Best Time to Visit Cambodia: February and April

Cambodia in the dry season is when the temples reveal themselves fully — no rain-slicked stones, no muddy paths, just Angkor Wat and hundreds of lesser-known ruins emerging from the jungle under reliably clear skies. If you're wondering when to visit Cambodia, February and April offer two distinct experiences: February delivers peak comfort and accessibility, while April brings heat but also Khmer New Year, the country's most important cultural celebration.

February: Peak Dry Season Comfort

February sits in Cambodia's sweet spot. Temperatures hover in the high-20s to low-30s Celsius — warm but not brutal — and humidity remains manageable. This is ideal for the long days required to explore Angkor Archaeological Park properly. Sunrise at Angkor Wat, the main temple circuit, then lesser-known sites like Ta Prohm and Bayon — February weather makes it possible to cover significant ground without wilting.

Beyond the temples, February is excellent for the rest of the country. Phnom Penh's Royal Palace and Tuol Sleng Museum are more bearable in cooler weather. The southern coast offers beautiful beaches and calm seas. The Mekong River towns like Kampot and Kep are particularly lovely, with French colonial architecture and riverside cafes best enjoyed when you're not dripping with sweat.

April: Heat and Celebration

April is hot — often pushing past 35°C — but it's also when Cambodia celebrates Khmer New Year (Chaul Chnam Thmey), typically mid-month. This three-day festival transforms the country: temples overflow with offerings, families gather, and the famous water fights begin. It's Cambodia at its most joyful and communal, offering cultural immersion that February can't match.

The heat in April is real, but it's manageable if you plan smartly: early morning temple visits, midday breaks by the pool, and late afternoon/evening exploration. The beaches and islands are particularly appealing in April as a heat refuge, and many travelers combine Angkor with coastal time to balance culture and relaxation.

Where We'd Stay: Amansara

Amansara in Siem Reap is our recommendation for experiencing Angkor properly. This intimate 24-suite property occupies the former guest villa of King Sihanouk, with a design that's minimalist, elegant, and deeply connected to Khmer aesthetics. The hotel arranges private temple tours with expert guides, often accessing sites before the crowds arrive or during golden hour when the light is extraordinary.

What sets Amansara apart is the expertise. The guides understand Angkor's history and symbolism at a level that transforms the experience from sightseeing into genuine understanding. Through our Virtuoso partnership, you'll receive daily breakfast, a resort credit, and room upgrades when available.

Ready to explore Cambodia's temples and culture? Enquire with The Camel Collection and let us design your Cambodian journey.