Phnom Penh: Killing Field & Toul Sleng Genocide Museum Tour

Phnom Penh’s Killing Field and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum offer a poignant window into Cambodia’s tragic past under the Khmer Rouge regime. This 4-hour guided tour provides an immersive experience, delving into the atrocities that unfolded during one of the darkest chapters in the country’s history. Visitors can expect to spend 1.5 hours at each site, guided by professional English-speaking experts who share insightful commentary and historical context. While the content may be emotionally heavy, the tour’s exceptional value and the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of this pivotal moment make it a compelling experience for adults and families alike. What unfolds during this tour is a powerful and thought-provoking journey that sheds light on a complex and often misunderstood period.

Good To Know

• This 4-hour guided tour in Phnom Penh explores the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, focusing on the atrocities committed by the Khmer Rouge regime.
• Priced at $17 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, entrance fees, and professional English-speaking guides who provide in-depth historical context.
• Covering 1.5 hours at each site, the tour offers an immersive and emotional experience, not recommended for individuals over 95 or those with limited mobility.
• With a 5/5 rating based on 87 reviews, the tour is praised for its informative and engaging presentations, personal stories, and exceptional value for the price.
• Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle, with complimentary cool water, and the tour concludes with a return to the original pickup location.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Phnom Penh Killing Field & Toul Sleng Genocide Museum Tour is a 4-hour guided experience that takes visitors through two of Cambodia’s most somber historical sites.

Priced from $17 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, and entrance fees to both the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.

Visitors will explore the Killing Fields, where they’ll learn about the atrocities committed by the Khmer Rouge regime, and then visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former school turned prison and execution center.

The tour provides a profound look into Cambodia’s dark past and isn’t recommended for individuals over 95 years old.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with pickup from visitors’ hotels in Phnom Penh.

The first stop is the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, where a guided tour provides an in-depth look at the tragic history of the Khmer Rouge regime.

The tour then moves to the Choeung Ek Killing Fields, where another guided tour explores the harrowing site of mass executions.

The itinerary includes:

• 1.5 hours at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
• 1.5 hours at the Choeung Ek Killing Fields
• Return to Phnom Penh

The tour concludes with the return to Phnom Penh, leaving visitors with a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s dark past and the resilience of its people.

Tour Inclusions

Professional English-speaking tour guides and drivers usher visitors throughout this comprehensive experience.

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle for comfortable transportation between the sites. Cool water is provided to help guests stay hydrated.

Entrance fees to the Killing Fields ($3/person) and Toul Sleng Genocide Museum ($5/person) are covered in the tour price. While tips and personal expenses aren’t included, the tour offers exceptional value by handling the logistics and providing knowledgeable guidance.

This thoughtfully designed excursion allows participants to explore these somber yet essential historical sites with ease and insight.

Customer Reviews

Overwhelmingly positive reviews from past participants underscore the tour’s exceptional value.

With an impressive 5/5 rating based on 87 reviews, this Phnom Penh tour has earned high praise for its informative and engaging presentations.

Guides are particularly commended for their ability to provide personal stories that add depth to the historical context, enhancing the overall experience.

Customers have also highlighted the tour’s strong organization and quality of transportation.

Key highlights from the reviews include:

• Informative and engaging guide presentations
• Personal stories that enrich the historical context
• Excellent tour organization and transportation
• Overall exceptional value for the price

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Tour Suitability

This Phnom Penh tour may not be suitable for individuals over 95 years old. The subject matter of the Killing Fields and Toul Sleng Genocide Museum can be emotionally challenging, particularly for the elderly. Plus, the tour involves moderate physical activity, including walking for approximately 3 hours. Those with limited mobility may find the experience tiring.

Suitable For	Not Suitable For
Adults	Individuals over 95 years old
Families	Those with limited mobility
Students	Visitors seeking a lighthearted experience

Discretion is advised when booking this tour, as the content may be distressing for some. However, the tour provides a powerful and educational exploration of Cambodia’s history.

Guided Tour Experience

The Phnom Penh Killing Field & Toul Sleng Genocide Museum Tour offers an immersive and guided exploration of Cambodia’s tragic history. The knowledgeable English-speaking guides lead visitors through the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum, providing in-depth historical context and personal accounts that add depth to the experience.

At the Killing Fields, the guides skillfully navigate the somber site, highlighting key landmarks and sharing poignant details that humanize the devastating events. Visitors consistently praise the guides’ ability to balance educational rigor with empathy, creating a meaningful and impactful tour.

The tour’s organization and transportation also receive positive reviews, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience.

Key features of the guided tour experience include:

• Informative and engaging presentations by expert guides
• Personal stories that contextualize the historical narrative
• Thoughtful guidance at the Killing Fields site
• Balanced approach between education and empathy

Historical Context

Cambodia’s tumultuous history under the Khmer Rouge regime, which seized power in 1975, has left an indelible mark on the nation.

During their brutal four-year rule, the communist party executed an estimated 1.7 million people through executions, forced labor, and starvation.

The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former high school turned interrogation center, and the Choeung Ek Killing Fields, one of over 300 such sites, serve as poignant reminders of this dark chapter.

The guided tours provide a somber and educational experience, allowing visitors to understand the scale of the atrocities and the lasting impact on Cambodian society.

Transportation and Logistics

For this tour, guests are picked up directly from their Phnom Penh hotels.

The tour group is expected to wait in the lobby 10 minutes prior to the scheduled pickup time. Once gathered, the group is transported in an air-conditioned vehicle with a professional English-speaking driver.

Throughout the tour, complimentary cool water is provided. The transportation is praised for its reliability and comfort, allowing visitors to focus on the sobering experiences ahead.

At the conclusion of the tour, guests are returned to their original pickup location in Phnom Penh.

• Pickup from hotel lobby
• Air-conditioned vehicle transportation
• Complimentary cool water provided
• Return to original pickup location

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

The tour duration can be extended if needed, but it may incur additional costs. Visitors should check with the tour operator about the possibility and pricing for extending the tour length beyond the standard 4-hour itinerary.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour Instead of a Group?

Yes, there’s an option for a private tour. Customers can select a private tour for a more personalized experience, where they’ll have a dedicated guide and transportation tailored to their schedule and needs. Prices may vary for the private tour option.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

Yes, the tour operator offers discounts for students and seniors. Students can receive a 10% discount on the tour price, while seniors aged 65 and above are eligible for a 15% discount. These discounts must be requested at the time of booking.

Can I Make Special Requests for the Tour or Guide?

Customers can make special requests for the tour or guide, such as requesting a particular language or accommodations for accessibility needs. However, the tour provider may not be able to guarantee all requests can be fulfilled.

What Should I Bring or Wear for the Tour?

For this tour, visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes and loose, breathable clothing. It’s also a good idea to bring sunscreen, a hat, and water to stay hydrated during the outdoor portions of the tour.

Sum Up

The Phnom Penh Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum Tour offers visitors a poignant and enlightening journey into Cambodia’s tragic past. With professional guides, hotel pickup, and entrance fees included, this 4-hour tour provides exceptional value for an immersive experience. Visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge regime, navigating the emotional weight of the content. It’s a suitable experience for adults and families seeking an educational and impactful exploration of this history.

You can check if your dates are available here: