Many visitors choose to see Cambodia with the convenience of a guided tour, which is a good idea: It's not only safer and easier, but it also means that you won't miss the finer details of what you're seeing and can visit rural Cambodia in as much comfort as possible. Being part of a larger group tour is a good, affordable option. Even if you travel independently, you might want to sign up with a local tour operator (like Diethelm or Exotissimo) once you're there.
Recommended Tour Operators:
International
- Abercrombie & Kent. 1520 Kensington Rd., Suite 212, Oakbrook, IL 60523-2141 (tel. 800/554-7016; fax 630/954-3324; www.aandktours.com).
- Asia Transpacific Journeys. 2995 Center Green Court, Boulder, CO 80301 (tel. 800/642-2742 or 303/443-6789; fax 303/443-7078; www.asiatranspacific.com).
Regional
These regional agents are reputable operators with foreign management and a high level of service -- whether transport and rooms or all-inclusive tour itineraries. All three act as on-the-ground operators for international travel agents.
- Diethelm Travel. No. 65 Street 240, P.O. Box 99, Phnom Penh, Cambodia (tel. 023/219-151; fax 023/219-150; www.diethelmtravel.com). In Siem Reap: House No. 4, Road No. 6, Krum No. 1, Sangkat No. 2, Phum Taphul, Siem Reap, Cambodia (tel. 063/963-524; fax 063/963-694).
- Exotissimo. 46 Norodom Blvd., Phnom Penh (tel. 023/218-948; fax 023/426-586; www.exotissimo.com). In Siem Reap: 300 Airport Road No. 6, Siem Reap (tel. 063/964-323; fax 063/963-621).
Also, just as Vietnam has its budget "traveler cafes," Cambodia hosts a roster of good budget tour options. The folks at Capitol Tour (No. 14 Road 182, Phnom Penh; tel. 023/217-627) offer affordable, no-frills tour and transport options. Most trips leave early in the morning from their offices in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. Also try Mekong Express for reliable ground transport.
