Traveling to Cambodia with children

At first glance, traveling to Cambodia with children may seem somewhat challenging. However, the country offers a wide range of attractions for both young and old, promising a unique family vacation. Proper planning is key to ensuring an unforgettable holiday in this must-visit Southeast Asian destination. Through the following paragraphs, discover the joy of traveling with your family in Cambodia.

Why choose Cambodia for a family trip?

Visiting Cambodia with children is often seen as more complicated compared to traveling with a family to Thailand or Laos. However, this country proves to be incredibly welcoming. Once you interact with the Cambodians, you will quickly acclimate to the country’s atmosphere and environment. Locals are warm and friendly toward foreigners, especially when it comes to their children. Furthermore, Cambodia is home to numerous attractions. Spend unforgettable family moments at the country’s tourist sites, starting with the Angkor temples and the water park in Phnom Penh. Don't worry about expenses during your trip, as Cambodia is ranked among the most affordable countries on the planet. Entrance fees for attractions and transport costs (bus, tuk-tuk, etc.) are budget-friendly. Accommodations of all categories offer a wide range of prices accessible to families, regardless of their size.

What are the best things to do in Cambodia during a family trip?

Cambodia offers a wide selection of activities for tourists and their children. Below are some of the most popular activities when traveling with children in Cambodia.

Visit the Angkor temples

A trip to Cambodia inevitably includes a visit to the spectacular Angkor temples in Siem Reap. Nestled within a wild forest, these monuments present a unique image, reminiscent of the King Louie temple from the animated adaptation of Rudyard Kipling's "The Jungle Book." Choose a three-day pass to cover the closest temples. Some structures deep in the jungle are harder to access, so you can alternate between cycling, tuk-tuk, or car rides. The temples will inspire both young and old, and everyone will find themselves dreaming of adventure. Large natural spaces allow younger visitors to run and play freely. You’ll also find numerous stands offering fresh fruit or refreshments. Tip: While most visits to the Angkor temples are early in the morning, it’s recommended to visit around noon to avoid crowds.  

Have fun at Kids City

Kids City is a large, educational entertainment center located in Phnom Penh. Your little ones will never get bored in this vast complex. It offers several fun and educational activities for children of all ages, including the famous Laser Tag. The center also organizes parent-child workshops to strengthen family bonds. Additionally, Kids City allows your kids to interact with Cambodian children, promoting cultural exchange.

Family beach time

As mentioned in a previous article on Cambodia's best beaches, the country is home to an abundance of fine sandy beaches, perfect for relaxing. The clear blue waters that border these beaches are ideal for safe family swimming. Let the children splash in the water or try their hand at building sandcastles or temples. Numerous water activities are also available, such as jet skiing or tubing, ensuring that children stay entertained for hours.

Observe the Gibbons

Gibbon spotting is an official hike organized in the Veun Sai Siem Pang region, a lush forest located in the northeastern part of Ratanakiri. Home to several endangered primate species, this part of Cambodia serves as a natural conservation area. Searching for gibbons in the jungle provides a rare opportunity to observe unique species and will certainly captivate younger visitors.

Admire the beauty of Tonlé Sap Lake by boat

A family boat trip on Tonlé Sap Lake is a must-do when visiting Cambodia. This vast lake offers unmatched scenic beauty, with floating markets and small fishing villages surrounding it. It is home to many varieties of white fish (such as Trey pra ke) and black fish (such as sand gobies), as well as smaller fish species. Tip: Some families arrive at the lake as early as 5 a.m. to witness the breathtaking sunrise, a truly magical sight that will leave you with unforgettable memories of Cambodia.

Observe the Mekong dolphins

What could be more exciting than going on a boat trip to spot the rare Mekong dolphins? The Irrawaddy dolphin is considered the most famous animal of the Mekong River, and it is also regarded as a sacred animal in Cambodia. This pleasant water excursion will take you to small villages by the river and provide the rare chance to observe these endangered dolphins in their natural habitat.

Attend the Cambodian circus show in Siem Reap

In Siem Reap, under the Phare circus tent, an incredible show is performed daily. Through various acrobatics, dances, mime, music, and other performances, young artists skillfully and humorously tell stories of their culture, beliefs, and the wars of the past. It’s a magical performance that guarantees an unforgettable evening with the family. For more information about this show, please visit our detailed page on the Cambodian Circus Show.