The Private Half Day tour to the Killing Fields and S21 Genocidal Museum offers visitors a profound and poignant exploration of Cambodia’s somber past. Over four hours, participants are guided through the haunting sites of Choeung Ek and Tuol Sleng, gaining a deeper understanding of the tragic events that led to the loss of countless lives under the Khmer Rouge regime. With comfortable transportation and an experienced English-speaking guide, this educational journey ensures a thoughtful and reflective experience. While the subject matter is undoubtedly heavy, the tour provides an invaluable opportunity to honor the memories of the past and consider the lasting impact of such atrocities.

Good To Know

Private Half Day to Killing Field and S21 Genocidal Museum - Good To Know

  • This private half-day tour explores the Choeung Ek Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, providing an in-depth understanding of Cambodia’s dark historical chapter.
  • The tour includes private air-conditioned transportation, an English-speaking guide, and covers all entrance fees, ensuring a comprehensive and hassle-free experience.
  • Visitors will spend approximately 1.5 hours at each site, learning about the atrocities committed by the Khmer Rouge regime and the suffering endured by victims.
  • The tour emphasizes the educational and emotional impact of the sites, offering a somber reminder of the importance of remembering Cambodia’s history.
  • The tour has consistently received 5-star ratings from customers, who praise the knowledgeable guide, well-organized itinerary, and comfortable transportation.
You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

Private Half Day to Killing Field and S21 Genocidal Museum - Tour Overview

This private half-day tour offers an immersive experience for visitors to explore the somber historical sites of the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia.

Priced from £49.39 per person, the tour lasts 4 hours and includes hotel pickup in Phnom Penh. Guests will travel by air-conditioned vehicle to the Choeung Ek Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, spending around 1.5 hours at each location.

The tour is conducted by an English-speaking guide and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Inclusions cover private transport, guide, entrance fees, and refreshments, providing a comprehensive and educational experience to understand the suffering under the Khmer Rouge.

Itinerary Details

Private Half Day to Killing Field and S21 Genocidal Museum - Itinerary Details

The tour begins with pickup from the hotel lobby in Phnom Penh, where guests will board an air-conditioned vehicle for the journey.

The first stop is Choeung Ek, the Killing Fields, located a 20-minute drive from the city. Here, visitors will explore the mass graves and memorial stupa containing thousands of skulls, learning about the brutal executions of over 17,000 individuals during the Khmer Rouge regime.

The next stop is the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former high school turned prison where 20,000 people were imprisoned and many tortured.

The tour concludes with the return to Phnom Penh after these emotionally impactful visits.

Historical Context

Private Half Day to Killing Field and S21 Genocidal Museum - Historical Context

During the brutal Khmer Rouge regime, over 17,000 individuals were executed at the Choeung Ek Killing Fields. This infamous site was one of many where the regime’s leaders, including Pol Pot, Eang Sary, and Khiev Samphorn, oversaw the systematic killing of innocent people.

The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, formerly a high school turned prison, was another key location where an estimated 20,000 prisoners were tortured and deprived.

This private tour offers an educational and emotional experience, allowing visitors to better understand the immense sufferings endured by the victims of the Khmer Rouge’s brutality and the importance of remembering this dark chapter in Cambodia’s history.

Inclusions

Private Half Day to Killing Field and S21 Genocidal Museum - Inclusions

The tour includes private transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, a private tour guide and driver, travel insurance, toll roads, and parking.

Cold water and wipes are also provided for your comfort during the tour.

Entrance fees to the Choeung Ek Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum are covered as well, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

The inclusion of these amenities allows you to focus on the educational and emotional aspects of the historical sites, without worrying about logistics.

This comprehensive package give you a meaningful and seamless journey through Cambodia’s dark past.

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Important Information

Private Half Day to Killing Field and S21 Genocidal Museum - Important Information

What should visitors bring on this tour? Guests are advised to pack sunglasses, a hat, camera, and sunscreen. Cash may also come in handy for any additional expenses.

It’s important to note that pets aren’t allowed on this tour.

This private half-day experience provides an educational and emotional journey through Cambodia’s dark history. Visitors can expect to spend around 1.5 hours at each site, the Choeung Ek Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.

Throughout the tour, a private guide and air-conditioned transportation will be provided.

Exploring Choeung Ek

Private Half Day to Killing Field and S21 Genocidal Museum - Exploring Choeung Ek

A short 20-minute van ride from Phnom Penh takes visitors to the somber Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields. This serene location belies the horrors that took place here during the Khmer Rouge regime.

Visitors can explore:

  • Mass graves where thousands were executed and buried
  • A memorial stupa containing thousands of skulls, a powerful symbol of the genocide
  • Remnants of the violence, such as bone fragments and clothing
  • Educational exhibits that provide context and chronicle the atrocities committed at this site

This emotional experience serves as a solemn reminder of the tragedies that occurred and the importance of remembering the victims.

Visiting Tuol Sleng

Private Half Day to Killing Field and S21 Genocidal Museum - Visiting Tuol Sleng

After visiting the Killing Fields, the tour continues to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, also known as S21. This former high school was converted into a notorious prison where over 20,000 individuals were imprisoned, tortured, and killed during the Khmer Rouge regime.

Fact Detail
Purpose A site of torture and deprivation
Victims 20,000 individuals imprisoned
Duration 1.5 hours spent at the museum

Visitors can explore the eerie hallways and cells, learning about the atrocities committed and the suffering endured by the victims. The museum provides a somber and emotional experience, further highlighting the dark history of the Khmer Rouge’s reign.

Customer Feedback

Private Half Day to Killing Field and S21 Genocidal Museum - Customer Feedback

According to customer reviews, the private half-day tour to the Killing Fields and S21 Genocide Museum has consistently received an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars.

Reviewers have highlighted several key aspects of the tour:

  • The emotional impact of the sites, providing a profound understanding of the Khmer Rouge atrocities

  • The knowledgeable and personable guide, who shared historical context and personal connections to the events

  • The well-organized itinerary, which allowed for in-depth exploration of both the Killing Fields and S21 Museum

  • The comfortable transportation and inclusion of water and wipes, ensuring a seamless and refreshing experience

Frequently Asked Questions

Private Half Day to Killing Field and S21 Genocidal Museum - Frequently Asked Questions

What Measures Are in Place to Ensure a Respectful Experience?

The tour features a respectful approach, with private guides trained to provide an emotional yet educational experience. Visitors are advised on appropriate attire and behavior to honor the tragic history and memories of victims.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Recommendations for This Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour, but it’s recommended for children aged 12 and above. The content may be emotionally heavy for younger visitors, so parental discretion is advised. The tour provider can accommodate families with children.

Can I Take Photos During the Visits, and Are There Any Restrictions?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photos during the visits, but there may be some restrictions or designated areas where photography is not permitted out of respect for the somber nature of the sites. It’s best to check with the tour guide for any specific guidelines.

Is There an Option to Visit Only One Site Instead of Both?

Yes, visitors can choose to visit only one site instead of both. The tour operator offers the flexibility to visit either the Choeung Ek Killing Fields or the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, depending on the traveler’s interest and time constraints.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration or Add Additional Stops?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended or additional stops can be added. The tour provider offers flexible options to customize the itinerary based on the traveler’s preferences and interests.

Sum Up

This private half-day tour provides a poignant exploration of Cambodia’s tragic past under the Khmer Rouge. Visitors are guided through the haunting sites of Choeung Ek and Tuol Sleng, learning about the atrocities that led to the loss of countless lives. With comfortable transportation and an experienced guide, the tour ensures a profound understanding of this dark history, fostering remembrance and reflection.

You can check if your dates are available here: