There is a range of exciting ways to explore Cambodia safely and experience this once powerful kingdom and its ancient cultural wonders first hand. By touring the country with a knowledgeable guide you will be able to avoid many of the dangers that present themselves to travelers in this mainly rural and undeveloped country. While travel in Cambodia has become increasingly accessible and popular in the past two decades, there are some cautions that should still be taken.

Traveling by road and water are the most exhilarating ways to explore the country, with the latter offering a smoother ride. Main road routes are in a reasonable condition while roads in rural areas are undeveloped and lack decent infrastructure resulting in a bumpy ride!

Boat travel is a popular way to get between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, Siem Reap and Battambang, and Sihanoukville and Koh Kong; but wet season services are subject to weather conditions meaning most travelers avoid visiting during the wettest months (July to September).

There are no mandatory vaccinations for travel to Cambodia but visitors are advised to be up-to-date with typhoid, hepatitis A and B and cholera vaccinations. Visit your doctor at least three weeks in advance of your departure to ensure vaccinations are effective upon your arrival.

Some rural areas are affected by malaria and Japanese encephalitis and long-term visitors, or those visiting areas publicized as affected, may wish to take medication or be inoculated.

Pharmacies are on hand in the larger towns to treat minor ailments such as diarrhea, and carrying a small first-aid kit can come in handy. Should you get seriously sick in Cambodia, medical attention can be found at hospitals in the capital with only basic medical facilities available elsewhere. However, health-care standards in Cambodia fall short of international standards and serious emergencies should be treated in Bangkok, Thailand.

Taking out travel insurance with health coverage is a good way to ensure you are not faced with large bills in the event you need to be evacuated by air to a neighboring country. Make sure your insurance covers all the activities you plan, especially when doing white water rafting, cycling or jungle trekking.

If you plan to partake in demanding physical activities such as trekking, rafting or cycling while in Cambodia, make sure you are physically prepared for the task by training and working out before leaving home. You may also need to prepare specialist equipment depending on your travel itinerary, including suitable walking shoes and waterproof clothing.

While few visitors experience any crime or violence whilst visiting Cambodia, it is important to take care. Cambodia is one of the poorest countries in Asia making it essential to be discreet with your belongings and take precautions with your personal safety. Night-time travel is best done in groups and by cyclo or taxi. Political demonstrations have the potential to turn sour in Cambodia and are best avoided, as are illegal drugs; for which local punishment for possession is severe.