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Cambodia 21-day Itinerary In January For Solo Female Travelers

Hello, I’m Anne, a solo traveler passionate about discovering new cultures. After years of wandering around Southeast Asia, I decided to take a 21-day solo trip to Cambodia in January – the perfect time to enjoy the country’s peaceful charm, ancient beauty, and vibrant life. If you’re considering solo female travel Cambodia, this article will show you why Cambodia in January is an ideal choice and share my complete solo trip to Cambodia in 3 weeks based on my own experience.

I. Why did I choose Cambodia in January for my solo trip?

During my 3-week Cambodia trip, what impressed me the most was the Cambodia weather in January. It’s the start of the dry season – blue skies, mild sunshine, and almost no rain – perfect for walking, exploring, and capturing amazing photos around Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. With temperatures around 25–30°C, Cambodia in January offered me comfortable days exploring the temples of Angkor and quiet sunsets by the Mekong River.

At first, I wondered if solo female travel to Cambodia would be safe. But just a few days in, I realized how friendly and welcoming this country is. Cambodians are warm and always ready to help. Getting around by tuk-tuk, local bus, or bicycle was simple and enjoyable, even as a solo female traveler.

The combination of pleasant weather, affordable costs, and friendly locals made me choose this solo trip to Cambodia in January for 21 days. Three weeks were just enough to explore the highlights – Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh, Kampot, Koh Rong – while enjoying the slow, relaxing rhythm of Cambodian life. If you’re looking for a meaningful Cambodia itinerary 3 weeks, don’t hesitate to embark on your own solo female travel to Cambodia – you’ll be amazed by the warmth, beauty, and serenity this country has to offer.

Overview of my 21-day Cambodia trip in January:

Days 1-2 : Phnom Penh
Days 3-5 : Kampot
Day 6 : Kep
Days 7-9 : Koh Rong
Days 10-12 : Battambang
Days 13-17 : Siem Reap et les Temples d’Angkor
Day 18 : Kampong Cham
Days 19-21 : Mondulkiri

II. My detailed 21-day Cambodia itinerary in January

1. Days 1–2: Exploring Phnom Penh

My solo trip to Cambodia in January for 21 days began in Phnom Penh — a vibrant and energetic capital city. The first thing I felt when I arrived was the warm Cambodian air: not too hot, but enough to remind me I was truly in Southeast Asia.

I spent 2 days in Phnom Penh getting used to the rhythm of local life. To understand the country’s history, I visited Tuol Sleng Prison (S21) and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, both deeply moving sites. I also explored Wat Phnom, the National Museum, and the Royal Palace — each reflecting the grace and pride of Khmer culture.

Wondering what to do in Phnom Penh on your solo trip in Cambodia? I loved strolling along the Tonlé Sap River at sunset, trying grilled fish Amok, and browsing the night markets for street food and souvenirs. It was a perfect start to my Cambodia 21-day trip, full of flavor and connection.

2. Days 3–6: Discovering Southern Cambodia – Kampot & Kep

Leaving the capital, I continued my Cambodia 3-week itinerary southward to Kampot, a peaceful riverside town famous for its laid-back charm. I spent three days there simply slowing down: cycling through local villages, visiting Kampot’s world-renowned pepper farms, and kayaking under the “green cathedral” of mangroves. The relaxed atmosphere, friendly locals, and low costs make it perfect for solo female travel in Cambodia.

During my 21-day Cambodia itinerary, I also spent 1 day in Kep, a coastal gem just 25 km away from Kampot. My morning started at the famous Crab Market, tasting spicy pepper crab before hiking through Kep National Park to enjoy stunning sea views. Later, I took a short boat ride to Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island), a quiet paradise where I swam, sunbathed, and watched the sunset in peaceful silence.

Those four days in Kampot and Kep were a true breath of tranquility and confidence. If you’re planning a solo trip to Cambodia in 3 weeks in January, don’t miss this gentle southern escape — it’s the perfect spot to unwind and reconnect with yourself.

3. Days 7–9: Three relaxing days on the paradise island of Koh Rong

After several days of exploring Cambodia’s lively cities, I decided to spend three quiet days of my 21-day Cambodia itinerary relaxing on Koh Rong Sanloem, known as the country’s tropical paradise. From Sihanoukville, I took a speedboat. The salty breeze and sound of waves instantly made me feel detached from the world.

Koh Rong is the perfect stop for anyone on a solo female travel to Cambodia 21 days in January, especially solo female travelers looking for peace and balance. There’s nothing better than lounging on the white sand, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and watching the sun set over Sok San Beach, painting the sky in warm orange hues.

I spent my days swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling around Saracen Bay, where the water is so clear you can see the coral reefs beneath. For something more active, try paddle boarding through the mangroves — a peaceful yet inspiring experience. The Cambodia weather in January is warm and ideal for beach escapes, making Koh Rong a must-add to your Cambodia 21-day trip. Safe, calm, and picture-perfect, it’s an absolute gem for anyone doing solo female travel in Cambodia.

You can find out more about:

>>> 5 days in Koh Rong
>>> 5 days in Sihanoukville

4. Days 10–12: Discovering the charm of Battambang

Leaving Koh Rong behind, I took a long minivan ride to Battambang, Cambodia’s second-largest city, yet one that still retains its rural charm. The bumpy road was worth it with rice paddies, stilt houses, and endless green fields stretched along the way.

On my first evening, I wandered through the riverside cafés and met friendly locals with warm smiles. For a solo female traveler in Cambodia, Battambang felt incredibly safe and welcoming. Over the next two days, I hired a local tuk-tuk driver who showed me rice puff villages, a rice wine distillery, and the ancient Wat Banan temple atop a hill. Every stop revealed another layer of Cambodia’s quiet beauty.

My favorite part of my solo trip to Cambodia 21 days in January was sitting by the river at sunset, watching children play along the banks. Battambang might not be flashy, but it’s soothing and soulful — a perfect stop on any 3-week Cambodia tour, especially for those seeking authentic local culture and peaceful moments.

5. Days 13–17: Five unforgettable days exploring Siem Reap and the Temples of Angkor

After more than half of my Cambodia 21-day trip, I finally reached Siem Reap, home to the world-famous Angkor Wat — a masterpiece of ancient Khmer civilization. I love the beauty of this place so much that I decided to spend 5 days in Siem Reap to discover all its famous sites and cultural activities. The boat journey from Battambang along the Tonlé Sap River was truly unforgettable: gentle breeze, quiet floating villages, and a soft golden sky at sunset. It felt like stepping into another Cambodia, peaceful and timeless.

Taking a solo female travel Cambodia 21 days in January, I spent my first day visiting Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and Bayon — incredible sites that left me speechless. Sunrise and sunset at Angkor Wat were simply breathtaking; moments everyone should witness at least once in their life. I also explored Ta Prohm, where massive tree roots embrace ancient stones, creating a mystical and cinematic landscape.

If you’re planning a solo female travel to Cambodia 21 days in January, I highly recommend joining a Khmer cooking class to experience local culture and cuisine. Visiting Artisans d’Angkor is another must — young artists crafting exquisite handmade works. In the evening, enjoy the traditional Apsara dance, or take a short excursion to Phnom Kulen or Beng Mealea, where nature and ruins merge beautifully.

When traveling alone, especially on a solo trip to Cambodia in January, evenings in Siem Reap are perfect for Khmer massages, shopping at night markets, or relaxing with a good meal. Just avoid deserted areas late at night. Siem Reap truly stands out as an essential stop on any solo female travel Cambodia 21-day itinerary.

You may be interested in:

>>> Motorbike food tour in Siem Reap
>>> 3 days in Siem Reap
>>> 7-day tour to Siem Reap Preah Vihear

6. Days 18–21: Kampong Cham – Mondulkiri, the perfect ending to a 3-week journey

Leaving Siem Reap behind, I began the final stretch of my solo female travel Cambodia 3-week itinerary with a calm heart. On the way to Sen Monorom, I made a peaceful stop at Kampong Cham, a charming riverside town on the Mekong. Sitting on the country’s longest bamboo bridge, watching the sun melt into the river, I realized that beauty often lies in life’s simplest moments.

The last three days of my solo trip to Cambodia were dedicated to Mondulkiri, a lush and remote region still untouched by mass tourism — a paradise for nature lovers like me. Rolling coffee hills, gushing waterfalls, and warm indigenous communities made it feel both raw and welcoming. I joined a jungle trek, visited an elephant sanctuary, and even helped bathe and feed these gentle giants.

Each evening, I’d sit on a hilltop, sipping local coffee and watching the sunset. My solo trip to Cambodia wasn’t just about discovering a country — it was a journey back to myself. As my car returned to Phnom Penh, I knew I’d be back again, because Cambodia had quietly captured a part of my soul.

III. Useful tips for solo travelers to Cambodia

After my solo female travel Cambodia 21-day in January, I realized that solo travel to Cambodia can be an incredible and empowering experience — as long as you plan it carefully.

How to get around Cambodia? If you’re planning solo female travel in Cambodia, choose reliable transportation like Giant Ibis or Phnom Penh Sorya intercity buses. Main routes such as Phnom Penh – Siem Reap – Battambang are safe and easy to book online. Within cities, Grab and PassApp are the most convenient and transparent ride options.

Cambodia offers many accommodations perfect for solo female travelers — from cozy homestays to charming boutique hotels. I especially loved the hostels in Siem Reap and Kampot, where it’s easy to meet other travelers. Always book through trusted apps or reputable travel agencies, and pick hotels in central areas for better safety and accessibility.

Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, a light jacket, and a scarf — especially if you’re on a solo trip to Cambodia in January in 21 days, since Cambodia in January tends to be sunny during the day but cool in the evenings.

Cambodians are friendly and welcoming, but avoid isolated places or going out too late at night. Consider using GPS tracking apps so your loved ones can follow your Cambodia itinerary 3 weeks safely.

Solo travel to Cambodia isn’t risky if you’re well-prepared. For an even smoother experience, I recommend booking through a reliable travel agency in Cambodia like Autour Asia, which provides full service — accommodation, transfers, and local guides.

Cambodia is a land that stays with you long after you leave — a place where spirituality, authenticity, and warmth make every Cambodia trip unforgettable. For me, my solo trip to Cambodia in January wasn’t just a journey — it was a moment of self-discovery. If you’re a woman searching for inspiration or freedom, let this 3-week Cambodia itinerary be your new beginning. Sometimes, traveling alone is the best way to find yourself.

You may also like:

>>> Best countries to visit in January
>>> 30-day Cambodia travel itinerary
>>> Cambodia Travel Guide
>>> Cambodia itinerary 15 days
>>> Cambodia Packages Tours