conditioned spaces. The temperature difference after a long-haul flight can be tiring for little ones.

4.2 Rainy season (May to October)

Rain usually comes in short bursts, often in the late afternoon, and doesn’t completely disrupt travel plans. The landscape becomes lush and green, and although temperatures stay high, the humidity can feel heavy. July and August are still possible for family trips if you adjust your pace: plan activities in the morning, rest in the afternoon, and bring light clothing, a raincoat, and dry clothes to change into when needed.

>>>>> For more information, please read: Best Time to Visit Cambodia: Plan Your Perfect Trip

5. Ideal destinations for a family trip

For a peaceful and balanced stay, combining discovery and relaxation, here are the steps we recommend:

• Siem Reap: Perfect for exploring the temples of Angkor at a leisurely pace, with frequent breaks. Children will also enjoy circus performances, creative workshops (pottery, cooking, etc.), and walks in the countryside. A boat trip on the Tonle Sap (floating village of Kompong Phluk or Kompong Khleang) is a highlight, easy to organize in a half-day.

• Phnom Penh: The capital offers a good balance of culture and relaxation. The Royal Palace, the National Museum, sunset strolls on the Mekong River, not to mention the friendly parks and cafes.
• The southern beaches: Koh Rong, Koh Rong Samloem: ideal for a few days of relaxation with your feet in the water, calm atmosphere and superb beaches.

Other suggestions if you want more variety:

• Battambang: charming countryside town, ideal for tuk-tuk rides and local encounters.
• The Cardamoms (Koh Kong): for an immersion in nature, with eco-lodges and gentle activities such as kayaking.
• Ratanakiri/ Mondolkiri: reserved for families with older children, to discover mountain landscapes, waterfalls, ethnic minorities.

6. Suggested Itinerary for a Family Trip to Cambodia (14 Days)

Day 1: Arrival in Phnom Penh

• Welcome at the airport, transfer to the hotel.
• Free time to relax or take a short stroll along the banks of the Mekong.

Day 2: Gentle discovery of Phnom Penh

• Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda,...
• Leisurely pedicab tour through the old quarters.
• Visit to the central market.

Day 3: On the road to Siem Reap

• Pleasant journey through the countryside (approx. 3.5 hours).
• Break at the village of Skun (local specialty, interesting to observe).

Day 4-6: Angkor at your own pace 

• Exploration of the main temples of Angkor (Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm, etc.)
•  Visit the Banteay Srei temple, a small architectural gem located in the countryside, or free time for family-friendly activities, such as:
  • Hot air balloon ride over Angkor: a unique way to admire the temples from the air, without a long flight – a gentle activity, suitable for families with children.
  • Phare, The Cambodian Circus: a show combining circus, theater and music, ideal for discovering Khmer culture with the family.
  • Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre: A tropical garden where children can observe many species of butterflies.
  • Kulen Elephant Forest: Respectful encounter with retired elephants in a natural setting.
  • Khmer cooking class: friendly workshop to learn how to prepare local dishes.
  • Stroll through the night market to discover local crafts and atmosphere. 

Day 7: Tonlé Sap Lake

• Boat trip on Tonlé Sap Lake, discovering a floating village like Kompong Phluk or Kompong Khleang.
• The excursion allows you to observe daily life on the water, as well as a rich fauna: water birds (storks, kingfishers, cormorants), freshwater fish, and vegetation typical of flooded areas. A calm and exotic moment, suitable for the whole family.

Day 8 to 12: Seaside stay

• From Siem Reap to Sihanoukville.
• Boat transfer to Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem, two islands in the Gulf of Thailand with calm beaches and clear waters.
  • Koh Rong Samloem: more peaceful, ideal for relaxing with family.
  • Koh Rong: a little more lively, but still suitable for relaxing.

Free time to enjoy the beach, swimming, taking a walk along the seaside or simply relaxing.

Day 13 to 14: Return

• Route to Phnom Penh.
• Transfer to the airport for your international flight.

7. Budget to plan for a family trip

In Cambodia, a budget of around USD 60 to 90 per day per person generally covers daily expenses: accommodation, meals, visits, transport, activities, etc. This amount remains indicative, as costs can vary depending on the region and individual needs, with simpler or more comfortable options depending on preferences.

Tourist cities like Phnom Penh or Siem Reap may require a slightly higher budget. On the other hand, in quieter or rural areas, the cost of living is more affordable, which helps balance things out. Generally speaking, prices in Cambodia remain affordable and suitable for different types of travelers. Learn more about Cambodia travel cost.

8. Getting around Cambodia: what you need to know

✦ Domestic flights

Short flights (45 to 60 minutes) exist between Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville. The most reliable airlines are Cambodia Angkor Air and Lanmei Airlines. We include these flights in tours when it avoids a long road trip. 

✦ Tuk-tuk

Perfect for short trips around town (Siem Reap, Phnom Penh), tuk-tuks allow you to get around easily while experiencing local life. Consider negotiating the fare before getting in or using an app like PassApp for a fixed price. 

✦ Car with driver

The most comfortable solution for a family or tailor-made trip. It offers flexibility, safety, and a personalized pace. Our agency can organize a personalized itinerary with a local French- or English-speaking driver, so you can travel with peace of mind.

📌 More details on How to get to Cambodia

9. What to do if your child gets lost in a busy place?

This situation can happen anywhere, including in Cambodia, in busy places like markets, temples, or bus stations. Here are some simple steps to take beforehand to avoid panic:

• Teach your child to stay put if they get lost. This makes it easier to find them.
• Slip a little note into his pocket or attach it to his clothes with his first name, your phone number, and the address of your accommodation.
• Show him the people he can trust: a security guard, a police officer, a member of staff with a badge, or a family with children.
• Remind him to never follow a stranger, even if he seems friendly.
• Role-play at home before leaving so that he memorizes the right reflexes without stress.

These precautions reassure both children and parents and can be applied throughout the trip.

10. Is it necessary to book a tour with a travel agency?

Planning a family trip to Cambodia may seem simple, but on the ground, unexpected logistical or cultural issues can quickly complicate things. By working with a specialized local agency, you save time, comfort, and peace of mind:

• The routes are designed to adapt to the children's pace.
• All transfers, accommodations and tours are coordinated in advance.
• You benefit from reliable on-site support if needed.

It's an ideal solution to fully enjoy your stay, without worrying about practical details.

Our last words,

Cambodia as a family is an invitation to explore a country rich in history and diverse landscapes, at a leisurely pace that respects everyone's desires. Between authentic encounters, cultural discoveries, and moments of relaxation, each stop offers a unique experience for young and old alike.

With a well-thought-out itinerary and a few practical tips, this trip becomes an accessible, enjoyable, and memorable adventure. So, are you ready to explore Cambodia with your family?

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