Phnom Penh: Killing Fields and S21 Genocide Museum Tour

The Phnom Penh Killing Fields and S21 Genocide Museum Tour takes visitors on a solemn journey through Cambodia’s harrowing past under the Khmer Rouge regime. An English-speaking guide leads the way, shedding light on the atrocities committed and the nation’s remarkable resilience. Participants explore the haunting exhibits at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and reflect at the serene Choeung Ek Killing Fields, gaining a deeper understanding of this complex and tragic chapter in Cambodian history. What unfolds is a powerful reminder of the human capacity for both cruelty and endurance.

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Key Points

This 4-hour tour covers the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek Killing Fields in Phnom Penh, providing an immersive learning experience about the Khmer Rouge atrocities.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, admission to both museums, and an English-speaking guide to provide insights into Cambodia’s history and resilience.
At Tuol Sleng, visitors can explore the haunting exhibits and learn about the horrors of the Khmer Rouge regime, while Choeung Ek allows for reflection and contemplation.
The tour is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or wheelchair users due to moderate walking requirements, and may be disturbing for sensitive individuals.
The tour offers a discounted price of $57.60 per person with a 10% discount, and a full refund is available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Phnom Penh: Killing Fields and S21 Genocide Museum Tour offers visitors a chance to learn about the Khmer Rouge regime’s atrocities and the resilience of the Cambodian people.

Priced at $57.60 per person with a 10% discount, the 4-hour tour includes hotel pickup, admission to both sites, and an English-speaking guide.

Guests can reserve their spot with no upfront payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour’s itinerary covers Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, Choeung Ek Killing Fields, and transportation back to Phnom Penh.

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Itinerary and Logistics

The tour kicks off with a 30-minute car ride from the pickup location in Phnom Penh to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, also known as S21.

The tour begins with a 30-minute drive from Phnom Penh to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, also known as S21.

Visitors spend 1.5 hours exploring this former school-turned-prison, learning about the atrocities committed by the Khmer Rouge.

Next, they travel 30 minutes to the Choeung Ek Killing Fields, where they spend an hour reflecting on the site’s serene yet somber atmosphere.

After the visit, the tour returns to Phnom Penh, a 30-minute drive.

The tour guide and driver arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time to ensure a seamless experience.

Tour Highlights

This tour offers an immersive and emotional experience, allowing visitors to learn about the Khmer Rouge regime’s atrocities. At the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, also known as S21, guests will hear heartbreaking tales while surrounded by the museum’s haunting displays. The tour then journeys to the serene Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, where countless lives were lost. Throughout the experience, the guide shares insights into Cambodia’s resilience and healing journey.

| Tour Highlights |

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Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, admission to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum S21 and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, as well as an English-speaking tour guide.

However, the tour doesn’t include meals, drinks, or personal expenses. Visitors are also responsible for providing their own tips.

It’s important to note that this tour may not be suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or wheelchair users due to the moderate walking involved and the potentially disturbing content.

Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring items like a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water.

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Important Information and Recommendations

Is this tour suitable for all visitors? No, it’s not. The tour isn’t recommended for children under 12, pregnant women, or wheelchair users.

Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water. Moderate walking is involved, and some outdoor areas may be challenging.

The content of the tour may be disturbing, so discretion is advised for sensitive individuals. Although the tour covers difficult subject matter, it provides an opportunity to learn about Cambodia’s history and reflect on its resilience and healing journey.

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Exploring the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum S21

Visitors begin the tour at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, also known as S21. This former high school was converted into a prison and interrogation center during the Khmer Rouge regime. Chilling artifacts and displays chronicle the atrocities committed against prisoners.

| Exhibition Halls | Description |

|——————|————-|

| Main Building | Showcases cells and instruments of torture |

| Courtyard | Highlights security measures and prisoner testimonies |

| Memorial Stupa | Contains skulls and bones of victims |

Haunting photographs of prisoners line the walls, a somber reminder of the horrific acts that occurred within these walls. Visitors reflect on Cambodia’s past and its journey towards healing.

Confronting the Choeung Ek Killing Fields

After experiencing the somber atmosphere of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, visitors proceed to the Choeung Ek Killing Fields, a serene yet haunting location that bears witness to the atrocities of the Khmer Rouge regime.

Here, they can:

Wander through the memorial stupa, which displays thousands of human skulls and bones, a sobering reminder of the lives lost.
Observe the mass graves and execute pits where prisoners were brutally murdered.
Reflect on the resilience of the Cambodian people and their journey towards healing and reconciliation.
Gain a deeper understanding of the country’s tragic past and the importance of preventing such horrors from ever happening again.

Reflecting on Cambodia’s Resilience and Healing

Though the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum evoke profound sorrow, they also stand as powerful testaments to the resilience and healing of the Cambodian people.

Visitors can’t help but be moved by the nation’s journey to overcome such a devastating past. Cambodia’s resilience is evident in its commitment to memorializing the victims and educating future generations.

The peaceful atmosphere at Choeung Ek offers a chance for reflection and contemplation.

Today, Cambodia embraces its history while simultaneously focused on progress, economic growth, and reconciliation. The country’s strength and determination to heal inspire all who learn its story.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no specific dress code for this tour. However, it’s recommended to wear comfortable, casual clothing that’s suitable for the outdoor environment and walking. Visitors should avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, or other revealing attire.

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Museums?

Photography is generally allowed inside the museums, but visitors are advised to be respectful and avoid disturbing other guests. Some areas may have restrictions, so it’s best to check with the tour guide or museum staff.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour has an age restriction – it’s not suitable for children under 12. Pregnant women and wheelchair users are also not recommended for this tour due to the moderate walking involved and potentially challenging outdoor areas.

Will There Be Opportunities to Buy Souvenirs?

The tour itinerary does not include scheduled stops for souvenir shopping. However, visitors may have the opportunity to purchase items from small vendors near the tour sites if they wish, though this is not a formal part of the tour.

Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Other Sites?

Yes, the tour can be extended to visit other sites. Customers can request additional stops or a longer duration, which may incur additional fees. The tour operator can provide options to customize the itinerary to suit individual interests.

The Sum Up

The Phnom Penh Killing Fields and S21 Genocide Museum Tour provides a poignant and educational opportunity to explore Cambodia’s tragic history under the Khmer Rouge. Visitors gain a deeper understanding of the nation’s resilience in the face of unspeakable atrocities and its journey toward healing and reconciliation. This tour offers a powerful and reflective experience that honors the victims and fosters greater awareness of this profound chapter in Cambodian history.