Cambodia - Siem Reap - FAQs

Cliff notes for planning a vacation in historic Siem Reap:

FAQ
1)What is the difference between hiring a Tuk Tuk driver and hiring a Tour Guide?
2)Will I need to book a tour guide before I arrive?
3)How will I get around in the evenings?
4)Will I need special medication or vaccinations before the trip?
5)List of authorized guides and tuk tuk drivers (from TripAdvisor)
6) How much does it cost to enter the grounds of Angkor?
7) What is the weather like?
8) Will I need a visa?


1)What is the difference between hiring a Tuk Tuk driver and hiring a Tour Guide?
Tuk tuk drivers can take you into the ruins of Angkor but CANNOT walk with you through the ruins. They will wait for you at a specified spot. This may or may not be a disadvantage depending on the driver. Some are very friendly with interesting stories to tell. This option is also cheaper. Price is approximately $12 a day.

Authorized Tour Guides typically have their own vehicles (car or van). This is suited for larger groups. Tour guides are identified by their uniform and can accompany you through the ruins explaining their history and significance. They usually have secondary level or higher education (according to our guide). However their level of enthusiasm is not always correlated to their qualifications. Cost is approximately US$25 a day for the guide plus an addition $25-$35 depending on the vehicle you choose (car or van). Worthwhile if you have a bigger group.


2) Will I need to book a tour guide before I arrive?
That would be a good idea. One thing to note is that sometimes the guide you contact from the website or whom you emailed may NOT be the one who actually shows up! Verify with them to see if they are indeed the ones conducting the tour.

(This actually happened to us. My friend recommended Mr X (I can't remember his name) as a wonderful guide. When we arrived we were rudely surprised to find that he had sent someone else. )

3)How will I get around in the evenings?
Tuk tuks are the way to go and cheap. Negotiate your price before getting on board. It should be approximately $US2-3.


4) Will I need special medication or vaccinations before the trip?
There are no required vaccinations or health certifications aside from the typical travel vaccinations like tetanus. However, malaria is common as is dengue fever. You should also take a course of malaria medication and bring lots of insect repellent!

5) List of Authorized Siem Reap Guides and Tuk Tuk Drivers

Here are some guides that are recommended on TripAdvisor:
Angkor Guides - Authorized Guide
Angkor Service - Authorized Guide
Driver in Siem Reap - Non authorized guide
Tuk Tuk Driver - Pik Savuth
Siem Reap Taxis

IMPT: Please confirm that the guide advertised on the site is the one who show up on the day itself. (See #2)

6) How much is the entrance fee to the grounds of Angkor Wat?
You can buy the tickets on the way into the grounds. The pricing is:
US$20 for 1 day
US$40 for 3 days
US$60 for 7 days

7)What is the weather like?
Sweltering hot and humid. Pack tank tops and light clothing. Don't even think of re-wearing anything without washing it! :) December is supposed to be slightly cooler but more crowded.

8) Will I need a visa?
Get one at the airport. A passport photo is required. The price is $20.
If you want to beat the line at the airport, get an e-Visa online.

Please leave us a comment or send us an email if we are missing any questions from our FAQ.