Cambodia offers Australian travellers an unforgettable adventure just a short flight away. Whether you’re drawn to the magnificent Angkor Wat, the bustling streets of Phnom Penh, or the relaxed coastal vibe of Sihanoukville, travel to Cambodia from Australia has never been more accessible. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know-from visa requirements and tour packages to flight options, travel insurance, and essential money matters-ensuring your Cambodian adventure is seamless from start to finish. Let’s dive into planning your perfect Cambodian escape.
What to Expect When You Travel to Cambodia from Australia
When you travel to Cambodia from Australia, you’re embarking on a journey to one of Southeast Asia’s most enchanting destinations. Cambodia is the perfect choice for Aussie travellers seeking authentic cultural experiences without venturing too far from home.
The flight time is remarkably convenient-just 7 to 9 hours with one comfortable stopover through major Asian hubs like Singapore, Bangkok, or Kuala Lumpur. This means you can leave Sydney or Melbourne in the morning and arrive in Siem Reap by evening, ready to start your adventure the next day.
One of the biggest advantages for Australian visitors is the strong Australian dollar, which makes Cambodia extremely affordable. Your money stretches considerably further here than in most other destinations, allowing you to enjoy luxury accommodation, fine dining, and premium tours without breaking the bank.
Cambodia’s cultural richness is simply unparalleled. You’ll discover magnificent Khmer heritage sites, ancient temple complexes that rival anything in the world, and beautiful French colonial architecture that tells stories of the country’s complex history. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be immersed in a culture that’s both ancient and vibrant.
The country offers remarkably diverse experiences within relatively compact distances. Explore the historical wonders of Angkor Archaeological Park, relax on pristine beaches in Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, and dive into the energetic city life of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap-all within one trip. The warm Cambodian hospitality and growing tourism infrastructure ensure that your journey is comfortable while maintaining authentic local character. Cambodia has established itself as a safe destination with well-developed tourist routes, making it ideal for first-time visitors to Southeast Asia.
Check out our Cambodia Travel Guide Book for more information!
Visa Requirements: Getting Your Cambodia Visa from Australia
Good news for Australian passport holders: obtaining a visa for Cambodia from Australia is straightforward and hassle-free, with two convenient options to choose from.
E-Visa Option (Recommended)
The electronic visa is the most convenient way to secure your Cambodia visa before you travel. Simply apply online via Cambodia’s official e-Visa portal at www.evisa.gov.kh. The entire process takes just minutes to complete from the comfort of your home.
Processing time is typically three business days, though many applications are approved within 24 hours. The cost is USD 36 plus a small processing fee, making it an affordable and stress-free option. Your e-Visa is valid for 90 days from the issue date for single entry, allowing a 30-day stay in the country.
The requirements are minimal: a passport valid for at least six months from your intended entry date, a digital passport photo (which you can easily take with your smartphone), and a credit or debit card for payment. Once approved, simply print your e-Visa and present it upon arrival at Phnom Penh International Airport, Siem Reap International Airport, or designated land borders. This is perfect for advance planning before you travel to Cambodia from Australia, eliminating any visa-related stress on arrival.
Visa on Arrival
If you prefer handling visa matters upon arrival, Cambodia offers visa on arrival services at Phnom Penh International Airport, Siem Reap International Airport, and major land borders with Thailand and Vietnam.
The cost is USD 30 for a tourist visa, though be prepared for unofficial processing fees of USD 5 to 7 that are commonly requested by immigration officials. You’ll need your passport with at least six months validity, one passport-sized photo, and USD cash for payment. The processing time is typically 15 to 30 minutes, depending on queue lengths.
This option is ideal if you prefer flexibility or make last-minute travel decisions. However, the e-Visa is generally recommended as it saves time at immigration and helps you avoid potential unofficial fees.
Pro tip: The e-Visa not only saves time but also provides peace of mind, ensuring you breeze through immigration and start your Cambodian adventure immediately upon landing.
Best Places to Visit & Suggested Itinerary
Cambodia packs an extraordinary variety of experiences into a compact, easily navigable country, making it perfect for Australian travellers wanting to maximize their holiday time.
Cambodia’s Must-Visit Destinations
Siem Reap and Angkor Archaeological Park is undoubtedly Cambodia’s crown jewel and the primary draw for most visitors. The magnificent Angkor Wat, world’s largest religious monument, is just the beginning, you’ll explore dozens of ancient temples including the enigmatic faces of Bayon, the jungle-wrapped Ta Prohm (famous from Tomb Raider), and countless lesser-known gems. Beyond the temples, Siem Reap town offers vibrant night markets, excellent restaurants, and the lively Pub Street entertainment district.
Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital, presents a fascinating blend of French colonial elegance and bustling Southeast Asian energy. The stunning Royal Palace with its Silver Pagoda showcases Cambodia’s royal heritage, while the sobering Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek Killing Fields provide essential context for understanding Cambodia’s recent history. The riverside promenade comes alive at sunset, offering fantastic dining and people-watching opportunities.
Battambang charms visitors with its laid-back atmosphere, well-preserved colonial architecture, and authentic Cambodian countryside experiences. Don’t miss the famous bamboo train ride and the mesmerizing bat exodus from Phnom Sampeau caves at sunset. This is Cambodia at its most relaxed and genuine.
Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem offer pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for unwinding after temple exploration. These islands provide the tropical beach paradise many Australians crave, with options ranging from budget bungalows to upscale resorts, plus excellent snorkeling, diving, and water sports.
Kampot and Kep in Cambodia’s south deliver a different flavour: riverside charm, famous pepper plantations, French colonial architecture, and exceptional seafood. Kampot serves as the gateway to Bokor National Park’s misty mountains and abandoned hill station, while Kep is renowned for its fresh crab market and laid-back beach vibe.
Popular Tour Packages
We’ve designed comprehensive tour packages specifically for Australian travellers that showcase Cambodia’s incredible diversity:
Cambodia Highlights 11 Days – This carefully curated journey takes you through Cambodia’s most iconic destinations. Experience sunrise at Angkor Wat, explore the charming riverside towns, discover hidden temples off the beaten path, and enjoy authentic cultural encounters with local communities. This package is perfect for first-time visitors who want to see the best of Cambodia without feeling rushed.
Grand Cambodia 16 Days – For those who want to delve deeper into Cambodian culture and explore beyond the main tourist circuits, this extended tour offers a comprehensive exploration. You’ll visit remote temple complexes, spend time in traditional villages, relax on Cambodia’s beautiful southern beaches, and gain insights into both ancient and modern Cambodian life.
Cambodia & Vietnam Grand Discovery 16 Days – This exceptional multi-country adventure combines the temple wonders of Cambodia with the dynamic energy of Vietnam. Experience the best of both nations in one seamless journey, from Angkor’s ancient stones to Halong Bay’s limestone karsts, from Phnom Penh’s riverside to Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
All Cambodia travel packages from Australia typically include accommodation ranging from comfortable mid-range to luxury hotels, internal transport via private air-conditioned vehicles and domestic flights where appropriate, guided tours with experienced English-speaking guides, selected meals featuring both local and international cuisine, and entrance fees to all major attractions. This comprehensive approach means you can focus on enjoying your holiday rather than worrying about logistics.
For travellers interested in exploring more of the region, check out our Vietnam Tour packages from Australia for exciting regional combination options.
Customizable Private Tours
We understand that every traveller is unique, which is why we offer fully customizable private tours tailored to your specific interests and pace. These bespoke itineraries are perfect for families wanting child-friendly activities and flexible schedules, honeymooners seeking romantic experiences and luxury accommodations, or travelers with specific requirements such as photography tours, culinary experiences, or adventure activities.
With private tours, you enjoy complete flexibility to adjust schedules and add experiences as you discover what Cambodia has to offer. Your private guide provides personalized attention, sharing insider knowledge and adapting the tour to your interests. You can choose from options spanning luxury, boutique, or budget-focused travel, ensuring your trip matches both your dreams and your budget.
One of the greatest advantages is the ability to seamlessly combine Cambodia with neighbouring countries like Laos, Thailand, or Vietnam, creating a comprehensive Southeast Asian adventure.
To get a personalized quote with no obligation, please contact us here.
Flights: How to Get to Cambodia from Australia
Flying to Cambodia from Australia requires one convenient stopover, with excellent connections available through major Asian hubs. The journey is comfortable and straightforward, making travel to Cambodia from Australia easier than ever.
Transit Options
Singapore (Singapore Airlines, Scoot) remains the most popular choice for Australian travellers, offering efficient connections, excellent service, and short layover times. Changi Airport’s world-class facilities make the transit experience pleasant, with options for quick city tours if you have a longer layover.
Bangkok (Thai Airways, Qantas) provides great service with short layovers and the opportunity to explore one of Asia’s most exciting cities if you choose to extend your stopover. Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport offers excellent connectivity to both Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia) offers budget-friendly options without compromising on comfort. KLIA is modern and easy to navigate, with plenty of dining and shopping options during your transit.
Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam Airlines) is particularly convenient for travellers planning to combine Vietnam and Cambodia in one trip, offering seamless connections and the option to start your journey in Vietnam before crossing into Cambodia.
Departure Cities & Flight Duration
From Sydney or Melbourne, expect a total journey time of 9 to 12 hours including your transit stop. Most flights depart in the morning or early evening, arriving in Cambodia the same day or early the following morning.
Brisbane departures typically take 10 to 13 hours total, with similar departure patterns to the eastern capitals.
Perth travellers enjoy the shortest journey time at 8 to 11 hours, thanks to Western Australia’s closer proximity to Asia. This often means more convenient arrival times in Cambodia.
Airlines serving these routes include premium carriers like Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, Vietnam Airlines, and Malaysia Airlines, as well as Qantas partnerships and budget carriers like AirAsia and Scoot for more economical options.
Cost Guide
Economy return tickets typically range from AUD 600 to 1,200, depending on season, booking timing, and airline choice. The best deals are usually found during Cambodia’s wet season (May to October).
Premium economy options, offering extra legroom and enhanced service, cost between AUD 1,200 and 1,800 – a worthwhile investment for longer flights.
Business class tickets range from AUD 2,500 to 4,500, providing lie-flat seats, premium lounges, and superior dining for the ultimate travel experience.
Booking Tips
Book 8 to 12 weeks ahead for the best fares-last-minute bookings typically cost 30 to 50% more. Tuesday and Wednesday departures are often cheaper than weekend flights, as are red-eye departures. Avoid peak Australian school holidays in June-July and December-January if you’re looking for better prices and smaller crowds. Consider flying into one city (Siem Reap) and out of another (Phnom Penh) to maximize your time and minimize backtracking.
Best Time to Travel to Cambodia from Australia
Timing your trip significantly enhances your Cambodia experience, as the country’s tropical climate creates distinct seasons with different advantages.
Dry Season (November-April): Peak Travel Time
The cool season from November to February offers ideal weather conditions with temperatures ranging from 25 to 30°C and low humidity. This is absolutely the best time for temple exploration and outdoor activities, as you’ll enjoy comfortable walking conditions and clear blue skies perfect for photography. This period corresponds with Australian summer holidays, making it convenient for families, though you should book accommodations and tours well in advance to secure your preferred options.
The hot season from March to May brings temperatures soaring to 35 to 40°C, particularly in April when Cambodia experiences its hottest weather. While this can be challenging for extensive temple exploration during midday, you’ll encounter fewer crowds and enjoy significantly lower prices on hotels and tours. Early morning and late afternoon activities remain comfortable, and the mangoes are at their absolute best during this period.
Wet Season (May-October): Green Season
Don’t dismiss Cambodia’s wet season-it’s increasingly called the “green season” for good reason. Afternoon rains typically last one to two hours, while mornings usually remain clear and perfect for sightseeing. The countryside transforms into a lush, verdant paradise, waterfalls flow at their most spectacular, and you’ll encounter far fewer tourists at major sites like Angkor Wat.
The biggest advantage is the significant discounts of 30 to 50% on hotels and flights, making this an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers. The rains are manageable and predictable-they rarely disrupt travel plans for those visiting from Australia.
Australian School Holidays Consideration
June-July winter break coincides with Cambodia’s wet season, but this actually provides a good weather alternative to cold Australian winter. The rains are typically lighter in June than later in the season, and you’ll avoid the peak tourist crowds.
December-January summer break falls during Cambodia’s peak season with perfect weather but maximum crowds and highest prices. If travelling during this period, book 3 to 4 months ahead to secure the best accommodations and tour availability.
Check out our When to Go to Vietnam from Australia: Weather & School Holiday Guide [Updated 2026] for more information!
Cultural Events
Khmer New Year in mid-April is Cambodia’s most important celebration, featuring vibrant festivities, traditional ceremonies, and water throwing similar to Thailand’s Songkran. While festive and culturally enriching, expect crowded tourist sites and some businesses to close for several days.
The Water Festival in November showcases spectacular boat races on the Tonle Sap River in Phnom Penh, drawing massive crowds for this celebration of the river’s flow reversal. This is an excellent time to experience authentic Cambodian culture, though the capital becomes extremely busy.
Check out our Cambodia’s weather guide by month here:
Travel Insurance from Australia to Cambodia
Comprehensive travel insurance is essential when you travel to Cambodia from Australia, protecting you against unforeseen circumstances that could otherwise ruin your holiday and cost thousands of dollars.
Why You Need Coverage
Medical emergencies and hospital treatment are the primary concern-Australian Medicare doesn’t provide any coverage overseas, and medical evacuation from Cambodia to Australia can cost upwards of AUD 100,000. Even minor injuries or illnesses requiring hospitalization can result in bills of several thousand dollars.
Trip cancellation or interruption due to illness, family emergencies, or unexpected events back home means you won’t lose your entire investment in flights, hotels, and tours. Quality insurance reimburses these non-refundable expenses.
Lost, stolen, or delayed baggage protection ensures you’re not left without essentials or compensation for your belongings. This is particularly important given that Cambodia involves multiple flights and transfers.
Adventure activities like temple climbing, water sports, zip-lining, or motorbike rentals require specific coverage that many basic policies exclude. Ensure your policy covers all activities you plan to undertake.
Emergency evacuation to Australia coverage is crucial if you require medical treatment unavailable in Cambodia or prefer to return home for serious conditions.
Recommended Australian Providers
World Nomads is particularly popular with adventurous travelers, offering comprehensive coverage for most activities including trekking, water sports, and motorbike riding (check specific policy details). Their policies are flexible and can be purchased even after you’ve left Australia.
Cover-More provides comprehensive coverage with excellent customer service and straightforward claims processes. They’re particularly good for families and older travelers.
Allianz Travel Insurance is an established provider with flexible plans ranging from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to choose coverage matching your needs and budget.
Budget Direct offers competitive pricing for basic coverage, suitable for straightforward trips without extensive adventure activities.
Cost Estimate
Expect to pay AUD 50 to 150 for two weeks of coverage, with costs varying based on your age, chosen coverage level, planned activities, and excess amounts. Travelers over 65 or those including high-risk activities will pay higher premiums.
Essential Checks Before Purchasing
Ensure medical coverage of at least USD 100,000 or higher-medical costs can escalate quickly, particularly if evacuation is required. Verify 24/7 emergency assistance with English-speaking operators who can help coordinate treatment and evacuation. Check pre-existing conditions coverage if applicable, as many policies exclude these unless specifically purchased. Confirm all activities you plan are covered, particularly motorbike or scooter riding, which many policies exclude or require additional premiums. Review excess amounts-lower excesses cost more upfront but mean less out-of-pocket if you need to claim.
Currency & Cash: What You Need to Know
Understanding what cash you need to travel Cambodia from Australia is crucial for smooth transactions and avoiding unnecessary stress during your trip.
Currency in Cambodia
Cambodia operates on a unique dual-currency system that initially confuses many visitors but quickly becomes second nature. The US Dollar (USD) serves as the primary currency for tourists and is accepted absolutely everywhere-from luxury hotels to street food stalls. The Cambodian Riel (KHR) is used mainly for small change, with approximately 4,000 Riel equaling one US dollar.
This system actually works in travellers’ favour, as most Australians are familiar with converting AUD to USD, and prices are typically quoted in dollars for anything over a dollar or two.
Key Points About Cash
Bring USD cash in small denominations-specifically USD 1, 5, 10, and 20 bills. These are the most useful and widely accepted. Larger notes like USD 50 and 100 are often refused by smaller vendors or attract intense scrutiny due to counterfeiting concerns. Even major hotels and tour operators sometimes hesitate to accept them.
Ensure your bills are clean, unmarked, and not torn-Cambodians are particular about bill condition and may refuse worn or damaged notes. Even small tears or excessive folding can make bills unacceptable. For purchases under USD 1, change is typically given in Riel rather than small dollar bills or coins. You don’t need to exchange this Riel back-simply use it for your next small purchase.
Exchange your AUD to USD in Australia before departure, as you’ll get significantly better exchange rates than exchanging in Cambodia or using currency exchange services at the airport.
How Much Cash to Bring
Your daily budget depends entirely on your travel style:
Budget travelers spending USD 30 to 50 per day can comfortably cover hostel accommodation, delicious street food and local restaurants, tuk-tuk and bus transport, and entrance fees to most attractions. This budget requires careful spending but doesn’t mean sacrificing experiences.
Mid-range travelers with USD 70 to 120 per day enjoy comfortable hotels with good facilities, meals at a mix of local and international restaurants, organized tours with knowledgeable guides, air-conditioned transport, and occasional splurges on massage or premium experiences.
Luxury travelers spending USD 150 or more daily stay at high-end resorts and boutique hotels, dine at fine restaurants and hotel dining rooms, book private tours and guides, and enjoy spa treatments, premium activities, and the best Cambodia has to offer.
Payment Methods
ATMs are widely available throughout Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville, dispensing US dollars rather than Riel. This is incredibly convenient for topping up your cash as needed. Daily withdrawal limits range from USD 500 to 1,000 depending on the ATM and your card, with fees typically AUD 5 to 8 per transaction from Australian banks.
Credit cards are accepted at international hotels, upscale restaurants, established tour operators, and some shops in tourist areas. However, a 3% surcharge is often added to credit card transactions. Remote areas, local markets, and smaller establishments operate on cash only, so always carry sufficient dollars.
Essential Travel Tips for Australians
These practical tips ensure smooth travel to Cambodia from Australia, helping you avoid common pitfalls and make the most of your adventure.
Health Preparations
Consult a travel doctor 6 to 8 weeks before departure to allow sufficient time for any required vaccinations to take effect. Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A and B (protection against food and water-borne illness), Typhoid (especially if you plan to eat street food), and Tetanus booster (if you’re not current).
Malaria prophylaxis is only necessary for remote forest areas in provinces bordering Thailand-it’s not needed for standard tourist routes including Angkor, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, or coastal areas. Discuss your specific itinerary with your doctor.
Bring prescription medications in original packaging with your doctor’s letter explaining their necessity. This prevents any questions at customs and ensures you can get refills if needed. Ensure your travel insurance covers medical evacuation, as this is your safety net for serious health issues.
Cultural Etiquette
Dress modestly at temples by covering shoulders and knees-this isn’t just respectful but often required for entry. Lightweight, loose clothing works best in Cambodia’s heat while meeting these requirements. Remove shoes before entering temples and homes-this is non-negotiable and observed religiously throughout Cambodia.
Buddha images are sacred objects of veneration-never climb on them for photos or pose disrespectfully. This includes Buddha statues of any size or condition. The head is considered the most sacred part of the body-avoid touching people’s heads, even children, as this causes great offense. Conversely, feet are the lowest and dirtiest-never point your feet at people or Buddha images, and avoid stepping over people.
Communication
English is widely spoken in tourist areas, making Cambodia one of Southeast Asia’s easiest countries for Australian travelers to navigate. Hotel staff, tour guides, restaurant workers, and tuk-tuk drivers in tourist zones typically speak functional English.
Learning basic Khmer phrases shows respect and delights locals: “Orkun” (thank you), “Som toh” (sorry/excuse me), “Jom reap sour” (hello-formal greeting). Even attempting these simple phrases brings smiles and often better service.
Download offline maps before arrival-Maps.me and Google Maps both offer excellent offline functionality that works without data connection, essential when exploring areas with spotty coverage.
Connectivity
Local SIM cards offer excellent value: Metfone, Smart, and Cellcard are the main providers, all offering reliable service in tourist areas. For just USD 5 to 10, you get 30GB of data plus local calls, sufficient for most two-week trips. These are available immediately upon arrival at airports and at countless phone shops throughout cities.
Free WiFi is available at virtually all hotels, restaurants, and cafes in tourist areas, though speeds vary considerably. Don’t rely on public WiFi for sensitive transactions like banking.
Transportation
Tuk-tuks are Cambodia’s quintessential transport-always negotiate and agree on the fare before departure to avoid misunderstandings. Expect to pay USD 2-3 for short city trips, USD 15-20 for full-day temple tours in Siem Reap.
Grab app operates in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, offering reliable pricing, tracking, and cashless payment options. This eliminates negotiation and ensures fair prices.
Domestic flights via Cambodia Angkor Air and Lanmei Airlines connect major cities quickly, though they’re more expensive than buses. Useful for Phnom Penh to Siem Reap or to Sihanoukville.
Buses like Giant Ibis and Mekong Express offer comfortable, air-conditioned intercity travel with reclining seats, WiFi, and rest stops. These are excellent value and the preferred option for most intercity travel.
Safety
Cambodia is generally safe for tourists, with violent crime against foreigners being rare. However, use common sense: watch your belongings in crowded markets and bus stations, avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas, and be aware of your surroundings.
Drinking bottled water only-tap water is not safe for consumption by travelers unaccustomed to local bacteria. Bottled water is inexpensive and available everywhere.
Be cautious with street food hygiene by choosing busy vendors where food turns over quickly and is cooked fresh. Avoid food that’s been sitting out, and remember: if it’s busy with locals, it’s usually good and safe.
Practical Matters
Tipping isn’t mandatory in Cambodia but is appreciated, particularly as wages are low. Ten percent in restaurants is generous and welcomed, though not expected. For tuk-tuk drivers, tour guides, and hotel staff, small tips (USD 1-2) for good service go a long way.
Bargaining is expected at markets-vendors initially quote prices 2-3 times higher than what they’ll accept. Aim for 30 to 50% off the initial price, but keep it friendly and remember the amounts involved are often just dollars. Don’t bargain in fixed-price establishments like supermarkets or restaurants.
Electrical power is 230V, the same as Australia, so your devices will work perfectly. However, plugs are type A, C, or G-different from Australian type I plugs-so bring a universal adapter for your electronics.
Cambodia operates on GMT+7, which means it’s 3 hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) and 1.5 hours behind Australian Central Standard Time (ACST). Remember this when calling home or scheduling flights.
Conclusion
Travel to Cambodia from Australia opens doors to one of Southeast Asia’s most captivating destinations. With straightforward e-Visa options, convenient flight connections, affordable tour packages, and the ease of using USD currency, your Cambodian adventure is easier to plan than ever. From the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor to the poignant history of Phnom Penh and the pristine beaches of the south, Cambodia delivers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveller. Whether you choose a guided tour package or venture independently, this remarkable country promises rich cultural encounters, warm hospitality, and incredible value for Australian visitors. Start planning your Cambodian journey today! Contact us via this form or email [email protected] for a custom quote, no obligation required!
