Sandwiched between Vietnam, Thailand and Laos, Cambodia is a beautiful country with an intricate history. Home to the largest religious complex in the world, Angkor Wat is the jewel in Cambodia’s crown. However, there is more to this nation than its ancient heritage! The country faced devastation under the genocidal Khmer Rouge regime – the memory of which still looms large today.
Cambodia is recognised globally for its sprawling archaeological sites, breathtaking natural reserves and rich cultural tapestry. The country endures, a testament to the resilience of the Cambodian people. If you’re planning to visit, this guide (written by someone who just can’t stay away!) will tell you everything you need to know.
See our Cambodia Travel Guides (Listed A-Z) – Each guide will open in a new window
Battambang | Kampot | Kep | Koh Kong | Koh Rong | Koh Rong Samloem | M’Pai Bay (Koh Rong Samloem) | Koh Ta Kiev | Koh Tonsay | Kratié | Phnom Kulen | Phnom Penh | Sen Monorom (Mondulkiri) | Siem Reap | Sihanoukville
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INTRODUCTION | Backpacking Cambodia
- Currency: Cambodian Riel (US Dollar also widely used)
- Capital city: Phnom Penh
- Population: 17 million
- Main religion: Buddhist
- Main language: Khmer
- Telephone code: +855
- Time: GMT+7
- Emergency numbers:
- Fire: 023 723 555
- Police: 023 366 841
- Ambulance: 023 724 891
You’ll love Cambodia if…
- You’re a history buff. From the sprawling Angkor Wat complex to the lesser-known Preah Vihear Temple, Cambodia is home to plenty of archaeological wonders!
- You like to get off the beaten track. While Cambodia’s most popular attractions are undoubtedly touristy, it doesn’t take long to get away from the hustle and bustle.
- You enjoy old-school hippie vibes. Cambodia’s islands are a little like Thailand’s were back in the ‘90s. Choose your beach destination and kick back with a book during the day, dancing in the moonlight come nightfall.
- You find currency confusing and just want to stick to dollars. While Cambodia’s official currency is the riel, US dollars are used pretty much everywhere. Check out this article about Cambodian currency for more information.
- You’re after fragrant food which isn’t too spicy. For the spice-shy among us, Southeast Asia can be a challenging destination. Cambodian cuisine offers flavourful and fragrant dishes but without the sweat!
WHEN TO GO | The Best Time to Visit Cambodia
- Dry season: The best time to go to Cambodia is from November to February when there is little rain, low humidity and cool breeze. This is the best time for general sightseeing, trekking, cycling and getting around. However, this is also when you will find the biggest crowds and the highest prices.
- The hot season: Things start to really heat up in March! The hottest month is April when temperatures hit 40 degrees.
- Wet season (monsoon in Cambodia): The wet season starts in June and lasts until October. The downpours are heavy, but usually only take place in the afternoons and do not last long. However, don’t be put off too much. Rainy season across Southeast Asia can be a great time to get cheap deals on hotels and tours!
Read more about the best time to visit Cambodia here.
Khmer New Year is celebrated over three days in April and is a hugely important cultural celebration. If you want to experience some traditional festivities during your visit, you can find out about festivals in Cambodia and other parts of SE Asia here.
VISAS | Do I Need a Visa for Cambodia?
Visa on arrival (VOA): Most nationalities can obtain a 1-month tourist visa upon arrival which costs around $30USD. At land border crossings, notably the Thailand/Cambodia border, the fee is more expensive if paid in baht as it is sometimes rounded up considerably. You can avoid this by making sure that you have the correct notes in pristine USD. Please be aware that not all border crossings will allow you to pay in alternative currencies.
E-visa: You can now apply for an e-visa online to avoid any extra fees and make your border crossing faster and easier. Pre-order online at the government website and your visa will cost $37USD set price. While the e-visa is more expensive, many travellers prefer it as it means you can avoid long queues at borders and potential scams. You will need a digital photo of yourself to upload. Processing takes three days and you will get the visa straight to your mailbox.
At the moment, the E-visa is only valid for certain border crossings (Phnom Penh and Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, Cham Yeam/Koh Kong, Poipet/Banteay Meanchey and Bavet/Svay Rieng). To apply for the E-visa, you will need to know your point of entry in advance. See the official website for up-to-date info.
Visa Extensions
A visa extension can be obtained at the Phnom Penh immigration office, opposite the International Airport. Tourist visas can be extended by one month (approx. $45USD). The easiest way to extend your visa is through an agency. They will be responsible for getting the passport to PP and back as well as doing the necessary admin required for the extension. Bear in mind that if you go down this route, you will not have access to your passport for the duration so make sure you have at least one paper copy and one stored in the cloud.
For longer extensions, you may have to change your visa type by leaving the country and returning with a new visa (known as an E-Class Visa) that allows you to stay longer.
Border Runs
You can do a border run to a neighbouring country to obtain a new visa on arrival. There are currently no official restrictions on how often you can do this.
Penalty for Overstaying Your Visa in Cambodia
The penalty for late departure is $5USD per day, though we don’t recommend overstaying your visa. Read more about Cambodian visas in our Southeast Asia visa guide here.
HEALTH | Vaccines and Malaria Tablets for Cambodia
Do I Need Vaccines to Travel to Cambodia?
The essential vaccines that you should get before you travel to Cambodia are:
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Typhoid
You should also make sure that you are up to date on your tetanus, diphtheria and polio immunisation (usually a combined vaccine) and your MMR immunisation (measles, mumps and rubella) all of which are routine vaccines normally given as a child.
Other vaccines which are recommended, but not essential, are rabies and Japanese encephalitis. See our Southeast Asia vaccinations page for more detailed information.
Do I Need Malaria Tablets for Cambodia?
The vast majority of travellers do not need to take antimalarials to travel through Cambodia. All of the most popular tourist destinations including, Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, the islands, Kampot and Angkor Wat are not in malaria zones.
Those travelling to Sen Monorom are advised to buy antimalarials, however, these are available for cheap in pharmacies across the country.
Even outside of malaria zones, travellers should practice bite avoidance to stay safe from other mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever.
SAFETY | Is Cambodia Safe?
Cambodia is a very safe country to backpack through, with one exception: the beach town of Sihanoukville, also known as ‘Sinville’. Recently voted the third worst place to visit in Southeast Asia, many travellers reported feeling unsafe in this coastal den of iniquity. Unfortunately, drugs and prostitution are common in Sihanoukville and those who travel there can’t help but notice the criminal underbelly. Our advice is to avoid Sihanoukville altogether if possible.
Some travellers also reported feeling unsafe in Phnom Penh, however, we don’t really feel that it’s more dangerous than any other city as long as you keep your wits about you. Despite this, it is not wise for travellers to walk alone down the streets of the city at night, especially in remote and poorly lit districts. Muggings and rapes have been reported. Read more about safety in Phnom Penh.
The most common crime in Cambodia is thieves on motorbikes snatching your bag while you sit in a tuk-tuk, or while you are walking down the street. To avoid this, make sure that you keep your backpack firmly in hand and out of sight if possible (i.e. wear a money belt).
In Thailand, Cambodia has a bit of a reputation as being a lawless place and it’s not uncommon for Thai people to try to dissuade you from going there. This is largely racism on behalf of the Thais as most travellers who visit Cambodia have one main thing to say about the country, and that’s how friendly the people are. Whilst there is a dark and corrupt side to Cambodia (as there is to most places), the people are far more likely to help you than harm you. Travelling to remote countryside areas of Cambodia is not dangerous and locals here will likely be some of the most welcoming people you’ll meet!
9 Tips for Staying Safe in Cambodia
- Don’t get involved in drugs
- Avoid walking alone in cities after dark
- Don’t get drunk to the point of losing control
- Wear a money belt under your clothes
- When staying in a city, ask your accommodation about which areas should be avoided at night
- Don’t linger in border towns like Poipet (they are seedy AF!)
- Wear a helmet whilst riding a motorbike and drive carefully
- Don’t venture off on unmarked trails because of landmines
- Make sure you take out good travel insurance
SafetyWing is the travel insurance of choice for scores of backpackers!
- Subscription style insurance
- Cheap and flexible
- Available after your trip has started
WHAT TO PACK | What Should I Pack for a Trip to Cambodia?
While this is by no means an exhaustive packing list for Cambodia, it does feature a few essentials that you may have neglected to think of!
- Mosquito repellent
- Sunhat
- Moisturiser
- Refillable water bottle
- Sarong/scarf
- International Driving Permit (if you’re planning to rent a motorbike)
- Hand sanitiser
- US dollars
FLIGHTS | Airports and Airlines in Cambodia
Flying to Cambodia
Siem Reap’s Angkor International Airport is the main hub for international arrivals and departures. Many flights to Cambodia from Europe will change in Bangkok or Singapore. It can often be cheaper to fly into a travel hub in a neighbouring country and complete the rest of the journey into Cambodia overland. However, this naturally leads to more time spent on public transport.
Flying within Cambodia
Domestic flights do operate in Cambodia but with good public transport links between the most popular destinations, you are better off getting a bus (cheaper and better for the planet)! Local airlines such as AirAsia service many of the domestic routes.
LANGUAGE | Khmer
The main language of Cambodia is Khmer, pronounced ‘Kmei’. Cambodian people will love you if you attempt to learn a little of their language whilst you are travelling. Start with the following simple phrases:
- Hello: sua s’dei
- Thank you (very much): aw kohn (tran)
- How are you: niak sok sabai te
- What is your name: niak ch’mooah ei
- See you later: Juab kh’nia
- That’s too much: t’lai pek
- The bill please: som ket loy
COMMUNICATION | Phone and Internet in Cambodia
At one point, it was practically impossible to buy a local SIM in Cambodia as a foreigner. Luckily, things are much easier now, helping you stay connected easily while you travel. There are three main providers, Smart, Metfone and Cellcard.
All of them offer data packages but the one we recommend is the Cellcard tourist SIM. You will be required to show your passport when it comes to buying a SIM card as your data will be needed to register it.
Read more about buying a SIM card in Cambodia here.
BUDGET | How Much Does It Cost to Backpack Cambodia?
$35-60USD per day is a good recommended budget for the average traveller to Cambodia. This budget will allow you to stay in cheap private rooms, eat out and even treat yourself to the odd alcoholic beverage. You’ll also be able to embark on plenty of tours, helping you to get the most out of what Cambodia has to offer!
Cost of Accommodation in Cambodia
If you’re not too fussy about your accommodation, you can sleep for cheap in Cambodia! Dorm beds start at as little as $3USD, however, expect to pay more in a well-rated chain hostel with good amenities such as a swimming pool and social events.
Private rooms are a good budget-friendly option for couples, averaging somewhere around $30-40USD per night, however, you can find places for much cheaper. Don’t forget to check hostels for private rooms if you like that social vibe!
If a luxury experience is more your bag, you’ll find that your money goes a long way in Cambodia. Spa hotels are a great option for travellers who like to enjoy comfort when they travel and when booked in advance, it is possible to find good package deals.
READ: 👇
Cost of Food in Cambodia
While there is a street food culture in Cambodia, you’ll find a lot of cheap eats in small local restaurants. Expect to pay somewhere between $1-6USD for a budget-friendly local meal. Naturally, upmarket restaurants serving Western food will be expensive. You should expect to pay on average around $10USD at some of the more well-known establishments located on Pub Street in Siem Reap.
Cost of Beer in Cambodia
The local beer, Angkor, is the thing to drink if you are trying to conserve your budget. A bottle from a shop will set you back around $1USD, however, you can expect the same bottle to cost between $3-5USD in a bar. Imported beers will cost considerably more.
Cost of Activities in Cambodia
The cost of trips and tours in Cambodia varies a lot, but to give you a rough idea of how much to budget, we’ve included a range of popular activities and their approximate costs below.
- 1 Week Yoga Retreat (shared accommodation) – $300USD
- Entrance to Tuol Sleng – $5USD
- Entrance to Killing Fields – $3USD
- Cooking class – $25USD
- Full-Day Cycling Tour Battambang – $40USD
- Full-Day at Elephant Valley Project – $100USD
- Angkor Wat Ticket – (1 day – approx. $37USD, 3 days – approx. $62USD, 7 days – approx. $72USD)
Read more about how much it really costs to travel in Cambodia here.
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“How Are You Really?” Yoga Retreat @ Yoga Barn Kampot | KAMPOT, CAMBODIAFrom $100.00 -
Where the Wild Things Roam – Ethical Animal Tour | 11 Days, 10 Nights | CAMBODIA$1,599.00
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Bamboo Train, Wat Banan &Sunset Bat Cave | Full Day | From BATTAMBANG, CAMBODIA$75.00
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Visit the Elephant Valley Project | from SEN MONOROM, CAMBODIAFrom $47.50
TRANSPORT | Getting around Cambodia
Bus is the most common way to get around Cambodia. Buses service the main routes between the most popular tourist destinations. However, you may book a bus and get put on a minibus. These are common modes of transport between less well-known places, such as Kratie and Sen Monorom. Prices are likely to be similar for each.
Cambodia’s rail network is still in its infancy, meaning routes are limited and delays are very common. A journey by train is unlikely to be the most comfortable you’ve taken and the rocking may make you wish you’d taken some travel sickness pills but hey, it’s usually cheap enough.
Speedboats are commonly used to island hop in Cambodia and can be a little expensive but nothing compared to the cost of similar transport in Thailand. Make sure you reserve your space a day or so in advance to avoid missing out.
WHERE TO GO | Places to Visit in Cambodia
For Spa Seekers…
If you enjoy being pampered, Cambodia could be the place for you. Home to a range of spa hotels, it is easy to find wellness for cheap here, from budget-friendly yoga retreats to lengthy Khmer massages.
For Beach Bums…
While Cambodia is often overshadowed as a beach destination by neighbouring Thailand, there are some beautiful islands here too. Picture Koh Phangan back in the ‘90s and you’ll go some way to imagining the isolated islands off the coast of Cambodia. While Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem are the most famous beach destinations, Koh Ta Kiev and Koh Tonsay are more relaxed options.
For History Buffs…
Home to the largest religious complex in the entire world, it is no wonder that Angkor Wat attracts history lovers. Once you’ve explored the temples, walk the walls of Angkor Thom or head over to Preah Vinhear Temple, situated close to the Thai border.
For Animal Lovers…
You may be surprised to read that Cambodia is a great destination for wildlife lovers. The eastern town of Kratie is home to some of the last remaining Irrawaddy dolphins in Southeast Asia and the country’s leading elephant rehabilitation project has its base in Sen Monorom. As well as this, it is also possible to spot gibbons on guided treks and meet the rats who sniff out Cambodia’s landmines.
READ 👉 15 Amazing Places to Visit in Cambodia
THINGS TO DO | Top 10 Things to Do in Cambodia
1. Explore Angkor Wat
Did you even go to Cambodia if you didn’t go to Angkor Wat?! There are a myriad of ways to explore this vast temple complex, from tuk tuk tours, to hot air balloon rides and cycling tours!
We recommend spending at least three days exploring the temples and building up to the most impressive. A tour guide is well worth the money for the information and context they can provide about the Khmer Empire. Opt for a sunrise visit to see the colourful hues against the backdrop of the ancient temples.
2. Island Hop for a Few Days
Few things are better than soaking up the sun while you lay on powdery white sand. Cambodia is home to a variety of tropical islands and there are plenty of places to choose from, all catering to different types of travellers and tastes.
Hedonists love Koh Rong where they can party ‘til the sun comes up whereas those looking for a more hippie vibe should head to sleepy Koh Ta Kiev. Koh Rong Samloem offers a family-friendly vibe and Koh Tonsay serves up an authentic Cambodian island experience.
3. See Elephants in Their Natural Environment
Thailand might be best known for elephant sanctuaries but there are plenty of bad actors hiding in plain sight, making it hard to weed out the truly humane from exploitative tourist traps. If you’re looking to support a less well-known sanctuary which holds animal welfare at the heart of what they do, check out Cambodia’s Elephant Valley Project. they offer truly ethical hands-off trekking experiences, allowing tourists to walk alongside elephants as they wander through the jungles of Mondulkiri.
All the money brought into the project goes towards rescuing and rehabilitating elephants, as well as paying the local Bunong staff a fair wage. The project holds philanthropy at its core, educating communities and also funding conservation projects in the area. Book your visit to EVP here or reserve your place to spend longer volunteering at the sanctuary.
READ 👉 Cambodia’s best elephant sanctuaries
4. Hold a Hero Rat
The APOPO visitor centre, located in Siem Reap is a great place for animal lovers and science buffs alike. Home to Cambodia’s ‘hero’ rats, these rodents have been specially trained to sniff out landmines.
A visit to the centre includes an educational tour and a demonstration from the rats themselves. Once this is completed, visitors have the opportunity to hold a hero rat and have their photo taken. Proceeds go towards funding this important work.
5. Do a Yoga Retreat
Take some time out of your busy travel schedule and prioritise yourself for a change! One of Cambodia’s best-kept secrets is that it hides a burgeoning yoga scene, where visitors can embark on retreats for a relatively low cost.
Asanas combined with breathwork work wonders for the body and you may find that this is exactly what you need after a busy few days or weeks hopping from trains to minibuses and back again! One of the best budget retreats that we’ve found is based in Kampot. Rolling retreats mean you can join anytime and fill your cup, ready for your future travels! Carve out some time for yourself and book your space at Yoga Barn Kampot here.
6. Learn Kun Khmer
You might have heard of Muay Thai but have you heard of Kun Khmer? Cambodia’s traditional martial art was all but wiped out during the Khmer Rouge’s reign of terror but people are working hard to bring it back to prominence.
Why not learn a few moves yourself, get fit and have fun at the same time? Kun Khmer packages are available at a few gyms across the country and offer accommodation and training packages at a great price point.
7. Learn About the Genocide
A sobering but important part of any trip to Cambodia is learning about the genocide committed by the Khmer Rouge regime. In their quest to turn the country into a socialist republic, the Khmer Rouge murdered 25% of Cambodia’s entire population over four years, estimated to be somewhere between 1.5-2 million people.
A trip to the Tuol Sleng Prison (S21) and the Killing Fields, just outside Phnom Penh, educates visitors about the monstrosities that played out under this cruel regime. Remember that most middle-aged Cambodians are likely to have lost family or friends – if they share their stories with you, treat them with respect.
To learn more about this brutal regime, we recommend reading ‘First They Killed My Father’ by Loung Ung, a survivor of the genocide. Her book was later made into a movie of the same name, directed by Angelina Jolie.
8. Be Entertained at the Phare Circus
The Phare Circus, located in Siem Reap and Battambang, is a social enterprise, working to lift Cambodian children and teenagers out of poverty through the arts. They aim to provide free education to local communities. As well as theatre, music and drawing, there is also a circus school which trains young performers and helps them earn a decent wage.
A trip to the Phare Circus is an absolute must if you’re in Siem Reap or Battambang. Not only does it provide an evening of incredible entertainment, but you can rest assured that your money is being spent to uplift local communities.
9. Ride the Bamboo Train
Battambang’s Bamboo Train offers a unique way to spend an afternoon. Often combined with a range of other activities in the nearby area including the Bat Cave and Killing Cave, a trip on the Bamboo Train is a must for those visiting Battambang.
After the fall of the Khmer Rouge regime, Cambodia’s railways were in dire straits. To counter this, enterprising locals used old engines to create makeshift carriages, mostly used for transporting rice. The train exists today but only as a tourist attraction. There is no better way to take in the countryside of Battambang – not to mention these rickety platforms reach speeds of up to 40km/h! 😱
10. Visit the Floating Villages
For a taste of authentic Cambodia riverside life, don’t miss a visit to one of the floating villages dotted along the Sangker River and the Tonlé Sap Lake. Featuring everything from houses to churches and even hospitals, these stilted villages float over the water, offering a very different way of life from the norm.
The best way to see these villages up close is to embark on a guided tour. If this feels a little too voyeuristic for you, you can also jump on board the Siem Reap-Battambang boat to see them on the way to your next destination.
Sheree Hooker | Editor @ South East Asia Backpacker + Winging The World
Sheree is the awkward British wanderluster behind wingingtheworld.com, a travel blog designed to show that even the most useless of us can travel. Follow Sheree’s adventures as she blunders around the globe, falling into squat toilets, getting into cars with machete men and running away from angry peacocks. In recent years, Sheree has also taken on the role of editor at South East Asia Backpacker.