Golf in Cambodia

Cambodia's golf scene is small but growing, anchored by the internationally acclaimed Angkor Golf Resort. For golfers visiting Angkor Wat, a round at the Faldo-designed course is a natural complement to temple exploring. Phnom Penh has several courses catering to the expat and business community.

What Cambodia lacks in quantity of courses, it makes up for in value. Green fees are substantially lower than Thailand and Vietnam, caddies are friendly and attentive, and the pace of play is relaxed — you'll rarely feel rushed. The combination of world-class temples and affordable golf makes Siem Reap one of Southeast Asia's most underrated golf destinations.

November through February is Cambodia's dry season and the ideal time for golf. Temperatures range from 25–30°C with low humidity and virtually no rain. Courses are in peak condition.

• November–February (Peak): Cool, dry, perfect conditions. Book tee times 1–2 weeks in advance at Angkor Golf Resort. Green fees at their highest.
• March–May (Hot): Temperatures hit 35–38°C. Only playable early morning (6:00–9:00 AM tee times). Stay hydrated. Green fees may be discounted 10–20%.
• June–October (Rainy): Afternoon thunderstorms are common but mornings are often clear. Courses are lush and green. Green fees drop 20–30%. The best value season if you don't mind some rain. Courses drain quickly — rarely closed for more than a few hours.

Caddies are a standard part of the golf experience in Cambodia — you'll be assigned one automatically at all major courses. Here's what to know:

• Assignment: Caddies are assigned by the pro shop. You can request a specific caddy if you've played before and have a preference.
• Skills: Caddies at Angkor Golf Resort are the most experienced and can read greens well. At other courses, caddies are enthusiastic but may have limited English and green-reading ability.
• What they carry: Caddies carry your bag and manage your clubs. They'll hand you the right club if you tell them your distances. They also clean clubs, rake bunkers, and tend the flag.
• Language: Most caddies speak basic English — enough for golf. Learn "left," "right," "good shot," and "thank you" (aw kohn) in Khmer for bonus rapport.
• Tipping: Standard tip is $5–$10. Give $10–$15 for excellent service. Tip in cash (USD) directly to the caddy at the 18th green. Don't leave the tip at the pro shop — it may not reach them in full.
• Food and drinks: It's a kind gesture to buy your caddy a drink or snack at the turn. They'll appreciate it and may give you better reads on the back nine.

Considering a golf trip to Southeast Asia? Here's how Cambodia stacks up against its neighbors:

• Thailand has 250+ courses, world-class facilities, and the most developed golf tourism infrastructure. But it's 20–40% more expensive, courses can be crowded, and pace of play is slower. Best for: dedicated golf trips with maximum course variety.
• Vietnam has 80+ courses and is growing rapidly. Prices are between Cambodia and Thailand. Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City are the golf hubs. Best for: combining golf with beach holidays.
• Cambodia has fewer courses but offers the best value, zero crowds, and the unique ability to combine golf with Angkor Wat. You won't find a more memorable 19th hole than sunset over Angkor. Best for: golfers who want temples + golf in a single trip.

• Book direct: Call or email the course directly for the best rates. Third-party booking sites often add 10–20% markup.
• Hotel packages: Sofitel Angkor and several Siem Reap hotels offer "stay and play" packages that bundle accommodation with discounted green fees. Ask when booking your room.
• Group discounts: Groups of 8+ can negotiate 10–15% off green fees at most courses. Contact the pro shop in advance.
• Twilight rates: Available at Angkor Golf Resort and Grand Phnom Penh after 2:00 PM — typically 30–40% off regular green fees. Not recommended March–May due to extreme heat.
• Tee time apps: No major tee time apps cover Cambodia yet. WhatsApp and direct phone calls are the most reliable booking methods.
• Transport: Most courses offer pickup from your hotel ($10–$20 round trip). Alternatively, a tuk-tuk to/from Angkor Golf Resort from Siem Reap town costs $8–$12 round trip.

• Lightweight, moisture-wicking golf shirts — cotton gets heavy with sweat. Polyester-blend performance fabrics are essential.
• Extra golf balls — bring at least a dozen. Water hazards are hungry and pro shop prices are inflated ($4–$6/ball).
• High-SPF sunscreen (50+) — the tropical sun is relentless, even on cloudy days. Reapply at the turn.
• Wide-brim hat or cap — shade is limited on most courses.
• Insect repellent — mosquitoes are active at dawn and dusk, exactly when you want to play.
• A rain jacket or lightweight poncho — if playing during rainy season (June–October), afternoon storms can arrive suddenly.
• Electrolyte packets — heat and humidity cause rapid dehydration. Add to your water bottle on the course.
• Comfortable golf shoes — courses are generally flat but can be soggy. Waterproof shoes recommended during rainy season.

3-Day Siem Reap Golf & Temples

• Day 1: Arrive Siem Reap. Afternoon twilight round at Sofitel course ($50–$70). Dinner on Pub Street.
• Day 2: 6:00 AM sunrise at Angkor Wat, explore temples until noon. Afternoon rest. Optional driving range session at Angkor Golf Resort ($5).
• Day 3: 6:30 AM tee time at Angkor Golf Resort (full 18 holes). Post-round spa at Sofitel. Evening flight home or continue trip.

5-Day Phnom Penh & Siem Reap Golf Tour

• Day 1: Arrive Phnom Penh. Afternoon round at Garden City Golf Club ($40–$70).
• Day 2: Morning round at Grand Phnom Penh Golf Club ($60–$100). Afternoon: Royal Palace and National Museum.
• Day 3: Fly to Siem Reap (45 min). Afternoon: explore Angkor Thom and Bayon.
• Day 4: 6:00 AM tee time at Angkor Golf Resort. Afternoon: Ta Prohm and Banteay Srei temples.
• Day 5: Morning round at Sofitel course. Afternoon: Old Market shopping. Evening departure.

Budget estimate (5-day tour): Green fees $250–$450 | Flights + transport $200–$300 | Hotels $300–$600 | Food $100–$150 | Total: $850–$1,500 per person depending on hotel choice and green fee tier.

• Book tee times in advance during peak season (November–February).
• Caddies are included at most courses. Tip $10–$15.
• Start early — first tee by 6:30am to avoid the heat. Afternoon rounds are brutal.
• Hydrate aggressively — Cambodia's heat and humidity will drain you faster than expected.
• Club rental available at all courses ($20–$40). Angkor Golf Resort has the best sets.
• Sunscreen is essential — the tropical sun is intense even on overcast days. Reapply at the turn.
• Dress code — collared shirts required at Angkor Golf Resort and Sofitel course. Other courses are more relaxed but no sleeveless tops or jeans.
• Bring extra golf balls — water hazards at Vattanac and Angkor Golf Resort consume balls. Balls are available at pro shops but at inflated prices ($4–$6 per ball).