3 Days in Siem Reap, Cambodia: From Angkor Wat to Beng Mealea

Yes, most nationalities, including US, EU, UK, and Australian citizens, require a visa. You can obtain a 30-day e-Visa online through evisa.gov.kh, typically processed within three business days. Alternatively, a 30-day visa-on-arrival is available at Siem Reap International Airport for $30 cash. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.

Siem Reap is generally safe, especially in well-trafficked areas. However, solo female travelers should exercise increased caution after dark, particularly in isolated areas. Always use verified transport like Grab or PassApp, ensuring drivers wear their official numbered vests, and avoid unverified rides late at night. Petty theft can occur in crowded markets or Pub Street, so keep valuables secure.

The most common way to get around Siem Reap and to the Angkor Archaeological Park is by tuk-tuk. You can hire a driver for a full day (around $15-25 depending on the circuit) or use ride-hailing apps like Grab or PassApp for individual trips. Bicycles are also popular for shorter distances within Siem Reap, but the park is extensive. Taxis are available but less common and more expensive for local transport.

Cambodia uses both the US Dollar (USD) and the Cambodian Riel (KHR) as official currencies. USD is widely accepted and preferred for most transactions, especially for hotels, tours, and larger purchases. KHR is primarily used for small change (e.g., 4,000 KHR for $1) and smaller local purchases. Always carry small denominations of crisp USD bills, as worn or torn bills may be refused.

The peak dry season, from November to February, offers the most pleasant weather for visiting Siem Reap, with temperatures around 25-30°C and low humidity. This is ideal for exploring the temples but also the busiest time for tourism. March to May can be very hot, while June to October is the wet season, characterized by daily rain showers that make the landscape lush but can hinder travel.

When visiting temples within the Angkor Archaeological Park, a modest dress code is enforced. This means your shoulders and knees must be covered. Wearing sleeveless tops, short shorts, or skirts above the knee is not permitted, especially when entering the upper levels of temples like Angkor Wat. It's advisable to wear lightweight, breathable clothing that meets these requirements.

Yes, ATMs are readily available throughout Siem Reap, particularly in the city center, Pub Street area, and near major banks like ACLEDA or Canadia Bank. Most ATMs dispense US Dollars. It's always a good idea to withdraw cash from reputable bank ATMs during daylight hours for safety, and to inform your bank of your travel plans beforehand to avoid card blocks.

Don't miss out on Amok (a creamy fish curry steamed in a banana leaf), Lok Lak (stir-fried beef with a peppery dipping sauce), and fresh spring rolls. For breakfast, try Num Banh Chok (Khmer noodles). Street food stalls around the Old Market and Night Market offer delicious and affordable options, but choose busy stalls with high turnover for freshness.