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ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
- Required Documents:
- Valid passport with at least 3 months of validity remaining.
- Complete the secure online eVisa application form.
- Upload the data page of the South African passport and a 4×6 cm photograph.
- Present the eVisa certificate at immigration checkpoints.
- Ensure all details are correctly filled in; incomplete applications will not be processed.
- eVisa is only valid at specific entry points: Phnom Penh International Airport, Siem Reap International Airport, Poi Pet, Bavet, Cham Yeam, Tropaeng Kreal, and Sihanoukville International Airport.
- South African citizens flying from Pretoria to Cambodia are also eligible for a 30-day visa-on-arrival program.
- Fees:
- eVisa fee: 75 USD (approximately 1365 ZAR)
- Processing Time:
- eVisa approval typically takes 3-5 business days.
- Further Information:
VISA INFORMATION
WEATHER
Cambodia is accessible year-round, with its climate influenced by two main monsoons.
- The northeast monsoon (November to March) brings dry conditions with minimal rainfall, while the southwest monsoon (May to early October) results in heavy rains and high humidity. Transitional periods between these monsoons feature variable weather.
- Before the southwest monsoon, in the pre-monsoon season (April to early May), temperatures rise significantly, with April being the hottest month at around 35°C. This period is marked by intense heat and increasing humidity as the country transitions into the rainy season.
- The post-monsoon season (late October to early November) sees the tail end of the rainy season. Although the rains begin to lessen, humidity remains high, and occasional showers can still occur. This time can be a bit unpredictable but offers a glimpse of the lush, green landscape left behind by the monsoon.
- The best time to visit Cambodia is between November and March. During these months, the dry season offers cooler temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. January and February are particularly pleasant with mild weather, while March, though warmer, is still manageable for travel.
- Visiting outside this period, especially during the monsoon season, means dealing with high humidity and heavy rains, though you might enjoy fewer crowds and a vibrant, green landscape.
GENERAL INFORMATION
| Country: | Cambodia |
| Capital City: | Phnom Penh |
| International Airports: | – Phnom Penh International Airport – Kampong Chhnang Airport – Siem Reap International Airport |
| Area: | 181,035 km² |
| Population: | 17,638,801 |
| Time Zone: | (UTC)+7:00 |
| Religion: | Predominantly Theravada Buddhist 1% Christian Remaining population follows Islam, atheism, or animism. |
| Language: | Official language: Cambodian (Khmer) French and English are also widely spoken. |
| Currency: | Riel (KHR) American dollars are commonly used in major cities. |
| Exchange Rate: | Consult your local bank as rates fluctuate. |
| Credit Card Payment Availability: | Accepted primarily in major hotels. |
| ATM Accessibility: | Easily Accessible |
| Dialling Code: | +855 |
TRAVEL TIPS
| Electricity: | Voltage: 220V AC/DC Socket sizes vary; carry adapters. |
| Water: | Drink only bottled or distilled water. |
| Business Hours: | Government Offices: Monday to Friday, 07:30 – 11:30 & 14:00 – 17:00 Business Offices: Monday to Saturday, 08:00 – 12:00 & 14:00 – 17:00 Shops: Daily, 08:00 – 20:00 Markets: Daily, 06:00 – 17:00 |
| Banking Hours: | Monday to Friday, 08:00 – 15:00 |
| Photography Restrictions: | Photography is generally permitted; however, it is courteous to ask permission when taking pictures of people. |
| Tipping: | Not generally expected but appreciated. |
| Vaccination Requirements: | No specific vaccinations are required for visits to major cities or tourist areas. Anti-malaria prophylaxis may be useful for visits to swampy areas near the Laos border. Avoid consuming ice and raw street food. Food and ice at hotels are safe. |
| Dress Code Restrictions: | Dress conservatively, in line with local customs. |
| Peculiar Customs to Observe: | – Traditional greetings involve a bow with hands brought together at chest level, like a prayer gesture. – Showing greater respect involves a lower bow and higher hands. – Cambodians have adopted the Western handshake with foreigners, but women may still use the traditional greeting. Respond with the greeting you are given. |
FESTIVALS
- Victory Day: January 7
- Meak Bochea: Dates vary according to the lunar calendar; check for specific dates
- Khmer New Year: April 13-14
- Visakha Bochea: May 7
- Royal Ploughing Ceremony: May (exact date varies)
- The King’s Birthday: May 14
- Day of Remembrance: May 20
- Pchum Ben: October 8-10
- Commemoration Day of King Father Norodom: October 15
- Paris Peace Agreement Day: October 23
- Bon Om Touk (Water Festival): October (specific dates vary)
MAP
“The most beautiful thing in Cambodia isn’t the country – it’s the Cambodian people.”
– Rithy Panh