Blog Posts
No post found
- Capital: Phnom Penh
- Area: 181,035 sq km
- Population: 16.7 million
- Language: Khmer
Regions
| Banteay Meanchey | Kratié | Mondul Kiri | Phnom Penh |
| Preah Vihear | Prey Veng | Pursat | Ratana Kiri |
| Siemreap | Preah Sihanouk | Stung Treng | Battambang |
| Svay Rieng | Taakaev | Oddar Meanchey | Kep |
| Pailin | Tboung Khmum | Kampong Cham | Kampong Chhnang |
| Kampong Speu | Kampong Thom | Kampot | Kandal |
| Koh Kong |
Cambodia is bordered by Thailand to the northwest, Laos to the north, Vietnam to the east, and the Gulf of Thailand to the southwest. The capital and most populous city is Phnom Penh.
In 802 AD, Jayavarman II declared himself king, uniting the warring Khmer princes of Chenla under the name “Kambuja”.[16] This marked the beginning of the Khmer Empire. The Indianised kingdom facilitated the spread of first Hinduism and then Buddhism to Southeast Asia and undertook religious infrastructural projects throughout the region. In the fifteenth century, Cambodia experienced a decline in power, and in 1863, it became a protectorate of France. After a period of Japanese occupation during the Second World War, Cambodia gained independence in 1953. The Vietnam War extended into the country in 1965 via the Ho Chi Minh and Sihanouk trails. A 1970 coup installed the US-aligned Khmer Republic, which was overthrown by the Khmer Rouge in 1975. The Khmer Rouge ruled the country and carried out the Cambodian genocide from 1975 until 1979, when they were ousted in the Cambodian–Vietnamese War. The Vietnamese-occupied People’s Republic of Kampuchea became the de facto government. Following the 1991 Paris Peace Accords which formally ended the war with Vietnam, Cambodia was governed by a United Nations mission (1992–93). The UN withdrew after holding elections in which around 90% of the registered voters cast ballots. The 1997 coup d’état consolidated power under Prime Minister Hun Sen and the Cambodian People’s Party (CPP). While constitutionally a multi-party state, CPP dominates the political system and dissolved its main opposition party in 2017, making Cambodia a de facto one-party state.
USEFUL INFORMATION
Currency & banking
Cambodia’s official currency is the riel, but US dollars play an equally important role in the country’s monetary system. This unique situation of having two parallel currencies can be confusing for visitors.
The riel is the official currency of Cambodia. The exchange rate is around 4,000 riel to US$1. Riel come in banknotes of 100, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000 and 100,000 denominations – coins are generally not used.
Most purchases and transactions in Cambodia are quoted in riel prices, especially in the rural areas.
Despite the riel being the national currency, US dollars are widely used and circulating in Cambodia, a situation known as “dollarization”.
Dollars are accepted for payment everywhere, often interchangeably with riel, and some tourist businesses quote prices in dollars – Cambodia is essentially a dual-currency economy.
Getting Riel vs Dollars
Visitors arriving at Phnom Penh and Siem Reap airports can exchange money for riel or dollars. ATMs also dispense both currencies (ask your home bank about foreign transaction fees).
Banks offer the best exchange rates. For informal exchanges, use official money changers in markets rather than individual touts on the street, and make sure to count your money carefully before and after.
Shop around as rates vary – expect better rates in cities like Phnom Penh over rural provinces and borders.
Border towns may also use Thai baht or Vietnamese dong. Don’t needlessly exchange between them as you can spend baht or dong directly.
Using Dollars vs Riel
As a tourist, either currency can be freely used in Cambodia. However:
- Have small riel notes for markets, tuk tuks, meals etc.
- Keep larger dollar bills ($10+, clean/new) for hotels, flights, big purchases
- Get change from dollars in a mix of riel and dollars
- Withdraw cash in dollars from ATMs
- Never rely entirely on either currency – use a mix of both
The use of credit cards is increasing in tourist areas, though Cambodia remains very much a cash economy. Visa and MasterCard are accepted at most upscale hotels, shops, and restaurants. Some midrange places and a growing number of other businesses are following suit. Most businesses charge a 2% to 4% fee to accept credit cards.
Getting around
Known for its temples, jungles and beaches, Cambodia is a compact country that’s relatively easy to navigate. Roads have improved in recent years, but conditions can vary widely from the dry to the wet season, and it can take a while to cover even short distances. It’s best to view transport in Cambodia as all part of the adventure. Whether it be navigating the organised chaos of the capital, arranging a trip across the country or figuring out how to get up Bokor Mountain, here’s our guide to transport in the Kingdom of Wonder.
Boats
Boats can be a great way to combine sightseeing, travel, history and relaxation. It isn’t the most efficient or cost-effective way to travel, but the journeys can be scenic and fun. You can take a boat from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, and between Siem Reap and Battambang. The trip to or from Phnom Penh isn’t particularly picturesque, and the Tonle Sap Lake is so vast it’s more like being at sea. The trip to or from Battambang is more interesting, combining sailing across the Tonle Sap with a journey down the Sangker River. Boat services are operational most of the year, closing in peak season (April, May, and June) when the water levels are too low. Options range from ferry boats to traditional wooden boat tours to speed boat services. Most people tend to sit on the top for a better view, so bring plenty of sun cream and enjoy the ride.
Buses
The easiest and cheapest way to travel between Cambodia’s major towns is by bus, a network that has improved in recent years. Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville are the main hubs. Bear in mind that buses range from downright unsafe, to more comfortable affairs that boast WiFi and air-conditioning. The online portal CamboTicket enables users to see reviews based on safety, reliability and service, and to book tickets. When it comes to local buses, Phnom Penh is the only city with any public transport to speak of, with a small network covering major swathes of the centre and outskirts.
Trains
Trains are not very common in Cambodia. Routes exist between Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville, from Phnom Penh to Poipet and between the capital and Battambang, but services were suspended during the pandemic, with some yet to resume. Also, the train being used for the Phnom Penh-Battambang service is an ex-State Railways of Thailand diesel railcar with opening windows and fans, but no air-conditioning. While improvements are being made, we’d recommend sticking to other modes of transport in Cambodia.
Domestic Flights
Domestic flights are a swift and comfortable way to get around and a great way to avoid Cambodia’s unpredictable roads. Air travel is generally good value and the three main airports in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville are well connected by shuttle flights. Travellers only need to take one short flight (between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap) to visit the major tourist destinations within the country. Our expert travel consultants know how to secure the best seats at the best prices, so you don’t need to worry.
Getting around in cities
City taxis are available in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Private taxis can be hailed on the street or arranged through your hotel while ride-hailing apps include Grab and Exnet. Taxis are quicker than buses but, of course, more expensive.
Tuk-Tuks – two-wheeled carriages pulled by motorbikes – are a popular mode of transport in Cambodia. There’s no shortage of them waiting to ferry tourists about, typically at heavily inflated prices. Be sure to negotiate the fare before getting in and carry small dollar bills or riel to avoid any awkward issues on arrival. PassApp dominates the ride-hailing market, with its rickshaw-style tuk-tuks flooding the capital and Siem Reap’s roads. Given passengers can sidestep the hassle of haggling, they are quickly becoming the number one option for many.
Motorbike taxis, or motos, are a common way to travel short distances, although riding on the back of a moto in the middle of hectic city traffic isn’t everybody’s idea of fun. Passengers ride pillion behind the driver and Cambodians often squeeze on three or even four at a time. Moto drivers tend to congregate around transport stops and local landmarks so visitors can expect to be approached regularly. Passengers must wear helmets, so if your driver can’t give you one, don’t get on.
What to wear
Lightweight, loose-fitting clothes are sensible at any time of year. To avoid offending local sensibilities, female travellers should wear clothes that cover the legs and upper arms. Note that shorts are rarely worn by adults, except at the beach. Full-length trousers will create a better impression. Because of the rainfall patterns and the vagaries of Malaysia weather, always carry an umbrella.
Health advice
The US Center For Disease Control maintains an updated list of medical advice for those travelling to Cambodia
The CDC recommends being up to date with all your regular shots. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot
Cambodia Health Care and Vaccinations
| Title | Special precautions |
| Diphtheria | Sometimes |
| Hepatitis A | Yes |
| Yellow Fever | Sometimes*** |
| Typhoid | Yes |
| Tetanus | Yes |
| Rabies | Yes ** |
| Malaria | Yes* |
* Malaria is only a risk in certain regions of Cambodia. Urban and coastal areas are usually safe.
** Vaccinations are only recommended for travellers spending extended periods in rural areas.
*** Required for travellers≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission.1
Malaria and Hepatitis A and C are present in Cambddia and Hepatitis B is also widespread, though the risk to travellers is low. Outbreaks of dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis and meningococcal meningitis occur in both urban and rural areas but are rare in the cities and coastal resorts. Rabies is present; if bitten by monkeys or dogs, seek immediate medical attention.
Travellers to Cambodia should protect themselves from mosquito bites and wear clothes that cover as much of the body as possible, sleep under mosquito nets and use repellents that contain DEET.
Health Care
Health insurance is recommended when travelling overseas.
1. Cambodia Public Hospitals
Only approximately a third of the population visits Cambodia’s public hospitals and the rest end up using Cambodia’s private health system both domestically and internationally. This happens mainly because Cambodia’s public health facilities are substandard. The waiting times are usually very long and there are actually only a few of them especially in Cambodia’s upcountry areas. Cambodia’s public healthcare system, while improving, still faces challenges. Public hospitals are primarily funded by the government and offer medical services at lower costs compared to private facilities. However, they may be understaffed and lack advanced medical equipment. For routine check-ups and minor illnesses, public hospitals can be a cost-effective choice.
2. Private Healthcare in Cambodia
Private healthcare options are expanding in Cambodia’s urban centres. These facilities provide higher standards of care, shorter waiting times, and access to modern medical technology. Expats seeking a more comfortable healthcare experience often opt for private hospitals and clinics. Keep in mind that private healthcare services come at a premium cost. . If any severe medical situation occurs, often you are advised to get medical treatment in Cambodia’s adjacent countries such as Bangkok in Thailand, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam or even Singapore. In the private facilities in Cambodia, there are medical translators, evacuation services and Western-educated medical practitioners, especially those in Phnom Penh.
Food & water safety in Cambodia?
Food is one of the highlights of any trip to Cambodia, but a little caution is required as standards of hygiene can vary. Restaurants are usually one, and you should also be safe at street stalls and night markets where the food is prepared freshly on the premises. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish and avoid places where food has been left lying around in the open air. Avoid ice cream and other unpasteurised dairy products as they may have been defrosted and refrozen.
The general rule of thumb is to avoid drinking tap water in Cambodia. The prevalence of clean water refill points, bottled water and the recent growth in the popularity of filtered water bottles like those from Grayl, means clean water is easy to come by across the country
Safety
- Street crimes, particularly phone and bag snatchings, occur regularly. Thieves often travel on motorbikes and target pedestrians or people in open taxis. Be prepared to surrender your valuables rather than risk injury in a struggle.
- Sexual assault occurs in tourist areas. Travellers have been assaulted after having their drinks spiked. Stick with people you trust, don’t leave your drinks unattended in nightclubs and bars.
- Many people in Cambodia own guns. Gun crime, violent disputes and shootouts are common.
- Scams, credit card fraud and ATM fraud are common. Check for card-skimming devices before using ATMs.
- Protests may turn violent. Avoid large public gatherings. Officials may arrest and deport foreigners involved in protests.
- Be wary of invitations from strangers. Never carry parcels or luggage for others.
- Be careful when visiting regions near the border with Thailand.
- Landmines and unexploded remnants of war are a risk. Stay on marked roads if you’re travelling in the north and northwest (see ‘Travel’).
- Fatal road accidents, particularly on provincial highways, are common. Be alert at all times on the roads and avoid travelling at night (see ‘Travel’).
- Severe storms and flooding can occur during the wet season (July to November). These can disrupt services and travel, including on the Mekong River. Check with your tour operator for updates.
Local laws and customs
- Don’t use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include long prison sentences, even for small amounts.
- Understand and follow local laws and customs. It’s illegal to criticise or insult the King or monarchy. Lying to police, flying drones without a permit in certain areas, public nudity, and possessing or producing pornography is illegal.
- Child sex offences are punishable under both Cambodian and Australian law.
- Cambodian authorities enforce ‘modesty’ laws at religious sites, such as Angkor Wat. Wear clothing that covers your knees and shoulders.
- Be careful when taking photos. Don’t photograph people, including monks, without permission. Don’t take photos near sensitive sites, such as military areas, transport hubs or government buildings.
- Be aware of business and employment offers that appear ‘too good to be true’. Foreign nationals have been trafficked into Cambodia and forced to work in fraudulent activity.
Useful emergency numbers
| Service | Dial |
| Police | 117 |
| Fire | 118 |
| Ambulance | 119 |
Climate
Cambodia experiences a predominantly tropical monsoon (Am) and tropical savanna (Aw) climate as classified by the Köppen Climate Classification. The geography of the country, with its plain terrains, mountains, and coastal areas, influences these distinct climatic conditions. Throughout the year, the temperature rarely drops below 20°C (68°F), making it a warm destination regardless of the season. Cambodia’s weather is dictated primarily by monsoon patterns, which split the year into distinct wet and dry seasons. From May to October, the Southwest Monsoon brings heavy rainfall and high humidity, with monthly precipitation often exceeding 100mm (3.94″). From November to April, the Northeast Monsoon ushers in a drier period with lower humidity levels and less frequent rain.
The best time to visit Cambodia
The worst time to visit Cambodia
The most challenging period to visit Cambodia is during the wet season, from May to October. During this period, the country experiences heavy rainfall, causing flooding in certain regions, making some roads impassable, and leading to potential disruptions in travel plans. The temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F) and the humidity levels are significantly high. Although the landscape becomes lush and vibrant, the propensity for heavy showers and the resultant difficulties in transportation make this period less ideal for tourism.
Weather Month-By-Month
January is the driest month of the year in Cambodia and has a comfortable average temperature of 26°C, making this the perfect time to explore the temples in Siem Reap or relax on the southern coast’s beaches.
February sees little rain and temperatures are still cool enough to enjoy long walks around the temples. Conditions are still perfect for river travel during this time, and the great Tonle Sap still holds the bulk of its volume.
This is the peak time to visit Cambodia, and temperatures are likely to rise to the low 30°Cs. Water levels begin to fall toward the end of the month, meaning that the Tonle Sap is not as impressive. Hotels are often booked up far in advance during this period.
The peak season continues and temperatures reach sizzling heights, often exceeding 33°C. It is therefore best to explore early in the morning and in the late afternoon rather than embarking on full day excursions. The Chaul Chnam (Cambodian New Year) takes place during April, and although the rains should hold off, you should be prepared to get wet if venturing around town during those dates.
- Khmer New Year (13th – 16th April): The country’s most celebrated holiday, with towns and cities becoming deserted as people head home to be with their families.
- Pchum Ben (October): An important Buddhist festival marked throughout the country over 15 days, with main celebrations taking place on the final day as locals pay their respects to deceased relatives..
- Bon Om Touk/Cambodian Water Festival (November): One of the nation’s most popular festivals, celebrated over three days with concerts and boat races in Phnom Penh.
With the wet season fast approaching, May provides a good opportunity to take advantage of promotional shoulder season offers as crowds begin to disperse. You should expect a few showers during this time of year, but nothing that will greatly impact on your trip. In fact, the showers help to break up the humidity, making for more comfortable conditions.
The rains come to Cambodia in June, bringing great relief to the farmers. For the most part, showers are short and sharp and should not impact on your trip, with plenty of sunshine still seen. Temples and other tourist sites are quieter at this time of year, and you can take advantage of many hotel promotions during Cambodia’s ‘green season’.
The rains continue across the country and the beaches on the southern coast are best avoided. Temperatures start to decrease, averaging 27°C, and some of the outerlying temples are deserted at this time of year, making it a great time to explore some of the lesser-known destinations. Lots of families choose to visit at this time of year as it coincides nicely with European summer holidays.
Temperatures reduce further, making temple exploration all that more comfortable. Rains continue throughout the country and reach their peak; although showers only usually last for a few hours at most and tend to be more prevalent in the north of the country. The Tonle Sap fills up again, and flora and fauna is in full bloom, making this a good time to visit for wildlife enthusiasts.
September is Cambodia’s wettest month and you should expect heavy showers daily; although these are normally short-lived and exploration is still possible. The rain does mean that some rural areas are difficult to access by road, so visiting a month either side is more attractive.
The rains begin to die down and temperatures average 27°C, making October a lovely time to visit Cambodia and its lush landscape. Beat the crowds and take advantage of early season promotional offers. Cambodia’s peak season begins again and the crowds flock to the temples, with temperatures averaging a comfortable 25°C. It is the perfect time to venture out onto Tonle Sap lake. The Cambodian Water Festival usually takes place in November, and hotel prices are often higher at this time of year, so it is essential to book far in advance.
Cambodia’s peak season begins again and the crowds flock to the temples, with temperatures averaging a comfortable 25°C. It is the perfect time to venture out onto Tonle Sap lake. The Cambodian Water Festival usually takes place in November, and hotel prices are often higher at this time of year, so it is essential to book far in advance.
During December, Cambodia sees great weather throughout and can make for a rewarding Christmas destination. Hotels are often booked up far in advance.
Visa information
You will need a visa to enter and travel through Cambodia as a visitor.
Check with the Royal Embassy of Cambodia for the latest information on fees, conditions and photograph requirements.
Tourist visas are valid for 30 days from the date of entry into Cambodia. Make sure your passport is stamped on arrival and keep the departure form. If you lose your departure form, you’ll need to contact immigration officials before you leave the country to make alternative arrangements.
Applying for a visa
Apply for an e-visa at least 4 days in advance.
If you do not get an e-visa, you can get a visa on arrival at airports or land border crossings. You need to provide a photo and pay in US dollars.
You can also get an extension of a tourist visa while you are in Cambodia.
You can be fined, detained and deported if you overstay your visa. There is no limit to this fine. If you overstay for more than 30 days, you will need to leave Cambodia and pay the fine.
Electrical
All power sockets in Cambodia provide a standard voltage of 230V with a standard frequency of 50Hz.
You can use all your equipment in Cambodia if the outlet voltage in your own country is between 220V-240V. This is the case in most of Europe, Australia, the United Kingdom and most countries in Africa and Asia.
Which power plugs and sockets are used in Cambodia?
- Type A – Mostly used in the US, Canada, Mexico, Central America, China and Japan. No other plug types will fit in a type A outlet.
- Type C – The standard European plug. Commonly used in Europe, South-America and Asia, but also in quite a few other countries. Plugs of type E and F will also fit in a type C outlet.
- Type G – From British origin, mainly used in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Malta, Malaysia and Singapore, but also in quite a few other countries. No other plug types fit into an outlet of type G.
