Cambodia

15 Tips and Tricks for Visiting Cambodia with Kids

Cambodia marks our 52nd country with our kids.  We’ve spent significant time in Southeast Asia when we traveled full-time, including three months in Thailand, Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, Taiwan and more.  I was excited to get another flavor of this area of the world onto our travel palette! 

*Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. Opinions shared are my own, and I only endorse products I support. By clicking on any of the links below, I may get a small commission if you purchase at absolutely no additional charge to you. I appreciate your support.*

Similar to Thailand and Vietnam, Cambodia feels familiar to anyone who has traveled to these areas.  It does offer its own flair as well.  Here are my main takeaways on visiting Cambodia with kids:

1. Similar to Vietnam, Cambodia is a little less developed than its neighbor, Thailand.  I feel like Siem Reap was what Thailand was for us six years ago, or even less developed.  You are going to be seeing lots of dogs in the streets, very rustic day markets and tourism is still under development here.  However, the locals were very kind and it’s a bit more “homey” than Bangkok, another of our favorites.
   
2. Cash is king here, so get some right away at an airport ATM.  You are going to need it right away in your taxi!  I took our 1MM in CambodianRiel, about $250 USD, and this lasted us over our trip with a little left over.
   
3. Grab a SIM card right away as well at the airport (or one of the many eSIMs available).  We got 15 GIG for $3USD.  However, we used our son’s phone and he quickly drained it by downloading some books!  Make sure to keep your phone on airplane mode, unless you need the data.
   
4. Wifi is plentiful in all hotels, restaurants, cafes, etc.  Tourist places have their wifi info posted on the walls for use.  Some drivers also offer use of their hot spots in the car.

5. Like in Thailand, you can connect with a driver for your entire trip to make things easy!  When picking a driver, make sure you nail down a few things before you commit to someone:
   
   • Do you want a TukTuk (can be hot during the day) or an air-conditioned van/car?  We went for the van
     
   • 100% agree on the price BEFORE you commit.  In many Southeast Asian countries, you may be asked for more after the visit.  You need to have clear expectations laid out before, preferably in writing (like WhatsApp).
     
   • Try to go for drivers that offer a little extra, like cold water or their wifi hotspot.  The competition is fierce, so cash in on that and get some perks!
     
   • Make sure they are good with kids (although this is not hard in the Cambodian culture).

6. For your visa on arrival, you’ll need three things:
   
   • Form you can complete on tablets at customs.
     
   • Visa in your passport:
     • For this, you’ll get in line and give your passport to the desk.  You’ll let them know how many visas you need and how you plan to pay.  
       
     • You’ll shuffle into one of two lines: cash or card.  They do accept (and prefer) cash payments in dollars or euros.  The cost is $30 USD per person (which is a bit of a scam, but what can you do).
       
     • We used a credit card.
       
   • Your boarding pass.  Tell the kids to hold onto those boarding passes!
     
7. DO NOT drink the water.  Not even for brushing your teeth.  Some countries are not worth the risk.  Train the kids to only use bottled water for teeth brushing and drinking.  They also should avoid swallowing pool water.
   
8. In regard to food, use caution.  We didn’t dive into street food in Cambodia, but we have in many other countries like Thailand and Vietnam.  For street food, only go for cooked items (not raw vegetables that are not peeled), look for some kind of refrigeration on any meat and avoid things that are sitting out a long time.  

Go for things like hot soups or noodle bowls made on the spot.  We did have fruit shakes in nearly all locations and never had a problem with ice, thankfully, but it doesn’t hurt to ask.  Thankfully, food vendors do not want people getting sick, and tourist spots are pretty up to speed on what makes us tourists sick!

9. Food can be spicy!  If you don’t love spice, keep this in mind.
   
10. FOR SURE get some family foot rubs!  These are some of our favorite things to do in Southeast Asia.  We got an hour of family foot rub for $6 USD per person, and it was so much fun.  The kids loved it.
    
11. Tipping is encouraged in Cambodia, but not required.  I always round up and call it good, unless we get some spectacular service that warrants a larger tip.
    
12. When negotiating rides or services in advance, ALWAYS settle on a price and try to get this in writing.  It is not uncommon for people to get a bit “scammy” and demand more payment than was agreed on.  

Stand your ground.  This happened with our driver.  I had it in writing to pay him $50 USD for an entire day and he knew we needed to get to the airport at the end of the day.  Once we got to the airport, he tried to demand more money for the airport ride.  I stood my ground that we had agreed to $50 for the entire day.  He was not happy, but I found it unacceptable to do this once we arrived.

13. Pay attention to currency exchanges and count your money!  When the currency is 4000:1, it can be a bit confusing.  It’s easy for vendors to slip in a bill 10x smaller.
    
14. Use drivers for recommendations on what to do and see!  They double as tour guides.  Your hotel can also recommend things for you.
    
15. Consider travel insurance!  Trip interruptions or emergencies can really be problematic.  You want to have the peace of mind going into your trip that you are covered.  I recommend SafetyWing and World Nomads for trips, depending on your itinerary and preferences for activities.

Fun Tours to Consider in Cambodia with Kids

1. Angkor Archaeological Park 

Cambodia offers a rich array of experiences that both children and adults will remember. The Angkor Archaeological Park is a clear highlight. Angkor Wat and Bayon are awe-inspiring.

  Younger travelers often find Ta Prohm the most thrilling.  Known as the “Tomb Raider” temple, it feels like a real-life adventure with enormous trees wrapping around ancient ruins.  Choosing a shorter tuk-tuk tour made for kids can make the visit more engaging.

1.1. Angkor Wat Tour

This small-group tour combines the beauty of Cambodia’s most famous temple with the expertise of a licensed guide, allowing you to uncover fascinating history while soaking in unforgettable views.

Duration: The journey typically lasts 8–9 hours, giving you ample time to see the highlights without rushing.

Price: Tours are available from about $15 USD per person, offering excellent value for a full-day cultural and historical experience.

Family highlights: Watch the sky light up behind Angkor Wat, creating a stunning backdrop for photos as you begin your journey through Cambodia’s most treasured landmarks.  With convenient hotel pickup and the expertise of a knowledgeable local guide, the experience blends comfort, culture and history into a memorable day.

1.2. Bayon, Cambodia and Ta Prohm

With the guidance of a local expert, you’ll explore three of the most celebrated temples inside the Angkor Archaeological Park: Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Prohm.

Duration: The excursion lasts around 8 hours, offering enough time to explore each temple thoroughly while keeping the pace comfortable.

Price: Tickets are priced from about $37 USD per person, which includes transport, bottled water and the services of a professional guide, making it an excellent value for a full day of discovery.

Family Highlights: This tour is a fantastic choice for families, combining history, culture and adventure.  Kids and adults alike will be amazed by the smiling stone faces at Bayon, the fairytale-like setting of Ta Prohm and the sheer scale of Angkor Wat.  With hotel pickup and a friendly guide, the day flows smoothly so everyone can focus on the experience rather than logistics.

2. Phare: The Cambodian Circus Show in Siem Reap

In Siem Reap, Phare, The Cambodian Circus is a must-see.  This stunning performance mixes acrobatics, dance and music to tell Cambodian stories. It captivates audiences of all ages and supports a social enterprise.

Duration: The show itself runs for about 60 to 90 minutes, while packages with hotel pickup and drop-off can extend the experience to roughly three hours in total.

Price: Ticket prices begin at around $18 USD per person, with upgraded seating and package options ranging up to $35 USD, depending on the level of comfort and extras included.

Family Highlights: This experience is ideal for families, as it combines lively storytelling with thrilling stunts and music that captivate both children and adults.  Younger audience members are often fascinated by the daring performers, while parents can appreciate the artistry and cultural depth.  On top of the entertainment, families can feel good knowing their visit directly supports local youth and the arts community.

3. Kampong Phluk Floating Village Tour by Boat

Leave the busy streets of Siem Reap behind and discover the charm of Kampong Phluk, a unique floating village on Tonlé Sap Lake.  Traveling by boat, you’ll see wooden houses raised on towering stilts, floating structures and tranquil mangroves, while learning about the community’s fascinating way of life from a knowledgeable local guide.

Duration: The excursion lasts around 6 hours, giving you plenty of time to experience both the village and the surrounding lake scenery at a relaxed pace.

Price: Tickets start from about $20 USD per person, making it an affordable way to explore one of Cambodia’s most distinctive cultural sites.

Family Highlights: Families will enjoy the chance to see an entirely different way of living, where the rhythm of daily life is set by the lake itself.  Kids will be intrigued by the stilted homes, fishermen navigating narrow waterways, and the sense of adventure that comes with traveling by boat through a real floating community.

4. Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center

Just outside Phnom Penh lies the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center, a protected forest sanctuary where animals rescued from trafficking and exploitation find a safe home.  Stretching across thousands of acres, it shelters elephants, gibbons, sun bears, tigers and many other species while also serving as a hub for conservation and education.

Duration: Visitors can spend a full day (8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.) exploring the center and joining guided activities.  For those with limited time, half-day visits are also possible, offering a shorter yet rewarding glimpse into the sanctuary.

Price: General entry is very affordable, around $5 for adults and $2 for children. Families who want a more personal experience can book specialized behind-the-scenes tours, which cost about $150 per person and include transport, meals and interactive activities like feeding elephants or visiting the nursery.

Family Highlights: A trip here is both fun and educational for families.  Kids will love watching playful sun bears, seeing elephants up close and exploring the forest trails, while parents can appreciate the conservation efforts that protect these animals.  Every visit directly supports the rescue, care and rehabilitation of wildlife, turning a family day out into a meaningful contribution.

Good Places to Stay In Cambodia with Kids

Cambodia has plenty of places to stay, and families are well taken care of.  You can choose from luxurious resorts with many amenities to cozy boutique guesthouses that have a lot of character. 

There’s something for every budget.  Many hotels focus on families, providing spacious rooms, refreshing pools and convenient locations that make it easy and stress-free to explore. We’ll share these options with you.

Premium Hotels

These hotels offer exceptional service, top-notch facilities, and a tranquil atmosphere, making them perfect for a special family trip.

Navutu Dreams Resort and Wellness Retreat (Siem Reap)  

Navutu Dreams Resort & Wellness Retreat is a boutique hideaway set just beyond the busy streets of Siem Reap.  Surrounded by tropical gardens and designed with a Mediterranean flair, the resort offers a peaceful space with only 28 rooms and suites, creating an intimate and relaxing atmosphere.  Guests can enjoy three outdoor swimming pools, daily yoga sessions, wellness programs and spa treatments, while still being just a short tuk-tuk ride away from Angkor Wat and the town’s vibrant markets and restaurants.

Room prices begin at around $40 USD per night for the more modest accommodations, while spacious suites with added comforts can be booked for approximately $160 USD per night.  This range makes the property appealing both for travelers seeking affordable elegance and those wanting an elevated wellness retreat experience.

Park Hyatt Siem Reap

Located in the heart of Siem Reap, the Park Hyatt offers a luxurious and convenient base for exploring Angkor.  Families are especially drawn to its two beautifully designed swimming pools, which are perfect for cooling off after a long day of temple adventures.  The rooms are spacious and thoughtfully decorated.  The excellent service ensures a truly stress-free stay. Vibrant markets and restaurants are just a short tuk-tuk ride away, combining luxury with great convenience.  

Nightly rate is around $180 to $400+ USD, with lower prices in the off-season and peak rates from December to February.  

Standard Hotels

These hotels strike a balance between comfort, location and value, often including family-friendly amenities without the premium price tag.

Plantation Urban Resort & Spa (Phnom Penh)

An urban oasis in the middle of Phnom Penh, this resort is built around two large pools and lush gardens, creating a calm and refreshing retreat.  Spacious rooms and unique design details make it feel special, while the central location puts sights like the Royal Palace and National Museum within easy reach.  Families who want a peaceful base in a bustling city will find it an excellent fit. Nightly rate is around $60 to $150 USD, with a small additional fee for children aged 6–11.

Lotus Blanc Resort (Siem Reap)

A favorite among families, Lotus Blanc Resort offers multiple swimming pools, a spa and family-sized rooms.  The staff are often praised for their warmth and attentiveness, which makes a real difference when traveling with children.  The resort provides excellent facilities at a reasonable price and can easily arrange tours and activities tailored to families.  It’s a reliable and comfortable choice for those seeking value with great service.  Nightly rate is around $50 to $120 USD, making it a great value for a resort-style experience.

Budget-Friendly Hotels

For families traveling on a tighter budget, Cambodia has plenty of welcoming guesthouses and smaller hotels that provide essential comforts along with genuine hospitality.

Golden Temple Hotel (Siem Reap)

Known for its exceptional service and warm Cambodian hospitality, Golden Temple Hotel is a fantastic choice for families seeking value.  The rooms are clean and comfortable, often with access to a pool, and the staff consistently go above and beyond to make guests feel at home. With a prime location near Pub Street and the markets, yet tucked away on a quieter road, it combines convenience with charm. Estimated nightly rate goes from $40 to $100 USD, often including breakfast and additional perks.

Anou Home – Guesthouse (Siem Reap)

Run by a local family, Anou Home offers a truly personal and authentic stay.  Rooms are simple but clean and affordable and, while there is no pool, the heartfelt hospitality more than compensates.  The owners are always ready to help with tour arrangements, transport and insider recommendations, making guests feel like part of the family.  It’s an ideal choice for families who want to keep costs low while experiencing Cambodian life up close.

Nightly rate is about $25 to $50 USD, offering an authentic and affordable home away from home.

Best Time of the Year to Visit Cambodia with Kids

When planning a family adventure to Cambodia, timing makes all the difference.  Choosing the right season not only helps you avoid intense heat and heavy rains, but also ensures a smoother, more enjoyable experience for children and adults alike.  The ideal months depend on balancing weather, crowd levels and the chance to enjoy vibrant local festivals.

November to February

These months are arguably the best for a family trip.  The weather is pleasant, with cooler temperatures and little rain.  It’s a great time to explore temples and enjoy outdoor activities. The only downside is the crowds, especially around Christmas and New Year’s when the country is at its busiest.

March to May

This is Cambodia’s hot season.  Temperatures often rise above 95°F (35°C), and the humidity can be uncomfortable.  Plan your outings for early mornings and late afternoons, then find relief in a pool or an air-conditioned café during the hottest part of the day.  April brings Khmer New Year, a lively and colorful festival worth experiencing.  However, many locals travel at this time, and some businesses may close.

June to August

These months signal the start of the wet season.  While rain is common, showers usually don’t last long and are often predictable, leaving plenty of time for exploration.  It’s a good time for travelers who want fewer crowds.  The scenery is stunning, moats are full of water, rice paddies are a vivid green, and the temples are surrounded by lush landscapes that provide amazing photo opportunities.

September and October

This period is the peak of the rainy season, with more intense and frequent downpours.  Even so, the countryside is very vibrant, making it a rewarding time to visit if you seek peace, fewer tourists and good deals on flights and accommodation.  Just be prepared with rain gear and a flexible attitude.

Other Things to Consider When Visiting Cambodia with Kids

• Cambodia is a dictatorship and you do NOT want to do anything to get on the wrong side of the law.  This goes without saying, but do not do anything dumb or illegal!  You could spend years in jail.
  
• China has a lot of interests in Cambodia.  As we drove the highway from the airport to our hotel, our driver told us the entire, giant highway was built with funding from China. 
  
• You’ll see pictures of the king/leader in most places.  This is similar to Thailand and other countries in this area.  Do not ever be disrespectful about this.
  
• Sacred Respect for the Head.  In Cambodian tradition, the head is seen as the most sacred part of the body.  Touching someone else’s head, even in a playful way, is considered very disrespectful.  On the other hand, the feet are seen as the lowest and least spiritual part of the body.
  
• Birthdays: A Modest Affair.  Unlike in many cultures, birthdays have not traditionally held much importance in Cambodia.  It is common for older generations not to know their exact birth date, and lavish birthday celebrations are a relatively new addition to the culture.
  
• Greetings with Grace. The usual way to greet someone in Cambodia is with “Chumreap Sour.” This greeting involves pressing the palms together in front of the chest, resembling a lotus bud, while giving a slight bow.  This gesture shows warmth and deep respect.
  

Traveling through Cambodia with kids is both rewarding and eye-opening.  From wandering among jungle-covered temples to cheering at the high-energy Cambodian Circus, every day brings a fresh adventure to share as a family.  While Cambodia may feel less developed than nearby destinations, the kindness of its people, the richness of its traditions and the sense of discovery make it unforgettable.

With some planning and a flexible mindset, you’ll not only create lasting family memories, but also help your kids gain a deeper appreciation for the world around them.

Additional Readings

Travel From Your Kitchen: Mango Sticky Rice from Bangkok Street Vendors

How to Choose the Best Travel Insurance for Your Family

How to Avoid Scams Traveling in Asia