For decades, visitors from around the world have come to Siem Reap with temples, particularly Angkor Wat, at the top of their itinerary. Yet, as the region continues to develop, new tourism trends are emerging and one of the most promising is agritourism. Agritourism allows travelers to engage directly with rural life, from visiting farms and participating in traditional agricultural activities to enjoying local, farm-to-table cuisine. In Siem Reap, this trend is gradually taking shape as more farms and rural communities open their doors to travelers seeking authentic experiences.
Travelers today are increasingly seeking experiences that extend beyond sightseeing. They want to connect with local culture, participate in meaningful activities, and gain a deeper understanding of the places they visit. This growing demand makes agritourism a natural fit for regions across Southeast Asia.
Siem Reap, a well-established tourism hub in Cambodia, is particularly well-positioned to capitalize on this trend. As one of the provinces leading in agriculture and home to a wealth of cultural and natural attractions, it offers a unique combination of heritage and rural experience.
Over 70% of travelers now seek experience-based journeys that are representative of the local culture, according to the Booking.com Sustainable Travel report in 2023. In Cambodia, this has opened the door to agri-tourism—a young yet rapidly emerging sector. According to CBRE, $130 million of investment flowed into agro-industrial in the first H1 of 2025. It presents untapped potential that combines tradition, community, and sustainability.
Community groups like Visiting Banteay Srei and Agro Tourism Cambodia have shown what’s possible. But the potential is far greater, especially for investors ready to shape an industry still in its early chapters.
For investors, this convergence presents a compelling opportunity to develop a sector that promises both growth and authenticity. Let’s explore four main agritourism activities that are currently operating in Siem Reap and how investors can take advantage of the first-mover benefits.
1. Agriculture & Farm Produce
Imagine a group of travelers in Banteay Srei, their hands in the soil, harvesting fresh vegetables under the Cambodian sun. Later that evening, they gather for a shared village dinner, tasting the very produce they helped to pick. This isn't just a meal; it's a farm-to-table experience that connects visitors to the land and tradition in a deeply personal way.
Beyond these intimate tourist experiences, the fertile regions of Banteay Srei, Krobei Riel, Bakong, and Chreav hold immense potential. Their agricultural output can support not only tourism but also larger supply chains for local hotels, restaurants, and organic markets.
While land values vary—with Chreav and Bakong fetching higher prices—Banteay Srei stands out as an attractive opportunity. It offers resource-rich land at a relatively lower cost, making it an ideal starting point for investors looking to cultivate the future of Cambodian agri-tourism.
2. Culinary Experiences
Khmer cuisine has a way of staying with travelers—the silky coconut of fish amok, the sweetness of palm sugar, and the satisfying crunch of fresh market produce. Culinary classes invite visitors to move beyond simply tasting these dishes and actively cook them, transforming a meal into a memorable, hands-on experience.
This niche is growing worldwide, and Cambodia is perfectly positioned to capitalize on it. Investors could support dedicated cooking schools, partner with local chefs, or integrate classes into sustainable eco-resorts. This is more than just a business; it’s about sharing a culture and a story that travelers can carry home. By tapping into this market, you're not just participating in a business; you're becoming a part of their story while helping to shape a new narrative for Cambodia.
3. Eco-Lodges & Homestays
Imagine waking up in a wooden stilt house, the morning light filtered by the trees, with roosters crowing a gentle welcome. After a day of exploring, you sit under a blanket of stars, sharing stories with your hosts. This is more than a vacation; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that connects travelers to the heart of Cambodian life.
Eco-lodges and homestays offer this rare authenticity. For investors, the opportunity lies in creating spaces that are sustainable yet comfortable, appealing not just to backpackers but also to mid-range and mindful travelers seeking a deeper connection to the culture.
4. Farm-to-Table Dining
Globally, the farm-to-table movement is reshaping how we eat. In Siem Reap, while demand for authentic culinary experiences is on the rise, the supply chains remain underdeveloped.
This presents a clear opportunity for investment. Investors could strengthen this ecosystem by supporting organic certification, building strong farmer networks, or developing signature dining venues that showcase Cambodia’s incredible seasonal ingredients. When done right, this approach creates value for farmers, travelers, and the entire tourism industry.
A great local example is Happy & Co Farm. While their farm is located about 30 kilometers from the city, their dining venue in the center of Siem Reap ensures that fresh, healthy, and organically grown produce is accessible to everyone daily.
Potential Agri-tourism Areas in Siem Reap
Four key areas in Siem Reap show significant potential for agri-tourism, each with unique characteristics and investment opportunities.
- Banteay Srei
Banteay Srei is an especially attractive location due to its relatively low land prices, which are often lower than other areas, with price ranging from $3-$25 per square meter. While prices vary widely depending on the listing source, proximity to main roads, and development potential, the area provides a strong entry point for investors.
This makes it ideal for developing projects like organic farms, eco-lodges, homestays, and farm-to-table restaurants.
- Krobei Riel
Known for its lush green rice fields and vegetable farms, Krobei Riel has already seen local residents embracing agri-tourism activities. Land prices here are higher than Banteay Srei, with a range of $15 to $75 per square meter, reflecting its established agricultural identity and growing interest in community-based tourism.
- Prasat Bakong
Land prices in Prasat Bakong also show a wide range, starting from as low as $25 per square meter for more rural plots and climbing to nearly $300 per square meter for strategically located land closer to infrastructure and the city center.
This variety allows for a wide range of investment scales, from smaller, community-focused projects to larger, more developed ventures.
Souce: Realestate.com & khmer24
- Chreav
Chreav is the most expensive area on this list, with prices starting at a much higher baseline of $75 to $500 per square meter. This is likely due to its proximity to downtown Siem Reap and ongoing development.
The higher prices reflect a more mature market for agri-tourism projects such as community homestays, farm-to-table restaurants, and ox-cart tours, indicating a strong demand and a higher potential for returns.
The world is changing, and so are travelers. Soon, tourists will seek more than temples—they will want authentic, unique experiences that go beyond the ordinary. Siem Reap is perfectly positioned to offer this, combining its rich heritage with vibrant rural life. The market is still young and unsaturated, property prices remain accessible, and competition is low. For investors looking to enter a high-potential sector before it becomes mainstream, now is the moment to act and be part of shaping the future of tourism in Cambodia.
Cambodia’s agri-tourism is more than a trend. It’s where ancient farming traditions meet modern traveler expectations. For communities, it means livelihoods. For tourists, it means authentic stories. And for investors, it signals a market ready to grow.
The temples have already captured the world’s imagination. The fields, kitchens, and villages are next. Those who step in today won’t just be building businesses; they’ll be shaping how the world experiences Cambodia tomorrow.
By Kem Sreyneth
Project Marketing & Communication