Top Travel Tips for Walking Holidays in Cambodia

When people think of Cambodia, one of the first things that come to mind is Angkor Wat, and understandably so. It remains one of the most scenic tourist spots in Southeast Asia, and is an ideal destination for walking holidays in the country. But apart from Angkor Wat, which is located in Siem Reap, there are many other great places in which to spend time exploring by foot. The country is so rich in beautiful landscapes, ancient ruins and monuments, that it's easy to lose yourself in one of these destinations. However, you certainly wouldn't want to literally do so! Observe the following tips for a successful and enjoyable holiday in wonderful Cambodia.

Be Mindful of the Local Customs

When embarking on walking holidays, it's important to dress appropriately. This means packing very comfortable, loose clothes and sensible shoes. However, most parts of Cambodia observe strict rules when it comes to wearing shorts and sleeveless shirts, especially for women, and particularly during the warmer climates. So to avoid concerns while in the country, make sure you ask around what is and what is not appropriate outerwear before heading out on a trek. Another important piece of advice is to always remember to smile! There will always be discrepancies in customs and traditions when travelling, but a sincere smile goes a long way to smooth over any faux pas.

Bring Extra Cash

Even if you are headed for the forest or to a mountain trek, don't forget to bring some local currency with you; you never know what to expect and it's always a safer bet to bring cash with you to cover any eventuality. Many tourists who come to Cambodia on walking holidays are travelling to or from Thailand; in this case, it's wise to have both Thai baht and Cambodian riel on top of dollars so you won't have to worry about currency exchange. This is especially true if you are going to be camping for a few days or stay in a village where the service might be unavailable.

Prepare for the Weather Accordingly

As with any type of journey, you'll need to consider the weather conditions in Cambodia before planning your activities. While the overall climate in the country is tropical, Cambodia's cooler (but mostly dry) months last from November to February—the most ideal time for trekking. In the summer, the month of April tends to be the hottest, so you might want to rethink any long hikes if your plans for walking holidays fall in that month. June is when it gets rainy, and that season lasts for a few months. This means that many routes are muddy and even impassable, so it's best to plan a different set of activities if you're visiting at this time.

Tony Maniscalco is the Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Join us on walking holidays to see scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 140 guided group walking holidays in over 60 different countries.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.