Half Day: Dark Year of Phnom Penh and Survivor Encounter

The "Half Day: Dark Year of Phnom Penh and Survivor Encounter" tour provides a poignant exploration into Cambodia’s tragic past during the Khmer Rouge era. For just $15, participants embark on a 4-hour journey, visiting the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields, where they gain deep insights into the atrocities committed from 1975 to 1979. The tour’s unique highlight lies in the opportunity to hear firsthand accounts from survivors, fostering a respectful understanding of this dark chapter in Cambodian history. As participants reflect on the lessons of the past, they may find themselves grappling with questions that prompt further exploration.

Good To Know

• Explore Phnom Penh’s dark history during the Khmer Rouge regime, including visits to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields.
• Opportunity to meet a survivor and hear firsthand accounts of the atrocities committed during this period.
• Respectful and thoughtful approach to the sensitive subject matter, with emphasis on understanding and reflecting on this chapter of Cambodian history.
• Includes pickup, drop-off, professional guide, entry fees, and transportation in a comfortable, hygienic vehicle.
• Not suitable for children under 12 or individuals with heart problems due to the emotionally intense nature of the experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Half Day: Dark Year of Phnom Penh tour offers visitors a profound and poignant exploration of the city’s tragic history. Priced at $15 per person, this comprehensive 4-hour experience provides a deep understanding of the Khmer Rouge atrocities from 1975-1979.

Guests will visit the harrowing Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) and the Killing Field, where they’ll encounter a survivor for firsthand accounts. Optional stops include the Independence Monument, Statue of Sihanouk Norodom, and a river cruise.

The tour emphasizes respectful engagement, with photography allowed but mindfulness encouraged. Inclusions cover transportation, an expert guide, entry tickets, and bottled water, making this a thought-provoking and informative journey through Phnom Penh’s darkest chapter.

Tour Pricing

At $15 per person, the Half Day: Dark Year of Phnom Penh tour offers an affordable and comprehensive exploration of the city’s tragic history. The 4-hour experience includes pickup, drop-off, a professional guide, entry fees, and transportation in a hygiene vehicle. Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and customers can reserve their spot now and pay later. The tour highlights key sites like the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Field, with an optional river cruise at an additional cost.

Tour Duration	Cost per Person	Cancellation Policy
4 hours	$15	24 hours

Itinerary and Locations

Starting at Preah Sisowath Quay, the Half Day: Dark Year of Phnom Penh tour takes visitors on a poignant journey through the city’s tragic history.

The tour first visits the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, also known as S21, a former high school that was converted into a notorious prison and interrogation center by the Khmer Rouge regime.

From there, the group travels to the Killing Fields, a somber reminder of the atrocities committed during this dark period.

Along the way, there may be optional stops at landmarks like the Independence Monument and the Statue of Sihanouk Norodom, before returning to the starting point.

Experience and Highlights

Gaining understanding of the Khmer Rouge atrocities committed during the dark year of 1975-1979 is at the heart of this poignant tour. Travelers will have the opportunity to encounter a survivor of the regime, learning firsthand about their experiences and the horrors they endured. The tour approach emphasizes respect for the victims and survivors, allowing visitors to thoughtfully reflect on this somber chapter of Cambodian history. Photography is permitted, but guests are reminded to be mindful and respectful throughout the experience.

Highlight	Description	Significance
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum	Explore the former S-21 prison	Sobering reminder of Khmer Rouge crimes
Killing Field	Visit the mass grave site	Powerful symbol of the regime’s brutality
Survivor Encounter	Meet a first-hand witness	Deeply moving personal account

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Tour Inclusions

The tour includes pickup and drop-off transportation, a professional English-speaking guide to lead the way, and a comfortable, hygienic vehicle for the journey.

Bottled water is provided throughout the tour. Admission tickets to both the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) and the Killing Field are included, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the historical sites.

However, personal expenses like food and any optional add-ons, such as a river cruise, aren’t covered.

This tour isn’t suitable for children under 12 or individuals with heart problems, as the content can be emotionally intense.

Tour Exclusions

The tour excludes any personal expenses incurred by participants, such as food and optional add-ons like a river cruise.

While water is provided, travelers will need to cover the cost of their own meals.

Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 12 years old or people with heart problems, so those individuals won’t be able to participate.

The tour’s focus is on providing a respectful, guided experience of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Field, with the option to visit other landmarks along the way.

Travelers should come prepared with comfortable attire, sun protection, and cash for any personal needs.

Important Information

Travelers should come prepared with comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and water when embarking on this tour. Participants should avoid bringing alcohol and drugs, as they aren’t permitted.

This is an emotionally intense experience, so guests should be mentally and emotionally ready. The tour offers both shared group and private options to accommodate different preferences.

While photography is allowed, visitors must be mindful and respectful. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 12 or individuals with heart problems.

Guests should come with an open mind, ready to gain a deeper understanding of the Khmer Rouge atrocities and hear firsthand accounts from a survivor.

Tour Options

Two tour options are available for the "Half Day: Dark Year of Phnom Penh" experience.

Visitors can choose between a shared group tour or a private tour. The shared group tour allows travelers to join other participants and explore the sites together, which can provide a more social and interactive experience.

The private tour, on the other hand, offers a more personalized and flexible itinerary, catering to the specific needs and preferences of the individual or group.

Both options include pick-up and drop-off, a professional English-speaking guide, and all necessary entry tickets.

Guests can decide which format best suits their travel style and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Suitable Is This Tour for Children Under 12?

The tour is not suitable for children under 12 years old. The tour covers sensitive topics and experiences that may be emotionally intense and inappropriate for young children.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, the tour company excludes personal expenses, so any food or drinks brought by you will not be covered by the tour price.

Is Photography Allowed During the Survivor Encounter?

Photography is allowed during the survivor encounter, but visitors should be mindful and respectful. The tour guide will provide guidance on appropriate times and ways to take photos that respect the survivor’s experiences and privacy.

Can I Make Any Special Requests for the Tour?

Yes, guests can make special requests for the tour, such as stopping at additional sites or arranging a private tour. The tour operator is generally accommodating of reasonable requests, subject to availability and feasibility.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for This Tour?

There are no specific discounts or packages available for this tour. However, group bookings may be eligible for discounted rates. Customers are advised to inquire about any special offers or promotions when making their reservation.

Sum Up

The "Half Day: Dark Year of Phnom Penh and Survivor Encounter" tour offers a poignant exploration of Cambodia’s tragic past. Priced at $15, the 4-hour journey includes visits to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields, providing deep insights into the Khmer Rouge atrocities. Participants have the unique opportunity to hear firsthand accounts from survivors, fostering a respectful understanding of this dark chapter in Cambodian history.

You can check if your dates are available here: