Travelling Cambodia with Kids: A Family Adventure Guide

Aug 7

3 min read

Cambodia might not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning a family holiday, but for adventurous parents and curious kids, it's an unforgettable journey filled with wonder, culture, nature, and friendly faces. From ancient temples and wildlife encounters to safe island beaches and fun tuk-tuk rides, Cambodia offers a rich and rewarding experience for families who want more than the usual tourist trail.

Why Travel Cambodia with Kids?

Cambodia is incredibly welcoming to families. The locals adore children, and your little ones are likely to receive smiles, high-fives, and kind attention wherever you go. The pace of travel can be slow and relaxed, especially outside the cities, making it ideal for families. Plus, it's budget-friendly, safe in most areas, and filled with fascinating sights that will spark any child's imagination.

Best Places to Visit in Cambodia with Kids

1. Siem Reap & Angkor Wat

Exploring ancient temples may not sound kid-friendly, but Angkor Wat is more like a real-life Indiana Jones adventure. Climb tree-wrapped temples like Ta Prohm, explore stone corridors at Bayon, and watch the sunrise over the world’s largest religious monument.

🌟 Kid Tip: Hire a tuk-tuk for the day and bring snacks, hats, and lots of water. Visit early or late in the day to avoid the heat.

Don’t miss:

Angkor National Museum (interactive and air-conditioned)
Phare Circus – a Cambodian acrobat show with storylines perfect for children.
Artisans Angkor – where kids can watch craftsmen and women work on traditional Cambodian art.

2. Battambang

This riverside town is laid-back and fun for families. Kids love riding the Bamboo Train, and the surrounding countryside is perfect for exploring by tuk-tuk. Watch thousands of bats fly from a cave at sunset, visit local farms, and enjoy the friendly vibe.

🌟 Kid Tip: Take a countryside tour – there’s rice paper making, banana chip tasting, and plenty of space to run around.

3. The Islands (Koh Rong Samloem or Koh Ta Kiev)

If you’re dreaming of barefoot beach time, Cambodia’s islands are perfect. Koh Rong Samloem, especially Saracen Bay, offers calm, shallow waters and quiet beaches great for kids. Build sandcastles, snorkel, and relax.

🌟 Kid Tip: Stick to family-friendly guesthouses or eco-resorts with direct beach access and bring any specific snacks or baby items – island shops are limited.

4. Phnom Penh

Cambodia’s capital is busy, but manageable. The highlight for families is the Cambodia Living Arts show at the National Museum, and a gentle walk or boat ride along the riverfront.

Avoid graphic sites like the Killing Fields with younger children, but consider age-appropriate discussions for older kids.

Don’t miss:

Wat Phnom – feed monkeys and climb the steps.
Kids City – an indoor play centre with trampolines, laser tag, and even a science gallery.
River cruises for sunset views.

Practical Tips for Travelling Cambodia with Children

🍼 Food & Health

Cambodian food is kid-friendly – lots of rice, noodles, and mild curries.
Always have bottled water.
Western food is widely available in major tourist towns.
Pack mosquito repellent, hand sanitiser, and a small first aid kit.

🧸 Packing Must-Haves

Sun hats, sunscreen, and lightweight clothes.
Rehydration salts and motion sickness tablets.
Entertainment for long journeys (coloring books, tablet, cards).
Baby wipes and tissues – not always available.

🛏️ Where to Stay

Look for family guesthouses, hotels with pools, or small eco-resorts. Many places have large family rooms or even separate bungalows. Siem Reap and the islands are particularly good for family stays.

Volunteering & Giving Back (Ethically)

Cambodia’s charm also lies in its people, and many families feel inspired to give back. But it’s essential to do so responsibly:

Avoid orphanage visits – they’re often exploitative.
Support NGOs that offer education, crafts, or sustainable tourism.
Visit social enterprises like Senteurs d’Angkor or Friends Restaurant – they provide jobs and training for locals.

Final Thoughts: Is Cambodia Good for Kids?

Absolutely. Cambodia is a place where your kids can:

Learn history through temples and ruins
Experience a different culture hands-on
Enjoy beaches without the crowds
Feel welcome everywhere they go

It’s not a stroller-friendly destination, and you’ll need to take extra precautions compared to, say, Europe – but for curious, open-minded families, Cambodia is a magical playground.

Recommended Trip Length: 2 to 3 weeks is ideal to travel slowly, adjust to the climate, and enjoy both culture and relaxation.

Budget Snapshot: