Toul Sleng Choeung Ek Killing Phnom Penh Shooting Range Tour

Toul Sleng Choeung Ek Killing Phnom Penh Shooting Range Tour offers an unusual blend: visiting Cambodia’s historical sites intertwined with the adrenaline rush of shooting a variety of guns in a mountainous outdoor range. Priced at $75 per person, this full-day adventure takes you from sobering genocide memorials to the thrill of firing weapons like AK-47s and machine guns. Led by knowledgeable guides, it’s a tour that appeals to travelers wanting a mix of history, culture, and a touch of excitement.

What we particularly like about this experience is how well-organized it is. The guides are praised for their professionalism and friendliness, making the day flow smoothly and comfortably. Another highlight is the chance to fire an impressive array of weapons, which is quite rare and offers a sense of empowerment and fun — especially for those curious about firearms.

On the flip side, a possible consideration is the cost of the shooting session, especially the added fee for video footage—$50—that can add up quickly if you’re not forewarned. Also, for those sensitive to intense historical sites or gunfire, this tour might be emotionally or physically demanding.

This experience best suits travelers who have a balanced curiosity about Cambodia’s dark history but also crave an adrenaline-filled activity. It’s ideal for those comfortable with visiting intense historical sites and who want a more active, memorable experience during their stay.

Key Points

• Unique combination of historical visits and outdoor shooting experience
• Well-organized with professional guides and comfortable transportation
• Variety of weapons available, suiting different interests and skill levels
• Video service available for capturing your experience, for an extra fee
• Suitable for travelers over 5 years old, but not for pregnant women or those with certain health issues
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, water, and cold beer, adding value and convenience

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Phnom Penh Shooting Range Tour

Starting the Day: From Historical Sites to Outdoor Adventure

This tour kicks off early, around 8-9 am, with hotel pickups from central locations like the Phnom Penh Night Market or the Central Market. The transportation is private, with a friendly English-speaking guide and driver, which makes the entire experience feel personalized and hassle-free. We liked the flexibility of sharing our hotel details beforehand and the ease of communication via WhatsApp, as suggested by the provider.

The first part of the day involves visiting two of Phnom Penh’s most significant genocide memorials: the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. Each site takes about 90 minutes, enough time to gain a sober understanding of Cambodia’s tragic past and reflect on the resilience of its people. These visits are essential for anyone wanting a deeper context of what Cambodia endured, and the guides are praised for their knowledgeable, respectful approach.

Visiting Toul Sleng and Choeung Ek: Sobering and Moving

The Toul Sleng Prison, known as S-21, is a former high school turned detention center during the Khmer Rouge regime. Walking through its now-quiet halls, you can’t help but feel the weight of history. The exhibits are straightforward but impactful, with photographs and personal stories that leave a lasting impression.

Next, the group heads about 9 minutes to Choeung Ek, the Killing Fields, which vividly illustrate the brutal scale of Cambodia’s genocide. The site features mass graves, memorial stupa filled with skulls, and informative signs. The tour’s reviews highlight the importance of these visits, with one reviewer noting, “We had as much time as we needed at each stop,” which allows for thoughtful reflection.

Lunch Break: Rest and Replenish

After the two heavy sites, a 60-minute break for lunch offers a chance to rest and discuss what you’ve seen. The provider doesn’t specify cuisine, but typical options might include Khmer dishes, which are flavorful and affordable.

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The Main Event: Shooting in the Mountainous Range

Post-lunch, the tour accelerates into its most exhilarating part: the outdoor mountainous shooting range. Located in the Cambodian countryside, this range is distinguished as the only outdoor one in the country, offering fresh air and scenic views. The range hosts an astonishing variety of firearms—ranging from the classic AK-47 and M16 to grenade launchers, machine guns like PKM, and even RPGs.

You’ll have the opportunity to choose which weapons to fire, and well-trained instructors guide you through each shot. The range’s setup is designed to maximize safety and enjoyment, even for first-timers. One reviewer expressed appreciation, saying, “We had as much time as we needed at each stop,” which suggests ample opportunity to experience firing different weapons.

What You Can Expect During Shooting

Expect to see a wide array of guns, including some that are less common outside military or special shooting ranges, such as the Uzi or the 50-caliber sniper rifle. You might find the experience both empowering and slightly intimidating, particularly if you’re unfamiliar with firearms.

The provider offers a video service with four cameras, including Canon EOS and GoPro Max, to capture your shot for an additional $50. This can be a fun keepsake, especially if you want to relive your shooting moments. The reviews indicate that some find this a worthwhile expense, while others prefer sharing their experience via social media.

Payment and Additional Costs

At the end of the shooting, you’ll pay for the weapons used. The base price covers transportation, guidance, and site entry, but keep in mind the additional fees for the video service and entrance tickets to Toul Sleng ($10) and Choeung Ek ($6). While the overall cost might seem high, the value lies in the rarity of the experience and the professional guidance ensuring safety.

Final Notes and Practical Tips

• What to bring: sunglasses, sun hat, water, snacks, cash, waterproof shoes.
• Not allowed: drinks in the vehicle, diving.
• Considerations: the tour isn’t suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, or individuals with certain health issues.
• Timing: be ready 15 minutes before the scheduled pickup, and confirm your WhatsApp for easy contact.

Authentic Feedback from Participants

Vincent’s review highlights the guide Randal’s professionalism, saying, “Randal was a great guide. We had a very comfortable trip and as much time as we needed at each stop.” This reaffirms the tour’s focus on a personalized, unrushed experience.

Ulrich mentions the organization and transport as positives, but also notes that the shooting range was “very expensive in comparison,” especially since he paid for 20 coconuts but didn’t shoot at any. This honest critique suggests that travelers should be prepared for costs to add up if they opt for extras like videos or multiple weapons.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to combine education with adrenaline. If you’re interested in Cambodia’s history but also crave a hands-on activity, this offers a well-balanced day. It’s also suitable for those comfortable with a bit of intensity, whether in visiting intense historical sites or firing guns at a scenic outdoor range.

Travelers who appreciate guided, well-organized trips with flexibility to spend more time at each stop will find this particularly appealing. Just remember that it’s not ideal for young children, pregnant women, or anyone with health restrictions.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers an uncommon mix: walking through Cambodia’s poignant genocide memorials followed by firing a wide variety of guns in a beautiful outdoor setting. It’s an experience that makes history tangible and brings a sense of excitement that few other tours can match.

The professional guidance, scenic outdoor range, and long list of weapons mean you’ll leave with stories to tell and potentially some new skills. While the costs for extras like videos can add up, many find the overall value worthwhile considering the uniqueness of the experience.

If you’re looking for a day that’s equal parts educational and exhilarating, and don’t shy away from intense history or firearms, this tour could be just what you need.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 5 years old due to the nature of the activities and the content of the historical sites.

What’s included in the price?
The $75 covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, a private guide, water, and cold beer, plus entry to Toul Sleng and Killing Fields.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the video service costs $50, and you pay for the weapons you use separately. Entrance fees to sites are also payable ($10 for Toul Sleng and $6 for Killing Fields).

Can I choose which weapons to fire?
Yes, you can select from a list that includes rifles, machine guns, grenade launchers, and more, guided by trained instructors.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, water, cash for extras, and waterproof shoes. Food and drinks are also recommended.

Is the shooting experience safe?
Yes, the range is managed by well-trained instructors who prioritize safety and proper handling.

How long is the sightseeing part of the tour?
The historical site visits last about 3 hours combined, with each site taking around 90 minutes.

What is the duration of the whole tour?
A full day, starting around 8-9 am, with flexible timings based on availability.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it is designed for private groups, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What if I want a video of my shooting experience?
You can opt for the $50 video package, which records your shots with professional cameras and provides a polished edit sent to your hotel.

This experience truly combines history and adventure for travelers eager to explore Cambodia in an unconventional way. Whether you’re seeking a deeper understanding of the past or simply want to try your hand at firing guns in a stunning outdoor setting, this tour offers a memorable, one-of-a-kind day.

You can check availability for your dates here: