Must-do activities in Cambodia for an exceptional trip

Cambodia offers a palette of experiences that goes far beyond the beaten path. From the most emblematic archaeological sites to preserved natural horizons, certain stops are must-see milestones that any traveler seeking to understand this country must experience.

It is difficult to mention the activities in Cambodia without starting with the Angkor temples, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and regarded as one of the greatest archaeological wonders in the world. Located a few kilometers from Siem Reap, they constitute the monumental heritage of the Khmer Empire, built between the 9th and 15th centuries.

Angkor Wat, the largest temple in the complex, stands out as the first destination. Its five lotus-shaped towers, galleries adorned with bas-reliefs and the long causeway that precedes it offer a striking visual experience at sunrise and sunset. Not far away, the Bayon temple fascinates with its 216 faces carved in stone, exuding a tranquil serenity. Ta Prohm, for its part, overgrown by the roots of giant fig trees, creates a timeless atmosphere that even the most seasoned photographers struggle to fully capture.

Plan two to three days for temple visits, getting around by tuk-tuk or by bike at your own pace. For a family trip to Cambodia, this monumental site is also the perfect opportunity to combine historical discovery and jungle adventure. The tip: start the visit in the opposite direction of the classic circuits to avoid the densest tourist flows.

Phnom Penh deserves a two- to three-day stopover. The Cambodian capital reveals several faces, and each of them deserves special attention. The Royal Palace, with its Silver Pagoda and its well-kept gardens, illustrates the splendor of Khmer architecture with an elegance that few Southeast Asian capitals can match. Nearby, the National Museum houses one of the world's finest collections of Khmer sculptures, ideal for deepening understanding of the civilization that built Angkor.

The city also invites visitors not to bypass the most painful chapters of its history. The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Choeung Ek Killing Fields provide a way to apprehend the reality of the Khmer Rouge — an essential step to understand the country and its people. At the end of the day, Sisowath Quay, along the Mekong, offers a pleasant stroll punctuated by cafes and restaurants where the city can be experienced differently.

Just a few kilometres from Siem Reap, Tonlé Sap Lake — the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia — is home to communities that live entirely on the water, at the mercy of the seasons and floods. A boat trip to the floating villages, notably Kampong Phluk, offers the chance to observe a unique way of life, shaped by fishing and the lake's fluctuations.

Stilt houses, sometimes perched several metres above the ground, change their appearance completely with the seasons. In the rainy season, only the treetops appear above the surface; in the dry season, the structures seem to hang in the void. This half-day to full-day visit is especially suitable for Cambodia with family: children are often fascinated by the pirogues, the floating markets, and the lake's aquatic wildlife.

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Beyond the historic sites, Cambodia offers more intimate experiences, between cultural immersion, preserved nature and authentic shared moments. It is often these less expected instants that transform a beautiful journey into an unforgettable memory.

Siem Reap is not only the gateway to the Angkor temples. The city hosts a vibrant cultural scene that deserves time to explore. Khmer cooking classes allow you to discover the country's flavors in a participatory way: fish amok cooked in banana leaves, lok lak with Kampot pepper, curries with fresh spices. Expect 2 to 3 hours for a friendly introduction, ideal for couples as well as families.

In the evening, the Phare Cambodian Circus show transforms Siem Reap's night into an intense artistic experience. Acrobatics, contemporary dance, and music mingle to tell Khmer stories with raw and sincere energy. It's a rare way to find a moment of serenity while supporting local artists trained within this exceptional social project. Our Travel Planners' tips: book your seats well in advance, especially between December and March, when performances are often sold out.

For those who wish to extend their stay away from the crowds, Cambodia offers natural spaces of rare beauty. Koh Rong, accessible from Sihanoukville, combines white-sand beaches, snorkeling and a relaxed atmosphere. It is suitable for both couples seeking privacy and families wishing a seaside break after the temples.

On the hills, Phnom Kulen National Park, about 50 kilometers from Siem Reap, is a sacred place that blends lush nature, waterfalls, and historic remnants. The River of a Thousand Lingas, carved in the living rock of a riverbed, provides a rare moment, halfway between archaeology and wonder. Plan a full day to fully enjoy it.

For adventure lovers, Virachey National Park in the province of Ratanakiri offers multi-day treks through a nearly virgin jungle. Elephants, gibbons and exotic birds populate these forests still sparsely visited, making each hike a rare experience at the edge of the world.

To help you plan your activities in Cambodia, here is a recap of the must-see experiences :

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