F.A.Q.
Here are some common questions our clients ask:
CAMBODIA
Why Cambodia?
Cambodia is truly beautiful country and a photographer’s dream. The Khmer people are very friendly and approachable, and often enjoy engaging with foreigners. Mix this in with the breathtaking temples of Angkor in Siem Reap province as well as the otherworldly villages floating on the Tonlé Sap lake and one begins to appreciate why this is a must-visit destination for photographers. Tourism has been growing exponentially in recent years and every day bus-loads of tourists flock to the temples at Angkor; but don’t let this put you off – with our wealth of experience we will show you a host of hidden gems of Angkor, and also show you the larger temples at the best times of day from a photography perspective when the crowds are at their lowest and the light-conditions are best. We’ll also venture deep into the real, rural Cambodia, to give you an experience most photographers can only dream of.
When to Travel?
Cambodia offers great photographic opportunities all year round.
November to March is considered “Dry season” and is the most popular time to visit. December and January are particularly busy due to the pleasant temperatures in the mid-to-high twenties (Celsius, approx. 80-85 degrees Fahrenheit). April and May make up the end of the dry season and are the hottest months of the year, though this makes for less tourists and an eerily quiet Angkor.
The “Wet season” (often dubbed green season for the luxuriant foliage and lush rice paddies that stretch the length and breadth of the country) starts around May/June through to October/November. The rain is not constant: it comes down in short, intense spells, mostly during the afternoon. In all our years of hosting workshops, we’ve never had to cancel because of rain. This season is a great time for photography: the vivid greens of the countryside or the flooded villages on the Tonle Sap lake set against towering clouds and deep blue skies provide a picture perfect backdrop for landscape photography. This season comes with the added bonus that there are fewer tourists around.
Is a VISA needed to enter Cambodia?
For most visitors to Cambodia, you will be able to apply online for an e-Visa with one month validity; this process takes around three working days. Visas are also available on arrival for most passport holders. Be sure to check online for associated fees.
Responsible Travel
We are committed to responsible travel in Cambodia, ensuring that all of our tours are respectful of and give back to the local community. We have taken all possible steps to make sure our tours cause as little environmental impact as possible. We use local drivers on all of our excursions, and we take care to educate our tour participants of the ethics of travel photography and Cambodian customs. We advocate for responsible volunteering and tourism. The participants that join our tours come away not only with some amazing memories and photos, but also with a better understanding of how they can travel responsibly in future, as well as make a positive impact on Cambodia.
Before Booking a Tour
How do I book a tour?
Simply fill out the form at the bottom of your chosen tour page to let us know your dates and preferences. We’ll need a 20% deposit via Paypal to reserve your dates. Please note that for our longer, join-in workshops, the deposit scheme may vary.
What if I need to cancel?
We understand that sometimes plans change. If you need to cancel your tour, we’ll give you a full refund (minus any Paypal fees we have incurred) so long as you cancel 30 days or more in advance. For our longer, join-in workshops, please see our policy sent with the program.
Workshop Programs
We believe that it is important to take a flexible approach to the tours we offer, this way we can make the most of unique opportunities that present themselves and also better meet the needs of participants of our workshops. Furthermore we keep our groups small to encourage interaction with the instructor and fellow participants. Our instructors are professional photographers and artists and we design our workshops to allow for in-depth instructive interaction.
Our workshops cover a wide range of subject matter – exploring towns & markets, attending local festivals and ceremonies or exploring the ancient temples and vast countryside, all the while having an experienced instructor on hand to assist, provide tips and answer questions. Our aim is to provide an unforgettable experience where participants experience the beauty and rich culture of Cambodia whilst at the same time developing their photography skills through interaction with, and the support of our team of professionals.
Why come with us?
We are experienced professionals, all living full-time in Siem Reap, with years of local experience: this enables us to meet your needs at all levels, whether that’s learning more about the technical aspects of photography or simply requiring local knowledge to get to those off-the-beaten-track gems, we are able to deliver.
In addition to this:
• With years of travelling experience we understand fellow travellers’ requirements
• We focus on offering a customised service to ensure your personal needs are met; we take great pride and helping you realise your personal goals for the trip
• We take safety very seriously and therefore do everything in our ability to ensure you are not put in harm’s way; and
• We love Cambodia and it’s people and therefore always ensure that we respect the locals, their culture, as well as the beautiful nature of Cambodia.
How much does it cost?
Our prices start at USD $130 for half day tours and USD $225 for full day tours (price varies depending on tour selected; please see relevant tour page for details).
If you’re looking for a custom tour, feel free to ask for a quotation using our CONTACT page; we usually reply within 24 hours.
We can also provide or recommend accommodation that caters to all budgets.
During the Tours
What should I wear?
Find everything you need to know about Angkor Code of Conduct and dress code; just click on this link. Be sure to follow the same dress code when visiting other religious sites outside of Angkor.
What gear do I need?
We will do our best to help you with whatever gear you have. If you do not have any, please let us know in advance so we can discuss rental options.
Prices, admissions, and average costs
Tickets to Angkor are currently priced at USD $37 per person for a single-day ticket, USD $62 for a ticket with three-day validity, and USD $72 for a ticket with 7-day validity. Please not that multi-day tickets need not be used consecutively. For the three-day pass, you may visit on any three days within a seven day period, and for the 7-day pass, you may visit on any seven days within a thirty day period. Please note that admittance to Angkor is not covered within our tour fees unless explicitly stated, as is the case with our Full Angkor Experience or longer join-in workshops.
All other fees, permits, tolls etc. will be covered within our tour price. Please note that meals are not provided unless explicitly state. We generally advise bringing along small change for coffee, juice, snacks etc., though chilled drinking water is provided free of charge throughout the tours to all of our participants.
Businesses from cafes to hotels in Cambodia cater to a range of budgets; you’ll be sure to find something that fits your travel style. If you’re looking for recommendations, just ask.
Payment Details
How can I pay?
We are currently unable to accept payment via credit or debit card; we will request a 20% deposit via PayPal upon reserving your dates, with the remainder to be paid in cash USD while on tour with us in Cambodia. Please note that payment and deposit schemes may vary for our longer, join-in workshops. You should bear in mind that in Cambodia, there is a reluctance on the part of the banks, businesses, and local people to accept ripped or marked currency – for this reason we are unable to accept damaged bills. We recommend that any cash you arrange for travelling be in good condition to prevent payment inconveniences.
Still need help? Send us a note!
For any other questions, please write us at [email protected] or call us on +855 974 638 616