Cambodia
Is Cambodia safe to visit? Advice, scams and health
Most tourists can travel safely in Cambodia if they stay in well-known areas, avoid night-time solo walks in isolated zones, and follow their government's travel advisory; change plans if the advisory level rises.
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Key facts
- Capital
- Phnom Penh
- Currency
- US dollar widely accepted; riel for change
- Emergency numbers
- 117 police · 118 fire · 119 ambulance
- Common safety issuecheck
- Petty crime (pickpocketing, bag snatching) in tourist hubs
- Health riskcheck
- Mosquito‑borne diseases (Dengue, Zika) – use repellent
Common scams in Cambodia
Tourist-focused scams often involve inflated taxi fares, especially from unmetered tuk-tuks that claim the meter is broken. Insist on a pre-agreed price (usually US$2–3 for short trips).
Gem and antique dealers may present low-priced items as genuine when they are mass-produced. Ask for receipts and compare prices before buying.
Fake charity collectors at temples or near the Royal Palace sometimes ask for donations in cash; verify the organization before giving.
Motorbike rental scams can include hidden damage fees. Inspect the bike, take photos, and get a written agreement.
- Never hand over your passport to unofficial guides; official guides carry a badge from the Ministry of Tourism.
- Beware of “free” tours that end with a pressure sell of tours or tickets.
Health and medical safety
Mosquito‑borne diseases like Dengue and Zika are present; use repellent and sleep under nets.
Tap water is not safe; drink bottled or boiled water.
Emergency numbers: 117 police, 118 fire, 119 ambulance.
Road safety and transport
Road accidents are a common risk; wear a helmet on motorbikes and avoid night driving.
Use reputable taxi services or pre‑agree fares with tuk‑tuk drivers.
Check your motorbike for damage before renting and get a written agreement.
Government travel advisories
US, UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand all issue a Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution advisory.
The advisories note petty crime, road safety and occasional protests.
Check your government's advisory before travel and adjust plans if the level rises.
Questions people ask
Is Cambodia safe for tourists?
Yes, most visitors travel safely by staying in main tourist areas, using reputable transport, and keeping an eye on personal belongings.
What are the most common scams in Cambodia?
Inflated tuk‑tuk fares, fake gem dealers, bogus charity collectors, and motorbike rental damage claims are the most reported scams.
What do government travel advisories say about Cambodia?
US, UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand all issue a Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution advisory, noting petty crime, road safety and occasional protests.
Should I drink tap water in Cambodia?
No, stick to bottled or boiled water; tap water is not reliably safe for drinking.
Do I need a visa to enter Cambodia?
Most nationalities can obtain a 30‑day e‑visa online; check the Cambodia visa page for up‑to‑date requirements.
Verify with the official source
Draft, not field-verified
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
Ask about Cambodia
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