Cambodia Travel Safety Guide
What are the emergency numbers in Cambodia?
Cambodia emergency numbers: 117 (Police), 119 (Ambulance), 118 (Fire Department).
Is Cambodia safe for travelers?
Bag snatching by thieves on motorbikes is one of the main tourist risks. Keep bags on the side away from the road and avoid holding phones loosely near traffic.
Landmines and unexploded ordnance remain a real danger in some rural areas. Do not leave marked paths or pick up metal objects.
What health risks should travelers know about in Cambodia?
Do not rely on tap water. Use bottled or properly filtered water.
Heat, dehydration, and mosquito borne illness such as dengue are more practical risks than cold weather or minor stomach issues.
What laws should tourists know about in Cambodia?
Drug laws are zero tolerance, including for cannabis, and penalties can be severe even for very small quantities.
How is transportation in Cambodia?
For city rides, use app booked transport like Grab or PassApp where available instead of negotiating on the street every time.
On buses and shared transport, keep valuables physically attached to you. Theft from bags while passengers sleep has been reported.
Road behavior can feel loose and unpredictable, especially with motorbikes and tuk tuks. Crossing the road takes more caution than in countries with stronger lane discipline.
What should travelers know about money in Cambodia?
Currency is Cambodian riel (KHR), but US dollars are also used widely in everyday tourist transactions. Cash is much more important than cards outside upscale hotels, larger restaurants, and some tourist businesses.
Be careful with unofficial border fees, inflated visa charges at land crossings, and unclear prices in heavily touristy areas.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Small tips are enough.
What practical info do travelers need for Cambodia?
Plug types are A, C, and G, 230V.
Phnom Penh and Siem Reap are much easier for app rides and card payment than rural Cambodia.
City Specific Info
Phnom Penh
Bag snatching and phone theft by passing motorbikes are especially common in Phnom Penh, including around riverfront areas.
Siem Reap
Stay on established routes around temples and rural edges. Cambodia still has landmine risk in some outlying areas.
Which embassies are in Cambodia?
Mostly in Phnom Penh, Battambang.
Australia
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Traveling Nearby?
Laos
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the emergency number in Cambodia?
In Cambodia, you can reach police at 117, ambulance at 119, fire services at 118. These numbers work from any phone, including mobile phones without a local SIM card.
Is Cambodia safe for tourists?
Bag snatching by thieves on motorbikes is one of the main tourist risks. Keep bags on the side away from the road and avoid holding phones loosely near traffic.
What currency is used in Cambodia?
Currency is Cambodian riel (KHR), but US dollars are also used widely in everyday tourist transactions.
What health precautions should I take in Cambodia?
Do not rely on tap water. Use bottled or properly filtered water.
What laws should tourists know about in Cambodia?
Drug laws are zero tolerance, including for cannabis, and penalties can be severe even for very small quantities.
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