Siem Reap, Cambodia – June 2025: Cambodia is strengthening its tourism sector by investing in the professional development of tour guides, aiming to enhance visitor experiences and promote the country’s cultural and natural attractions more effectively.
Tourism Minister Huot Hak officially opened the Siem Reap Regional Professional Tour Guide Training Course 2025, a five-day event held from June 23 to 27. The training is part of a broader strategy to improve service standards and support the “Visit Cambodia in the Green Season” campaign, which encourages travel during the off-peak months.
Tour Guides Play a Key Role in Cambodia’s Tourism Growth
Tour guides are often the first point of contact for travelers and are seen as cultural ambassadors of Cambodia. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Minister Huot Hak urged guides to continuously improve their skills, uphold ethical standards, and work together to promote Cambodia’s image globally.
“Tour guides connect Cambodia to the world and bring the world to Cambodia,” said Minister Hak. “They must act professionally, show unity, and place national pride above all.”
He also thanked tour guides nationwide for their efforts in promoting tourism and encouraged them to create content that showcases Cambodia’s diverse destinations and unique experiences, especially during the green season.
Upskilling Tour Guides to Meet Global Standards
The Siem Reap training course focuses on upgrading the knowledge and competencies of tour guides in response to changing market demands. Organized with the support of the Ministry of Tourism, APSARA National Authority, provincial authorities, and private-sector stakeholders, the course aims to align local tourism services with international expectations.
Khiev Thy, President of the Angkor Tour Guide Association, stressed the importance of continuous learning in the tourism profession.
“Guides must have genuine enthusiasm, professionalism, and in-depth cultural knowledge. They are the frontline representatives of Cambodia’s tourism sector,” he said.
Cambodia’s Tourism on the Rise in 2025
According to the Ministry of Tourism, Cambodia received 2.4 million international visitors from January to April 2025, marking a 13.6% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Visitor arrival statistics show:
- 1.35 million arrivals by land (56.2%)
- 1.01 million by air (42.1%)
- 40,159 by water (1.7%)
Top Tourist Source Countries:
- Thailand – 674,134 visitors
- Vietnam – 410,424 visitors
- China – 387,505 visitors
- United States – 90,715 visitors
Other key markets include Laos, South Korea, the UK, France, Indonesia, and Japan.
This steady growth reflects Cambodia’s improving global visibility and the success of its tourism recovery efforts.
Green Season Strategy: Promoting Travel All Year Round
To increase tourism during the low season, the Ministry of Tourism has launched the “Green Season Strategy”, highlighting the beauty of Cambodia during the monsoon months. Lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and affordable travel packages make it an attractive time for international travelers.
Tour guides are encouraged to support this campaign by sharing photos, stories, and videos on social media that highlight Cambodia’s temples, nature, cuisine, and warm hospitality.
With focused training, increased collaboration, and ongoing investment in human resources, Cambodia is committed to developing a sustainable, inclusive, and high-quality tourism industry.
By empowering tour guides and promoting travel during the green season, the Kingdom is not only enhancing visitor satisfaction but also driving economic growth and cultural preservation.
