Phnom Penh Genocide Museum (S21) Private Guided Half Day Tour

Phnom Penh , Cambodia

Phnom Penh Genocide Museum (S21) Private Guided Half Day Tour

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About this experience

Chamkamorn District takes us to the Russian Market and Olympic Stadium, and is home to a number of fine temples. However it is best known for the Genocide or Tuol Seng Museum.

This former high school built by the French had been from 1975 to 1979 the prison that was the most terrifying of the Khmer Rouge period. Called “S-21” by the Khmer Rouge, it was a torture center, where 15,000 people were tortured then sent to the extermination camp, Choeung Ek, to be killed. The prison guards were between 10 and 15 years old. They were indoctrinated by the seniors of Angkar, and became crueler than the adults.

We recommend this tour for people 16 years and over, due to the confronting nature of the Genocide Museum. Adults should use their discretion on the ability of their children to deal with this experience.

Available options

Phnom Penh Genocide Museum (S21) Private Guided Half Day Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Bottled water

Entrance Fee’s

Coffee and/or Tea

Offering for Cleansing Ceremony

Private Guide

Detailed itinerary

Your day starts with a short visit to the Olympic Stadium which, while never hosting an Olympic games, is an iconic structure capable of seating 70,000 people.

Stop 2

Continuing on, we visit the Russian Markets, which were named after the 1980s period, when people from Russia were the predominant tourists. This bustling local market is a treasure trove of clothes, art, handicraft, food, and almost anything else you can think of.

We move on from here, taking with us a local snack for morning tea, through the bustling streets of downtown Phnom Penh.

Stop 3

It is a somber thought that these bustling streets you are seeing now lead you, like war victims, to the Genocide Museum. Alternatively known as Tuol Sleng Museum, this former school was transformed into a prison and an interrogation center. It now chronicles this dark chapter of Cambodian history, and is a must-see for those wanting an understanding of this period and what the people suffered through.

What's not included

Other personal expenses

Beverages not described

Other activities

Tips, and all services not clearly mentioned

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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1 reviews

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia, is a city rich in history, culture, and bustling markets. Known for its French colonial architecture, the Royal Palace, and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, it offers a unique blend of the old and the new, making it a compelling destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Royal Palace

The Royal Palace is the official residence of the King of Cambodia. It features beautiful Khmer architecture and is a must-visit for its historical significance and stunning design.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours 10 USD

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

Also known as S-21, this museum is a former school turned into a prison and torture center by the Khmer Rouge. It serves as a stark reminder of Cambodia's dark past.

Historical 1-2 hours 5 USD

Central Market

Also known as Phsar Thmei, this market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothes, and local food. The Art Deco building is an architectural gem.

Market 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary

Wat Phnom

This Buddhist temple is the namesake and heart of the city. It is believed to be the site where the first pagoda was built in Phnom Penh.

Religious 30 minutes 1 USD

National Museum of Cambodia

This museum houses a vast collection of Khmer artifacts, providing a deep dive into Cambodia's rich history and culture.

Museum 1-2 hours 10 USD

Must-Try Local Dishes

Amok

A creamy coconut curry with fish or chicken, steamed in banana leaves.

Main Dish Can be made with fish or chicken, vegetarian options available.

Lok Lak

Stir-fried beef with onions and a tangy lime-pepper dipping sauce.

Main Dish Typically made with beef, but can be made with other meats.

Nom Banh Chok

Rice noodles topped with a fish-based gravy and fresh herbs.

Breakfast Vegetarian options available with tofu.

Bai Sach Chrouk

Grilled pork with broken rice and pickled vegetables.

Breakfast Contains pork.

Popular Activities

Boat Tours Biking Hiking Spa Treatments Riverfront Promenade Coffee Shops Temple Visits Museum Tours

Best Time to Visit

November to February

This is the dry season with pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

22°C - 32°C 72°F - 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Khmer
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Cambodian Riel (KHR)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with common sense

Phnom Penh is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious, especially at night and in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of tuk-tuk drivers offering tours or services, as they may overcharge or take you to overpriced shops
• Use reputable tour operators and agree on prices beforehand
• Keep valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Phnom Penh International Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Phnom Penh Railway Station

By bus

Central Market Bus Station, Siem Reap Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Public buses are affordable but can be crowded and slow. Routes cover major areas of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PassApp, Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Riverside BKK1 Russian Market (Psar Tuol Tom Poung)

Day trips

Tonlé Sap Lake

150 km from Phnom Penh • Full day

A large freshwater lake known for its floating villages and unique ecosystem.

Kampong Cham

120 km from Phnom Penh • Full day

A riverside town with a mix of French colonial architecture and traditional Khmer temples.

Koh Dach Island

15 km from Phnom Penh • Half day

A peaceful island known for its silk weaving and rural landscapes.

Festivals

Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey) • April 14-16 Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) • November (dates vary) Pchum Ben • September/October (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat
Try local street food at the Central Market or Russian Market for an authentic experience
Take a tuk-tuk tour of the city to see the major attractions in a short amount of time
Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum for a sobering but important historical perspective
Explore the riverside area for great dining and nightlife options