Plan Your Trip to Siem Reap: Best of Siem Reap Tourism
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Essential Siem Reap
Food & drink
Browse collections
- Cambodian cuisineFrom street eats to upscale dining
- Historic templesCenturies of history in sacred spaces
- Night marketsCrafts and cuisine in the city's heart
- Wellness and spasRecharge with traditional Khmer massages
- Luxury hotelsPlush retreats with world-class comforts
- Art galleriesA canvas of traditional and modern art
- Cultural performancesDance and music that tell a story
Travel advice
Transportation Availability
According to forum posts, taxis are readily available at Siem Reap Airport. The standard taxi fare from the airport to Siem Reap city has been fixed at approximately $35, and hotels can arrange transportation for various tours, including early morning trips to Angkor Wat.
Alternative Transportation Options
Some travelers mentioned using the Grab app for convenient ridesharing services directly from the airport. Additionally, tuk-tuks are a popular local transportation option, though arrangements for airport pickups must be made in advance and the driver must be registered with the airport authorities.
Specific Recommendations
Travelers have recommended specific drivers for airport transfers, suggesting that personal referrals are a valuable resource for arranging reliable transportation. For instance, a driver named Poly Pey was highly praised for his service, charging $35 for airport pickup.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Outdoor Activities
Some travelers recommended exploring Siem Reap through more interactive and adventurous activities such as kayaking through flooded forests and floating villages, or biking through the countryside. Options for guided tours on Vespas and food tours are also available, offering a mix of cultural and culinary experiences.
Art and Entertainment
According to forum posts, Siem Reap offers a variety of art and entertainment options. Travelers have called out engaging experiences like visiting art galleries, attending photography talks, or enjoying live performances at Phare, The Cambodian Circus. Art workshops and cultural shows are also popular among visitors looking to immerse themselves in local arts.
Unique Experiences
For those interested in unique local interactions, some users suggested participating in community-based tours that include activities like cooking with local families and visiting local markets and temples. This not only provides an authentic experience but also benefits local families directly.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Family-Friendly Hotels
Some travelers recommended the Central Suite Residence for its fantastic location, service, and quiet environment despite being close to Pub Street. It features a comfortable pool with a swim-up bar. The price is reportedly good, especially during the summer when one user rebooked for another six-night stay.
Luxury Options
For those seeking newer luxury accommodations, the Park Hyatt Siem Reap and Anantara Angkor Resort were mentioned as top choices. These properties offer modern amenities and are well-maintained. The Park Hyatt is particularly noted for its great location and comfortable setup.
Budget-Friendly Accommodations
On the budget-friendly side, Tareach Angkor Villa and Seven Candles Guesthouse were highlighted by users. Tareach Angkor Villa offers rooms from $25, includes a small pool and a basic breakfast, and is very close to the center. Seven Candles Guesthouse provides a pleasant stay with prices from $20-25, featuring nice sitting areas and a covered rooftop patio, though it lacks a pool.
Overall Recommendations
Travelers generally seek accommodations that combine convenience with comfort, whether looking for luxury options or more budget-conscious choices. Siem Reap offers a variety of hotels catering to different preferences and needs, ensuring a suitable option for almost any traveler.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Visa Acquisition Methods
According to forum posts, travelers can obtain a Cambodian visa at Siem Reap airport upon arrival or online through the official eVisa website. The Visa on Arrival (VoA) is straightforward, taking about 15 minutes and costing $30 USD, payable only in cash. The eVisa, while avoiding the queue, costs $36 USD and requires an online application.
Visa Validity and Extensions
Travelers have noted that a tourist visa can be extended once for an additional 30 days through a local travel agency in Siem Reap. This process involves sending the passport to Phnom Penh for approval, which can take about a week. Some agencies, like 5Oceans Travel & Tours, provide reliable extension services.
Additional Visa Entry Information
For multi-entry scenarios, as per the forum users, Cambodia does not offer a multi-entry tourist visa. Travelers leaving Cambodia and returning will need to obtain a new visa each time they re-enter, which can also be done at Siem Reap airport upon each arrival.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Timing and Crowds
Many travelers recommend visiting Angkor Wat during sunrise for a breathtaking view, although this is also when it can be most crowded. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting during midday when many tour groups take breaks or later in the afternoon when the light is soft and the site is less busy.
Transportation and Guides
Travelers suggest using a tuk-tuk to travel around the temple complex, which can be arranged through your accommodation. Hiring a guide can enhance your experience as they provide in-depth knowledge about the history and architecture of the temples, though it's noted that this is a personal preference. Guides are readily available at the site if you decide to hire one on the spot.
Planning Your Visit
It's advised to spend at least three hours at Angkor Wat itself. If you have more time, a three-day pass is recommended to explore the wider Angkor Archaeological Park comprehensively. For a focused visit, combining Angkor Wat with other nearby temples like Bayon and Ta Prohm can be done comfortably in a day.
Accommodation Tips
Staying closer to the town center of Siem Reap is suggested for easier access to local amenities and restaurants, as it's only a short drive to the temples. Some accommodations offer the convenience of arranging transport and guided tours directly.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Guide Recommendations
According to forum posts, many travelers recommend asking your accommodation to organize a tour guide as they typically have a list of reliable guides. Some travelers mentioned specific guides like Mr. Hak - Sok Venghak and Poly Pey, commending them for excellent service.
Online Reviews and Personal Contacts
Forum users suggested checking online reviews and reaching out to regulars on travel forums for personal recommendations. This approach helps in verifying the quality of the guide through firsthand experiences shared by other tourists.
Booking Through Agencies
Some users have had positive experiences booking guides through reputable travel agencies. They noted that these agencies often provide reliable and knowledgeable guides.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Currency Exchange Locations
Some travelers mentioned that currency exchange services are readily available in Siem Reap, particularly in areas frequented by tourists and at local markets. Banks and specific money changers like Huy Keang on Sok San Road are recommended for good rates and reputable service.
Online Rate Checking
According to forum posts, before exchanging money, it is advisable to check the current exchange rates online. Websites like www.ababank.com and www.acledabank.com.kh provide updated forex rates, helping ensure travelers get fair exchange rates.
Currency Exchange Tips
Travelers have called out the importance of checking the physical condition of the bills received from exchanges, as torn or marked bills might be refused in transactions later. Additionally, it's noted that while US dollars are widely accepted, smaller denominations are preferable for smaller purchases, and any leftover Cambodian Riel should be spent or exchanged before leaving Cambodia as it is not tradeable outside the country.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Visa on Arrival Details
According to forum posts, Cambodia offers a Visa on Arrival (VoA) for most nationalities, which can be obtained at international airports and border crossings. The tourist visa costs USD $30 and is valid for 30 days. It requires no prior photo since June 2019 and must be paid in cash.
Online Visa Information
For travelers preferring to arrange things ahead of time, an e-visa can be obtained through the official government site (https://www.evisa.gov.kh). This e-visa is applicable for entry through specific airports and land borders and costs USD $36 with a processing time of 3 business days.
Visa Extensions
Travelers have noted that the tourist visa can be extended once for an additional 30 days through local travel agencies in Cambodia. The extension process typically involves sending the passport to Phnom Penh and costs around USD $45.
Cruise Ship Entry
For visitors arriving by cruise ship, it is advised to check visa arrangements with the cruise operator as policies can vary. Typically, cruise lines handle visa processes and charge the onboard account, although this might be more expensive than standard visa fees.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.