🐾 Traveling to Cambodia with Pets
Pet-Friendly Cambodia
Cambodia is increasingly welcoming to pets, particularly in tourist areas like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. While not as integrated as in Western countries, many guesthouses, beaches, and rural areas accommodate well-behaved animals, making it a viable destination for pet owners exploring ancient temples and tropical landscapes.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Health Certificate
Dogs, cats, and other pets need a veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, confirming no infectious diseases.
Certificate must include details on age, breed, and vaccination history; endorsed by official authorities in the home country.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days before entry and valid for the duration of stay.
Puppies under 3 months are not allowed entry; boosters required every 1-3 years depending on vaccine type.
Microchip Requirements
Pets must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before vaccination.
Chip number must be linked to all documents; scanners are available at borders and airports.
Import Permit
Obtain an import permit from Cambodia's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) at least 7 days in advance.
Apply online or via embassy; fee around $20 USD; quarantine may apply for unvaccinated or high-risk pets.
Restricted Breeds
No nationwide breed bans, but aggressive breeds like Pit Bulls may face restrictions at entry points.
Always leash and muzzle if required; check with airlines and border officials for specific rules.
Other Pets
Birds, fish, and exotic animals require additional CITES permits and health checks from MAFF.
Reptiles and primates have strict import rules; consult Cambodian embassy for pre-approval.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Cambodia on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like outdoor spaces and nearby parks.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Phnom Penh & Siem Reap): Many mid-range hotels welcome pets for $5-15 USD/night, with gardens or balconies. Properties like Pavilion Hotel and Angkor Village are known for accommodating animals.
- Beach Resorts (Sihanoukville & Koh Rong): Coastal guesthouses and bungalows often allow pets at no extra charge, with beach access for walks. Ideal for relaxed seaside stays with dogs.
- Vacation Rentals & Villas: Airbnb listings in rural areas and islands frequently permit pets, offering private yards and space for pets to play.
- Eco-Lodges & Homestays: In Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri, community-based stays welcome pets and provide interactions with local wildlife. Great for families seeking authentic experiences.
- Campsites & Glamping: Sites near Tonle Sap Lake and national parks are pet-friendly, with shaded areas and trails. Popular for adventure-loving pet owners.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end resorts like Song Saa Private Island offer pet amenities including fresh water bowls, shaded areas, and concierge pet care services.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
National Parks & Trails
Cambodia's parks like Virachey and Cardamom Mountains offer pet-friendly hiking trails for leashed dogs.
Keep pets close to avoid wildlife; guided eco-tours often accommodate well-behaved animals.
Beaches & Islands
Sihanoukville and Koh Rong beaches have pet-friendly sections for swimming and sunbathing.
Respect local rules; some areas restrict pets during high season to protect nesting sites.
Cities & Markets
Phnom Penh's riverside parks and Siem Reap's night markets welcome leashed pets; outdoor eateries often allow them.
Avoid crowded temple interiors; focus on open-air sites and green spaces.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Expat-run cafés in tourist hubs provide water bowls and shaded seating for pets.
Places like Java Café in Phnom Penh are known for welcoming dogs alongside their owners.
River & Village Tours
Boat trips on Tonle Sap and countryside walks in Siem Reap area allow leashed pets on many tours.
Choose outdoor-focused excursions; confirm pet policies with operators in advance.
Boat Rides
Many Mekong River cruises and lake tours permit small pets in carriers; larger dogs may need private charters.
Fees around $5-10 USD; life jackets recommended for safety on water adventures.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Buses (Giant Ibis & Mekong Express): Small pets travel free in carriers; larger dogs require a ticket ($2-5 USD) and must be leashed or crated. Avoid overhead storage for safety.
- Tuk-Tuks & Remorques (Urban): Most drivers accept pets for $1-3 USD per ride; negotiate upfront. Open-air design suits leashed animals in cities like Phnom Penh.
- Taxis: Ride-hailing apps like Grab allow pets with driver approval; traditional taxis may charge extra $2-5 USD. Always confirm before boarding.
- Rental Cars & Motorbikes: Car rentals permit pets with cleaning deposit ($20-50 USD); motorbikes with sidecars work for small pets. Helmets required for all.
- Flights to Cambodia: Airlines like Cambodia Angkor Air and Bangkok Airways allow cabin pets under 8kg for $50-100 USD. Book early and prepare IATA-compliant carriers. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Vietnam Airlines, Thai Airways, and Air Asia accept pets in cabin (under 7kg) for $75-150 USD round-trip. Larger pets in cargo with health certification.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
Clinics like Phnom Penh's Animal Rescue & Care provide 24-hour emergency care in major cities.
Travel insurance covering pets recommended; consultations cost $20-50 USD.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Pet shops in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap stock food, flea treatments, and accessories from brands like Pedigree.
Pharmacies carry basic meds; import specialized items or use international delivery services.
Grooming & Day Care
Urban pet salons offer grooming for $10-25 USD per session; daycare available in tourist areas.
Book via hotels or apps; limited options outside cities, so plan for rural stays.
Pet-Sitting Services
Local services and expat networks in Phnom Penh provide sitting for $10-20 USD/day.
Hotels can recommend trusted sitters; use caution and meet providers beforehand.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in cities, temples, and public areas. Rural trails may allow off-leash but keep control near livestock and traffic.
- Muzzle Requirements: Not mandatory but recommended for large dogs on transport; carry one for border crossings or crowded sites.
- Waste Disposal: Carry waste bags; bins are limited, so pack out waste. Fines up to $10 USD for littering in protected areas.
- Beach & Water Rules: Pets allowed on most beaches but not near swimming zones; check for seasonal restrictions around turtle nesting.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Outdoor seating often welcomes pets; keep them calm and away from food. Indoor areas generally prohibit animals.
- Temples & Parks: Leashed pets permitted in outer temple grounds but not inside sacred buildings. Respect cultural sites by keeping pets quiet and controlled.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Cambodia
Cambodia for Families
Cambodia offers a mix of ancient wonders, beaches, and cultural experiences perfect for families. Safe for kids with interactive sites, affordable activities, and welcoming locals. Many attractions provide shaded areas, rest stops, and child-friendly guides to keep young travelers engaged.
Top Family Attractions
Angkor Wat (Siem Reap)
Iconic temple complex with sunrise views, explorer trails, and storytelling for kids.
Tickets $37 USD adults, free for kids under 12; tuk-tuk tours make it accessible for families.
Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre
Ethical sanctuary with rescued animals, feeding sessions, and educational walks near Phnom Penh.
Entry $5 USD adults, $2 kids; guided tours highlight conservation for family learning.
Royal Palace (Phnom Penh)
Ornate palace with gardens, throne room, and silver pagoda that fascinates children.
Tickets $10 USD adults, $5 kids; shaded courtyards and photo ops for family memories.
National Museum of Cambodia
Interactive exhibits on Khmer history with artifacts, sculptures, and kid-friendly displays.
Entry $10 USD adults, free for kids; air-conditioned and compact for short attention spans.
Tonle Sap Lake Floating Villages
Boat tours through stilt villages with crocodile farms and school visits exciting for kids.
Tours $20-30 USD per family; life on water captivates young adventurers.
Sihanoukville Beaches & Water Parks
Sandy beaches, snorkeling, and splash parks for family fun on the coast.
Free beach access; water activities $5-15 USD; relaxed vibe for kids to play.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Cambodia on Viator. From Angkor explorations to beach days, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Siem Reap & Phnom Penh): Resorts like Angkor Village and Pavilion offer family suites for $80-150 USD/night with pools, kids' clubs, and interconnecting rooms.
- Beach Family Resorts (Sihanoukville): All-inclusive options with childcare, water sports, and family bungalows. Properties like Sokha Beach Resort cater to kids with activities.
- Homestays & Eco-Lodges: Rural stays in Battambang or Kep provide animal interactions and village life for $30-60 USD/night including meals.
- Vacation Villas: Private pools and kitchens in rentals ideal for self-catering families; space for kids to roam safely.
- Budget Guesthouses: Clean family rooms in hostels for $20-40 USD/night with shared pools and communal areas for meeting other families.
- Luxury Family Stays: Raffles in Siem Reap offers kids' programs, butler service, and spacious villas for premium family comfort.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Phnom Penh with Kids
Royal Palace gardens, riverfront playgrounds, boat rides, and Tuol Sleng for older kids' education.
Markets with street food and cyclo rides add fun urban exploration for families.
Siem Reap with Kids
Angkor temples by tuk-tuk, quad biking, Phare circus shows, and butterfly gardens.
Apsarà dance performances and night markets keep evenings lively for children.
Sihanoukville with Kids
Beach play, snorkeling trips, island hopping, and Victory Beach water activities.
Ream National Park picnics and monkey spotting for nature-loving families.
Tonle Sap Region
Floating village boat tours, fishing experiences, and bird sanctuaries with easy-access boardwalks.
Sunset cruises and village homestays offer gentle adventures for young kids.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Buses: Kids under 5 travel free; family discounts on long routes. Air-conditioned buses have space for strollers.
- City Transport: Tuk-tuks and remorques cost $2-5 USD per family; negotiate for child seats or space.
- Car Rentals: Drivers with car seats available for $30-50 USD/day; required for kids under 12. Minivans suit larger families.
- Stroller-Friendly: Urban areas have improving paths but watch for uneven surfaces; many sites offer baby carriers for temples.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Western restaurants offer simple dishes like noodles or rice for $3-6 USD. High chairs available in tourist spots.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Riverside eateries in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap have play areas and casual vibes. Street food stalls suit adventurous eaters.
- Self-Catering: Markets like Psar Chas stock fresh fruits, baby food, and diapers. Supermarkets carry international brands.
- Snacks & Treats: Mango sticky rice, fresh coconuts, and ice cream vendors keep kids happy on hot days.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: Found in malls, hotels, and major attractions with basic facilities.
Pharmacies: Stock formula, diapers, and meds; English-speaking staff in cities assist families.- Babysitting Services: Resorts arrange sitters for $8-15 USD/hour; use hotel recommendations for reliability.
- Medical Care: International clinics like Royal Phnom Penh Hospital have pediatric services; vaccinations advised for hep A and typhoid.
♿ Accessibility in Cambodia
Accessible Travel
Cambodia is improving accessibility with ramps at major sites and wheelchair-friendly transport in cities. Tourist areas prioritize inclusion, though rural spots remain challenging. Local guides and tourism boards offer advice for barrier-free planning.
Transportation Accessibility
- Buses: Giant Ibis provides wheelchair spaces and ramps on main routes; book assistance in advance.
- City Transport: Tuk-tuks modified for wheelchairs available; Grab app has accessible options in Phnom Penh.
- Taxis: Wheelchair taxis via apps; standard remorques accommodate folding chairs with notice.
- Airports: Phnom Penh and Siem Reap airports offer assistance, ramps, and priority services for disabled passengers.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Palaces: National Museum and Royal Palace have ramps and elevators; audio guides for visually impaired.
- Historic Sites: Angkor Wat outer paths are accessible; golf carts assist at temples for mobility needs.
- Nature & Parks: Beaches and Tonle Sap boats offer accessible viewing; national parks have some flat trails.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for roll-in showers, wide doorways, and ground-floor options.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (November-April) for temples and beaches; cooler temps (20-30°C) ideal for kids and pets.
Wet season (May-October) brings discounts but plan indoor activities for rain; avoid peak heat in April.
Budget Tips
Family passes at attractions save 20-30%; use USD for payments. Street food and markets keep costs low.
Pack snacks and water; multi-day temple passes ($62 USD) cover families efficiently.
Language
Khmer is official; English common in tourist areas. Basic phrases like "susay dei" (hello) help interactions.
Locals are patient with families; translation apps bridge gaps in rural spots.
Packing Essentials
Light clothing, sunscreen, hats for tropical heat; mosquito repellent for evenings. Rain gear for wet season.
Pet owners: bring food, tick prevention, leash, waste bags, and vaccination records in waterproof pouch.
Useful Apps
Grab for transport, Google Translate for communication, and Trip.com for bookings.
Angkor Wat app for virtual guides; weather apps track rainy season patterns.
Health & Safety
Cambodia is generally safe; drink bottled water. Vaccinations for hep A/B, typhoid advised for families.
Emergency: dial 119 for ambulance. Travel insurance covers medical and evacuation needs.