Ancient Angkor Wat Independent Adventure - 3 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  The tour includes 2 nights in hotels, specifically mentioned as Grand Bayon Siem Reap Hotel. These are upgraded hotels, handpicked for comfort, with en suite bathrooms and often chosen for their unique character and local flavour.

• What are the rooming arrangements for single travelers or groups?

  If you book as a single traveler, you will have your own private room throughout. For bookings of two or more travelers, you will be sharing twin rooms.

• Are there elevators in all hotel properties?

  Please be aware that properties with only two stories may not have elevators installed, and climbing stairs with your luggage will be necessary.

• Which meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 2 breakfasts and 1 lunch. Generally, other meals are not included to give you maximum flexibility in deciding where, what, and with whom to eat.

• What kind of guiding is provided on this tour?

  This is an Independent style trip without a continuous group leader (CEO). A G Adventures representative will meet you upon arrival for a briefing, and expert local guides will be provided at all included sights.

• What is the maximum number of participants for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 25 people, while the minimum is 1.

• What main activities are included in the tour?

  The tour includes a 2-day guided exploration of the Angkor Temple complex (covering Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon, Banteay Srei, and Ta Phrom), a guided night market visit, and a visit to the Phare Cambodian Circus.

• Is there a special cultural or community experience included?

  Yes, a 'G for Good Moment' is included: dining at the New Hope Vocational Training Restaurant in Siem Reap, which is a tour operator-supported community project.

• What type of transportation is used during the tour?

  All transport between destinations and to/from included activities will be by private vehicle (van, car, or taxi). Some transfers and included tours may be shared with other travelers, and drivers may not always be English-speaking.

• What currency is typically used in Cambodia and are credit cards accepted?

  Most transactions in Cambodia take place using USD, and bringing small, unmarked USD notes is suggested. Major credit cards are accepted in some shops but may incur a 2-4% transaction fee. ATMs are available in major cities.

• What are the recommendations for tipping local guides and drivers?

  Tipping service providers like waiters, local guides, and drivers is customary in Asia and shows appreciation for their service. Recommendations for drivers and local guides range from $2-$5 USD per person per day.

• Is an emergency fund recommended for this trip?

  Yes, it is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $250 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• Are there any optional activities available?

  Yes, an optional Angkor Museum Visit is available for an additional cost of 12 USD per person.

• What is the physical rating of this tour and what level of fitness is required?

  This tour has a physical rating of 2 (Easy). As a minimum, an average level of fitness and mobility is required. Travelers must be able to walk unaided, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage.

• Are there any specific health requirements or recommendations for this trip?

  There are no specific health requirements for this trip, but it is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and inoculations. Carrying a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes is also recommended. Travelers with a pre-existing medical condition are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, signed by their physician.

• What is the recommended dress code, especially for temple visits?

  In Asia, the dress standard is more conservative. When visiting temples or other holy sites, you are asked to dress respectfully, which means modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders). A shawl or scarf is also recommended for temple visits.

• What is the main focus of the 'Ancient Angkor Wat Independent Adventure' tour?

  This tour focuses on exploring the magnificent Angkor Temple complex with an expert local guide. It delves into the incredible structures and sculptures from the Khmer Empire, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• What specific sites will I visit within the Angkor complex?

  You will visit highlights such as the magnificent Angkor Wat, the enigmatic Bayon within the walled city of Angkor Thom, Preah Khan, and Ta Prohm, also known as the 'Tomb Raider' temple.

• What is included in the tour price?

  The tour includes a guided tour of the Angkor Complex (2 days), a guided night market visit, a Phare Cambodian Circus visit, all transport between destinations and to/from included activities, 2 breakfasts, and 1 lunch. It also features a 'G for Good Moment' dining experience at the New Hope Vocational Training Restaurant.

• Are there any optional activities available?

  Yes, an optional Angkor Museum Visit is available for an additional cost of 12 USD per person.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  Accommodation is in upgraded hotels for 2 nights. These hotels are handpicked for comfort, centrally located, and offer additional amenities with en suite bathrooms.

• What are the room arrangements for single travelers or groups?

  If you book as a single traveler, you will have your own room throughout the tour. If you book for 2 or more travelers, you will share a twin room/s. The 'My Own Room' option, if booked, guarantees a single room for all night stops.

• Will all hotels have elevators?

  Please be aware that properties with only two stories may not have elevators, and you may need to climb stairs with your luggage.

• Why are most meals not included in the tour price?

  Meals are generally not included when there is a choice of eating options to give you maximum flexibility in deciding where, what, and with whom to eat. This also offers more budgeting flexibility, as food is generally cheap.

• Will there be a dedicated tour leader (CEO) throughout the trip?

  No, this is an Independent style trip with no group and no CEO. A representative will meet you for a briefing to start your trip, and local English-speaking guides will be provided at the included sights.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 25 travelers.

• What currency is used in Cambodia and what should I know about money exchange?

  Most transactions in Cambodia take place using USD. It is suggested to bring small unmarked USD notes. ATMs that accept Visa and Mastercard are available in major cities. Major credit cards are accepted in some shops but may incur a 2-4% transaction fee. You can check daily exchange rates at www.xe.com.

• Is tipping customary in Asia, and what are the recommendations?

  Yes, it is customary in Asia to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%. Tipping is expected as an expression of satisfaction. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides range from $2-$5 USD per person per day.

• How much emergency money should I have access to?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $250 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances that might require a change to the planned route.

• Are there any specific health requirements or recommendations for this trip?

  There are no specific health requirements for this trip, but it is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and any required inoculations before departure. Carrying a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers, and personal medications is also recommended.

• What is the required physical fitness level for this tour?

  An average level of fitness and mobility is required. Travelers must be able to walk without aid, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum. Travelers with pre-existing medical conditions must complete a medical questionnaire signed by their physician.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will need medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. It is strongly recommended that your policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage/personal effects.

• What are the general safety and security recommendations for travelers?

  It is strongly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and to leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. A lock is recommended for luggage. While generally safe during the day, it's advisable to stay in small groups and take taxis at night. Avoid protests and demonstrations, and use good judgment for independent activities. Water-based activities are at your own risk.

• What rules should I know regarding illegal drugs and exploitation?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated and contravene local laws, putting the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is not acceptable. The exploitation of prostitutes is also strictly against the travel philosophy. Violation of these rules may lead to expulsion from the tour.

• What should LGBTQ+ travelers know about safety on this trip?

  The tour operator prioritizes the safety and well-being of all travelers, including those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. They encourage visiting their LGBTQ+ page for useful resources and the Equaldex tool to assess destination-specific considerations.

• How should I dress to respect local customs, especially when visiting temples?

  In Asia, a more conservative dress standard is expected. Wear loose, lightweight, long clothing that covers knees and shoulders to stay cool in the hot, humid climate. When visiting temples or holy sites, dress respectfully, avoiding very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops. A shawl or scarf is recommended for temple visits.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for Cambodia?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. Visas can be obtained in advance from your local embassy or on arrival at the Cambodian border or Siem Reap Airport for approximately $30 USD. You will need at least 2 passport photos. For air arrivals, complete the Cambodia e-Arrival form online within 7 days before arrival. For land arrivals, a paper form is typically required.

• Is there a departure tax I need to pay?

  Yes, there is a $25 USD international departure tax payable at the airport.

• Are laundry facilities available during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels for a charge. If you plan to do your own laundry, it is suggested to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

• What is Planeterra and how does it relate to this tour?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn income from tourism. The tour operator is Planeterra's largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs. You'll dine at a tour operator-supported community project (New Hope Vocational Training Restaurant) and have the option to donate $1/day to Planeterra projects.

• What happens if I experience problems upon arrival?

  If you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, or if your pre-arranged airport transfer doesn't arrive within 30 minutes of clearing customs, contact the emergency numbers provided in your dossier. If you don't receive an immediate answer, leave a detailed message. In the case of a missing transfer, you may need to take a taxi to your starting hotel at your own expense.