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Girl about the Globe

Making solo travel easier.

Solo Travel in Cambodia

Types of Girl about the Globe (GatG) – Cultural GatG, Historical GatG, Nature GatG

When you  solo travel in Asia , Cambodia is an amazing country to explore especially if you like culture and history. Below is our guide to how to travel solo in Cambodia including where to stay in Cambodia, things to see in Cambodia, the best tours of Cambodia, a Cambodia sample itinerary, and how to get around.

Find out how to get from the airports and which cities to visit in Cambodia. All companies included have been recommended by solo female travellers and come with our Solo Female Friendly endorsement. Either listen to the podcast episode or read the full article for solo female travel Cambodia. 

N.b. For every booking made through this article, I donate money to projects helping vulnerable girls about the globe. Thank you for helping to make a difference to their lives. 

Places to Visit in Cambodia

Tours in cambodia, accommodation in cambodia, getting around cambodia.

• Cambodia Itinerary

Cambodia Travel Guide

• Best Time to go to Cambodia

Travel Insurance For Cambodia

Cambodia airports.

• Travelling Onwards

How To Be a Conscious Traveller in Cambodia

• Frequently Asked Questions about Cambodia

Map of Cambodia

Plan a trip to cambodia.

Monks in Cambodia

Solo Travel To Cambodia

Is Cambodia safe for female travellers? Cambodia is a relatively safe country for women travelling alone. That's why we've given it 4 out of 5 stars. Although there have been a few reports of harassment, foreign women are generally respected by the Cambodian people.

There is crime in Cambodia so keep your bag close to you in the city and on motorbikes. Aside from Siem Reap there are not as many tourists as you would find in Thailand but if you are backpacking Cambodia alone you will meet other backpackers in Cambodia on the same Cambodia travel route from Phnom Penh Cambodia to Sihanoukville and Siem Reap. You do need to be a bit careful in Sihanoukville . Be careful of your belongings here and don't wander anywhere at night. 

Cambodian history is dark but despite the genocide that people suffered under the Khmer Rouge, they are smiling people who live well below the breadline, and seeing them begging can pull at your heart strings especially at tourist sites and markets. The children you encounter may overwhelm you with their curiosity for your attention and desire to touch your skin.

This country still has millions of undiscovered land mines from the Vietnam War which have disabled many Cambodians. Some victims of the land mines are seen begging or busking for money. Because of the mines don’t go off the beaten paths and always trek with a guide.

Cambodia is a wonderful country to explore independently but if you are unsure where to go in Cambodia, you may feel more comfortable in a group tour to Cambodia .

Bayon temple, Angkor Wat

There’s something about Cambodia that draws you in, its soul, its tragic past and its people will leave a mark on your heart. It is a country that still ranks among the world’s poverty hot spots yet the people seem so happy.

For women travelling solo, Cambodia is cheap to travel through, has great value guest houses (with an honesty policy for food and drinks) and is miles away from the bustle of other Asian cities.

Cemented roads don’t really exist here and you’ll be travelling along dirt tracks past small villages with chickens and goats roaming around and children running out to wave and shout “hello.”

* Before you travel, check what paperwork or visas are required for Cambodia .  

Things To Do in Phnom Penh

Cambodia tourism is no stranger to dark tourism and remnants of the rule of the Khmer Rouge three decades before are now tourist sites in the capital of Cambodia, Phnom Penh . Although they can be upsetting and moving, they are the must do things in Cambodia and provide you into an insight of the country's past. 

The Killing Fields are now a tranquil place with a memorial of the 70,000 people killed here in a glass case of skulls. The S21 Prison, now a museum used to be a school until 1975 when the Khmer Rouge began their grisly regime. 

Phnom Penh is one of the best cities in Cambodia. The capital is a centre of culture with a chilled riverfront, bars and restaurants, a bustling night market and a central market during the day where you can buy local cuisine from creamy coconut curries to fried maggots, locust and even tarantulas (apparently good for medicine).

Other things to see in Phnom Penh is the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. The National Museum and the Royal Palace are also all within walking distance and many restaurants which are run by NGOs to train the underprivileged youth. You can even fire an AK47 at the local shooting range (one of the Cambodia tourist attractions and crazy things to do in Cambodia) or take a cruise along the mighty Mekong  from the Royal Palace.

Choose a guest house by the Mekong riverside to escape the noise and pace of the city. Phnom Penh guest houses also act as travel agents and can book your onward travel if you are travelling Cambodia alone. 

Phnom Penh (photo @ Bernie Waite)

Things To Do in Siem Reap

The highlights of the country are in Siem Reap (one of the best places to visit in Cambodia). The Hindu temples of Angkor Wat are one of the largest religious monuments in the world. They were built in the 12th Century and are one of the most historical places in Cambodia.

It’s likely to be one of the most expensive costs you’ll encounter in Cambodia (£15 for 1 day or £25 for a 3 day pass) but a visit to these Khmer Angkor temples is simply magical especially at sunrise, and a must see in Cambodia. 

The site is really easy to walk around and make sure you don’t miss the Ta Prohm temple (the ‘Tomb Raider’ temple) which is bound by the roots of a giant strangler fig tree, or the Bayon temple; a Buddhist Cambodia temple etched with smiling bodhisattva faces. Although it is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Cambodia, Angkor Wat is a UNESCO Heritage of Humanity and a living temple which is still used by many Cambodians today as a Buddhist site.

To visit the site you need to stay overnight in Siem Reap , the cradle of Khmer civilisation and the best place to stay in Cambodia if you're planning to visit Angkor Wat at sunrise. 

But there is more to Siem Reap than Angkor Wat. Hire a bike and visit the red sandstone Banteay Srei temple and the Cambodia Landmine Museum and Relief Centre as well as the Butterfly Centre. You can buy Khmer ceramics, art or jewellery at the Khmer Ceramics Centre or even create your own piece of art! 

For the party GatG, head to Pub Street, a well-known bar area and Cambodia tourist spot for Cambodia nightlife. It's a good area to meet others and experience some of the fun things to do in Cambodia. Pay a visit to the Old Market in the Old French Quarter whilst you're here too. 

Angkor Wat (photo @ Leeanne Keogh)

Temples in Cambodia

Visiting Cambodia doesn’t just mean visiting the majestic temples of Angkor Wat. The country’s second UNESCO World Heritage Site is Preah Vihear temple, which sits on a cliff-top and offers stunning views of Cambodia and the  Dangrek Mountains . Sambor Prei Kuk temples in  Kampong Thom  are even older than Angkor Wat.

Other temples are: the jungle temple of Beng Melea which can be combined with a trip to  Koh Ker  or  Kbal Spean and Prasat Preah Khan, one of the remotest temples. Battambang is the second largest city and lies in the northwest with more ancient ruins. The city seems more like a town with rural villages close by. One attraction here is the bamboo train on the outskirts of town, originally built to transport rice from Phnom Penh. You can take the train to a local village but it is touristy and expect to get attention from sellers. 

When you’re all templed-out, take a trip to the northeast where Eco-tourism lies. Visit Mondulkiri  for the Bousra waterfall and Ethnic Culture Centre. If you’re feeling stressed from travelling take a trip to the Sea Forest, a natural healing place in  Loa Ka  which is proven to cure you (and is even better at sunrise or sunset).

Visit  Ratanakiri  for Yeak Lom volcanic lake and  Virachey  National Park then treat yourself to a gem within the mining province. One of the places to go in Cambodia to take your pick from sapphires, emeralds and rubies.

Also North is the unspoilt town of  Kratie , a place off the beaten track on the route heading to Laos. Kratie is the place to visit in Cambodia for dolphins. Take a long tail boat to see the Irrawaddy river dolphins in the muddy waters of the Mekong (although you may only catch a glimpse of these unique mammals).

Or take the Mekong Discovery Trail through less-trodden paths across northern Cambodia. From here you can also travel further to the hill tribes for an understanding of indigenous life.

Koh Rong, the largest Cambodian island

Cambodia's Islands

If you’re searching for more exotic places in Cambodia, head to the islands. Koh Rong Samloem is one for the backpackers and the best area to stay in Cambodia if you’re looking for cheap hostels and Full Moon parties.

Koh Rong island is the country’s biggest island, and reachable via a boat ride from Sihanoukville (the journey takes 2.5 hours). It’s an island to meet others in its many bars and eateries and the place for a digital detox in a bungalow on the beach. Be careful of the sand flies here though.

If you need solitude when touring Cambodia, and want to avoid a party island, Bamboo Island will take you back to basics with no power after dark or hot water. Just take some dry shampoo with you!

Photo @ Leeanne Keogh

Other Places To See in Cambodia

For nature lovers, the East has dense forest and lush jungles ideal for trekking past local villages. See orangutans in the  Koh Kong Province  or trek the  Cardamon Mountains  (but not by yourself as there are illegal loggers here) to experience Cambodia’s natural beauty.

See silk worms (a Cambodia must see) at Phnom Srok , the only remaining silk village in Cambodia and watch how Cambodian silk is weaved by the riverside at Mekong Blue in  Stung Treng  whilst enjoying the best coffee in Cambodia and cuisine with a Laos flavour.

Head south for snorkelling and sunbathing at  Sihanoukville , the beach area of Cambodia which can be more expensive than the rest of the country. The beaches aren’t as picturesque as Thailand’s (Serendipity Beach is a rocky area), and apparently they aren't as clean as they used to be. If you are heading here, Otres Beach is the less touristy of the four main beaches and has more of a backpacker vibe than the luxury resorts on the other beaches. 

Kampot , Cambodia is great for those who love adventure and Kep , once an area where the rich used to frequent, is now one of the best places in Cambodia for fresh crab. Kep National Park is ideal for those wishing to hike its nature trails. 

Tonle Sap Lake is Cambodia’s largest lake and home to floating villages. But the lake’s water levels have plummeted and are threatening the livelihoods of the fishermen who fish here. When you tour Cambodia , you can learn how the floating villages complete with schools and churches were built and how they plan to survive here.

Other places to visit in Cambodia are:  Trapeang Roung  for dense forests, waterfalls and river rapids and  Chambok, one of the Cambodia destinations to experience of communities of rural life. However you choose to explore Cambodia whether that's trekking in forests, bird or wildlife spotting, visiting villages and meeting Indigenous cultures, Cambodia is definitely a Kingdom of Wonder.

Cambodia Tips:

• When you travel to Cambodia, be careful of the currents when swimming in rivers.
• Happy herb pizza does actually contain happy herbs.

G Adventures Cambodia

If you feel more comfortable in a group for either part of your Cambodia trip or the whole duration, G Adventures is a responsible tour company which mainly caters towards budget travellers. Most small group tours to Cambodia have an average of 12 people and there is no upper age limit. Once you book your trip you pay extra for any Cambodia excursions you want to do when you’re there.

Their tours of Cambodia start from a 4 day Mekong River Adventure. They also offer tours to Cambodia and Vietnam such as a 41 day tour including Thailand and Laos. I have personally used G Adventures and recommend them as a solo female friendly company. 

• Click here for the full itineraries, prices, and start dates

Intrepid Travel Cambodia

Intrepid Travel is similar to G Adventures with an average of 12 people on each tour. Over 50% of people using their trips are solo travellers. They tend to use hotels instead of hostels and have a more comfortable style of accommodation hence the tour of Cambodia can appear a bit more costly than G Adventures.

Intrepid Tours Cambodia are for any length of time from a 3 day Secrets of Angkor Wat tour to 25 days Indochina Unplugged including Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam, covering the best of Cambodia. Read our Intrepid Travel Reviews

With both tour companies you share a room with someone of the same gender or you can pay extra for your own room.

TruTravels Cambodia

For the backpacker solo, TruTravels offers a classic tour to Cambodia. Over 10 days you’ll travel to Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Kampot and Koh Tong Samleom. See stunning scenery, watch the sunrise over the temples of Angkor Wat, chill on gorgeous beaches and learn how to cook, Cambodian style. Trips have a maximum of 20 people with most travellers between the ages of 18 and mid 30’s. Prices start from £995 based on a twin share.

* Check prices & availability for TruTravels tour

Cambodia Day Tours

The following day tour companies have been recommended by solo females:

• Biking Cambodia – Cycle along the Mekong or explore the Cambodian countryside.
• Discova – Discova offer a community development program where you stay with a Cambodian family and have your very own Cambodia tour guide to show you how to drive an ox cart, how to look after the community gardens and how to make traditional crafts. 

Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated activities, tours and day trips in worldwide destinations including Cambodia. Choose from one of the sunrise Angkor Wat tours, a Siem Reap city walking tour, or a Mekong River sunset cruise. There are several guided tours of Cambodia to choose from and it’s really simple to use. Just check the reviews, price and availability then book online. * Check all tours and prices here

Accommodation in Cambodia is really good value and you’ll find budget, mid-range and luxury hotels for a fraction of the cost you would pay in Western Europe or North America. 

Find boutique hotels and lounges in Sihanoukville Cambodia, guesthouses and villas in Battambang or bungalows in Kampot. Whether you want to stay in an urban resort, a beach resort, a river view suite in Phnom Penh or one of the luxury Cambodia hotels, you'll find somewhere on Booking.com. If you are backpacking in Cambodia there are hostels in Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, Battambang and Kampot.

Other places to stay in Cambodia include Airbnb, where you can stay in a local’s spare room or rent their whole apartment. You can save $20 off your first stay with this Airbnb link . 

All of the accommodation below have been recommended by solo female travellers from our Girls about the Globe community and come with a Solo Female Friendly endorsement. For all other accommodation Cambodia such as cheap hotels in Cambodia, or luxury accommodation Cambodia, click on the link below for Cambodia places to stay. 

• To book, check prices or availability for all accommodation in Cambodia

Phnom Penh – Onederz Hostel ($)

This Phnom Penh hostel is in a really great location on Sisowath Quay, just a few minutes walk from the Royal Palace. It is really clean and there is a 24 hour reception for checking in, and a laundry service so you can do your washing.

The rooftop bar is ideal to meet other travellers. They also offer massages too! If you can, get up early and watch the sunrise over the Mekong. Choose from a bed in a female-only dormitory room, a mixed dorm room, or a standard double room with your own private bathroom.

• Prices from £5 per night for a 12 bed female-only dorm
• To book, check prices or availability for Onederz Hostel

Phnom Penh – Okay Boutique Hotel ($$)

This boutique hotel is decorated in typical Cambodian-style decor. It is one of the best Cambodia hotels in Phnom Penh for location and perfect for those wanting to explore the capital city, being less than 0.5km from the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and other sites, and it comes with an outdoor swimming pool too. 

They have a 24 hour front desk and currency exchange which is ideal if you are arriving late and also need to change money. The best part is that they hold an an afternoon Chocolate Hour – perfect for us solos with a sweet tooth! And there is an on-call doctor in case you over-indulge. Choose from a superior or premier double room which come with their own balconies, tea and coffee making facilities and flat-screen TV. If you are looking for boutique Cambodia accommodation Phnom Penh, this is a great choice!

• Prices from £30 per night for a superior double room
• To book, check prices or availability for Okay Boutique Hotel

Siem Reap – The Hideout ($)

If you are a budget girl about the globe and are looking for a sociable hostel in Siem Reap. The Hideout Hostel is a good choice. The staff are really helpful and can help with any transport or trips that you want to take. There’s a pool to chill out at and it’s easy to meet others in the common room. It can be a bit noisy though so stay if you are feeling sociable.

All dorm rooms have lockers for your study and there’s even a wardrobe in each private room so you can hang your clothes up. Choose from a bed in a 6-bed dorm room, a bed in a female-only dorm room or a standard or deluxe double room.

“ I recommend the hideout hostel for Cambodia accommodation Siem Reap. Private rooms are so cheap and it is more like a hotel than a hostel. This accommodation in Siem Reap Cambodia is clean and big rooms with baths, gorgeous pool and really nice staff” –  Emma Dickinson, solo traveller from Australia.

• Prices from £5 per night for a superior single room
• To book, check prices or availability for The Hideout

Siem Reap – Soria Moria Hotel & Spa ($$)

This cute boutique hotel Siem Reap is really great value. Eco conscious with friendly staff, it is close enough to walk to places, but in its own quiet oasis. Visit the magical temples of Angkor Wat during the day then hang out at the rooftop pool and enjoy some sunset views with food and cocktails. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and the free breakfast is great. They also do a free pick up from the airport. 

• Prices from £30 per night for a superior single room
• To book, check prices or availability for Soria Moria Hotel & Spa

Sihanoukville – Onederz Hostel ($)

This hostel has properties all over Cambodia. The one in Sihanoukville is just a few hundred metres away from a beach. There’s a 24 hour front desk, a bar and a restaurant and each dorm room has air conditioning. The bathrooms are spacious and always being cleaned and you don’t need to worry about waiting for the shower either as there are plenty of them.

It is  close enough to the main strip yet you can still get some peace and quiet. They provide padlocks for the lockers and there is a pool too! What else do you need in a hostel.Choose from a 6 or 8-bed mixed or female-only dorm, each with their own terrace.

• Prices from £5 per night for a 6-bed mixed or female-only dorm

Sihanoukville – Ren Resort ($$)

This 4 star resort is just stunning. A beautiful futuristic-style property situated on the beach with views of the sea, it’s close to the night market too (one of the free things to do in Cambodia) so you can relax in the day and listen to live music at night. The staff are really attentive and occasionally organise boat tours so you can meet other guests.

Or you can sail to the island in front of the resort yourself. Breakfast is also included. Choose from a standard double room, premier double or superior double either with pool access or sea views.

• Prices from £50 per night for a standard double
• To book, check prices or availability for Ren Resort

There are a few ways that you can travel around Cambodia. Tuk tuks are an inexpensive way of getting around Cambodia and a chance to test your bartering skills. If you're wondering how to get around in Siem Reap, m otorbikes are amongst the cheapest and easiest way to get around. You can hire them by the day along with a driver to take you around all sites (the roads are really dusty so wear sunglasses and a scarf). They are also popular in other cities. 

Public Transportation in Cambodia

For buses, both PSD Express and Giant Ibis are comfortable with air conditioning. They are a bit pricey but you do get the comfort and also free water and snacks. Travelling by night bus is a good option from Sihanoukville to Siem Reap. The bus is a sleeper bus and also has curtains for privacy. If you stay in hostels, your hostel can sometimes arrange your bus or transport for you.

You can also use trains for traveling in Cambodia. There are trains to Sihanoukville, Kep and Kampot. Check Royal Railway Cambodia  for train times.

When you're travelling in Cambodia, you may notice that Cambodia safety doesn’t seem to exist on the ferries. You could find yourself squashed on the top deck as only Cambodians generally have tickets for indoors. The express boat is expensive but better than the slow ones and there are boat journeys along the Mekong from Siem Reap to Phonem Phen which takes 6 hours, as well as to Kratie.

Cambodia Angkor Air  offers internal flights between Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville as well as international flights to Laos, Vietnam and China. 

* To hire a car for your Cambodia travels, we recommend pre-booking car hire with Avis so you can collect your car when you arrive at the airport.

Itinerary For Cambodia

When you visit Cambodia, there are a few main areas in Cambodia which shouldn’t be missed such as Phnom Penh, and Siem Reap for the temples of Angkor Wat. Cambodia is enroute from Thailand to Vietnam so it depends whether you fly into the capital first or come via Thailand where’s it’s logical to visit Siem Reap first.

How Many Days in Cambodia? 

If you only have a week in Cambodia, it’s definitely worth splitting your time between these two destinations. Phnom Penh is a good base for seeing the S21 Prison, and Killing Fields Cambodia. For longer, head to the costal city of Sihanoukville for some of Cambodia’s beaches. Whether you have 2 weeks in Cambodia or are looking for a Cambodia itinerary 1 week, b elow are our examples of a Cambodia solo travel itinerary. 

Cambodia Itinerary 7 Days: Phnom Penh – 4 nights, Siem Reap – 3 nights.

Cambodia Itinerary 10 Days: Phnom Penh – 4 nights, Sihanoukville – 3 nights, Siem Reap – 3 nights.

Cambodia Two Week Itinerary: Phnom Penh – 4 nights, Sihanoukville – 3 nights, Ferry to Koh Rong Samloem – 2 nights, Battambang – 2 nights, Siem Reap – 3 nights

If you need a guide book on how to plan a trip to Cambodia, we recommend the Solo Girl’s Travel Guides. These guides are written specifically for women and cover every travel detail including exclusive access to off the-beaten-path destinations and secret South Cambodia beaches. The author, Alexa West, has lived in Cambodia and shares all her knowledge including hidden restaurants and how to avoid the scams. If you prefer Rough Guide Cambodia or the Cambodia Lonely Planet click here for all Cambodia guide books.

If you are planning on travelling to Cambodia for the first time, the Solo Girl’s Travel Guide to Cambodia covers topics such as: where to visit in Cambodia, what to do in Cambodia and the best things to do in Cambodia alone, what to pack, how to take public transport around the country without paying the tourist prices, and the most beautiful islands. They also include local markets with local prices and the best street food in Cambodia. For any girl considering Cambodia solo female travel, this is your travel Bible.

* Check prices on Amazon

Best Time To Go To Cambodia

The best time to go to Cambodia for the weather is December to February although it is at least 25 degrees celsius all year round so the Cambodia climate is constantly warm. They do have a wet season from May until September with the most rainfall in August and September.

The country does get busy with crowds between November to March so you may want to opt for May to the beginning of October.  The chart below shows the annual Cambodia weather and the maximum day temperature in Cambodia from January to December. 

Cambodia is one of my favourite countries in Asia but the health and safety isn't up to the standard that you may expect at home. If you are planning a trip to Cambodia, travel insurance is definitely recommended especially if you are trekking or taking one of the motorcycle taxis to get around.

True Traveller and World Nomads are two insurance companies which can cover travel to Cambodia. True Traveller is available to UK and European residents, and World Nomads is available to over 100 countries worldwide, including the USA and UK. For digital nomads, Safety Wing is a nomad insurance that covers people from all over the world.

All companies allow you to buy insurance when you are already on the road and offer different plans depending on your needs including additional adventure cover.

* Check insurance prices and cover for True Traveller

N.b. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Cambodia has many airports but the main airports are Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville.

Phnom Penh  – Taxis and tuk tuks run from outside the airport gates and are cheaper than booking one inside. A taxi will cost approx £7 and take 10 minutes into the city, and a tuk tuk £4 for the 5 mile journey. Bus number 3 also runs from the airport to Phnom Penh city and is the cheapest option costing £1 for the 30 minute journey.

Buses depart every 30 minutes. There is now a new train service from the airport to Phnom Penh. It's said to be free until 31st July 2018 and takes approximately 40 minutes. 

Siem Reap – There doesn’t seem to be a bus from Siem Reap Airport so taking a taxi may be the only option. Taxis cost approximately £6 for the 7 minute journey into Siem Reap.

Sihanoukville – The only option from Sihanoukville Airport is by taxi. The price for the 20 minute journey is £13.

Check Rome2Rio for onward journeys.

* Feel more confident with someone waiting for you at the airport when you pre-book a transfer with Hoppa , a reliable and safe service for solo females.

Travelling onwards (check visas before you travel)

As soon as you enter the overland border into Cambodia, children will walk with you and offer you an umbrella for the shade in exchange for a small fee.

Cambodia To Thailand – You can travel from Thailand to Cambodia by road and vice versa. From Siem Reap to Poipet (the Thailand Cambodia border) is 7 hours by bus then 3 hours to Bangkok. Be careful about having to pay extra by a fake embassy here.

Cambodia To Vietnam – If you are planning to solo travel Vietnam and Cambodia, from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City by bus in 6 hours for £10. There are also comfortable buses such as Giant Ibis which cost more but you get free water and snacks.

Cambodia To Laos – Travel from Cambodia to Laos from Phnom Penh to Stung Treng (via bus or taxi) then a ferry (£3) or bus to the road border crossing.

Cambodia To Malaysia  – Flights operate daily to Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.

Cambodia To Myanmar  – Fly from Siem Reap to Yangon.

Where can I fly from here?

• Vietnam – 1 hour
• Laos – 1 hour 15 minutes
• Myanmar – 2 hours 15 minutes

If you are travelling to Cambodia here are some ways to be a conscious traveller.  Buy artisan products from local sellers especially home-made instead of from shopping malls. This also helps preserve their cultural heritage. This includes souvenirs so avoid buying anything made from endangered species or hard woods.

Eat in local restaurants and buy food from street vendors instead of international chain restaurants. This way it supports the local businesses on your Cambodia solo trip.

Don’t volunteer in an orphanage and avoid any tours to visit schools. The number of orphanages have increased and many of these in Southeast Asia have become unethical businesses with children being removed from their parents to cater for the demand of people wanting to volunteer.

Social Impact Programs

Mad Monkey Hostels – This hostel has created their own Mad Monkey’s Education Fund. In collaboration with Cambodian Children’s Fund they help to raise funds for education in Southeast Asia, and provide clean water to rural villages in Cambodia. You can take part in the ‘crawl for school pub crawl’ every Thursday where $5 is donated to the hostel’s education fund. 

If you are a wildlife Girl about the Globe, the Mondulkiri Project is an elephant sanctuary in eastern Cambodia that looks after elephants rescued from logging and tourist rides. You can stay at the Tree Lodge and help bath the elephants, hike or interact with the local tribe.

Artisans Angkor is a Cambodian company that was founded in order to help young rural people find work, due to transmitting skills or nurturing talent. They guarantee fair salaries and social benefits, as well as devoting themselves to keeping traditional Cambodian arts and crafts alive and thriving. At two of their locations, their silk farm and handicraft workshop (Siem Reap), tourists re offered free tours. 

Stay Eco in Cambodia

Cultural Khmer Village – Homestays in Cambodia are a great way of helping the local communities. Established a way to alleviate rural poverty in the district, Khmer Homestay Baray is a community-tourism site that allows an immersion in the Cambodian way of life.

Visit the families in the village and learn how to make Khmer noodles, take part in a weaving and woodcarving workshop, or watch traditional Khmer dances. There are so many activities that you’ll need a few nights here to experience it all.

* To book, check prices or availability for Khmer Village Homestay  

Issues Affecting Girls in Cambodia

• Human trafficking is still a present issue in Cambodia. Only recently has the Ministry of Social Affairs identified over a 1000 victims of human trafficking and exploitation; over half of the victims were underage girls. Read more
• Due to poverty and cultural norms, many girls who live in rural areas lack access to education. However, financial support from UNICEF and the World Bank Project are making positive progress in this area. Read more
• Cambodia is one of the poorest countries in South-East Asia, thus it is not uncommon for families to sell their daughters into the virginity trade . Many victims of this trade will be used by men who want to sleep with a virgin girl in order to not contract HIV. These girls are stigmatized in society and find it difficult to get out of this trade. Read more  
• Videos on social issues in Cambodia: Cambodia's Virginity Trade . Cambodia's Scam Orphanages

Cambodia Facts & Questions

• Can I drink the water? Drinking tap water isn't advised so consider taking your own water filter with you.
• Is tipping expected?  No but salaries are really low.
• Fixed price or barter?  Barter.
• Any ATMs?  Only in the capital and main towns.
• Which side of the road do they drive?  The Right-hand side.
• Good for vegetarians?  Yes.
• Any seven wonders of the world?  No.
• What is the flight time UK to Cambodia? 13 hours

If you are ready to solo travel Cambodia, here are some useful links to help you to travel to the country alone including airlines which fly there, Cambodia vaccination requirements, and local costs to help you plan your solo trip to Cambodia.

Budget Rating – £25 a day

Current Time in Cambodia: Phnom Penh

Cambodia Capital – Phnom Penh

Population – 13.4 million

Cambodia Language – The language spoken in Cambodia is Khmer. French and English in Cambodia are also spoken.

Currency of Cambodia – Cambodian Riel Find the Cambodia exchange rate in your own currency.

Do I Need a Cambodia Visa? How long you can stay in Cambodia as a tourist depends upon your nationality. This link is for visa requirements for Cambodia for UK citizens. On a British visa you can stay for 30 days from the date you enter Cambodia.

is There Malaria in Cambodia Asia?

Do I Need Injections For Cambodia?

Useful Info

Airlines to Cambodia – Flights to Cambodia

Best Time to Go – Dec to Feb

Which Plug Do I Need?

UNESCO Sites in Cambodia

Events and Festivals in Cambodia

Prices in Cambodia – Cost of living in Cambodia

Cambodian Culture & Cambodia Etiquette

Cambodia’s Sacred Places

Useful Khmer Phrases

Did you know? A large proportion of Cambodians have mental problems as a result of the Khmer Rouge regime from 1975.

Paradise Eco Resort in Siem Reap

Rainbow Lodge in Tatai

Cultural Experiences

There are so many cultural experiences you can do in Cambodia such as learning how to recycle soap on an eco tour, how to prepare a local meal or watching the traditional Cambodian dance.  Take a spiritual journey with the Angkor storyteller and get a spiritual insight into the local culture.

Mind Body & Soul

Stay At a Yoga Retreat

Stay At a Meditation Retreat

Support the Massage by the Blind

Spa Treatments At Amansara

The Children of Cambodia

Street Children Program

Friends International

Angkor Hospital for Children

Related Posts

• Solo Travel in Thailand
• Solo Travel in Laos
• Solo Travel in Malaysia
• Solo Travel in Asia

20 thoughts on “ Solo Travel in Cambodia ”

This is really helpful. I am actually planning a Cambodia trip for my birthday on October. l might be flying in to Siem Reap and then travel to Phnom Penh. How long is the travel? Which mode of transportation in best? I will also be flying out from Siem Reap so I need to travel back from Phnom Penh. Any suggestions or recommendations as I plan my trip? Thank you.

Hi Czarina, I would say go by bus but I visited the country a long time ago. There are girls in our Facebook group who have been to Cambodia recently and can offer better advice. Here’s the link if you would like to join 🙂 https://www.tourismconcern.org.uk/animals-in-tourism-stay-safe-stay-insured-and-know-when-to-stay-away/

Thanks so much for sharing. I have about 5 days to spend in Cambodia, where would you suggest and how many days for each place? As for Angkor Wat, can it be a one day visit? Oh ya, traveling direct from Kuala Lumpur to Siem Reap. Many thanks

That’s exciting that you’re going to Cambodia. This is my favourite country in Asia. If you stay in Siem Reap for a day you can do Angkor Wat in one day. I recommend seeing it at either sunrise or sunset. I would definitely see S21 the prison, and the Killing Fields so spend at least two nights at Phnom Phen then at least one in Siem Reap. I would say that other Asian countries have nicer beaches so maybe skip the beach? I was there over 10 years ago so I would recommend joining the Girls about the Globe Facebook group as some of the girls there have recently been or are heading there so they can offer you some better tips. Here’s the link to join: https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

Great post! I’m heading to Cambodia in just over a week and a half. I’m Canadian and I’ve never been to Asia so I’m very nervous about safety issues. It’s nice to know that many solo female travelers have gone and done well on their own. 🙂 Fortunately, I will be with my son (who lives there) for part of the time but I will also be going to Battambang on my own and to the coast (haven’t decided where).

Hi Joanne, I loved Cambodia and didn’t have any problems with safety there. Lots of the girls in our FB group have been to Asia. Join the group 🙂 https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

Really informative, I also love the landscape of Cambodia and it’s so different from its neighbours. I loved the Islands too, we were there recently and swam in the sea with sparkling planton at night, one of the most magical things I have ever done or seen. Definitely a must do for Cambodia i think.

I love Cambodia. It’s my favourite country in Asia so far. Oh wow to the sparkling planton. Can you give me more details and I’ll add it to the page 🙂 x

I am heading to Cambodia in 10 days for a 5 days trip. I have planned to spend 3 days in Siem Reap and 2 days in Phnom Phen. Please do suggest the best way to travel between Siem reap and Phnom phen which is not time consuming. Also can you suggest some great home stays which is safe for solo female traveler. Its the first time i am visiting Cambodia,

Thanks Shruti

Hi Shruti, when I visited Cambodia I took the bus between both places. HomeStay are a good site to find homestays. https://affiliate.homestay.com/cambodia?utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=girl-about-the-globe-cambodia I would also recommend joining our FB group as soon of the girls may have been there recently. Here is the link to join https://www.facebook.com/groups/369115206621307/

I will be going to Cambodia in approximately a week for around 10 days. I have planned 4 days between Phnom Penh and Siam Reap, do you have any other suggestions for a solo traveller? Im not looking for anything city/ adventure related. Do you have more info about Loa Ka? Itnsounds fascinating and I couldnt find anything on the net. Also if I plan a solo tuk tuk trip to places around Cambodia is it safe? Thanks! Will wait to here from you.

Hi Deviani, I haven’t personally been to Loa Ka and haven’t heard of it. Instead of a tuk tuk you could hire a motorbike driver who would take you around Cambodia. I did this and it was an amazing experience x

Hi! So many interesting info! Regarding going to thw volcanic lake, the silk village, Kratie and the other remote areas on the north… How did you get there and moved around?

Thank you in advance!!

Hi Marta, I took a bus to Kratie. There are local tour operators that you can go into when you’re there and they help with bus tickets etc. Are you a member of our Girls about the Globe Facebook group? There are lots of tips for Cambodia in there too x

Such a great guide, thank you! I’m currently in Kampot and have found the most beautiful bungalows which are for women only! They’re part of a spa and yoga studio which helps empower Khmer women from disadvantaged backgrounds through vocational training. Awesome little vegan cafe on site too, highly recommend!

Fantastic! What was the name of the place? x

I am looking for a local guide that can help me with a specific Cambodia itinerary – both in Phnom Penh and its surrounds. I will be ending a 3 week Vietnam / Cambodia tour on Nov 16 in Phnom Penh. I will have visited Siem Reap, spent the morning in Phnom Penh at the palace and museum and have had the afternoon on my own to start an exploration of Phnom Penh. I want to spend 6 additional days (11/16/23 – 11/21/23) in southern Cambodia. I have selected an itinerary that goes from Phnom Penh to Kampong Cham – Kampot – Koh Rong – and back Phnom Penh. I can book hotels directly myself. I am looking for someone to help me confidently set up and reserve private drivers, local guides in each of the cities, provide more local tours when I return to Phnom Penh, and be a point of contact and support throughout the trip. Of course I will compensate someone for these “tour operator” services. Can you provide such a service? (I am a single woman traveling alone.)

Hi Jan, thanks for commenting. That’s great that you are looking to travel to Cambodia. I can’t personally provide this type of service unfortunately but I recommend joining our Girls about the Globe Facebook group and asking the same question. Some of our community have recently travelled to Cambodia and may be able to recommend drivers. Here is the link to join https://www.girlabouttheglobe.com/GatGFacebookCommunity

Hello, do you have a recommended list of things I should bring? I am going backpacking in Cambodia for 10 days in March or April. One pair of jeans? Two shorts? Three shirts? Or even less? One pair of sandals? Thank you

Hi Cas, my packing list should help. Have an amazing time. It’s my favourite country in Asia so far! x https://www.girlabouttheglobe.com/solo-travel-essentials/

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A Guide for Successful Solo Travel in Cambodia (2024)

If you’re wondering what to expect from solo travel in Cambodia , this article will tell you everything you need to know. I love travelling solo in Cambodia and I think you will too.

Cambodia offers a wealth of natural beauty from dense jungles to tropical islands with turquoise waters and magical sunsets. The country’s history is fascinating and the culture is unique.

Colourful, safe and relatively cheap to visit, Cambodia should be on everyone’s bucket list. It’s the perfect destination for solo travellers.

For me, the highlights of solo travel in Cambodia were exploring the ancient ruined temples at Angkor Wat, visiting the Royal Palace, eating street food at the markets, experiencing the heart-wrenching war memorials in Phnom Penh,  and relaxing on the palm-fringed beaches of the west coast.

Here are some tips to help you plan an incredible solo trip to Cambodia, avoid some pitfalls and have an amazing time.

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links And, if you make a purchase through a link, I may earn a small commission. There is no extra cost to you and it helps to keep this website running. I appreciate your support!

Are you new to solo travel and looking for advice?

Table of Contents

Is Cambodia good for solo travel?

Yes, Cambodia is a good choice for a solo trip. Solo travel in Cambodia is easy and fun and there are many opportunities to meet other people, especially if you stay at hostels.

Cambodian people are friendly and genuinely want to talk to you. If you’re looking for a chat, go shopping or head to a temple or a monastery.

Monks like to practise their English and love talking to tourists. They’ll probably be happy to pose for photos also. I was lucky enough to be shown around the monastery at Wat Ounalom in Phnom Penh by a monk who lived there.

Best Places to Visit in Cambodia

Siem reap & angkor wat.

For solo travellers in Cambodia Angkor Wat is at the top of the list of best places to visit. UNESCO World Heritage-listed and made famous by the movie “Tomb Raider” the ancient temples of Angkor Wat are the main attraction in Cambodia and one of the most visited historical sites in Southeast Asia.

The busy capital, Phnom Penh has lots to offer solo travellers with a stunning Royal Palace, ancient temples, markets, lovely river views and all the conveniences of a capital city.

The seaside town of Sihanoukville has several pretty beaches and offers gorgeous sunsets but Sihanoukville is best known for its nightlife, high-rise apartments and casinos. For a quieter beach holiday head to Otres Beach or catch a ferry to the nearby tropical islands Koh Rong & Koh Rong Sanloem.

Kampot is a pretty riverside town on Cambodia’s west coast with cave temples and a pepper plantation to visit.

Nearby Kep is a small and sleepy coastal town with pretty beaches and the most beautiful sunsets. Try the local pepper crab, visit the fish market or go hiking in the National Park.

Itineraries for Solo Travel in Cambodia

Here are my suggested itineraries for solo travel to Cambodia.

With 10 days in Cambodia , you can see the highlights, the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, the busy royal capital of Phnom Penh and spend a few days relaxing on the beautiful tropical beaches.

For a more in-depth travel experience, I suggest spending 2 – 3 weeks exploring Cambodia.  to see   The Best of Cambodia in 18 Fascinating Days . With a bit more time you can travel by riverboat to the regional capital Battambang, and visit the islands, Koh Rong or Koh Rong Sanloem.

Learn more about  travelling solo in Vietnam,   Thailand,   Cambodia  or  Myanmar.

Where to stay as a solo traveller in Cambodia

Solo travellers in Cambodia will find a variety of accommodation choices for all budgets. Hotels are very well set up for tourists and there are some good options that I can personally recommend.

Mid-Range: The Bridge Club , Phnom Penh. I loved staying here in a modern high-rise apartment with a spectacular view.

Mid-Range : The Frangipani Royal Palace Hotel , Phnom Penh has the perfect location for exploring Phnom Penh.

Luxury: Raffles Hotel Le Royal , Phnom Penh offers a touch of luxury with a colonial feel.

Siem Reap – The Night Hotel , Siem Reap

Kampot –   Villa Vedici has a lovely river view and a peaceful location just outside town. I loved staying here and spent a whole day relaxing by the pool.

Rikitikitavi Kampot is a more upmarket option in the centre of town.

Sihanoukville – Manoha Villa Serendipity Beach , Sihanoukville is a family-run guesthouse with clean spacious rooms. I enjoyed staying here on the way from Koh Rong Sanloem to Phnom Penh.

Koh Rong Sanloem – Sara Resort Koh Rong Sanloem . Escaping to this beautiful tropical island was a highlight of my solo trip to Cambodia, relaxing by the pool, eating mangos, exploring the island on foot and enjoying the lovely water views.

How to get around Cambodia

On a solo trip to Cambodia, there are many options to choose from when you travel around the country including air, train, bus, boat, or taxi. I found getting around the cities uncomplicated & I loved riding around in a tuk-tuk.

I used the Grab App for booking transport and found that it was better for hiring a tuk-tuk than flagging a driver down on the street. The Grab App sets the fare, Translates the instructions and provides a map so that you can check that you’re going to the right place. The App also goes a long way towards eliminating the language barrier with local drivers.

For long-distance journeys, I used buses and domestic flights to travel solo in Cambodia.

TIP: Booking buses and trains online in Cambodia is very easy with 12Go Asia and I found hotel receptions were also very helpful for onward travel advice.

Train travel in Cambodia is slow and routes are limited but you can catch a train from Phnom Penh to Kampot and Sihanoukville or from Phnom Penh to Battambang with connections by bus to Poipet on the Thai border and on to Thailand.

TIP: I didn’t enjoy travelling by minibus and would suggest booking a larger coach for long-distance travel. Even though distances between tourist destinations are not so long in Cambodia, I found the minibuses were cramped and uncomfortable on longer trips. You can expect delays and changes in schedule so don’t book things too tightly.

Cambodia has International Airports in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville. Domestic travel by air is relatively inexpensive and a good option for travelling longer distances if you’re a solo traveller in Cambodia.  

Getting from the airport to your hotel

Before you travel solo to Cambodia, book your airport transfers ahead of time. This will take the hassle out of your trip and help you to feel more confident when you first arrive, especially if it’s your first time travelling solo in Cambodia. Expect to be hassled by taxi drivers when you exit the airport.

If you’re arriving in the capital you can book your Phnom Penh International Airport transfer here.

Or if you’re flying directly to Siem Reap, book your Siem Reap International Airport Transfer here .

Alternatively, solo travellers in Cambodia can pick up a taxi or a tuk-tuk at the airport. At Siem Reap airport there’s a flat fee for a tuk-tuk into town but you can expect to be hassled by a throng of eager taxi drivers when you leave the airport.

Visas for Cambodia Solo Travel

Yes, most nationalities need a visa to visit Cambodia. Australian citizens need a visa to enter Cambodia and you can apply for an e-visa online from the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or get a Visa on Arrival.

To apply for a visa on arrival you need:

•  a recent passport photo
•  a passport that is valid for at least 6 months
•  2 empty pages in your passport
•  a completed visa application form is supplied on the plane or at the airport on arrival
• visa fee in US dollars cash.

Is it expensive to travel to Cambodia?

Cambodia is one of the cheapest countries for travel in South East Asia. If you’re spending AUD$, US$, Euros, or Pounds it’s an inexpensive country to visit. Solo travel in Cambodia is a bit more expensive but foreigners do very well on the exchange rate and can live very comfortably in Cambodia without spending a lot of money.

Accommodation is relatively cheap and I enjoyed staying in a modern apartment on the 32 nd floor of The Bridge Club in central Phnom Penh with a stunning view over the river for around US$30.

Food is more expensive than in Thailand or Vietnam with an evening meal costing around US$6 and upwards.  

Can I use US$ in Cambodia?

Yes, take US$ on a solo trip to Cambodia but the local currency, the Cambodian Riel, is most commonly used and it’s easy to change money at banks, money changers and hotels.

You can use US dollars rather than local currency but you may be charged more if you pay in US dollars.

Credit Cards are widely accepted and ATMs are easy to find. Many ATMs will give you US$.

If you take US$ in cash, make sure your notes are new and unmarked or they may not be accepted. I took an older US$50 bill and had trouble using it. I got a lot of odd looks and the money was handed back to me several times.

The Best Time to Visit Cambodia

November to February is the best time for solo travel to Cambodia but try to avoid peak season in December / January as there are more than 2 million visitors annually.

July /August can be a rewarding time to visit away from peak season as the landscape is green and the rivers are full.

June to October is the wet season and Siem Reap sometimes floods in October.

April / May is extremely hot throughout the country and it’s the worst time of year to visit.

Cambodia is near the equator with a usual temperature range of 21 – 35 degrees Celcius ( 70 – 95 degrees Fahrenheit). I was there in January and it was extremely hot! It’s the peak tourist season and the weather is typically sunny and dry.

TIP: Be prepared for the sweltering heat in Cambodia. Book a hotel room with air-conditioning and a pool. There’s nothing better than a swim to cool off after a long day exploring temples on a solo trip to Cambodia.

What to Pack for Solo Travel to Cambodia

The weather in Cambodia is hot and can be very humid. Pack lightweight cotton clothes for solo travel in Cambodia and take:

• Summer dresses
• Long-sleeved shirts & long pants for visiting temples, riding a motorbike, and visiting more remote areas of the country.
• Sarong – Useful at the beach and can double as a towel, scarf, or sheet.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses & sun hat
• Walking or hiking shoes & socks

As a tourist, you can wear shorts and a T-shirt when sightseeing but people dress conservatively in Cambodia and locals will probably be wearing long sleeves and pants.

For solo female travel in Cambodia, I suggest dressing conservatively. For safety reasons, it’s best to blend in and not draw too much attention to yourself.

Avoid very revealing clothes like tank tops, mini-skirts and tight yoga pants as they may make Cambodian people feel uncomfortable.

Dress & Etiquette

When you visit Angkor Wat and other temples in Cambodia, make sure you wear clothes that cover your knees and shoulders or you may cause offence. The Temples at Angkor Wat are important religious sites and inappropriate dress is not allowed.

TIP: Carry a sarong to tie around your waist or shoulders before entering a temple.

Is It safe to travel solo in Cambodia?

Yes. Solo female travel in Cambodia is generally safe. While there is a lot of poverty in rural areas, the strict Buddhist religion prohibits violence or crime. Women travelling alone in Cambodia are likely to have a safe and enjoyable trip. 

I have made several solo trips to Cambodia and have always felt safe but you should still take safety precautions and watch out for petty crime and scams. Be cautious, keep your bag close and your valuables out of sight and don’t walk alone late at night.

Staying connected on a Solo trip to Cambodia

Staying connected is very important for solo travellers in Cambodia. While free Wi-Fi is easy to find, I recommend buying a SIM card for reliable internet access.

I bought my SIM card easily in Siem Reap and it was not expensive. Your hotel in Cambodia will probably have free Wi-fi but it’s likely to be slow, insecure and unreliable so I used a SIM card in preference throughout my solo trip to Cambodia.

What NOT to do on a Cambodia Visit

While Cambodia is generally a relaxed country to visit, there are some things you should never do, especially if you travel solo to Cambodia.

• Never point your feet towards the Buddha when sitting at Angkor Wat or at other temples. This is considered VERY rude and you will probably be told to sit respectfully. Instead, sit on your legs with your feet pointing behind you. If you’re not sure how to sit, copy the locals.
• Women should never touch a monk or his robes or hand something directly to him.
• Don’t drink the water. Buy bottled water or boil & purify your water and be careful of ice cubes and don’t eat salads that may have been washed in tap water.

More Tips for Solo Travel in Cambodia

• Be prepared for the sweltering heat in Cambodia. Book a hotel room with air-conditioning and a pool. There’s nothing better than a swim to cool off after a long day exploring temples on a solo trip to Cambodia.
• See your doctor for medical advice before you leave home and get the necessary vaccinations. This should be done a month or two before you leave home. Anti-malarial tablets will probably be recommended especially if you are visiting jungle areas.
• For peace of mind make sure you buy travel insurance for solo travel in Cambodia. I recommend taking out Travel insurance so you can concentrate on enjoying your vacation without worrying about something going wrong

FAQ’s

How many days do you need for cambodia.

With 10 days in Cambodia, you can see the highlights, visit the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, discover the capital Phnom Penh and relax on the beaches and tropical islands of the west coast. But allow 2 -3 weeks to see the country in more depth, travel by riverboat to the charming regional city of Battambang, and see more of the lovely west coast islands and beaches.

Is Vietnam safer than Cambodia?

Both Vietnam and Cambodia are safe for solo travel with low crime rates and fewer hassles than other destinations. If you take the usual safety precautions, take special care at night and watch out for petty theft and scams, you’re likely to have a safe and enjoyable experience travelling alone in Cambodia and Vietnam.

Do they speak English in Cambodia?

Yes. they speak English in Cambodia. While Khmer is the official language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas and cities. This makes solo travel in Cambodia easy.

You might also enjoy

Cambodia Travel: Why Angkor Wat is So Special

A Guide for Successful Solo Travelling to Thailand

Solo Travelling for Women – 30 Tips for Success

Solo Travel in Vietnam – What You Need to Know

A Guide for Successful Solo Travelling to Bali

Vibrant Phnom Penh in Cambodia – 8+ HIghlights

How to Visit Charming Battambang in Cambodia

Useful Advice for Solo Travel in Myanmar

Golden Rock in Myanmar – My Amazing Solo Travel Adventure

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Linda is a travel blogger and teacher from Australia. She loves to travel solo and over the years she’s visited around 50 countries on 5 different continents. Her recent trips include volunteer teaching in an orphanage in Uganda, swimming with sea turtles on the stunning islands of the Great Barrier Reef and a jaunt to Java and Bali climbing volcanos, visiting ancient sacred places and zipping around on the back of a motorbike.

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21 Comments

I would love to visit Angkor Wat! Thanks for sharing these tips!

My Pleasure! I’m so happy you enjoyed the post!

I’m so bummed I never got to visit Angkor Wat when I lived in Thailand! Can’t wait to explore Cambodia next time I’m in Southeast Asia 🙂

Thanks so much for your comments. I’m sure you’ll love Cambodia & Angkor Wat!

Angkor Wat is definitely on my list. Thank you for these tips.

My pleasure! I hope you have a great trip!

I love this post, very useful for tourism

Angkor Wat has been on my list for the longest time. Thank you for sharing these details.

Angkor Wat is high on my list, as is Cambodia in general, so this was really helpful for someone like me who has no idea what to expect. Although getting up at sunrise doesn’t sound fun, I’ve seen the pictures and I think I’d make it happen for the views there

Yes its definitely worth getting up early to see Angkor reflected in the lake at sunrise!

I’d just to go to Cambodia to see the temples. One Day!

Angkor Wat, Cambodia sounds like a great place to visit. Thanks for sharing these great tips.

Thanks for the tips. Cambodia is on my bucket list!

Fascinating! This is on my places to visit. My sister in law is Cambodian and we’d love to take a trip here one day!

Very informative post, I’d love to visit Angor Wat in the future!

This has been on my bucket list for so long – I can’t wait to plan a trip here! There are a lot of things to know before visiting, so thank you for sharing all of these helpful tips.

Cambodia is definitely on my list. Pinning this for later

Having been to Cambodia, I agree with everything you said in this post. Great tips! In Siem Reap, I was able to have the hotel send pick-up and drop-off to the airport.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia, in general, has been on my bucket list for a long time now. I hope to visit there soon. Thanks for these valuable tips, especially about pointing your feet towards Buddha. It’s essential to learn these types of things before travelling to avoid being a “bad” tourist. Thanks for sharing.

Beautiful photos of an amazing part of the world, I love visiting Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Thanks for sharing these great tips!

I traveled by myself to Phnom Penh years ago and found it lovely! But Angkor Wat is still my favorite place to visit from that trip 🙂

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The Ultimate Cambodia Solo Female Travel Guide (2024)

If you’re looking for a Cambodia solo female travel guide, you have come to the right place!

I visited Cambodia as a solo female traveler and spent several weeks backpacking around the country, visiting must-see tourist attractions, and relaxing on a yoga retreat. 

Cambodia quickly became one of my favorite countries to visit, with its rich culture, friendly people, and stunning landscapes. 

Whether you’re intrigued by the enchanting ruins of Angkor Wat, the bustling markets of Phnom Penh, or the serene beaches of Koh Rong, I’m sure you’ll love Cambodia as much as I did.

Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Cambodia as a solo female traveler!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. I hope you find the information here helpful!

Is Cambodia Good For Solo Travellers?

Absolutely! Cambodia is an excellent travel destination for solo travelers for a multitude of reasons. 

First, Cambodia follows a popular Southeast Asia backpacker trail, so it is easy to get around, ensuring you easily hit all the must-see tourist attractions while staying on a budget.

Second, Cambodia is home to some of the most impressive monuments in the region, with Angkor Wat being on the top of every Southeast Asia bucket list. its rich history and cultural heritage provide endless opportunities for exploration and learning. 

Third, the warm and friendly nature of the Cambodian people makes solo travelers feel welcome and at ease. You’ll notice that many people speak English, or if they don’t they’ll look for someone to translate!

Challenges of Traveling Cambodia Solo

While I found Cambodia is a fantastic destination for solo travelers, it might not be at the top of the list of best destinations for first-time solo female travelers. 

Cambodia is less touristy than neighboring Thailand or Bali, so it might feel intimidating for beginner solo travelers. You might face some challenges when backpacking in Cambodia , so being aware of and prepared for them can greatly enhance your travel experience.

Scams: Like any tourist hotspot, Cambodia has its share of scams. These can range from overpriced tuk-tuk rides, and pickpocketing to counterfeit currency exchange. 

Currency : Cambodia uses both its local currency and USD, which can seem complicated at first before you understand money in Cambodia.

Language Barrier: If you stay in popular tourist areas you won’t have issues with English, but it’s not widely spoken in rural areas.

Transport: It takes a long time to travel in Cambodia as roads can be in poor condition. Prepare for long bus rides and unreliable public transportation.

Internet Connectivity: I realized lately I need to have a SIM card to feel safe as a solo female traveler, so losing signal in rural areas can be frustrating.

Landmines : Most people won’t even know this is a problem, so just don’t venture off alone into the jungle.

Cambodia Visa

Travelers from most countries can easily obtain a visa for Cambodia on arrival or an e-visa. 

While Cambodia uses two currencies , Cambodian borders are infamous for only taking cash and pristine-looking US dollar bills for visa payment. I went to two money exchanges in Singapore to find the best-looking ones! 

However, it turns out that if your bills are not creased or broken you’ll be fine, as the bill I got back was far from perfect. 

Still, if you don’t want to risk it, you can apply for an e-visa before arrival. It takes at least 3 business days for an e-visa to be approved, so do it at least a week before coming to Cambodia.

How To Get Around Cambodia

Once you’re in the country, the most popular mode of transportation around Cambodia is the bus. 

Buses operate extensively, connecting various cities and towns across the country. They are a reliable and budget-friendly choice for both locals and tourists, offering a chance to experience the country’s scenic landscapes during the journey. 

One thing to keep in mind is that travel times are almost always longer than it say when you book the ticket.

Nowadays you can book bus tickets online , which is perfect if you’re traveling in high season. Most hostels can book bus tickets for you too, but of course, it is usually cheaper to do it yourself.

Also, there’s a network of trains that connects some of the major cities. For example, you can take a train from Phnom Penh to Kampot, but a friend told me it was the slowest train she ever took.

I don’t mind slower travel, especially when there are nice landscapes to enjoy along the way.

🚌 Check bus times and prices here!

How To Get Within Cities

Tuk-tuk is the most common way to get around within Cambodian cities.

If you don’t like negotiating taxi prices, like I assume most of us don’t, you can order a tuk-tuk on Grab or the local taxi-hailing app PassApp. 

I suggest you download Grab in Cambodia even if you want to catch a taxi on the street, just so you know the average prices.

Unlike other cities in Cambodia, Phnom Penh has a bus! Their public transport system is quite well-developed and you can download the City bus app to see the maps and where the closest bus is.

The public bus in Phnom Penh is quite cheap (about 1500 riel) and you can take it all the way to the airport!

Best Places For Solo Travel In Cambodia

Siem Reap is by far the most popular place to visit in Cambodia. This vibrant city in northwest Cambodia is a solo traveler’s paradise. 

Home to the magnificent temples of Angkor, it offers a unique blend of historical grandeur and modern allure. Watching the sunset over the iconic Angkor Wat is one of the top things to do in Cambodia .

The city has several fantastic backpacker hostels, bustling night markets and pub streets, and diverse food options. 

Despite being a tourist hot spot in Cambodia, Siem Reap retains a laid-back charm, with friendly locals and a tranquil riverside setting. 

If you have 3 days in Siem Reap, the city also serves as a gateway to rural Cambodia, with plenty of eco-tourism options for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Kampot in the south of the country is a place to visit for those seeking a serene getaway. 

This quaint riverside town is known for its colonial architecture and breathtaking natural beauty. It’s encircled by lush mountains and pepper plantations, offering opportunities for trekking and exploring the production of Kampot’s world-renowned pepper. 

There are no tourist attractions in the town itself, but its laid-back riverside atmosphere is perfect for relaxation. I loved the vibrant food and drink scene, brimming with hip cafes and bars, which offers a slice of modernity. 

I also went on a yoga retreat in Kampot , and it was a fantastic way to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of big cities.

I’ve heard mixed reviews about the capital of Cambodia and whether it is worth it to visit Phnom Penh before coming. However, I quite enjoyed exploring this chaotic capital!

It is the best place to learn about the country’s history, as you get to visit memorial places like Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and killing fields. It is a somber, but important part of Cambodia’s identity.

I joined this Genocide memorial tour with my hostel.

I also enjoyed walking along the Mekong River promenade, and you can also go on a sunset river cruise! The Royal Palace is majestic, as well as numerous temples you can visit in the city. 

There are some areas that I would avoid in Phnom Penh, like the infamous Red Light district which I accidentally stumbled upon while looking for 7-Eleven.

Cambodia also has several tropical islands for beach lovers and solitude seekers alike. 

Koh Rong is one of the most beautiful islands in the Gulf of Thailand, with pristine white sandy beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, and a diverse underwater world. 

The island offers a wide range of activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers, from snorkeling and scuba diving to jungle trekking and night swimming with bioluminescent plankton. 

It is also a perfect place to relax, with beachside bungalows, hammocks, and tranquil sunsets. Despite its growing popularity, Koh Rong still retains its untouched charm, providing a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Koh Rong Sanloem

Just a short ferry ride from Koh Rong is another tropical island, Koh Rong Sanloem. This island is less developed than its neighbor, Koh Rong, ensuring a more tranquil and authentic experience. 

With untouched beaches, lush jungle interiors, and warm, clear waters, it’s a place to unwind and recharge to continue your backpacking Southeast Asia tour.

One thing to keep in mind is that Cambodian islands are more expensive than the mainland, and that includes food, drinks, and accommodation.

Finally, we have Battambang for culture lovers. It is the second-largest city in Cambodia, renowned for its well-preserved French colonial architecture but most travelers visit to see the unique bamboo train. 

Battambang used to be the cultural capital of Cambodia, and today it is where you’ll find the most artists in the country. If you love walking around admiring architecture, Battambang should be on your Cambodia itinerary .

Accommodation For Solo Female Travelers In Cambodia

I stayed in hostels when solo traveling in Cambodia, but there are also many cute guest houses and homestays throughout the country. 

Best Hostels In Cambodia

One of the reasons why it is easy to travel to Cambodia as a solo female traveler is the backpacker-friendly hostels . Even if dorms are not your thing, private rooms are quite affordable too!

I am a firm believer that hostels are the best place to make friends as a solo traveler, so I was very excited to see how many social hostels there are in Cambodia. 

I stayed in all the best-rated Cambodia hostel chains , Mad Monkey, Lub D, and Onederz, that offered female-only dorms. It was easy to meet other travelers and join various events organized by hostels, even if you’re not into partying.

Hostels In Phnom Penh

Mad Monkey Phnom Penh : I stayed here for 3 nights in a female-only dorm, joined several events, and met amazing people. Despite being known as a party hostel, the music was off at 23:00, so it was easy to sleep if you picked rooms with fewer beds.

Onederz Phnom Penh : I stayed here too! The location was great – right by the river, the female-only dorm was comfortable, and the rooftop pool was fantastic. It is quieter than Mad Monkey, and there are fewer party travelers.

Hostels In Siem Reap

Lub D Siem Reap : I stayed here for 4 nights, I planned to try out other hostels in the city, but the room here was the best dorm room I’ve ever stayed at. Fantastic hostel!

The Twizt Lifestyle Hostel : This is easily the most beautiful hostel in the country and the best choice for solo female travelers. Features large comfortable rooms, a fantastic pool, and decorations that make it look like a 5-star hotel.

Mad Monkey Siem Reap : Mad Monkey is the best party hostel in Siem Reap. Like other hostels of this chain, they also organize daily events and tours.

Hotels in Cambodia

I didn’t stay in hotels during my time in Cambodia, but you can find fantastic hotels throughout the country for a fraction of the price of European hotels!

Most hotels are more than just a place to stay and feature large swimming pools and relaxing spa facilities.

Some of the best luxury hotels in Cambodia for solo female travelers are:

• Plantation Urban Resort & Spa in Phnom Penh
• Eightfold Urban Resort in Siem Reap
• Kampot Riverfront Boutique in Kampot

Homestays With Local Families

I didn’t go for a homestay on this trip, but it sounds like the best way to learn more about Cambodian culture and traditions firsthand, as well as support the local communities. 

Many homestay options can be found in rural areas, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling cities.

Best Time To Visit Cambodia As Solo Traveler

Cambodia experiences two distinct seasons throughout the year – dry and wet.

The high season, which is the dry season, spans from November to May. It is characterized by clear skies and cooler temperatures as it is winter in Cambodia , making it a popular time for visitors. 

Most people visit Cambodia from December to February, and that’s when you’ll meet many other travelers and tours running every day.

Conversely, Cambodia’s rainy season , extending from May until October brings frequent showers and higher humidity.

You’ll forget about the make-up and travel hairstyles , putting your hair up in a ponytail every day.

I visited in October, which some say is the worst time to travel to Cambodia . The weather forecast looked rather depressing, showing strong rain every day.

However, the showers were really short and quite predictable. 

In Phnom Penh, it rained for half an hour to an hour in the evening, and in Siem Reap, we got a 15-minute to half-hour shower in the afternoon. There were even several days without any rain!

Cambodia Female Packing List

If you’re wondering what to wear in Cambodia, I’ve got you covered. I am a big advocate of packing light, and it shouldn’t be a problem with high temperatures in Cambodia.

Here are some of the essentials to add to your packing list for Cambodia :

• Lightweight cotton clothes : Cambodia is hot and humid, so pack breathable clothes. It is perfectly fine to wear shorts and cropped tops in Cambodia unless you’re visiting temples.
• Temple attire : You need something that covers your knees and shoulders for visiting temples and memorial sites. Midi skirts or lightweight pants are my go-to.
• Comfortable walking shoes : I’d go for sneakers and sandals, don’t bring heels.
• Raincoat : Useful if you’re visiting in the rainy season, but sometimes you’ll just get wet.
• Sunscreen : Bring sunscreen from home, as it is very expensive and has whitening agents in Cambodia. Also, for some reason face sunscreen in Cambodia is usually sold in 10ml packages.
• Mosquito repellent : You can buy one in Cambodia, just be aware you’ll need it.
• Hat and sunglasses : For protection against the sun.
• Lightweight scarf or wrap : I didn’t bring one, but if your dresses and shirts don’t cover your shoulders you can use it when visiting temples.
• Basic toiletries : Although you can buy them there, you might prefer to bring your own.
• Travel adaptor : Cambodia uses Type A, C, and G plugs.
• Water bottle : Staying hydrated is very important and you don’t want to contribute to plastic pollution in the country.

Remember, packing light is the way to go, especially if you plan on moving around a lot.

Is Cambodia Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

Yes, Cambodia is generally safe for solo female travelers. 

The locals are typically friendly and are known for their warm hospitality. Hotels and guesthouses are accustomed to solo travelers and can provide helpful advice on safe routes and areas to avoid.

Street crime is relatively low in major cities like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh but like any destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. 

Moreover, transportation services such as Grab and PassApp are reliable and convenient options for solo travel, reducing the need to navigate the local public transportation system. 

Finally, the expansive community of fellow travelers and backpackers in Cambodia provides an additional layer of comfort, making it an attractive destination for solo travelers.

Cambodia Safety Tips

Keep your bags closed and close to you.

Pickpocketing is common in many tourist areas. Keep your bags zipped and close to you at all times, especially when walking through crowded areas or using public transportation.

Use Common Sense When Going Out

I won’t tell you to not go out when traveling , because going out is a fundamental part of the backpacking experience. However, stay aware of your surroundings, practice responsible drinking, and don’t leave your drinks unattended. 

Get A SIM Card

I found that having a local SIM card gives me a sense of safety as I can easily access important travel information online, call, and use navigation apps.

Don’t Drink Tap Water

Tap water is not drinkable in Cambodia, so make sure to always get filtered water refills to avoid stomach issues.

Get Travel Insurance

You need travel insurance when abroad. I’ve heard stories of people not being admitted to a hospital after an accident before paying or proving they have travel insurance. Stay safe! 

Use Mosquito Repellent

There are several mosquito-borne diseases in Cambodia, and the best way to stay safe is to avoid getting bitten by mosquitos. 

Stay On Marked Paths When Trekking

If you’re trekking in Cambodia, you must stay on the trail due to the prevalent risk of unexploded landmines, remnants from past conflicts that still pose a serious hazard in certain rural areas.

Cambodia Solo Travel Budget

If you’re wondering is Cambodia expensive for solo travelers , you’ll be glad to know that Cambodia is generally a very affordable country to visit.

When you compare Vietnam and Cambodia, the prices might seem a bit higher as Cambodian currency is linked to USD. However, most things won’t be cheaper than 1 USD anyway.

Food, accommodation, and transportation are all relatively cheap in Cambodia. 

On the other hand, tourist attractions in Cambodia are significantly more expensive than average prices in the country. For example, Angkor Wat tickets start at about 40 USD for a one-day pass.

Also, I got a lot of vegan food in Cambodia , which was more expensive than eating at night markets.

Therefore, your Cambodia budget will greatly depend on your travel style, itinerary, and how many paid activities you want to do. 

Without activities, you can expect to spend about 15-20 USD per day on food, transportation, and accommodation if you stay in hostels.

If you stay in private rooms, your daily average will be closer to 35 USD.

Is it safe for a woman to travel to Cambodia?

Yes, it is safe for women to travel to Cambodia. I went to Cambodia as a solo female traveler and met many other women also traveling Cambodia alone. The country has a popular travel route where locals speak English, accommodation is readily available, and it is easy to get around by public transport. 

Final Thoughts: Cambodia Solo Travel

Cambodia is a fantastic country to travel solo or with friends .

From the magical Angkor Wat temples to untouched nature and tropical islands, Cambodia has something for every type of traveler. 

The country is well equipped for tourism, with plenty of public transport lines and helpful English-speaking locals, making it a safe destination for solo female travelers. 

A solo trip to Cambodia is a fantastic idea, and I’m sure you’ll love this magical country!

Natali is the founder of She's Abroad Again. She is a solo female travel and backpacking expert who traveled to more than 30 country over 3 continents, mostly solo and on a budget! She is a lawyer turned travel blogger as she traded long office hours in Croatia for a digital nomad life and currenly calls France her home.

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Thankyou for an informative and fun rundown of solo travel for Cambodia. Especially the items to bring along, such as mosquito repellent and sunscreen.

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Discover Tour Places

Cambodia solo travel, best time to visit.

Cambodia solo travel always leaves you with wonderful memories. Traveling alone is special because you get to enjoy every moment. Cambodia is a best place to do this because it has so much to explore. It’s full of interesting history, lively culture, and beautiful views. When you travel alone in Cambodia, you can have amazing adventures you’ll never forget.

Planning Your Solo Trip to Cambodia

Choosing the right time to visit.

Before you start your solo trip to Cambodia, it’s important to think about when to go. Cambodia has two main seasons: wet and dry. The dry season, from November to April, is the best time for tourists because the weather is good and there’s not much rain.

Checking visa requirements for Cambodia solo travel.

If you’re traveling alone, it’s really important to check what you need to enter Cambodia before you go. Most people can get a  visa  when they arrive, but it’s smart to check the rules before to avoid any problems later on.

Choosing Where to Go

Cambodia has lots of amazing places to visit, each with its special vibe. Whether you’re into ancient temples like Angkor Wat or busy city life in Phnom Penh, there’s special for everyone. As a solo traveler, you can pick and choose what you want to see and do.

Important Tips for Traveling Alone in Cambodia

Accepting different cultures.

Exploring different cultures is one of the best parts of traveling alone. In Cambodia, it’s important to be respectful of the local customs and traditions. For example, take off your shoes before going to temples and dress nicely when you visit religious places. Cambodia Solo travel is always the best.

Staying Safe and Well

Staying safe is very important when you’re traveling alone, even in Cambodia. It’s generally a safe place for tourists, but it’s still smart to be careful, especially in busy areas and popular tourist spots. Also, make sure to drink enough water and protect yourself from mosquitoes to stay healthy during your trip. You have to take care of yourself in busy places during Cambodia solo travel.

Getting Around

Getting around Cambodia by yourself is pretty easy. You can choose from buses, tuk-tuks, or motorbike taxis. Just be careful and agree on the price before you go to avoid any problems. You can visit many places by using local transportation such as tuk-tuks, bike rides, and other modes of transportation during Cambodia solo travel.

Diving into Cambodian Culture

Exploring ancient sites and landmarks.

You can’t miss exploring Cambodia’s history when you visit. Solo travelers can see incredible temples like Angkor, explore old ruins like Ta Prohm, and learn about the country’s past at places like the Killing Fields and S21 Prison.

Trying Local Food

Cambodian food is a mix of tasty flavors and styles, from yummy curries to delicious street snacks. If you’re traveling alone, you can try all kinds of dishes like fish amok, beef lok lak, and num banh chok to experience the local flavors. Cambodia solo travel is the best because it gives you the chance to taste different foods at low prices.

Connecting with Local Communities

One of the best things about traveling alone is getting to know local communities and learning about how they live. You can do all kinds of cool things, like joining a cooking class, helping out with a local group, or just chatting with people you meet. These experiences let you make real connections with people, even if you’re from different cultures. Cambodia solo travel is the best because it gives you an amazing experience.

Solo Adventures in Cambodia

Hiking through forests and mountains.

If you love the outdoors, Cambodia has tons of great places to go trekking. You can explore the green forests of the Cardamom Mountains or the rough landscapes of the Elephant Mountains. Traveling alone, you can even go on long hikes, camp out overnight, and enjoy the beauty of nature all around you. Trekking is the best thing to do during Cambodia solo travel.

Exploring Underwater Beauty

Cambodia’s coast has amazing clear waters and lots of colorful sea creatures, perfect for people who love the ocean. If you’re traveling alone, you can snorkel or dive to see beautiful coral reefs, swim with tropical fish, and find all sorts of cool stuff under the water. Exploring underwater beauty is the best thing to do during Cambodia solo travel.

Riding Through Beautiful Views

Riding a bike around Cambodia is a great way to see all the different landscapes and countryside views. If you’re traveling alone, you can walk through green rice fields, peaceful villages, and old temples, taking in the sights and sounds of rural life as you go. Exploring village life and admiring the beautiful rice fields are the best things to do during Cambodia solo travel.

Embracing Challenges and Learning

Dealing with language differences.

It can be difficult when you don’t speak the same language as the locals during Cambodia solo travel, but it’s also a chance to learn and grow. Just knowing a few simple Khmer words and using gestures can help you connect with people and make friends, even if you don’t speak the same language. Learning different languages and visiting old places are the best things to do during Cambodia solo travel.

Growing confidence and independence

Traveling alone is all about discovering yourself, especially during Cambodia solo travel. It takes courage, strength, and the ability to adapt. By exploring new places, facing challenges, and trying new things, solo travelers can become more independent and self-reliant, skills that will help them in everything they do.

Thinking about personal experiences

As your Cambodia solo travel adventure comes to a close, it’s a good idea to reflect on all the things you’ve done and seen. Whether it’s watching the sunrise at Angkor Wat, dining with new friends, or simply enjoying some quiet time alone, these moments are truly special. They teach us a lot and show us how Cambodia solo travel can change us for the better.

Traveling alone in Cambodia is an exciting adventure where you can learn, grow, and have fun, especially during Cambodia solo travel. From exploring old temples to swimming in clear waters, there’s so much to do and see. So get your bags ready, be brave, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime. Cambodia is also a Cheapest Asian Countries to Travel .

Is Cambodia a safe place for people traveling alone?

Cambodia is pretty safe for tourists, even if it has had some difficult times in the past. But it’s always smart to be careful, especially in busy places where lots of tourists go.

When is the best time for solo travelers to visit Cambodia?

The best time to go to Cambodia is from November to April when it’s dry and sunny most of the time. This makes it perfect for seeing all the cool things the country has to offer.

What should travelers going alone pack for a trip to Cambodia?

Here are some things you should bring with you: light clothes, comfy shoes for walking, bug spray, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle. It’s also a good idea to have a copy of your passport and your travel insurance papers with you, just in casse.

Are there any customs or further tips to know about in Cambodia?

Yes, it’s important to dress nicely when you’re at religious places, take off your shoes before going into temples, and say “Sawasdee” or “hello” politely to locals. Also, it’s respectful to show honor to older people and monks.

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Expert Guide: How To Plan An Amazing Cambodia Family Holiday

Planning a great family vacation to Cambodia can seem like an overwhelming task, but with the right strategy and useful insights, you can absolutely craft an amazing Cambodia family holiday .

In this comprehensive guide, APT will provide you with all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Cambodia with your loved ones. From choosing the best transportation method to exploring the must-see attractions or preparing for the upcoming trip, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive in and embark on an extraordinary adventure in the Kingdom of Wonder!

Why You Should Choose Cambodia For A Family Holiday

Rich cultural heritage and historical attractions.

Cambodia is home to a rich cultural heritage and a host of historical landmarks that provide educational and enriching experiences for families.

For example, the famous Angkor complex, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , is a must-visit place that will leave you and your family in awe of its architectural magnificence and historical significance. Exploring the ancient temples and learning about the Khmer civilization can be an engaging and informative experience for both children and adults.

Affordable Family-Friendly Accommodations

You will find a variety of accommodations suitable for your families in Cambodia, ranging from inexpensive guesthouses to high-end resorts.

Several hotels and resorts have facilities exclusively designed for parents with children, including kids’ clubs, playgrounds, and family-oriented activities. This makes it easier for families to find the right accommodations that meet their requirements and budget.

Diverse Natural Attractions and Outdoor Adventures

As a family, it can be challenging to find activities that everyone will enjoy. Fortunately, Cambodia has a wealth of natural attractions that are perfect for any type of outdoor adventure.

From the pristine beaches of Sihanoukville to the lush jungles of the Cardamom Mountains, families can explore the country’s natural beauty together. Take a leisurely hike, go kayaking, or observe the local wildlife in their natural habitat. These experiences provide a unique opportunity for families to bond while creating lasting memories. Additionally, they foster a greater appreciation for nature and environmental conservation, reminding us of the importance of preserving our planet for future generations.

Delicious and Family-Friendly Cuisine

Discover the wonders of Cambodian cuisine—a cuisine renowned for its delicious and family-friendly dishes. Restaurants in Cambodia offer a variety of dishes, including popular Khmer curries and flavorful street food, in a welcoming atmosphere that caters to families with child-friendly menus. Trying new and exciting dishes together can be a fun and memorable experience for families.

Warm and Welcoming Local Culture

Cambodia is a great destination for families due to the warm and welcoming hospitality of the locals. The local culture emphasizes the importance of family and community, creating a friendly and secure environment for families to explore and interact with the locals. By participating in activities like cooking classes, traditional dance performances, or visiting local markets, families can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Cambodian customs and traditions.

By choosing Cambodia for a family holiday, you can create lasting memories, immerse yourselves in a rich cultural heritage, and enjoy a diverse range of activities and experiences that cater to families of all ages and interests.

Cambodia offers many things for a perfect family trip

>> Read More: 15 Best Things To Do In Cambodia

Preparing for Your Cambodia Family Journey

Visa requirements.

Your first step towards Cambodian exploration is ensuring you and your kids have the right documentation:

• Checking the visa requirements: Familiarize yourself with Cambodia’s visa policies. Most travelers can opt for a visa on arrival or an e-visa, both granting up to a 30-day stay.
• Preparing necessary documents: Check that your passport has a minimum of six months of validity remaining from your planned date of entry and at least one blank page for the visa stamp.
• Getting the visa: The visa fee typically stands at around 30 USD. You’ll want to have this amount in cash, as well as a passport-sized photo. If you forget the photo, airports usually have a facility to take one for a small fee.

>> Read More: Cambodia Travel Requirements

Time Your Cambodia Trip

Choosing when to visit Cambodia can define your travel experience

The most favorable time to visit is during the dry season, from November to February . The weather is mild, and the conditions are ideal for temple tours and outdoor exploration. However, this is also when tourism is at its peak, so plan for higher prices and busier sights.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds and don’t mind a bit of rain, consider traveling during the shoulder months, just before or after the peak season. The weather can still be pleasant, and you’ll get to experience the country with fewer tourists.

>> Gain More Insightful Tips Here: Best Time To Visit Cambodia

Book Your Flights And Accommodations

Once your travel window is selected, it’s time to solidify your arrival and stay.

• Flights : Shop around for flights well in advance to snag the best deals. Consider layovers as a cost-saving measure, and don’t shy away from budget airlines.
• Accommodations : Your options range from hostels and guesthouses to luxury hotels. Booking sites often offer free cancellation policies, giving you the flexibility to adjust plans as your trip unfolds. Look for central locations to minimize travel time and maximize exploration.

Budgeting and Money Matters

• Research the cost of living in Cambodia and budget accordingly for accommodations, transportation, meals, and activities. 
• Notify your bank and credit card companies about your travel plans to avoid any issues with international transactions. 
• Carry a mix of cash (US dollars are widely accepted) and credit/debit cards for convenience and security.

Top Family-friendly Destinations For Your Cambodia Trip

Cambodia offers several family-friendly destinations that blend history, culture, and adventure. Here are some top spots to consider for your family vacation.

Angkor Wat 

Aerial view of Angkor Wat Temple

Situated near Siem Reap, Angkor Wat is the crowning jewel of Khmer architecture and a symbol of national pride.

This temple complex is an architectural masterpiece, and it takes several days to appreciate its beauty fully. Early mornings offer a magical view as the sun rises over its iconic spires, while the surrounding smaller temples like Bayon, with its serene stone faces, and Ta Prohm, entwined with roots and vines, provide a haunting beauty.

Cambodia’s capital city, Phnom Penh, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that offers a mix of history and modernity. Visit the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda to learn about the country’s royal heritage. The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields are important historical sites that provide insight into Cambodia’s tragic past. For a fun family outing, head to the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center, where you can see a variety of rescued animals up close.

>> Read More: 15 Incredible Things To Do In Phnom Penh For First-timers

Siem Reap is the gateway to the magnificent temples of Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Exploring the ancient ruins with your family is an incredible experience that will leave you in awe of Cambodia’s rich history. Siem Reap also offers a range of family-friendly activities, such as visiting the Angkor National Museum, exploring the floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake, and enjoying traditional Apsara dance performances.

>> Read More: Top 15 Things To Do In Siem Reap Besides Temples

Battambang is a charming city known for its French colonial architecture and laid-back atmosphere. Take a ride on the famous Bamboo Train, a unique and thrilling experience for the whole family. Explore the ancient temples of Wat Banan and Wat Ek Phnom, and don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Phare Ponleu Selpak Circus, where talented young performers showcase their skills in a captivating show.

If your family enjoys outdoor activities and nature, Kampot is the perfect destination. Take a boat trip along the Kampot River, where you can admire the beautiful scenery and spot local wildlife. Visit the Bokor National Park, home to lush rainforests and stunning waterfalls. The nearby salt fields and pepper plantations are also worth a visit, where you can learn about the local industries.

Sihanoukville 

Sihanoukville, located on the southwestern coast of Cambodia, is a popular beach destination that offers a range of activities for families. The town is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant beachside atmosphere. Families can spend their days swimming, building sandcastles, and enjoying water sports such as snorkeling, kayaking, and jet skiing.

One of the main attractions in Sihanoukville is the nearby Koh Rong Island, which is easily accessible by boat. Koh Rong boasts pristine beaches, lush jungles, and crystal-clear waters. Families can explore the island’s hiking trails, go on boat tours to spot marine life, or simply relax on the beach. The island also offers options for overnight stays, with family-friendly resorts and bungalows available.

Sunset in Sihanoukville

In this coastal city, families can visit the Phsar Leu Market to experience the local culture and try delicious Cambodian street food. The town also has a range of family-friendly restaurants serving both local and international cuisine. For a fun and educational experience, families can visit the Ream National Park, which is home to diverse wildlife, mangrove forests, and beautiful beaches. Boat trips through the park allow visitors to spot monkeys, dolphins, and various bird species.

Located on the banks of the Mekong River, Kratie is a laid-back town known for its rare Irrawaddy dolphins. Families can take a boat trip to spot these gentle creatures in their natural habitat. The town also offers a glimpse into rural Cambodian life, with its traditional wooden houses and bustling markets.

Mondulkiri 

If your family is adventurous and loves wildlife, Mondulkiri is a must-visit destination. This northeastern province is known for its lush forests, rolling hills, and elephant sanctuaries. You can spend a day interacting with elephants, learning about their conservation, and even bathing them in the river. Mondulkiri also offers opportunities for trekking, visiting waterfalls, and learning about the indigenous Bunong culture.

If your kids enjoy seafood and picturesque coastal views, Kep is the place to be. This charming seaside town is famous for its fresh crab dishes and tranquil atmosphere. Take a stroll along the Kep Beach, visit the Kep National Park for a scenic hike, and explore the nearby Rabbit Island for a day of swimming and relaxation.

Preah Vihear 

Preah Vihear is a historical and cultural gem located in the northern part of Cambodia. It is home to the magnificent Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple is perched on a cliff, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Families can explore the temple complex, marvel at the intricate carvings, and learn about the rich history of the Khmer Empire. The site is not as crowded as the temples of Angkor, allowing for a more intimate and immersive experience.

Preah Vihear, a famous ancient temple ruins landmark in Cambodia

In addition to the temple, families can also visit nearby attractions such as the Preah Khan Kampong Svay Temple, which is known for its impressive sculptures. The area surrounding Preah Vihear is also great for nature enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the nearby Dangrek Mountains. Families can enjoy picnics amidst the scenic landscapes and learn about the local flora and fauna.

>> See Tour: The Very Best Of Cambodia

Getting Around In Cambodia

Exploring Cambodia is convenient and accessible thanks to a range of transportation options available to families with kids.

Traveling by plane is the quickest way to travel between major Cambodian cities. Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville are the main hubs, and local carriers like Cambodia Angkor Air operate regular flights. While more expensive than other methods, air travel is efficient for covering long distances in a short amount of time.

Cambodia’s rail system is a leisurely option with a scenic route that currently runs from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville, passing through Kampot. Due to limited service, it’s a less common choice for travelers, but it offers a unique view of the Cambodian countryside. Trains are slower than buses but can provide a relaxing and picturesque journey.

Buses are the most popular mode of intercity transport in Cambodia due to their affordability and extensive network. From luxury coaches to local minibusses, there’s a range of services to suit various preferences. Overnight buses are available for long distances, and major operators often provide online booking services.

Tuk-tuks and Motorbike Taxis

Tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis are ubiquitous for short-distance travel within cities or between nearby attractions. They offer an authentic and flexible way to navigate the bustling streets, and fares should be agreed upon before setting off. These rides are perfect for those who want to experience local life up close.

Tuk-tuk, a popular mode of transportation in Cambodia

Bicycles and Motorbikes

Renting a bicycle or motorbike allows travelers to explore at their own pace. It’s a popular choice in areas like the Angkor Archaeological Park or the tranquil countryside. Renters should ensure they have the necessary permits and are comfortable with local driving conditions.

Ferries and Boats

Cambodia’s waterways provide an alternative travel route, with ferries and boats plying the Mekong River and crossing the Tonle Sap Lake. This mode of transport offers a serene way to travel and is particularly useful for reaching some of the country’s more isolated areas. However, services can be affected by seasonal changes in water levels.

Some Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Cambodia Family Travel

• Pack Wisely

Pack essentials such as lightweight clothing, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary medications. It’s also a good idea to carry a basic first aid kit for minor injuries or illnesses. Don’t forget to bring appropriate clothing for visiting temples, as modest attire is required.

• Stay Hydrated and Eat Safe

Cambodia’s tropical climate can be hot and humid, so it’s important to stay hydrated. Drink bottled water or use a water purifier to ensure safe drinking water. When it comes to food, opt for clean and reputable establishments. Enjoy the local cuisine but be cautious with street food, ensuring it is freshly prepared and cooked thoroughly.

• Be Streetwise

Keep your belongings secure and be cautious of pickpocketing and bag snatching, particularly in crowded areas. When using a bag, wear it across your body rather than on one shoulder, and avoid displaying expensive items.

• Transport Safety

When using tuk-tuks or taxis, agree on a fare before departing. For longer journeys, reputable bus companies are preferable for safety and comfort. Renting scooters is popular, but only do so if you’re an experienced rider and have the appropriate license and insurance.

• Respect Local Customs

Cambodia has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s important to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting temples or religious sites, and remove your shoes when required. Engage with locals respectfully, ask for permission before taking photographs of individuals, and be mindful of local sensitivities.

Pay attention to Cambodian culture 

• Learn Basic Khmer Phrases

Knowing a few phrases in Khmer is a good choice because the local language can go a long way in connecting with locals and navigating daily interactions. Even just greetings and thank you can be met with warm smiles and a more welcoming experience.

• Be Mindful of Health and Safety

Prioritize your family’s health and safety by practicing good hygiene, including regular handwashing. Use hand sanitizers when necessary and carry mosquito repellent to protect against mosquito-borne diseases. Consider consulting a healthcare professional before your trip for any necessary vaccinations or medications.

>> Read More: How To Make The Most Out Of One Week In Cambodia?

Make Your Dream Cambodia Family Holiday Come True

If you’re looking for an ideal family holiday, Cambodia is the destination for you! With a plethora of family-friendly destinations ranging from the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor to the pristine beaches of Sihanoukville, there is something for everyone to enjoy. 

To ensure a seamless and hassle-free experience with your beloved ones, let Asia Pioneer Travel be your delicate guide. Our committed travel designers are experts who craft the most unforgettable trips in Asia. Build Your Dream Journey and make every moment in Cambodia memorable!

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• A Solo Female Travellers Guide...

A Solo Female Traveller’s Guide to Cambodia

Cambodia’s warmth and friendliness makes this a great country for women to navigate alone. From its deserted islands, dense jungle and temples, to vibrant cityscapes, Cambodia is the perfect place for solo female travellers to explore. Here’s your essential guide on where to visit, what to pack and how to travel safely.

What to pack.

Cambodia is hot, sticky and humid – pretty much all year round – so ditch the coats and pack lightweight clothes instead. While it’s fine to bum around on the beach in a bikini or skimpy shorts and top, Cambodia is a relatively reserved country so it’s advisable to keep yourself modestly covered when out and about. If visiting temples, shoulders and knees mustn’t be shown, so bear this in mind when packing.

Rainy season brings heavy showers, but disposable raincoats are available from the many stalls that dot the streets (you can snap one up for 50 cents). Scarves and shawls are also a great way to keep the shoulders covered, and the sun at bay. They’re also a great way to stay warm when the AC is hammed up on buses. Again, these can easily be bought at the market, so no need to pack them.

4-6 light tops

2 pairs of light trousers

2 lightweight dresses/ skirts

2 pairs of shorts

Hat to shade from the sun

1 pair of flip flops or sandals

1 pair of pumps or running shoes

1 light cardigan or jumper

Mosquito spray

Staying safe

While Cambodia is generally a safe country, as with anywhere else in the world it pays to keep your wits about you. Here’s how to stay safe when travelling between destinations, some general safety tips and what to watch out for.

Travelling between destinations

Travelling around Cambodia is cheap and easy, with buses the main mode of transport. However, it pays to note there are many bus companies that operate in Cambodia of varying degrees of reliability, safety and cost.

Tickets can easily be bought at many of the small travel agents found in tourist hubs. The recent launch of CamboTicket and Book Me Bus have made buying tickets that much easier. Travel tickets can be bought on both websites, with each bus company given a score on certain factors, such as punctuality and safety. These are worth checking as many bus drivers have been on the road for long periods of time with no break. In Cambodia, the roads are the biggest killer and drivers falling asleep at the wheel and causing fatal crashes are common.

The roads become even more dangerous at night, so night buses should generally be avoided. If you have no choice, then choose a reliable company, such as Giant Ibis , to get you safely from A to B.

General safety tips

Cambodia is a Buddhist country that is reserved. Avoid kissing or heavy petting in public-

Tuk-tuks are a much safer mode of transport than motodops (motorbike taxis).

Always keep your shoulders and knees covered when visiting temples, religious monuments or places of importance, such as the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh.

Bag snatching is rife in tourist hubs so leave valuables at home, don’t walk around with your smartphone or camera in sight – that’s more than an annual wage for many locals – and keep your bag close at all times.

Keep your cool in all situations and don’t lose your temper as this will cause a loss of face and may lead to an uncomfortable situation.

Don’t use motodops at night.

Watch out for common scams that target unwitting foreigners.

Areas to avoid

Certain neighbourhoods in phnom penh.

While the salubrious areas of Phnom Penh aren’t necessarily unsafe, they’re probably places solo females would prefer not to accidentally stumble upon. Many of the more murky streets running off Sisowath Quay (or riverside) house strips of girly bars that can get rowdy in the early hours of the morning.

Stick to common sense

There are no particularly dangerous spots or areas to avoid in Cambodia but keep your wits about you. If common sense tells you not to walk down that dodgy unlit alley at night, then don’t. If the group of people lurking in a street in the dark make you feel unsafe, turn around and take another route.

How to meet others

Meeting people in Cambodia may just be the easiest part of your trip, with the country full of like-minded visitors travelling Cambodia solo . Checking into a reputable guesthouse will only make this easier. Mad Monkey Hostels come well recommended, boasting guesthouses in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Kampot and Koh Rong Samloem. It also puts on tours and activities, which make for a great way to meet other people while discovering more of the country. Other top guesthouses that are good places to party or just hang out at include Top Banana, Mini Banana and Lazy Gecko in Phnom Penh, and Lub d and Funky Flashpacker Hostel in Siem Reap.

The best destinations for a solo female traveller in Cambodia

As Cambodia’s top tourist destination – thanks to Angkor Wat and the surrounding temples – Siem Reap is a must-do on any visitor’s trip. It’s packed full of tourist-friendly bars, restaurants and cafes, with plenty of transport options on hand regardless of the time of day or night. It’s compact size means getting around is easy, with everything within a short walk or tuk-tuk ride, and English is widely spoken throughout the town.

This relaxed riverside town is a great spot for solo female travellers seeking to kick back and relax. Kampot town centre is peppered with coffee shops, boutique bars and guesthouses that are frequented by fellow women globetrotting alone. If you fancy getting out of town and staying along Kampot River, then there are several guesthouses that afford great views, put on some excellent parties and are a home-away-from-home for many travelling minds. Naga House is popular and regularly hosts weekend parties with DJs working their magic until the early hours.

This sleepy city’s laidback vibe has rubbed off on its residents, with locals super-friendly, chilled out and happy to help anyone wearing a slight look of confusion. Battambang is also home to a cool but intimate collection of restaurants, boutiques and bars – fans of Miss Wong in Siem Reap will be happy to know a Miss Wong Battambang has just opened. And standing as Cambodia’s creative capital, it is dotted with independent galleries and studios that are home to the work of some of the country’s top and emerging contemporary artists.

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Is Cambodia Safe For Solo Female Travelers? Ultimate Safety Tips

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One of the most popular backpacking countries in Southeast Asia is Cambodia, and it is one of my favorites to this day, especially Siem Reap. But, if you’re planning to go to Cambodia alone, you may wonder, “Is Cambodia safe for solo female travelers?”

I felt safe while exploring Cambodia, but there are a few things to be aware of (like stray dogs in Phnom Pehn) and some things you should do to keep yourself safe.

In this article, I’ll go over how to stay safe as a solo female traveler in Cambodia, what scams to look out for, and what to do if you are in an unsafe situation. Keep reading to learn how to experience the beauty and culture of Cambodia safely.

Last updated: May 3, 2024

Published: March 23, 2024

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Table of Contents

Understanding Safety In Cambodia For Solo Female Travelers

Traveling alone in Cambodia, especially as a woman, might seem scary but also exciting. Luckily, Cambodia is a safe place for solo female travelers. The people there are nice and friendly, which helps you feel secure and part of the community. Still, it’s important to stay smart and keep an eye out for any potential risks.

Crime against tourists, like theft and scams, is not very common, especially compared to other places lots of tourists go. The busy tourist areas are patrolled, and if you use common sense, the chances of anything bad happening are low.

Solo travelers who respect local customs and know what’s happening around them can easily enjoy Cambodia’s lively culture and beautiful scenery. Plus, there are programs for tourists, like getting help from the police and tips on staying safe, which add extra security for those traveling alone.

But remember, Cambodia isn’t perfect. Some streets might not be well-lit at night, and rural areas might not have as many police around. So, as a solo female traveler, you must consider when and where you’re going in Cambodia to stay safe.

Keep reading for more Cambodia travel tips for staying safe, dealing with minor crimes, and finding the best spots for a worry-free adventure.

Preventive Steps To Stay Safe

Traveling alone as a woman in Cambodia is usually safe, but it’s always important to be cautious when traveling anywhere. To ensure your trip goes smoothly, there are some things you can do to prevent problems.

• Learn about the local customs and how people behave so you don’t accidentally offend anyone or attract unwanted attention. Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or rural areas, to show respect for the local culture.
•  When it comes to getting around, choose well-known transportation companies, and try to book your rides through trusted apps or your hotel to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
•  Pick accommodations with good reviews and strong security measures to feel safer.
•  If you’re going out at night, stay in busy, well-lit areas, and always keep an eye on your drink to make sure no one messes with it.
•  Be smart about your belongings to avoid petty theft. Use bags that are hard to steal from and keep your valuables out of sight. It’s a good idea to split up your money and make copies of important documents like your passport in case you lose them.
•  Keep your friends and family updated on where you are, and consider sharing your travel plans with someone back home.
•  A phrasebook or translation app can help you communicate clearly and stay safe.

Being prepared is the best way to stay safe while traveling alone in Cambodia. Follow the tips above to have a safe and stress-free trip.

Dealing With Petty Theft And Scams In Cambodia

With its friendly locals and stunning sights, Cambodia can still have its share of petty theft and scams, just like many other tourist spots. For solo female travelers, it’s essential to stay alert, especially in busy places like markets or on public transport.

To avoid trouble, it’s best to keep a low profile: don’t show off expensive stuff like jewelry or electronics, and always watch your belongings. If something does happen, report it to the local police right away—they usually take tourists’ concerns seriously.

Scams can vary, from tours that cost too much to tuk-tuk drivers taking longer routes to charge more. Usually, a firm but polite no is enough to stop scammers. To stay safe, learn about common scams before you go, and always agree on prices upfront. And if you’re not sure, ask locals you trust, like hotel staff, for advice on fair prices and reliable services.

While Cambodia is mostly safe for solo female travelers, it’s wise to be cautious to avoid falling victim to minor crimes. Here are some tips to protect your belongings:

• Keep your valuables close and secure, especially in busy places like markets and public transport.
• Use a bag that goes across your body or a backpack with secure zippers.
• Consider using a hidden pouch or money belt for your cash and important documents.
• Watch out for overly friendly strangers or people offering help you didn’t ask for—they might be trying to scam you.
• Try not to show off expensive things like jewelry or gadgets that could attract attention.
• Be aware of common scams, like the “milk scam” or gem scams, and politely say no if someone tries them on you.

If something does happen, stay calm and take action:

• Tell the local police what’s happened. It might be hard to get your stuff back, but having a police report is important for insurance.
• Cancel any stolen credit or debit cards immediately to stop them being used fraudulently.
• If your passport is stolen, contact your embassy or consulate for help.

By being prepared and knowing how to deal with petty theft and scams, you can lower the risks and have a safe and enjoyable time in Cambodia.

Enjoy A Safe Trip To Cambodia!

So is Cambodia safe for solo female travelers? Yes, you can enjoy Cambodia safely by being careful and prepared, and you can safely explore its beautiful sights and friendly culture with the proper precautions.

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Cambodia Solo Female Travel Safety FAQs

What are the safest ways to travel around cambodia as a solo female traveler.

The safest ways for solo female travelers to travel around Cambodia include using reputable transportation services such as registered taxis and official bus companies and, if feeling adventurous, hiring a trusted guide or driver for personal tours. It is also advisable to plan routes in advance, travel during daylight hours when possible, and use apps or GPS devices to navigate unfamiliar areas.

Are There Any Specific Areas In Cambodia That Should Be Avoided?

While Cambodia is largely safe for travelers, staying cautious in certain areas is prudent, especially after dark. Remote regions with less developed infrastructure can pose challenges, and avoiding isolated places late at night is generally recommended. Sticking to well-lit, populated areas can reduce the risk of an unwanted encounter.

How Can I Deal With Language Barriers Safely While Traveling Alone In Cambodia?

Learning some basic Khmer phrases for navigation and emergencies is beneficial for handling language barriers safely in Cambodia. Carrying a language guidebook or using a translation app can help bridge communication gaps. Always have the address of your accommodation written in the local script for ease of directions.

What Should I Do If I Encounter An Emergency In Cambodia?

If you encounter an emergency in Cambodia, it’s important to stay calm and seek help from local authorities. Save emergency contact numbers, such as the tourist police and local emergency services, on your phone, and be aware of the location of your country’s embassy or consulate. Establishing contact with fellow travelers or expat communities upon arrival can also provide a support network in emergencies.

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Is Cambodia Safe To Travel Alone? 5+ Best Tips

• , April 8, 2023

If you are planning a trip yet wondering about the question, “Is Cambodia safe to travel alone?” then you have come to the right place. Traveling to any far-flung destination solo is always a daunting prospect. In this post, we will look at what you can do to make sure your time in the wonderful country is trouble-free and the best Khmer expressions to use with the locals.

Cambodia is a must-visit destination that captivates visitors with its rich history, fascinating culture, and breathtaking landscapes. The country’s warm hospitality and delicious cuisine also make it a delight for the senses. With its unique blend of tradition and modernity, there’s no reason to doubt why this Asian country is always a recommended spot. However, there’s one thing that I’m sure is holding every traveler back: security!

Let’s answer all your questions about that in the sections below!

So, Is Cambodia Safe To Travel Alone?

The short answer is yes, it is generally safe to travel in Cambodia alone. However, like any destination, there are some things and a number of dos and don’ts you need to be aware of to ensure your safety and security.

Cambodia has come a long way since its turbulent past, and it’s now one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. The country is known for its ancient temples, like the awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Wat, beautiful beaches, like Koh Rong Island, and friendly locals throughout the country from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. But, like any developing country, it still faces some challenges, including poverty, corruption, and petty crime. This being said, most of Southeast Asia, with a few obvious exceptions, is extremely welcoming to solo male travelers and solo female travelers alike.

Tips To Ensure Your Safety When Visiting Cambodia

Research and plan ahead.

Before embarking on your solo travel adventure, it’s essential to do some research on the country’s culture, customs, and laws. Knowing what to expect can help you avoid any potential dangers or misunderstandings. Local tour operators are on hand to help you with any information you might need concerning solo travel in Cambodia.

Additionally, plan your itinerary in advance, so you have a rough idea of where you’ll be staying while you visit Cambodia and what activities you’ll be doing. This will help you stay organized and ensure you don’t wander off into unsafe areas.

Dress Appropriately

In Cambodia, it’s essential to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. This means covering your shoulders and knees and avoiding revealing clothing. Dressing appropriately not only shows respect for the local culture but also helps you blend in and avoid unwanted attention. Many temples will supply foreign women traveling to Cambodia who are not wearing suitable clothing with a sarong to wear and something to cover the shoulders.

Stay In Safe Accommodations

When traveling alone, it’s important to stay in safe and secure accommodations. Look for hotels or guesthouses with good reviews that are located in safe areas. Make sure the place you choose has good security measures, such as a guard or a locked gate.

Use Reliable Transportation

Avoid using unlicensed taxis or tuk-tuks, especially at night. Instead, use reputable transportation services or book transportation in advance. Be cautious of drivers who offer overly cheap prices, as they may have ulterior motives. In the bigger cities, like the capital Phnom Penh and the northern city of Siem Reap, it is worth comparing prices with a number of tuk-tuk drivers to get a fairer idea of what the actual price should be.

Be Aware Of Scams

Cambodia, like any tourist destination, has its fair share of scams. Be cautious of people offering unsolicited tours, discounts, or gifts, as they may have hidden motives. Always use your common sense and trust your instincts.

Stay Connected

Make sure you have a way to stay connected with your family and friends back home. This can be through a local sim card, free Wi-Fi, or an international data plan. Keeping in touch can give you peace of mind and help you in case of an emergency. It is also a good idea to hook up and swap details with fellow travelers, as they can be invaluable in a time of need.

Respect Local Customs

Cambodia has a rich and diverse culture, and it’s essential to show respect for local customs and traditions. This includes taking off your shoes before entering temples and showing respect to monks and elders. Being respectful, polite, and courteous can help you avoid misunderstandings and conflicts. Although ignorance is not much of an excuse, as a foreigner not quite up to speed on the rules of etiquette in Cambodia, you will be granted some leeway if you make a faux pas.

Do Not Lose Your Temper

However hot and frustrated you find yourself getting, it is imperative you remain calm and collected at all times. An angry foreigner causes confusion and embarrassment, and arguments can quickly escalate into far more serious situations. You don’t want to be arrested or detained, right? As you explore Cambodia, just remember how lucky you are to be there and keep a cool head at all times.

Take Out Travel Insurance

Not much needs to be added here. Travel and health insurance are a must, as health and safety aren’t a massive concern in Cambodia, and even a minor accident can end up costing you a small fortune. According to people who have been in this country, their number one tip is to not mess with stray animals! Rabies is a thing in Cambodia, and that selfie with a monkey on the beach really isn’t worth the risk! Trust me.

Useful Khmer Words And Phrases For Travelers

Before you book a ticket, here are some expressions you need to master so that you can be on the safe side during your travel.

Learn Khmer With Ling

If you’re planning to visit Cambodia , learning a few words and phrases in Khmer can significantly enhance your travel experience. Not only does it allow you to communicate more effectively and safely with locals, but it also shows that you are respectful of the local culture and customs.

Fortunately, with the Ling app, learning Khmer has never been easier or more enjoyable. As a comprehensive language learning platform that offers lessons in over 60 languages, this resource provides a range of engaging and interactive tools to help you master the basics of Khmer quickly. From games and quizzes to interactive lessons created by native speakers, the Ling app’s innovative approach to language learning makes it easy to progress at your own pace and keep track of your progress.

Why not download the Ling app today from App Store or Google Play and make your next solo travel trip something truly remarkable?

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Traveling Alone in Cambodia

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Traveling Alone in Cambodia. This was one of the best trips of my  life!

After reading online accounts of marauding monkeys and menacing mosquitoes, I headed out to Siem Reap, Cambodia< I had undertaken all the planning of a major military campaign.

Traveling Alone in Cambodia:

Getting there:

I quickly traded my holiday cocktail dresses for Bugs Away sportswear.  I was fully prepared for every contingency. After my arrival, I found that all my concerns were in vain. I attracted the attention of only one lone mosquito during the entire 17 day trip. As to “stalking” animals? On my solitary encounter with monkeys, I had to seek them out for a photo opp and went totally unremarked upon!

I still believe that researching ahead of solo adventure travel is important. However, I am glad that contingency planning did not deter me from taking this trip of a lifetime. What did I find in Cambodia? Warm and friendly Khmer residents. In addition, being a tourist was very easy. English was widely spoken, and US dollars accepted everywhere.

After booking my flight to Siem Reap , I quickly learned that it is Cambodia’s busiest airport. The reason? Its proximity to Siem Reap. I had failed to follow my general practice of booking an airport transfer. As a result, I was pleased to find a well-priced and quick airport taxi service to my hotel.

Although there is plenty to see in Siem Reap over 2-3 days, I had just one day before joining a river cruise . Siem Reap roughly translated refers to the defeat of Siam (modern day Thailand). This complex interwoven history is exemplified even now. In Bangkok , I saw in the Grand Palace a model/replica of Angkor Wat. The  latter was controlled by Siam for 400+ years.

After looking at various guided tour options, I circled back to my airport driver, Phao Lem , whom I highly recommend for day or local tours. He was able to tailor a private independent day tour for me in an air conditioned Lexus sedan. This was the perfect solution since I quickly experience information overload when going with large, generic tours. That left me free to go at my own pace, guidebook in hand, with the flexibility to head off, away from the beaten path. This also was less expensive while providing a wider array of options.

Angkor Wat:

I quickly learned two new facts. Angkor Wat is only part of the Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The region has multiple “Wats” or temples covering six centuries. Secondly, Angkor Wat and certain nearby temples, although Buddhist from the 15th century, were founded as Hindu temples, seen in multiple surviving carvings.

A few practical considerations: Like the Forbidden City in Beijing, the complex has no shade trees. This makes for a steamy hike up  endless staircases. Hand rails are sometimes absent requiring a mountain goat’s sure-footed approach. In any case, it was well worth it but do plan on having sunblock, a hat/vizor and bottle of water at the ready. Better yet, bring a battery-operated hand-held fan or buy a “traditional” one from the thriving adjacent market.

More things to see and do in Siem Reap:

The next local  temple of renown is the Bayon. I was especially intrigued with its 200+gargantuan  faces carved in stone. A nearby bridge features this same motif  with its massive arch bearing a timeless face peering down on modern-day travelers.  A real traffic jam resulted as fellow tourists dodged cars and motorcycles to capture the best photo opp!

My next stop, Baphuon, like Angkor Wat, was built as a Hindu temple and only became a Buddhist temple in the 1400’s. One caveat: There were many, many steps to reach the third, top level. Having saved Baphuon for the latter part of the morning, I was daunted by the prospect of scampering up all three-tiers but found the 2nd level view well worth it!

One special feature of my private tour was having lunch in a local cafe where I shared a table with a fellow solo traveler from Australia. There was just enough time remaining to lounge in a hammock outside and catch my breath for the afternoon’s sightseeing.

After lunch, I followed again in the footsteps of “Laura Croft” exploring the temple of Ta Prohm. It is best known for the enormous trees still growing out of the roof and the internal ruins. It  makes an ideal setting for photographers and for staging adventure films.

If you haven’t had enough sightseeing, you can trek up to see the sun set at Bakheng Mountain or wind along the path on elephant-back. (While traveling in the region, there are many exotic animals that delight tourists. However, it is always important to be aware of whether they are being cared for in keeping with local conservation requirements.)

Saying farewell to Siem Reap:

A trip to the nearby lake, Tonle Sap, is the perfect end to a Siem Reap visit. Unfortunately, the January water level was too low for me to connect there as I ventured ahead on a river cruise through Cambodia and Vietnam.

For more on my personal Cambodian journey, see Alluring Ancient Cambodia and  5 Tips for Traveling alone in Cambodia (solotrekker4u.com) .

Explore our Traveling Alone in Cambodia  solo travel packages  for Asia and the Pacific Rim.  For other options, please go back to our home page. Use our Booking.com search box for specials up to 42% off. Be sure to check out the verified solo travel reviews.

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Cambodia Solo Female Travel Safety Tips and Advice

This post may contain affiliate links. For full information, please see our  disclaimer here and our Privacy Policy here .

Welcome to the Solo Female Travel Safety Tips and Advice page for Cambodia !

This page is brought to you by Solo Female Travelers Tours , our curated small group trips for women, by women.

On this page you will find first-hand, unbiased, and real  safety tips, advice and reviews  from women traveling solo, submitted directly from their personal experiences in the country.

Their opinions are unfiltered and submitted independently as part of the Solo Female Travel Safety Index , a ranking of 210 countries and regions based on how safe they are for women traveling solo.

The safety scores range from 1 to 4 with 1 being the safest and 4 being the most dangerous for solo female travelers.

You don’t need to login to read the below reviews. But do sign up or login to share your solo travel experiences, country safety rating and comments.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE – LEAVE YOUR SAFETY REVIEWS! We can make the world a safer place for women traveling solo together. Sign up to our portal and leave your reviews NOW. Share your experience with other solo female travelers and help us empower more women through travel.

Cambodia Country data

We have compiled a few data points below that can help you better understand Cambodia and have more context when thinking about travel safety.

Official country name: Kingdom of Cambodia.

Etymology: The English name Cambodia is an anglicization of the French Cambodge, which is the French transliteration of the native name Kampuchea.

Country map

Locator map

Capital: Phnom Penh.

Independence / foundation: The king placed the country under French protection in 1863 and it became part of French Indochina in 1887. Following Japanese occupation in World War II, Cambodia gained full independence from France in 1953. In April 1975, after a seven-year struggle, communist Khmer Rouge forces captured Phnom Penh and evacuated all cities and towns. At least 1.5 million Cambodians died from execution, forced hardships, or starvation during the Khmer Rouge regime under Pol Pot which ended in 1979 with Vietnamese occupation. Vietnam withdrew in 1989 and Cambodians recovered democratic institutions and private ownership rights.

Population: 17 million.

Currency: Cambodian Riel (KHR) 1 USD = 4,030 - 4,064 KHR 1 EUR = 4,340 - 4,436 KHR

Time zone: UTC+7

Languages spoken: Khmer 95%, Cham 2%, Chinese 1%, other

Religions: Buddhist (official) 97%, Muslim 2%, Christian

Climate: Tropical climate. Rainy monsoon season from May to November and a dry season from December to April. Very little seasonal temperature variation.

Real GDP (ppp – purchasing power parity): $76 billion.

Real GDP per capita (ppp): $4,500.

Main airports: Phnom Penh, Siem Reap .

World heritage sites in Cambodia

There are over 1,100 world heritage sites spread across more than 165 countries. New ones are added every year, and some may be removed from the list for various reasons.

Number of UNESCO listed sites : 4.

Top world heritage sites :

Interesting facts about Cambodia

Further reading : https://www.onceinalifetimejourney.com/once-in-a-lifetime-journeys/9-interesting-facts-cambodia/

Cambodia Travel tips

Socket type: A / C / G. Guide to socket types .

Weekend days: Saturday and Sunday.

Driving: Cars drive on the Right.

Local taxi apps: Grab , PassApp , SmartRide .

Travel Guides: Lonely Planet , Bradt Guide .

Languages spoken : Khmer 95%, Cham 2%, Chinese 1%, other

Basic words and phrases in the main language:

Find a hotel in Cambodia

Book tours and activities :

More about Cambodia on Solo Female Travelers

Did you spot any errors? We do our best to keep this information updated and accurate, but things change. If you saw anything that is not right, let us know so we can fix it: [email protected] .

About the Solo Female Travel Safety Index

Safety matters to solo female travelers, you told us so in our annual  Solo Female Travel Survey , where year after year, women prove that this is their most important concern when traveling solo.

We wanted to do something about it, so we built these country-specific pages where you can find reviews and scores for 7 key variables affecting the safety of women traveling solo.

• Risk of scam
• Risk of theft
• Risk of harassment
• Attitudes towards women
• UK Travel Advisory
• US Travel advisory
• Global Peace Index (GPI)

Informing OSAC

The Solo Female Travel Safety Score is used by the Overseas Security Advisory Council for including safety concerns for women travelers in their country security reports; OSAC is a partnership between the U.S. Department of State and private-sector security community.

How to use the Safety Index

On this page, you will find the country score and the personal opinions on safety of other women traveling solo.

You can sort the comments by:

• The  level of experience traveling solo  of the reviewer (beginner = <5 trips solo, Intermediate = 5 to 10 trips solo, Experienced = >10 trips solo).
• The  age  of the traveler.
• Whether they are a  visitor or local .
• The  date  they were posted.

The safety scores range from 1 to 4 with 1 being the safest and 4 being the most dangerous for solo female travelers. 

Thus, the lower the score, the safer the country.

Looking for more safety resources?

This entire website is devoted to helping women travel solo. Check out the links below to learn more:

Solo Female Travel Stats : Results from the the largest, most comprehensive and only global research study on solo female travel trends, preferences and behaviors published.

Thanks to Jacobo Vilella for creating the Solo Female Travelers Safety Index ❤️

Phnom Penh Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Phnom Penh , Cambodia? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

• The capital and largest city of Cambodia, with a population of  2.2 million .
• Considered one of the most beautiful French-built cities of Indochina.
• First settled in 1372 , it is the political, economic, and cultural capital of Cambodia.
• Literally means “Penh’s Hill,” referring to the woman whose monastery was used as grounds for the capital.
• Nickname: City of Four Faces ; once known as the “Pearl of Asia.”

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Currency:  Cambodian riel  (KHR). U.S. Dollars  are widely used for anything over a few dollars. There are no coins, however, and small change will be given in riel. Thai Baht (THB) is also recognized as a currency.
• Spoken languages:  Khmer and French . English is also widely used, especially in tourist areas.
• Best time to visit: from  December  to May  (dry season).
• Arriving via airport: the airport is located approximately 7 km west of Phnom Penh, and transportation options to the city center include official airport taxis ($9), tuk-tuks ($7), or motorcycle taxis ($2-4). Alternatively, you can walk out to the main road and bargain for a cheaper price (about $5 for a tuk-tuk).
• Wireless Internet ( Wi-Fi ) is available at many hotels and cafes (especially in the tourist areas), though it’s not always reliable.

WHERE TO STAY

• Best hostel for solo travelers: Mad Monkey Phnom Penh . Great locations, big rooms, big beds, and a powerful air conditioning system (important in these parts!) Very friendly staff, and lots of tours & activities organized for guests. Great central location. Staff can also help you organize onward transport to other cities (e.g. Saigon). Book ahead!
• Riverfront runs from Street 104 to the Royal Palace on Street 178 and is lined with the city’s best mid-range dining, entertainment and accommodation options.
• Chamkar Mon ,   at the southernmost end of the city, has risen to become the city’s prime stretch of upmarket hotels and restaurants.
• For the most central location, stay along Monivong Boulevard .

GETTING AROUND

• Tuk-tuks , one of southeast Asia’s quintessential vehicles, are plentiful in Phnom Penh, and trips around town typically cost $2-3, depending on distance and time of day (expect to pay a bit more at night). Many drivers do not know their way around very well, so try to verify that the driver knows where you’re going or expect him to stop and ask for directions. You can rent one for the whole day for $12-15.
• Motorcycle taxis  (called Moto) are also common in Phnom Penh, and cheaper (though less safe) than tuk-tuks, with trips around town costing $0.50-$1. Agree on the price before the ride.
• Regular taxis are becoming more common in the city, though most are unmetered. Taxis can usually be found in the Riverfront and Street 51 areas, as well as other busy areas, and you can call one of the companies for a pick-up. For unmetered taxis, be sure to settle on the price in advance. Call to book: 011-311888. A taxi can be hired for the whole day for $25-35.

PHNOM PENH NIGHTLIFE

• No official drinking age, and last call is  5 AM .
• Most of Phnom Penh’s nightlife options are concentrated in the Riverfront and Street 51 areas. The Riverfront offers numerous good bars and restaurants, while Street 51 hosts the most popular clubs, most of which get going around midnight. Be aware that many are hostess bars , staffed by attractive young Cambodian women who are paid to flirt with customers and sometimes willing to go home with them.
• Street 104 and Street 136 are packed with cosy bars that stay open till the early hours.
• Great bars to start your night: Embargo Craft Beer Bar, Bassac Lane, BattBong, Elephant Bar, and Score Sports Bar (to catch the game).

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

• Phnom Penh’s most important sites are its two genocide memorials . The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is located on the site of S-21, the Khmer Rouge’s most important prison.  The prison’s four buildings have been preserved, and visitors can view the small cells, as well as instruments of torture and displays of photographs.
• The other genocide memorial is at the Choeung Ek Killing Fields , about 17 km south of Phnom Penh. The site, now a mass grave, offers extensive historical information through an audio-tour that takes visitors to key locations in the fields.
• Phnom Penh’s other well-known monuments are the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda , built in the 19 th century. Today, much of the palace grounds (including the room housing the famed Emerald Buddha) are open to public, and visitors can wander through at their own pace. Note: your knees and shoulders must be covered in order to enter the palace.
• Wat Ounalom is one of the most sacred temples in the city and the epicentre of Cambodian Buddhism.
• The National Museum of Cambodia contains an extensive collection of the country’s cultural history. The museum is a leader in archaeological exhibits, with the statue of King Jayavarman VI being a main attraction.

INTERESTING WALKS

• The nicest walk in Phnom Penh is undoubtedly down Sisowath Quay , a 3 km long promenade running along the Tonlé Sap River. Filled with sights, shops, bars, and restaurants, including many pleasant places to stop for an outdoor drink or cup of coffee, a stroll down Sisowath Quay can easily take half a day or more. If you start early enough, you’ll get a peek at the droves of Cambodians who pour onto the Quay to start their day with a workout on the public exercise equipment or in large outdoor aerobics classes.
• The area around Independence Monument , at the intersection of Sihanouk and Norodo Boulevards, offers another nice walk. Though not far from the Sisowath Quay, this area offers a very different feel. Strolling down the streets parallel to Sihanouk Boulevard will take you past trendy cafés, stylish boutiques, and several embassies.
• Wat BotomVatey is a playground for the young and younger.
• Phsar Reatrey ,   a night market on the riverfront, features handicrafts, silks and novelty items.
• The boulevards overlooking Tonle Sap River are known for their 19 th century villas.
• Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre adopts animals rescued from traffickers and poachers including the largest collection of rarities such as Siamese crocodiles and Malayan sun bears.

LOCAL WISDOM

• Rural Phnom Penh is an astounding collection of colors and smells just a bridge crossing over the river. Perfect to escape the dust and noise of the capital, even for a day.
• Krama is the ubiquitous accessory to the Cambodian lifestyle, used as a scarf, towel, bandanna, obi, belt and more.
• Great restaurants to try: Chez Gaston, Namaste India Restaurant, Eleven One Kitchen, Chez Tonton, Cousin’s Burger & Coffee, Khema Restaurant Pasteur ($$$).
• Where to find good cheap eats : Central Market has a selection of stalls selling local dishes for a fraction of the price of what you’d expect to pay in a restaurant.  Sisowath Quay is lined with inexpensive cafés open all day.
• Cambodian dishes belie the influence of past conquerors. The national dish is Amok ,   a simple meal made of meat or fish stewed in coconut milk and served either wrapped in banana leaves or in a coconut shell.
• As in most large cities,  pickpocketing  is always a risk, especially in crowded areas. Be aware of what you keep in your pockets, and keep a tight hold on purses or bags.
• Dangerous areas : Phnom Penh is generally very safe. Be aware that beggars and touts (including child vendors) often congregate in the tourist-heavy areas, especially along the Riverfront, and can be quite aggressive. They do not usually pose a safety concern, and are best handled with a smile and a firm, “No thanks” or, “Sorry.”  Street 19 and Street 178/13 junction (next to the National Museum) are frequented by pickpockets and thieves.

Recommended trip duration:  3-4 days

• Siem Reap, Cambodia
• Vientiane, Laos
• Jakarta, Indonesia
• Bali, Indonesia
• Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• Yangon, Myanmar
• Singapore, Singapore

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What you need to know before visiting Cambodia: health care, currency, and culture

Mar 26, 2022 • 7 min read

From what to pack to being prepared for health and safety concerns, here's what you need to know ahead of a trip to Cambodia © Jim Purdum / Getty Images

Cambodia is considered one of the friendliest countries in Southeast Asia . Thanks to an unbreakable spirit and infectious optimism, the Khmers have prevailed. No visitor comes away without a measure of admiration and affection for the inhabitants of this enigmatic kingdom. 

General health is more of an issue here than in many other parts of Southeast Asia, due to a lack of international-standard medical-treatment facilities, a prevalence of tropical diseases, and poor sanitation. Once you venture into rural areas you are on your own, although most provinces have a reasonable clinic for minor health problems.

Cambodia is generally a very safe country to visit, but occasional crimes and scams do happen so it is best to minimize the risks where possible. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning once again, this guide can help you plan the essentials for your trip.

Cambodia's use of currency can be confusing 

Cambodia’s official currency is the riel (4000r = US$1). The US dollar is used as a parallel currency and accepted everywhere, although small change may arrive in riel. Just to confuse matters, in towns bordering Thailand Thai baht (B) is also accepted.

Get yourself a  krama  as soon as you arrive

Purchase a krama , a traditional Cambodian checked scarf, as soon as you arrive – it's a multipurpose travel towel that the locals use in a multitude of ways. The primary use is protection from the sun, dust, and wind, but you can also use it as a quick cover-up sarong-style, to towel yourself down after a dip in the pool, and as a makeshift pillow. Essentially the list is as long as your imagination and it takes up virtually no space in your backpack compared to the multiple equivalent products it dupes.

Pack lightweight gear and casual clothes for Cambodia

Lightweight and loose-fitting clothes are the best plan in Cambodia, including cottons and linens to combat the humidity. Cambodia is not a particularly dressy place unless you're spending time at high-end bars and clubs in  Phnom Penh or Siem Reap , so smart clothes are rarely a necessity. If heading to the upland northeast in November to March, pack a warm top for the cool nights. 

What to pack

• Lightweight, light-colored clothing to reflect the sun
• Comfortable sandals or shoes
• Refillable water bottle
• Powerful sunscreen and long-lasting deodorant
• Earplugs to block out the noise
• Unlocked mobile phone for use with a Cambodian SIM card (roaming charges are very expensive, it’s worth buying a cheap SIM upon arrival)
• A light raincoat if traveling in the wet season.

There is some important etiquette to keep in mind

Cambodian people are very gracious hosts, but there are some important spiritual and social conventions to observe.

Always be respectful at a Buddhist site 

When visiting temples, cover up to the knees and elbows, and remove shoes and any head covering when entering temple buildings. Sit with your feet tucked behind you to avoid pointing them at Buddha images. It's also good to leave a small donation. Women should never touch a monk or his offering bowl – the Buddhist faith believes it is contrary to a monk's sacred vows to be in close proximity to a woman that isn't a relative.

Use the local greeting when meeting new people

Called the sompiah , the local greeting in Cambodia involves putting your hands together in a prayer-like manner. Use this when introduced to new Khmer friends. When beckoning someone over, always wave towards yourself with the palm down.

Bargaining is expected in markets and for transportation

It's important to haggle in markets in Cambodia, otherwise, the stallholder may "shave your head" (local vernacular for "rip you off"). Negotiation is also the rule when arranging share taxis, pickups, and local transportation like tuk tuks if ordering in person and not via a ride-hailing app. The Khmers are not ruthless hagglers, so a persuasive smile and a little friendly quibbling are usually enough to get a price that's acceptable to both you and the seller.

It's important to dress modestly 

Avoid wearing swimsuits or scant clothing around towns in Cambodia, even in beach destinations. Wear a sarong or krama to cover up.

Tipping is appreciated

Tipping is not essential but is commonplace in establishments catering to tourists such as hotels and restaurants, and it is standard practice to tip tour guides and drivers on organized tours. 

Local health care in Cambodia is basic

Do not visit Cambodia without medical insurance. Hospitals are very basic in the provinces and anyone who has a serious injury or illness while in Cambodia may require emergency evacuation to Bangkok. If you fall seriously ill in Cambodia you should head to Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, as these are the only places in the country with decent emergency treatment. 

Pharmacies in the larger towns are remarkably well stocked and you don’t need a prescription to get your hands on anything from antibiotics to antimalarials. 

When it comes to tap water, play it safe and avoid it where possible. Bottled water is widely available in Cambodia and many hotels and guesthouses have refill tanks. Ice is generally fine to use, as it is produced in bottled water factories around the country, a legacy of the French colonial period.

Elephant rides are not recommended

Though not yet illegal in Cambodia, elephant rides have been repeatedly called out by animal welfare groups as cruel and painful for the animal – some private companies are finally rethinking the practice . Do your research to ensure any animal sanctuary you'd like to visit is ethical and prioritizes the welfare of the inhabitants.  

Stay safe in Cambodia with these top tips

The most common crime is bag or mobile-phone snatching, usually perpetrated by thieves on motorcycles. Smartphones are a particular target, so avoid using your phone on the side of the street, especially at night. Walking or riding alone late at night is not ideal, as there have been several incidents of solo women travelers being assaulted in isolated areas, usually after dark.

Most scams are fairly harmless, involving a bit of commission here and there for local drivers. There have been one or two reports of police set-ups in Phnom Penh, involving planted drugs, but these seem very rare and usually involve business owners. Beware the Filipino blackjack scam – don't get involved in any gambling with seemingly friendly folks unless you want to part with plenty of cash.

There is quite a lot of fake medication floating about the region, so only buy prescription drugs from reliable pharmacies or clinics. Be very careful if being offered chemical drugs on the street in Cambodia, as not only are they illegal but may be laced with all sorts of dangerous toxic substances. 

Due to the presence of landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) in some rural areas, it is essential to stick to marked paths. Keep a close eye on small children in rural areas to make sure they don't stray and do not go off road if you're cycling.

Roads have improved massively in recent years, but conditions can vary widely from the dry to the wet season. Although motorcycles are a popular way to get around in Cambodia, do not attempt it if you're not an experienced driver. The tangled traffic in the big towns and cities is no place for a novice.

Run through this pre-departure checklist before you go

• Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months or you won't be allowed into Cambodia
• Arrange any recommended inoculations at a travel-health clinic
• Purchase travel insurance with decent health coverage
• Double-check to see if you need to arrange a visa before arrival

You might also like: Angkor Wat: everything you need to know about Cambodia's most iconic temple    Siem Reap: 11 best things to do after you explore Angkor Wat    Cambodia's less-traveled islands visitors need to know about   

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Solo female travel: traveling alone in cambodia as a woman.

The following interview is from one of our readers, Celina.

Why did you decide to travel to Cambodia by yourself?

Last year I started backpacking after I did my A Levels and Cambodia was the third country I went to. After a long time in Malaysia and a lot of bad luck in this beautiful country, I needed a change. So I booked my ticket to Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia . I wanted to see how a mainly Buddhist country works and I missed the basic simple life of Nepal , an even poorer country than Cambodia.

Did you have any trouble traveling solo there?

Not at all! Before I went to Cambodia and during my first week there, I heard some scary stories about violence and thieves everywhere. But this wasn’t my experience in Cambodia.

Unfortunately I arrived the day before the three-day-water-festival in Phnom Penh. It was the first time in 3 years that the government allowed the festival to take place because back then lots of people died during the celebration. Because of that, everyone warned me and told me to not go outside for the first three days in that beautiful country.

Did you ever feel unsafe?

Those stories made me insecure in the beginning, but the longer I stayed, the less I worried. Besides that, I never felt unsafe .

Tell us about one of your favorite experiences from traveling alone in Cambodia.

I wanted to take the bus from Phnom Penh to Kampot. I already booked the bus ticket online and did some final shopping. Before I got on the bus, I tried to get some cash, but my credit card didn’t work. So I thought about my options: I could stay in Phnom Penh where I knew people who could give me a place to stay and lend me money, or I could take the bus with only $3.50 on me.

I decided to take my chances and take the bus. I had trust in the travel community. Luckily the bus company had a problem and they couldn’t give me a normal seat, so I got $2 refund. So there we go, $5.50, that’s a bit better.

On the bus trip, the people next to me were not really open, so I talked to some others during a break. I met a really nice German couple who told me they were going to a hostel that had rooms for $3 and I could take a tuk tuk with them. This couple lent me money for the next 5 days and were super sweet.

I love the traveling community because they always help you in bad situations. That is why I was never really scared while traveling.

Were there any special precautions you took to feel safer while traveling solo?

It was not very different from other countries. I tried to not be alone outside at night and listened to all the recommendations about hostels, etc. I think if you are respectful and helpful, most people will be nice and helpful, too. And the Cambodians are no exception.

Did you meet any other solo female travelers while you were there?

Yes, I met a beautiful Brazilian girl, who I travelled with for a couple of weeks in Cambodia and Thailand . She had the same good experiences like me.

What luggage did you bring with you to Cambodia?

At that time I had quite a big bag, not sure what brand. But as soon as I got home, I bought my current bag, the Osprey Farpoint 40 , which I love!

Were there any items you were glad you brought with you or that you wished you had brought?

Besides a smaller bag, I didn’t miss anything that much. Though I would recommend taking a sleeping bag liner, just to sleep in it. I slept in some very cheap places and I felt a lot more comfortable with it.

>>See why another traveler always packs her silk sleep sack .

What’s your number 1 tip for females traveling solo to Cambodia?

Take a motorbike or scooter trip. You’ll be more independent and you’ll be able to see so many beautiful things off the tourist path. Especially in Cambodia, it is ridiculously easy to see the authentic Cambodian lifestyle.

All photos provided by Celina except title photo.

Written by Ali

Ali Garland is a freelance writer, blogger, and travel addict who made it to all 7 continents before her 30th birthday. She enjoys travel planning, encouraging others to see the world, and packing carry-on only. She and her husband are expats living in Berlin. You can find Ali at Ali's Adventures and Travel Made Simple .

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Reader Interactions

November 2, 2015 at 5:48 am

This was so great to read! I’ve heard a lot of negative things about Cambodia recently, and I’ve avoided it in the past because of them. Glad to hear a positive experience from another woman traveling by herself! Cambodia is back on the list 🙂

November 2, 2015 at 4:10 pm

Awesome! Glad the interview could help 🙂

November 13, 2015 at 9:48 am

Awesome that I could help you. It’s one of my favourite countries!

June 5, 2016 at 6:06 pm

I want to go. I am scared of snakes though. Do you see them at Angkor Wat or in the markets in the cities. Also do hotels keep passports? And buses/boats?

June 7, 2016 at 11:07 am

I can’t speak for Celina, but I’ve been to Siem Reap twice and never saw any snakes. I think most snakes prefer to stay away from people, so I wouldn’t worry about seeing them in such people-dense places like the markets or the ruins. Your hotel should not keep your passport. They’ll want to look at it, and they might make a photocopy of it, but you hang onto it. Same with any transport. The longest I ever let my passport out of my possession is if the hotel needs to fill out a form with the info on it (which does happen) and they say they’ll do that while I go drop my stuff in my room, so then I get it back just a few minutes later. That goes for anywhere, not Cambodia specific.

November 7, 2015 at 1:24 am

Great post! I have traveled solo 4 times in Cambodia already.I think most people would agree cambodia,and especially siem reap is a very safe place for single females.

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Home » Southeast Asia » Travel Safety

Is Cambodia SAFE to Visit? (2024 • Insider Tips)

Cambodia is firmly on the backpacking route through Southeast Asia, thanks in part to superlative attractions like Angkor Wat, Ko Rong, and the pink dolphins of the Mekong. It’s also popular because most visits are trouble-free.

But theft is definitely an issue, and some nasty robberies do happen. The country is also known for drug trafficking.

So… is Cambodia safe to visit ?

It’s a genuine worry – we get it – especially if you’re a first-time backpacker.

To help out, we’ve created this insider’s guide full of information and tips on how to  stay safe in Cambodia.  Because this is a truly epic country that’s absolutely worth exploring.

So let’s dive into one of Southeast Asia’s most underrated destinations.

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There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, as things change quickly. The question of “Is Cambodia Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on who you ask.

The information in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practice common sense, you will probably have a wonderful and safe trip to Cambodia.

If you see any outdated information, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. Otherwise, stay safe friends!

Updated December 2023

Is Cambodia Safe to Visit Right Now?

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As stated in Cambodia’s Tourism Statistics report , 2,276,626 international tourist arrived in the country on 2022. Most of these travellers had a generally safe stay.

Cambodia is absolutely safe to visit right now, mostly due to the increased emphasis on tourism. The Cambodian economy is strongly reliant on visiting foreigners, who pour millions into the country. Tourist visas are can be obtained on arrival for most nationalities,

Unfortunately, many people live close to or below the poverty rate, which can be very clear to see as you travel around Cambodia.   Corporate and governmental corruption  doesn’t help this situation either.

Instances of petty crime do exist as well. Pickpocketing and snatching bags do happen.

More serious violent crime tends to grab headlines but doesn’t make up the common experience of travelers in Cambodia at all. In fact, a lot of victims of violent crime are Cambodians themselves.

Politically, Cambodia is pretty much  stable. This is down to a tough government stance on opposition parties and “illegal” protests. The most recent election passed without too much trouble and currently,  there’s nothing to worry about. 

When you visit Cambodia plays also into how safe it’s going to be for you, too.  The Mekong River can flood in the rainy season (June-October). Landslides aren’t uncommon and poor drainage, even in the capital Phnom Penh , leads to pretty severe flooding during a storm.

Landmines and unexploded ordnance are always an imminent threat. Many haven’t been cleared even to this day. So no wandering too far off the beaten track, unfortunately…

With all of this in mind, it’s still very safe for tourists to visit Cambodia right now, and this is especially true for tourist hotspots like Siem Reap and the islands. Most visits don’t see any trouble, and you’ll be perfectly fine as well if you’re cautious and use your travel common sense.

Check out our detailed  where to stay guide for Cambodia  so you can start your trip right!

When choosing where you’ll be staying in Cambodia, a bit of research and caution are essential. You don’t want to end up in a sketchy area and ruin your trip. To help you out, we’ve listed the safest areas to visit in Cambodia below.

• Koh Rong: Koh Rong is an island in the south of Cambodia, off the coast of the Sihanoukville area. It’s actually the second-largest island in all of Cambodia. This beautiful island is known for its bewitching coral reefs and for plentiful wildlife peeking out through the branches in the dense jungle terrain.
• Kampot : Kampot is one of the most unique cities in Cambodia, and it’s also one of my best destinations in Southeast Asia in its entirety. It’s a darling town, quite small in size, that offers guests incredible nature-based experiences. So much of Kampot feels untouched. It’s a blissful place to stay.
• Kep : Kep is a small seaside town in the south of Cambodia, and is the sister city to Kampot. They’re just over 20 miles apart, and it takes about 45 minutes to get there by scooter. It’s sleepy, however, and not a place for party-goers, as the entire town of Kep feels a little drowsy.
• Siem Reap : Attracting millions of visitors tourists every year to its iconic Angkor Wat, Siem Reap is no doubt one of the safest and easiest places to travel in all of Cambodia.

Places to Avoid in Cambodia

Even though Cambodia has somewhat of a reputation for being unsafe, the following places are still VERY safe compared to most countries’ places to avoid list.

• Areas along the Northwest border with Thailand – that’s where most hidden landmines can be found
• Sihanoukville : A now overly-developed mess of Chinese-built casinos and hotels, this city is seedy and polluted. Minimize your time here when heading to the islands due to higher levels of crime.
• Phnom Penh’s riverside at night : While it’s perfectly fine to stroll along the Mekong during the day, even local kids will warn you to avoid the riverwalk after dark.

Keeping Your Money Safe in Cambodia

One of the most common things to happen to you whilst travelling is losing your money. And let’s face it: the most annoying way for this to actually occur is when it’s stolen from you.

Petty crime is pretty much a problem all over the world.

The best solution? Get a money belt.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Cambodia isn’t super dangerous ,  but it’s also not the best place in the world when it comes to personal safety. Tourists can be seen as easy targets because they’re (always) comparatively rich. Even backpackers can seem like kings.

However, that doesn’t mean you can’t travel around Cambodia safely – not at all. To make sure you stay safe, we’ve got a few travel safety tips to help you on your way.

• Keep belongings close to you in tourist areas  – this is where petty theft is likely to occur. Motorbike thieves exist also, so be aware.
• Don’t walk around looking like a tourist  – designer clothes, SLRs, wearing expensive jewellery all screams “I’M RICH”. An advert for thieves.
• Be careful of pickpockets  – especially walking around crowded streets and tourist areas. Consider investing in a travel money belt for ultimate protection.
• Dress appropriately  – it’s not ultra-conservative at all, but in temples, you need to be covering your shoulders and knees.
• Be vigilant in the run-up to festivals  – robberies increase as people get desperate for money. Take care.
• Walking around with a smartphone isn’t advised  – you’ll probably be ok, but still… Smartphones are expensive.
• Watch out for over-friendly strangers  – Cambodians are friendly. But if something seems weird, and the friendliness is too much, then they may not have the best intentions. Scams DO happen.
• Be careful with recreational drugs  – Cannabis is cool and, but  yaba is a different story . A horrible drug to get involved with.
• On the subject…  – drugs mean you’ll have to deal with sketchy individuals and the police will ask for bribes if they catch you. You may even get set up.
• Kids of the Cambodian elite carry a lot of sway  – and some carry guns. If you’re out at night, don’t get into any scuffles.
• Be wary of other travelers and expats  – the lawless reputation of Cambodia attracts some shady characters. Be careful who you get involved with.
• Keep all important things WITH you on a bus  – this is the best way to prevent ANYONE getting to ’em.
• Always keep an emergency stash of cash – Never keep all your cards/ currency in one place. And hide it all from thieves with a hidden money belt .
• Children will come up to you  – it’s your choice if you give them money, but there are loads of NGOs that you could help out instead. It’s a good idea to read up on the impacts of tourists enabling beggars .
• Don’t lose your temper  – causing a scene in Cambodia is likely to CAUSE A SCENE. Don’t let a situation get heated.
• Be careful where you take photos  – military installations, airports=not ok. It’s also important to ask before you take pictures of ANYBODY.
• Walking alone at night in rural areas isn’t advised  – increased risk of robbery.
• Fake monks  – they’ll get you to pay money if you wander into a temple on the outskirts of  Angkor Wat.  Don’t bother.
• Protect against mosquitoes   – cover up, use repellent, burn coils. Not nice to get bitten.
• Take a good medical kit with you – you never know when you might need it!
• Watch out for dangerous wildlife  – snakes are definitely present. When walking around rural areas keep your eyes peeled.
• Have travel insurance – Medical facilities in Cambodia aren’t the best, so be sure to have insurance that covers medical evacuation.
• Know what to do in the event of natural disasters .

If you’re thinking about solo travel in Cambodia and you’ve never done it before, well all we can say is you’re in for a treat. There are plenty of reasons why solo travel is  pretty much amazing.  Mainly: It’s YOUR trip and YOUR trip only!

BUT it is a challenge, of course, and there are always things to keep in mind when you’re solo traveling anywhere in the world. So even though traveling alone to Cambodia is relatively safe, here are a couple of notes to keep in mind when you’re out there.

• We’d recommend staying in awesome hostels in Cambodia where you can meet other backpackers . It’s not only cool to meet people who are doing the same thing as you, but it’s also a good way to beat the solo traveling blues (it CAN get lonely sometimes).
• When you’re looking for a  social hostel , make sure you find one with good reviews. You’ll be amazed at the prices in Cambodia, but don’t automatically go looking for the  cheapest accommodation possible. 
• Knowing a few new people is always great for  sharing tours.  This is handy, for example, when you want to see  Angkor Wat  or do a day tour of  Phnom Penh or something.
• Don’t go getting crazy drunk, even on  Pub Street. Things can be more sketchy at night too, which is when you’ll be walking home.
• Save important phone numbers – know who to call if you needed emergency consular assistance.
• Be careful at the beach after dark. Beaches are secluded areas and robberies, especially in  Sihanoukville,  have been reported.
• And whilst we’re on the subject,  don’t drink and swim.  It’s stupid.
• We’d recommend leaving your stuff in your guesthouse. Don’t take your valuables with you  when you go out for the day. Leave it locked up in the safe if there is one.
• Get yourself a  data sim to travel with . This is a good way to keep in touch with people you meet on your trip. It’s also a good way to let your parents and your friends back home know you’re still safe .
• Speaking of which,  get yourself Maps.me.  Google Maps may work offline, but not always.  Maps.me  is a reliable, offline maps app that’ll help you pinpoint where you are in case you find yourself lost in the city.
• Learn some  Khmer.  It’s not the easiest language, but it’s not tonal. Simple phrases will go a long way in impressing locals and building up relationships.
• Don’t get  temple burnout!  Also known as “temple blindness” or “temple boredom”. There is a whole load of temples to see in Cambodia, so we’d recommend doing research on the best, most fascinating, historically relevant temples or the ones that will  interest you the most. 

At the end of the day, YOU are the only one looking out for yourself. So being responsible and keeping your wits about you is going to go a long way.

There’s solo travel, then there’s solo female travel . And unfortunately, being a woman makes the world a whole lot more unsafe. However, we’re happy to say that Cambodia is a GREAT place for a solo female traveler.

With its laid-back, easygoing atmosphere, we’d even go as far as to say it’s a good destination even for a first-timer.

The sad thing is, as a woman you’re often more at risk, no matter where you are. Just to be sure, here are a few ways you can maximize your experiences as a solo female traveler in Cambodia.

• Make friends with other female travelers, especially if it’s your first time solo traveling.  Not only do you get to meet some nice, like-minded people, but you’ll also get some extra backpacking tips .
• Keep up with local media – be aware of what’s going on on the ground!
• And the best way to get chatting with fellow travelers is by staying in a  well-reviewed hostel.  With a female-only dorm, if you want.
• Cambodia’s a pretty conservative country so covering up is  respectful.   This is important  mainly at temples , but wearing clothes that consistently cover your knees and shoulders just feels a lot more fitting. Look at what the local women are wearing – especially in more remote areas.
• Don’t touch monks! No, seriously. They’re not allowed contact with women and they’ll have to go through all sorts of rituals if you touch them.
• If you’re wandering around at night it’s relatively safe BUT  stick to busy, well-lit areas.  Would you wander down quiet, dark backstreets at home?
• Be extra vigilant  if you’re traveling alone at night by motorbike or bicycle.
• Drink spiking has been on the rise lately so be careful. Only drink the drinks you buy for yourself.
• BE CAUTIOUS in beach areas of  Sihanoukville.  This town has become a lot shadier in recent years and beaches at night time here are not the place to be by yourself.
• Use your common sense. If a situation is getting weird, if someone seems sketchy,  remove yourself or don’t get involved at all.  Find somewhere busy.
• You may be seen as an  easy target  for bag snatching, so keep things like that close to you. This has been reported as happening as women are riding in a tuk-tuk, so be extra careful in that sort of situation.

From waterfalls, endless white-sand beaches, beautiful nature, and some of the friendliest locals, Koh Rong is the ultimate getaway in Cambodia. You’ll make some unforgettable memories here, that’s for sure!

Cambodia is a great place to travel with kids !

There are ancient temples here that your kids will freak out about. They’re like something straight out of a film or a video game. Sometimes  they actually are from fiction!

And sights aside,  Khmer people are very friendly,  especially to children. This will make a big difference and will make it pretty easy for your kids to find local playmates.

But obviously, there are some things you need to bear in mind:

• One of these is  long journeys on unreliable buses.  Safety often isn’t the priority on a bus; driving fast and not putting on the air-con is the norm.
• Cambodia can get  HOT.  Make sure everyone stays hydrated and keeps out of the sun. Bring plenty of reusable water bottles.
• Animal hazards include  sandflies  on the beaches (these can be BRUTAL) as well as  snakes.  Very dangerous.
• It’s also not always the cleanest of places, the infrastructure is sometimes lacking, and the healthcare isn’t amazing…

So whilst Cambodia is safe to travel for children, it’s better if you’re an  adventurous family.

We wouldn’t call driving “safe” in Cambodia.

Why? Road accidents are the leading cause of death in Cambodia.

You may be tempted to hire your own car to avoid those sometimes very pirate-like minibuses, but it’s really not worth it. International driving permits are a ballache and while motorbiking is more common, the roads are absolutely hectic to say the least.

If you’ve never been on a motorbike before, Cambodia is definitely not the right place to start. 

Really, in Cambodia, it’s all about  tuk-tuks.  They are used all across the country and are safe.

You’ll be  hassled in  pretty much every town with “tuk-tuk?” as you pass an idling driver. They’re usually friendly enough and will leave you alone the instant you decline.

But if you do get a tuk-tuk off the street  haggle the price before you get in.

Honestly, there isn’t much public transport in Cambodia. The stuff that does exist  is mainly safe though.

The minibusses drive fast and recklessly and aren’t always in the best condition either.

That said, large air-conned buses do exist and these travel between large cities – the route between  Phnom Penh  and  Siem Reap   for instance. This is about as public as it gets. 

Petty crime is by far the biggest issue tourists will face in the country. That doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed to experience it though–many do not. Police corruption is also rife–bribes are very much a thing, though you might only encounter this when crossing a land border. Meanwhile, drug trafficking is another major issue in the country, but not one that’s likely to affect tourists.

Finding marijuana and other party drugs is very easy within backpacker enclaves. Both Siem Reap and Phnom Penh are known for their “ happy pizza restaurants ” that serve cannabis-infused pies and smoothies.

Just be aware that according to local laws, cannabis is illegal and thus should not be smoked in public.

Scams in Cambodia

While not as bad as infamous scam locales like New Delhi, Cambodia definitely has some to look out for. The most common experience you’ll have is being overcharged for rides or items even after you agreed upon a set price.

Be firm and don’t pay more than you’ve agreed on. You can also try to arrange tuk-tuk drivers through your hostel or hotel for some peace of mind. It’s somewhat common to be charged more than the set price for a visa at land borders. As Cambodia is a poor country and local authorities can be corrupt, there’s not much you can do.

You should also beware of touts at Angkor Wat, which is the massive temple complex that brings most tourists to the country. The easiest way to avoid them is to, yet again, pre-arrange with your hotel!

Everyone’s packing list is going to look a little different, but here are a few things I would never want to travel to Cambodia without…

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

Yesim stands as a premier eSIM service provider, catering specifically to the mobile internet needs of travellers.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Travel medical insurance is a must for Cambodia!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Planning a safe trip to Cambodia can get quite overwhelming. That’s why we’ve listed and answered the most frequently asked questions on safety in Cambodia. 

What should you avoid in Cambodia?

These are the things you should definitely avoid in Cambodia: – Don’t support the Elephant Rides – Avoid drinking tap water  – DO NOT disrespect monks  – Don’t let your personal belongings out of sight

Is Cambodia safer than Thailand?

Cambodia and Thailand are pretty much the same when it comes to safety. While Thailand is a better option for less experienced travellers and especially females, Cambodia is definitely more affordable. Both countries have unique issues but are overall safe if you use your common sense.

Is Cambodia safe for tourists? 

Yes, Cambodia is safe for tourists. But like any other Southeast Asian country, you will have to watch out for petty crimes and pickpocketing. As long as you do a bit of research on the area and respect the culture, you will be perfectly fine in Cambodia. 

Why is Cambodia dangerous?

The main crime in Cambodia is pickpocketing. Tourists are especially targeted when riding Tuk Tuks and exploring famous attractions. The weather and wildlife can get dangerous as well. Poisonous snakes aren’t uncommon in rural areas and heavy rainstorms can cause landslides.

Is Cambodia safe to live?

It’s very safe to live in Cambodia but all of what we’ve said before still applies . Living in Cambodia doesn’t automatically make the roads or beaches safe after dark. Cambodia is still a developing country. You’ll have to put up with crazy streets, power outages, and cockroaches in your apartment.

Yes, it can be safe, but Cambodia’s safety really depends on what kind of traveler you are. If you use your common sense and stay aware of your surroundings, visiting Cambodia can be perfectly safe. if you’re looking for trouble, you’ll definitely find it.

It’s easy to get a false sense of security when you’re visiting Cambodia. Just because it’s well-trodden and all the backpackers are having a great time getting wild, Cambodia is still poor and people can be desperate.  You’re most likely a lot, LOT richer than many people here and if someone thinks they can make their life better by swiping your phone, can you blame them?

To avoid that, however, it’s all about being an inconspicuous, responsible traveler . This means having your phone out, dangling your bag around, and generally wandering about the place as if it’s a  backpacker’s theme park.  Being oblivious to the local culture, taboos, and the situation just isn’t smart .

That said, Cambodia is safe to visit !

Just remember that you aren’t immune to everything because you’re a backpacker and ‘not a tourist.’ Ultimately, staying aware of your surroundings and following the laws in Cambodia will help you ensure a safe and enjoyable voyage.

Looking for more info on traveling to Cambodia?

• Let me help you choose where to stay in Cambodia
• Plan the rest of your trip with our fantastic backpacking Cambodia travel guide!
• Get inspired by these EPIC bucket list adventures !
• See exactly how to travel the world for a year , even if you’re broke
• Explore with the ultimate peace of mind with top-notch medical evacuation insurance

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

Monique MacPhail

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never come back to siem reap it is the unsafest place in the world. thief have snatched my bag and made me fall fram tuk tuk. I am badly injured and have face and eye blooding. It was 2 weeks ago and just want to alert the tourists.

That’s horrible! I’m sorry to hear that 🙁 Angkor Wat is such a beautiful place though. I hope that people are able to visit here safely in the future.

I write this after 6 months traveling in south east asia I thought Cambodia should have more or less same standards as in Vietnam Thailand etc. – well NO

1. They charge in USD and I mean HIGH NUMBERS US DOLLARS!!! Prepare yourself: 1 Mango 1 USD (1 fruit not 1 kg) Main course average restaurant 6-8 USD, Beer 2 USD, Coffee 2 USD, Tuk Tuk 1 Km 3 USD

2. Accommodation Value for money that doesn’t make any sense (50 USD room no AC – or not working well AC its super hot in the rooms) 3. They look at tourists like dollars going around trying to rip you off in any chance!!! 4. Sihnoukville is the dirtiest place I have ever been to all beaches are completely ruined, sewage going free on the streets and poluuts the sea water. So many mosquitos and flies coming to the dirt – it is dangerous!! 5. Siem Reap – Tourist city. Monopoly of HIGH prices. u cannot bargain because everyone charge the same ridicules prices as I explained above.

2 Weeks in Cambodia cost as 2 months in Vietnam! That is the reason we made our trip here shorter and got a flight back to Vietnam which we LOVE!

Vietnam can be much cheaper than Cambodia but that’s only if we’re talking about places like Siem Reep, Angkor Wat, and Sookyville. If you get off the beaten path in Cambodia and visit less-touristy areas, prices should be much more reasonable.

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Is it safe to travel to Cambodia?

A very popular tourist destination, particularly as part of the South East Asia backpacker route, Cambodia is a relatively safe destination to visit. With millions of tourists welcomed inside its borders each year, Cambodia is used to crowds of foreigners, but there are some things that are important to note to ensure safe travel in this holiday hotspot.

Cambodia is a relatively safe destination to visit but there are high rates of petty crime and scams, especially in the tourist hotspots. Millions of tourists visit Cambodia every year without issue.

In rural and remote areas, it is crucial that you stick to marked paths, as there are many UXOs or unexploded ordinances still dotted throughout the countryside. These landmines have been the cause of loss of limbs and other casualties for locals and tourists alike, so as well as sticking to the marked paths, do not go close to or touch anything metallic in rural Cambodia.

Severe storms and widespread seasonal flooding, including localised flash flooding can occur without warning, particularly during the wet season from July to November. The Cambodia–Thailand land border is occasionally closed due to flooding. It is best to be prepared, especially in the wetter months, with waterproof clothing and a contingency fund to draw on if you need to catch a last-minute flight or spend an extra night somewhere, all in the name of safety. 

Learn more about the weather in Cambodia

Many locals are cashing in on the rise in tourism with scams or 'tourist traps' at popular sites like the Angkor complex. For instance, beggars – adults as well as children – locate themselves near temples and monuments and ask for money for a range of ailments and situations. Many are genuine, however, some may be part of a larger organisation pooling money and sharing it at the end of the day. Beggars prey on tourists' guilt, so only give what you are comfortable giving, or ask your tour leader for legitimate local organisations that you can support financially.

Petty theft and small crimes, such as bag snatching, have been known to occur in Cambodia, especially later at night and in areas that aren't well-lit. Be careful on motorbikes as well – thieves don't discriminate and may put your life in danger by dragging you off in order to get their reward.

There are, on occasion, political demonstrations and protests that occur in Cambodia's capital, Phnom Penh. If you do find yourself in Phnom Penh during a demonstration, steer well clear, as there have been instances where such protests have become hostile and violent, sometimes to the point of gunfire. 

Bars and nightclubs in Cambodia are usually very safe spaces for travellers, especially in high-traffic tourist areas. Some establishments, however, may attract a dodgy crowd and get a little sketchy at times. Some such bars can be known to sell nitrous oxide – a drug more commonly used in hospitals as an anesthetic but also has effects of hallucination, laughter and euphoria. If you do wish to head out on the town, be aware of your safety and the people around you. Don't leave your drink unattended and refrain from ingesting any substance that may be dangerous to your health and/or land you in trouble.

Cambodia is generally a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers, but social attitudes towards LGBTQIA+ individuals are complex. Read more on safety for LGBTQIA+ travelers in Cambodia  here, plus a rundown on queer culture in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

In general, Cambodia is a destination where female travelers can feel comfortable and safe traveling alone. Verbal street harassment is relatively uncommon in Cambodia and women can generally walk alone without being bothered. As with any country, it's best to walk in a group at night and keep away from rough neighborhoods.

• Stick to marked trails in the Cambodian countryside
• Be wary of scams at tourist hotspots like Angkor
• Avoid drinking the tap water
• Read the Phnom Penh Post for breaking news and up-to-date info
• Be cautious when checking out Cambodia's nightlife

Read more on drinking water in Cambodia

Read our travel alerts page

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Update April 12, 2024

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Cambodia Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 24, 2023, cambodia - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Cambodia. Some areas have increased risks. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Exercise increased precautions in:

• Phnom Penh due to  crime.
• Very remote areas of Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Pursat, Siem Reap, Pailin, and Kampong Thom provinces due to  land mines.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Cambodia.

If you decide to travel to Cambodia:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Cambodia.

·        Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Phnom Penh – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Street crime, particularly phone and bag snatchings, occurs frequently in areas where foreigners gather; resistance can result in injury. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and to be extra vigilant when displaying items like jewelry, bags and cell phones in public. Violent crime, such as sexual assault and homicide, is common, sometimes against foreigners.

Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Use caution when walking or driving at night.

Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Pursat, Siem Reap, Pailin, and Kampong Thom provinces – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Land mines and unexploded ordnance are found in very remote areas throughout Cambodia, and especially in Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Pursat, Siem Reap, Pailin, and Kampong Thom provinces.

Do not touch unknown metal objects; instead notify the Cambodia Mine Action Center at 012-800-473/023-995-437. Use a local guide when walking in forested areas or dry rice paddies in these areas.

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Why not go solo? How to travel alone . . . and like it.

Question: You’ve just departed a sunset kayaking trip when you realize your phone is out of juice so you can’t call a rideshare. You’re 30 minutes away from your hotel — too far to walk. You’re alone. And it’s dark. What do you do?

Answer: You walk a few blocks to a restaurant/bar and ask them to call you a cab. Which they do. “Crazy Joe” arrives and immediately announces, “Aliens are among us!” and you don’t even care; you’re thrilled to have transportation, even if the local eccentric is doing the driving. He gets you to your hotel without incident.

File this under “very specific but potentially useful solo travel tips.” When you’re traveling solo, it’s all on you. “You grow when you travel alone,” says Janice Waugh, publisher and founder of Solo Traveler ( www.solotravelerworld.com ). “You make your own choices, you navigate new situations alone, and you negotiate through different cultures, even languages. It’s a fast track to improved life skills and greater self-awareness.”

Honestly, it felt pretty good to solve this problem (a true-life scenario) solo. Traveling alone is empowering, even if it is sometimes scary and difficult. As travel journalists, we frequently travel solo — including romantic locales where it’s often just us and a bevy of PDA-happy honeymooners. Cultivating an air of mystery — and wielding a notebook —helps.

Table for one, please!

Increasingly, it’s not just us. Solo travel is trending. In 2023, 25 percent of Americans (83 million people) were considering taking a solo trip, according to Travel Daily Media . Why would you travel alone instead of bringing a spouse, partner, child, or Blake Lively and Ice Spice (assuming you’re Taylor Swift)?

According to a 2023 survey of travelers from the United States, Canada, Australia, and the UK, reported in Statista, the main motivation for solo travel was the willingness to “see the world and not to wait for others,” mentioned by roughly two-thirds of the sample. Forty-six percent of respondents mentioned being motivated by the feeling of freedom and independence. Other reasons cited include “wanting to meet new people,” “personal growth,” “I have different interests than my friends,” and “my partner doesn’t want to travel as much as I do.”

Note the reference to “partner.” Solo travelers aren’t necessarily single. Maybe a partner doesn’t have time off work, or isn’t interested in travel, or wants to do something completely different while traveling. Many solo travelers are women, and many are old enough that they don’t have to worry about young kids at home. They’re booking bucket list journeys with a “If not now, when?” mentality.

“I feel most alive when I am alone in an unknown place — one that stimulates my senses and heightens my gratitude, courage, and curiosity,” says Carolyn Ray, CEO and publisher of JourneyWoman ( www.journeywoman.com ). “Just knowing that I can do it on my own gives me the confidence that I can handle anything that comes my way in life.”

One is not the loneliest number

On your own, you are the author of your travel story. You can go where you want, when you want. Feel like sneaking into a hotel pool in Las Vegas, or visiting the M&Ms store for breakfast? Go for it. Want to sleep in, or see the sunrise from the top of a volcano? Your call. Your schedule is your own, with none of those “what shall we do?/where should we eat?” conversations.

Speaking of conversations, you meet more people when you travel solo. When you travel with others, you’re focused on them. On your own, you’ll discover the peculiar joy of speaking with strangers. Once we got over the initial weirdness — as New Englanders, we’re not exactly famous for our breezy chitchat — we learned to love chatting with chefs, shopkeepers, street musicians, people with pets, toddlers, and, yes, honeymooners (who, by day three, are eager for fresh company and invite fellow guests to join them for dinner and hot-tubbing).

“I learn the most when I travel solo because my senses are attuned to what’s around me and I can focus on me more, not what my companion wants to do,” Ray notes. “I pay more attention to the people around me, am more inquisitive, and find that others — especially other solo women — want to connect, too.”

Going solo in a group

Worried you’ll be lonely? Or that you’ll grow tired of your own company? Consider going solo on a group tour (as opposed to traveling independently, and handling all the details.)

Budget-conscious solo travelers recommend Overseas Adventure Travel ( www.oattravel.com ), offering 80-plus adventures in 100 countries. OAT travelers are not charged single supplements on any of the company’s Land Adventures (land-based tours with groups of no more than 16 travelers) or Small Ship Adventures (boat tours for no more than 25 travelers.) G Adventures ( www.gadventures.com ) is an appealing option for solo travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences, with a focus on community tourism (using local service providers). Cambodia, Costa Rica, the Canadian Rockies — they cover it all. They’ll pair you up with a roommate of the same gender (or book you in a single room for a slightly higher fee). EF Go Ahead Tours ( www.goaheadtours.com ) offers 18 tours designed for solo travelers. A private room is included on their solo tours. Popular destinations include Japan, Spain, and Kenya.

Small group trips are a great choice for solo travelers because the logistics are planned out for you, says Alex Sanchez, US Consumer Marketing Manager of G Adventures. “You get the peace of mind knowing that you’re in the hands of knowledgeable CEOs — ‘chief experience officers,’ what we call our local guides — and you experience the destination with a small group of like-minded travelers. It’s a ready-made community.”

Also, it’s nice to know that someone’s looking out for you in case you get sick or hurt. (We were wildly grateful that a fellow traveler shared anti-nausea meds when we got food poisoning in Petra.) Plus, you can meet some interesting people on a group trip. “We’ve seen people forge life-long friendships,” Sanchez says.

For a first-time female solo traveler, Ray recommends booking a trip designed by and for women. “Women-owned and women-led group tours create safe travel experiences for women and create environments that challenge a woman’s sense for adventure, with less ego and less competitiveness,” she says. Group travel also provides a safety net for those who may be anxious about their first trip on their own, Ray notes. Find some options at JourneyWoman’s Women’s Travel Directory .

Rather go it alone than take your chances with a small group of strangers? Spring for a day tour — say, a pasta-making class in Rome, or something else that fits your interests. Breaking up a long trip with an organized tour will add some structure to your journey.

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Campus Protests U.C.L.A. Creates Campus Safety Role as It Prepares to Reopen Classes

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Here is the latest on campus protests.

The University of California, Los Angeles, said on Sunday that it had created a new campus safety position as the school moves to reopen this week and examines what led to clashes between demonstrators.

The appointment of Rick Braziel, a former chief of the Sacramento Police Department and a well-known policing expert, to oversee the school police department comes as the U.C.L.A. administration and other schools across the country face backlash over an aggressive police response to pro-Palestinian demonstrators on university property.

John Thomas, U.C.L.A.’s current school police chief, has defended himself over a delayed police response as counterprotesters attempted to tear down an encampment built by students protesting Israel’s war on Gaza. And on the opposite coast, a group of professors at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville signed an open letter condemning the treatment of pro-Palestinian students and faculty on Saturday, which saw police in riot gear spray people with chemical irritant.

At least 25 people were arrested on Saturday in Charlottesville, adding to more than 2,300 arrests in more than two weeks of campus demonstrations and police sweeps, according to a New York Times tally ,

The way that many universities have responded to protests has further galvanized pro-Palestinian students across the country, who have used public graduation ceremonies this month as yet another opportunity to criticize Israel’s war in Gaza and to renew calls on their universities to divest from Israel.

Here’s what else to know:

At Northeastern University’s graduation ceremony at Fenway Park on Sunday, one student wearing a keffiyeh and red paint on their face and a shirt reading “DIVEST” ran up to the stage chanting before they were forcibly removed by police. And when the student speaker for the commencement, Rebecca Bamidele, called for a permanent end to the violence in Gaza, some students cheered and gave her a standing ovation.

The police early on Sunday removed a pro-Palestinian encampment from the University of Southern California’s campus for a second time. The university has been in turmoil for weeks following its decision not to allow its valedictorian to speak at graduation, citing security concerns.

At least three dozen history professors at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville signed an open letter condemning “the repression of a peaceful protest of our students by armed state police in riot gear,” a day after pro-Palestinian protesters clashed with police.

At the University of Chicago, student protesters remained at their encampment for a seventh consecutive day Sunday, holding what they called “teach-ins” on subjects from knowing your rights to the history of the Gaza conflict. Students and officials spent the weekend privately negotiating over the removal of the encampment.

Hundreds of pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered at Kent State University in Ohio on Saturday, exactly 54 years after National Guard troops opened fire on students demonstrating against the Vietnam War, killing four of them.

The University of Mississippi said it was investigating the conduct of at least one student after counterprotesters directed racist taunts at pro-Palestinian protesters. On Sunday, the headquarters of Phi Delta Theta fraternity said that one person had been removed from its membership , saying that the “racist actions” captured in one video were “those of an individual and are antithetical to the values of Phi Delta Theta and the Mississippi Alpha chapter.”

Bob Chiarito and Jonathan Wolfe contributed reporting.

— Emily Cochrane ,  Matthew Eadie and Shawn Hubler

Set to reopen classes, U.C.L.A. announces a new campus security office.

After a week of escalating violence involving campus protests over Gaza, the University of California, Los Angeles, said it would resume in-person classes on Monday and had created a new campus security job.

The leader of the newly created office of campus safety will report directly to the chancellor, Gene Block, and manage the U.C.L.A. police department and the office of emergency management, and comes as leaders of the school and other college administrators across the country face a backlash over the way they have handled pro-Palestinian demonstrators on university property.

Last Tuesday, after counterprotesters attacked a pro-Palestinian encampment on campus, the clash went on for hours with no police intervention, and no arrests.

The new office will take over the management of the campus police department from the vice chancellor Michael Beck, who also oversees events, facilities management, transportation and other campus operations. Mr. Beck and the U.C.L.A. police chief, John Thomas, have faced mounting criticism as demonstrations on campus last week between pro-Palestinian protesters and pro-Israel counterprotesters turned increasingly violent.

After the violence on Tuesday, critics said Mr. Thomas was unprepared and failed to protect students. He defended himself over assertions that the university waited too long to intervene and secure backup from the Los Angeles Police Department. The University of California’s president announced that it would conduct an independent review of what led to the clash.

The new office of campus safety will be run by Rick Braziel, a former police chief in Sacramento and a well-known expert on policing in California, according to a statement by Mr. Block. Mr. Braziel, who is also a former inspector general for Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department, has previously been tapped to review high-profile police actions, including after the elementary school shooting in Uvalde, Texas, in 2022 and the protests and riots in Ferguson, Mo., in 2014, among other cases.

Mr. Braziel has long been a sought-out voice on law enforcement for California’s Democratic establishment. Last year, Gov. Gavin Newsom appointed him to an advisory council tasked with improving interactions between law enforcement and people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

In a statement, U.C.L.A. told members of the campus to avoid the area around Royce Quad, the site of the protest encampment, and said law enforcement would continue to be stationed around campus “to promote safety.”

Shawn Hubler contributed reporting.

Because of an editing error, an earlier version of this article misstated the last name of the U.C.L.A. chancellor. He is Gene Block, not Bock.

How we handle corrections

— Jonathan Wolfe Reporting from Los Angeles

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A letter signed by dozens of U.Va. professors condemns school leaders over a police response.

At least three dozen history professors at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville signed an open letter on Sunday condemning “the repression of a peaceful protest of our students” by the police, a day after officers in riot gear clashed with pro-Palestinian demonstrators, spraying chemical irritants and arresting at least 25 people.

In the letter, which was particularly scathing toward President Jim Ryan and Ian Baucom, the provost, the professors also demanded answers about the intensity of the police response, who approved it and why, and whether protesters at the school could be guaranteed the ability to protest peacefully.

The letter is the latest example of faculty and staff members at universities across the country stepping into the tense relationship between administrations and students protesting the war in Gaza, keeping watch over encampments, acting as a liaison between the two groups or pushing to protect the free speech rights of their students. Others, including pro-Israel professors, have sought to build other avenues of support for students.

Faculty members at Emory University and Columbia University are among those who have either taken or pushed for no-confidence votes in their school presidents.

Some professors, faculty and staff members have gotten caught in police sweeps and arrested as law enforcement has moved to evict students and their tent encampments from campuses. Videos of their treatment — including one that showed Annelise Orleck, a 65-year-old labor historian at Dartmouth College, taken to the ground by police — have further intensified the debate over the police response.

“What makes the situation unprecedented is the crackdown on student speech — that’s what has sort of marked the departure here and that’s what has led faculty to speak out,” said Erik Linstrum, a University of Virginia professor who helped draft and circulate the letter. He added, “there’s just an extremely aggressive and intolerant response to a certain kind of speech.”

The professors were careful to note that they spoke as individuals, rather than on behalf of their departments. And in the letter, they did not take a stance on the pro-Palestinian protest, emphasizing that “whatever our divergent views about the cause for which the protesters were advocating, the virtues of inquiry and debate as well as the importance of critical questioning are fundamental.”

Asked to comment on the letter, Brian Coy, a spokesman for the university, pointed to a Saturday statement from Mr. Ryan, which the letter had dismissed as “replete with platitudes, half-truths and evasions.”

He added that both Mr. Ryan and Mr. Baucom, the provost, “have been deeply engaged in every step of this episode and spent the day yesterday in the university’s command post helping to oversee U.Va.’s response.”

“Their charge to every official involved in this matter was to do everything possible to protect the rights of the protesters, as well as the rights and safety of the rest of our community,” Mr. Coy said of the two men. “This protest endured peacefully for four days before demonstrators began intentionally flouting university policies and resisting efforts to secure their compliance.”

But several professors and students have questioned the school’s decision to bring in the police to remove the tents set up on Friday , adding that university policy on whether recreational tents were allowed without a permit was unclear as of Saturday morning . (University officials said on Saturday that the school noticed and updated a document “that inaccurately referenced an exemption to the policy.”)

The school has also said that police officers were met with “physical confrontation,” which protesters and some observers have denied.

“I did not observe anything at all — when I saw that statement, I was shocked,” said Laura Goldblatt, an English and global studies assistant professor who did not sign the history professors’ letter but was among the faculty members present on Saturday. She added, “everything they’re being charged with only happened when police started to aggress upon them.”

In the letter, which is still collecting signatures, the professors invoked not only the principles of the university’s founder, Thomas Jefferson, but some of their own lessons to students about nonviolent protests.

Mr. Linstrum, whose area of study has focused on British imperialism and decolonization, said he had not been involved in the protests but headed over to the encampment on Saturday when he heard the police were coming. He said the letter came together as colleagues expressed outrage over seeing some of their students caught in the clash and not receiving a response from some administrators when they pleaded for intervention.

“There was a very clear sense from very early on, even as things were happening yesterday, that some response was imperative — that we couldn’t let something like this go unanswered,” he said.

— Emily Cochrane

Commencement events proceed largely as planned, with some interruptions.

The war in Gaza, combined with tensions over student protests in the past several weeks, had an unmistakable presence at some commencement ceremonies on Sunday.

At Fenway Park in Boston, home of the Boston Red Sox, about 4,000 undergraduate students of Northeastern University and nearly 30,000 attendees gathered for a graduation ceremony. It came at a tense time, just over one week after 98 people were arrested — including 29 students and six faculty or staff members — when police cleared out a pro-Palestinian encampment built on campus last Saturday.

Some students painted Palestinian symbols and flags on the top of their graduation caps. The student speaker for the commencement, Rebecca Bamidele, received cheers from some in the audience after highlighting the plight of Palestinians in Gaza. When the president of Northeastern, Joseph E. Aoun, was introduced, several students began booing with scattered pro-Palestinian chants.

At one point, a student wearing a keffiyeh wrapped around his head and a shirt reading “DIVEST” ran up to the stage before being forcibly removed by the police and dragged out of the seating area.

The dean of the College of Social Sciences and Humanities, Kellee Tsai, addressed the interruption, reading off what appeared to be a prepared note.

“We respect your passion and opinions, we respect your right to voice them, in the appropriate setting,” Ms. Tsai said. “This event honors our graduates and distinguished guests and is a celebration of their achievements. Out of respect for your community and honored guests, I ask that you let us continue with this event.”

There were no disruptions earlier on Sunday, when thousands of students attended Northeastern’s graduate student commencement.

At Ohio State University, there were fewer interruptions as an estimated 70,000 people watched 12,000 students graduate at Ohio Stadium in Columbus. Some student groups had called for demonstrations, but the only protests were quiet individual ones: Several students decorated their mortar boards with pro-Palestinian designs, carried the Palestinian flag and wore keffiyehs.

Melissa Shivers, Ohio State’s senior vice president for student life, said in her welcoming address that “disruptions will not be permitted,” emphasizing the “not.” The emphatic warning earned a roar of applause from the crowd.

— Matthew Eadie and Rachel Richardson

An encampment remains at the University of Chicago as students negotiate disbanding.

After a week of heightened tensions at the University of Chicago, a school that touts itself as a model for free speech, the campus was relatively quiet on Sunday as students and officials privately negotiated the university’s demand to take down a pro-Palestinian encampment.

Several dozen tents remained pitched on the quad on Sunday afternoon, despite university President Paul Alivisatos’s message to the campus on Friday that the encampment “cannot continue.” A few University of Chicago police officers roamed nearby.

On Friday, some pro-Palestinian demonstrators and counterprotesters fought briefly, and the protest drew a significant presence of university and city police officers, but they did not move to forcibly disband the encampment.

The school’s administration had initially taken a permissive approach to the pro-Palestinian protests. The university is home to the Chicago statement, which is a framework for free expression adopted in 2015 that has been embraced by other colleges across the country. The policy allows students to widely express their points of view, with the limitation that they cannot infringe on other people’s ability to share their beliefs.

But Dr. Alivisatos, a chemist who became president of the university in 2021, said in his statement on Friday that the encampment had become a disruption on campus. He accused protesters of vandalizing buildings, blocking walkways and destroying an installation of Israeli flags.

“Protesters are monopolizing areas of the Main Quad at the expense of other members of our community,” he said. “Clear violations of policies have only increased.”

The university and students have been negotiating in private, and student leaders said the university’s compromises have not been acceptable. Christopher Iacovetti, a student who has participated in negotiations, said on Friday in a statement that UChicago United for Palestine “refuses to accept President Alivisatos’s repeated condescending offer of a public forum to discuss ‘diverse viewpoints’ on the genocide, as this is clearly a poor attempt at saving face without material change.”

A university spokesman, Gerald McSwiggan, referred on Sunday to a statement from Saturday that said “substantive negotiations with organizers were ongoing.”

While the protesters were quiet on Sunday, they were blocking others from walking along a path in the middle of the quad, asking passers-by to walk around instead. They held “teach-ins” on subjects including knowing your rights and the history of the Gaza conflict.

The encampment was almost entirely surrounded by a variety of barriers, including caution tape, plastic mesh barriers, signs on wooden boards and wire fencing.

Also in Chicago, the School of the Art Institute’s campus was quiet on Sunday, and there were no signs of protesters. Police said they arrested 68 protesters on Saturday after they refused to move their protest site to a different location.

Mitch Smith contributed reporting from Chicago.

— Robert Chiarito and Colbi Edmonds

Police clear a pro-Palestinian encampment at U.S.C. for a second time.

Los angeles police clear pro-palestinian encampment at u.s.c., several dozen people were pushed out of the campus gates of the university of southern california by police officers in riot gear..

Officer: “Keep going. Keep going. Keep going.” Protester: “Who do you protect?” Crowd chanting: “Who will you protect? Who do you protect? Who will you protect? Who do you protect?”

The Los Angeles Police Department and campus police removed a pro-Palestinian encampment at the University of Southern California early Sunday morning, pushing several dozen people out of the campus gates in the latest crackdown on student protesters there.

The encampment had sprouted up nearly two weeks ago in Alumni Park, a central quad on U.S.C.’s campus in Los Angeles. Shortly after it did, the university called the police to the campus, where they arrested 93 people, but the protest returned soon after. Los Angeles police said on Sunday morning that they had made no arrests while clearing the encampment for the second time.

The university has been in turmoil for several weeks following its decision not to allow its valedictorian , who is Muslim, to speak at graduation. The university cited security concerns, but the valedictorian, Asna Tabassum, said she believed she was being silenced. A group that supports the U.S.-Israel relationship had said Ms. Tabassum “openly traffics antisemitic” rhetoric. U.S.C. later canceled its main graduation ceremony altogether, though it will hold a modified celebration this week.

On Sunday, police officers in riot gear entered the campus before dawn, pushing about 25 protesters out of the campus’s metal gates. After the police sweep, the quad was littered with blankets, sweatshirts, coolers, snacks and overturned canopies.

Only a few of the tents were still standing, barricaded by wooden pallets and decorated with messages and Palestinian flags. Signs taped to trees carried messages such as, “every Palestinian has a right to live just like you and I,” and “disclose, divest, defend.”

In recent days, officials had tightened security around the private campus, allowing in only those with a university I.D.

Carol Folt, the U.S.C. president, said in a message to students and others on Friday that “there must be consequences” when people flout campus rules. She said the university had started the disciplinary process for people who had violated laws or campus policies.

Ms. Folt said that although the university valued freedom of expression, the protest had reached a tipping point.

“Free speech and assembly do not include the right to obstruct equal access to campus, damage property, or foment harassment, violence and threats,” Ms. Folt wrote. “Nor is anyone entitled to obstruct the normal functions of our university, including commencement.”

Protesters viewed the police operation on Sunday as an unnecessary escalation. Among the demonstrators’ demands are that the university call for a cease-fire in the war between Israel and Hamas, detail its investments and divest from companies that they view as enabling “Israel and U.S. colonialism, apartheid, genocide and violence.”

U.S.C.’s move to clear the protest encampment comes as the University of California, Los Angeles, continues to face scrutiny over its handling of protests. Police officers did not intervene for hours at that campus last week as a group of counterprotesters — many of whom wore pro-Israel slogans on their clothing — attacked a pro-Palestinian encampment . The next night, the police arrested about 200 people at the protest there.

— Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs and Jonathan Wolfe Reporting from Los Angeles.

Dozens are arrested at the Art Institute of Chicago.

Officers and pro-palestinian protesters clash at the art institute of chicago, sixty-eight people were arrested and charged with trespassing by the chicago police after the museum requested that the demonstrators and their encampment be removed..

Crowd chanting: “We will free Palestine, within our lifetime.” “Leave them alone, leave them alone.” [expletives] [expletives] [expletives]

The police forcibly dismantled a pro-Palestinian encampment at the Art Institute of Chicago museum on Saturday and arrested dozens of protesters, hours after demonstrators had gathered in a garden at the institute and set up tents.

Some of the demonstrators were students at the affiliated School of the Art Institute of Chicago, the museum said in a statement.

The Chicago police said on social media that officers had removed the protesters at the school’s request. A Chicago Police spokesman said Sunday that 68 people had been arrested and charged with trespassing.

The protesters set up the encampment in the North Garden, which is part of the Art Institute of Chicago museum, at about 11 a.m. on Saturday, the police said. While encampments at some other U.S. schools during the recent wave of pro-Palestinian protests have stood for days or even weeks before police action, in this case the police said that officers “immediately responded” to maintain the safety of the protesters and the public.

The People’s Art Institute, the organizers of the protest, said on social media that the demonstrators’ demands included that the institute formally condemn Israel’s treatment of the Palestinians, remove any programs that legitimize the “occupation of Palestine” and divest from any individuals or entities that support Israeli occupation of Palestinian territory. Photos that the group uploaded to social media showed a sign in the encampment that read “Hind’s Garden,” a reference to Hind Rajab , a 6-year-old Palestinian girl who was killed this year in Israel’s war against Hamas in Gaza.

The museum said that it had offered protesters an alternate venue and that the school promised students that they would not face academic sanctions or charges if they relocated there.

The statement added that some protesters “surrounded and shoved a security officer and stole their keys to the museum, blocked emergency exits and barricaded gates.”

After about two hours of negotiations, the museum asked officers to remove the protesters, the police said. Officers issued warnings and eventually removed and arrested protesters, the police said.

Videos posted by the organizers showed police forcibly pulling demonstrators out of the human chain they had formed outside the garden while some of the protesters chanted, “Who do you protect? Who do you serve?”

An earlier version of this article misstated the entity that released a statement about the protest. It was the Art Institute of Chicago museum, not the affiliated School of the Art Institute of Chicago.

— Yan Zhuang

Vassar protesters removed their tents after the college agreed to review its investments.

Pro-Palestinian protesters dismantled their encampment at Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., on Saturday after reaching an agreement with the institution that requires administrators to review a divestment proposal.

Student demonstrators pitched dozens of tents on Vassar’s campus, starting on Tuesday. The liberal arts college is a bastion of progressive ideas with a long history of student protest , and Vassar’s president said in a statement this week that she hoped to resolve the current disagreement with pro-Palestinian demonstrators peacefully.

In the agreement reached on Saturday, Vassar officials agreed to review a proposal to divest funds from “defense-related investments, such as militarized surveillance and arms production,” and to support student fund-raising efforts in support of refugees, according to a statement by the president , Elizabeth H. Bradley.

The divestment language did not mention Israel or the war in the Gaza Strip, as the protesters had in their demands.

But Dr. Bradley said administrators had also agreed to “recruit and support Palestinian students and scholars-at-risk, who have lost educational and professional opportunities” since Oct. 7, a reference to the attacks in Israel by Hamas and its allies that prompted Israel’s war in Gaza.

“With these commitments, the college will work to improve our understanding, dialogue about, and educational programming concerning peace and conflict, with focus on Gaza and the Middle East,” she said.

The Vassar agreement is one of several in which student protesters have agreed to clear camps in exchange for commitments to discuss institutional investment policies around Israel. Students for Justice in Palestine at Vassar, the group that organized the encampment and negotiated with administrators, said in a statement on social media that it did not feel like a victory.

“We are not happy about the concessions we’ve made, but our work is not done,” the group said in the statement, adding that the administration had not agreed to all of the demands laid out by protesters when they launched the encampment. Those demands included calls for the Vassar administration to release a public statement calling for “an immediate end to Israel’s siege on Gaza and an end to U.S. aid for Israel,” and to completely boycott Israeli academic institutions, including Vassar-sponsored study abroad programs in Israel.

“At this time, we believe this is the most strategic decision we can make in order to further our efforts for divestment and Palestinian liberation,” the students said of the agreement.

They said they would donate the roughly $7,000 they had raised since launching their encampment to families in Gaza, and redistribute any donated supplies to people and organizations in Poughkeepsie.

— Erin Nolan

Dozens of Indiana University graduates walked out in protest during commencement.

Dozens of students walked out of Indiana University’s graduation ceremony on Saturday in protest of the war in Gaza, moving instead to a green space on campus where students had been demonstrating for weeks .

More than 6,700 graduates filed into Memorial Stadium in Bloomington, Ind., to receive their diplomas. There were more than 40,000 people in attendance, according to the university. Outside the stadium, the police presence was heavy. Above it, a plane circled towing a banner that said, “let Gaza live.”

The students walked out in two groups. The first briefly interrupted the ceremony, leaving and chanting “Shut it down” and “Free, free Palestine” as the school’s embattled president, Pamela Whitten, opened the program. The beginning of her remarks was largely drowned out by jeers, but she continued without pausing.

“We have been looking forward to celebrating this moment with you,” she said at one point in her brief remarks. She made no mention of the protests.

The second batch of protesters walked out during a speech by the commencement speaker, the tech entrepreneur Scott Dorsey. Protesters chanted “Free, free Palestine” as they filed out. They were drowned out by boos.

Lauren Ulrich, 21, of Rolla, Mo., graduated on Saturday with degrees in journalism and environmental studies. But she did not stay at the commencement ceremony long enough to turn her tassel. Her decision to walk out was one that Ms. Ulrich said she had not made lightly.

“I think sometimes it is scary to do the right thing,” she said. “I was scared. But people are dying and there’s no way I could not do something about it.”

After months of participating in protests and the school’s encampment, Ms. Ulrich said she planned to leave campus the day after graduation. She said she was “incredibly sad” but felt that the protest movement had enough supporters to keep up momentum over the summer.

“I think they will get creative in how they will continue it,” Ms. Ulrich said.

Liz Capp, 22, of Indianapolis, graduated on Saturday with a degree in therapy and did not participate in the protest. Before the ceremony, she anticipated that there would be some kind of demonstration. But it had not concerned her.

“Everyone has the right to peacefully protest,” she said.

— Kevin Williams

Echoing Vietnam War protests, demonstrators at Kent State call for the university to divest.

Hundreds of pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered at Kent State University in Ohio on Saturday to protest the war in Gaza, exactly 54 years after a similar campus demonstration ended in four student deaths.

The activists were silent but impossible to miss. They assembled in a semicircle around a stage on Kent State’s commons where speakers were commemorating the events of May 4, 1970: James Rhodes, then the governor of Ohio, had called in the National Guard to quell a demonstration against U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. The troops opened fire. Four people — Allison Krause, William Schroeder, Sandra Scheuer and Jeffrey Miller — were killed. Several others were wounded.

The campus still bears the scars of the 1970 shooting. Illuminated columns mark the precise spots where the four students were killed, and the tragedy was immortalized in the song “Ohio” performed by the folk-rock quartet Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young.

In a speech on Saturday to honor the victims, Sophia Swengel, a sophomore and the president of the May 4 Task Force, a group formed in 1975 to keep the students’ legacy alive, also acknowledged the protesters. Many of them were hoisting signs calling on the university to divest from weapons manufacturers and military contractors.

“Once again students are taking a stand against bloodshed abroad,” she said, referring to Israel’s assault on Gaza, which followed the Hamas-led attack of Oct. 7. “Much like they did against the Vietnam War back in the ’60s,” Ms. Swengel added.

Among the student demands in 1970 were abolishing the R.O.T.C. program, ending the university’s ties with police training programs and halting the research and development of the liquid crystal used in heat detectors that guided bombs dropped on Cambodia.

Today, demonstrators at Kent State are asking the university to divest its portfolio of instruments of war. “The university is profiting from war, and they were arguing in ’69 and ’70 that the university was also profiting from war,” said Camille Tinnin, a 31-year-old Ph.D. student studying political science who has met with the school’s administration to discuss divestiture.

While Kent State cannot end the war in Gaza, “what the university can control is its own investment portfolio,” said Yaseen Shaikh, 19, a member of Students for Justice in Palestine who is about to graduate with a degree in computer science.

Ms. Tinnin and Mr. Shaikh, along with two other students, met with Mark Polatajko, senior vice president for finance and administration for Kent State, on Dec. 4, a meeting confirmed in a statement from Rebecca Murphy, a Kent State spokeswoman. Mr. Polatajko shared the university’s investment portfolio with the four activists during the meeting, Ms. Tinnin said in an interview before Saturday’s protest. She said activists who scrutinized the portfolio found that it included investments in weapons manufacturers.

On Saturday, in a nod to nationwide student demonstrations against the war in Gaza, Ms. Swengel said that encampments and demonstrations “stand as living, breathing monuments of the willingness of students to stand up against genocide and for what they believe in.”

In a statement emailed to reporters, Ms. Murphy said the university “upholds the First Amendment rights of free speech and peaceful assembly for all.”

“Consistent with our core values, we encourage open dialogue and respectful civil discourse in an inclusive environment,” she added.

— Patrick Cooley

Police push protesters off a campus lawn at U.Va. and arrest 25.

Pro-palestinian encampment cleared at the university of virginia, hundreds of protesters were met with police in riot gear on the campus in charlottesville, va., and some were arrested..

Crowd: “Shame on you!” Officer: “Do not touch her!” “Turn around and walk that way.”

The police arrested at least 25 pro-Palestinian protesters on Saturday at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville after aggressively clearing demonstrators off a university lawn and at one point using chemical irritants on dozens of people.

Like hundreds of students, faculty and staff across the country, students in Charlottesville protested this week in the heart of their campus, calling for the university to divest from Israel, weapons manufacturers and companies with ties to Israeli institutions, and to pledge to protect students’ right to peacefully protest. Tents were set up Friday, but cleared the next day.

In a news release, the university said the protesters had violated school policy on Friday by setting up tents on the lawn and by using megaphones. But the encampment was not forcibly removed then, the statement read, “given continued peaceful behavior and the presence of young children at the demonstration site, and due to heavy rain Friday night.”

Jim Ryan, the university president, wrote in a letter to the campus, “I sincerely wish it were otherwise, but this repeated and intentional refusal to comply with reasonable rules intended to secure the safety, operations and rights of the entire university community left us with no other choice than to uphold the neutral application and enforcement of those rules.”

By Saturday afternoon, protesters were met with police officers in riot gear. At one point, the police used chemical irritants against the crowd to get people to disperse.

The university said it was not immediately clear how many of the 25 who were arrested were affiliated with the school. All were charged with trespassing, according to a police official.

“Shame on you, shame on you!” chanted a crowd of hundreds of students and Charlottesville locals as a combined force of dozens of officers from at least three law enforcement agencies pushed them into the street in front of the university’s Rotunda building.

“This is absolutely obscene,” said Colden Dorfman, a third-year student majoring in computer science, who faced down the cordon as the police sprayed chemical irritants. “This is insanity. Everyone came here with peaceful intentions. I’m ashamed that this is what our police force is being used for.”

Some protesters and their supporters directly questioned the magnitude of the police response, particularly compared with the school’s response in 2017 to hundreds of white nationalists marching on campus with torches .

“What did you do when the K.K.K. came to town?” protesters could be heard yelling, as the police moved to push them into University Avenue, which had been blocked off to traffic.

Even as it began to rain, hundreds of people remained for hours before dispersing. Some people headed to the Albemarle-Charlottesville Regional Jail, where a new protest was forming.

— Jackson Landers ,  Hawes Spencer and Emily Cochrane Jackson Landers and Hawes Spencer reported from Charlottesville, Va.

At least one student at Ole Miss is being investigated after a racist counterprotest.

The University of Mississippi is investigating the conduct of at least one student after counterprotesters directed racist taunts at pro-Palestinian protesters this week, school officials said.

In a letter to students, faculty and staff members on Friday evening, Glenn F. Boyce, the university chancellor, said the school had begun to investigate one student and may look at more.

“From yesterday’s demonstration, university leaders are aware that some statements made were offensive, hurtful and unacceptable, including actions that conveyed hostility and racist overtones,” Mr. Boyce wrote. He did not identify the student, citing privacy law.

He added, “To be clear, people who say horrible things to people because of who they are will not find shelter or comfort on this campus.”

Video captured by the Mississippi Free Press and the Daily Mississippian showed a crowd of white male students jeering and taunting a lone Black woman standing in front of the protest on campus, with one man making monkey gestures and hooting at her. Another video compilation showed the men yelling profane and derogatory insults.

The few dozen pro-Palestinian protesters appeared widely outnumbered by the crowd of counterdemonstrators, though university officials said no one was arrested or injured.

Gov. Tate Reeves of Mississippi, a Republican, approvingly captioned a separate video of the demonstrations that showed the counterprotesters singing “The Star-Spangled Banner” over the protest chants, though he made no mention of the other video clips that soon circulated. And former President Donald J. Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee for president, also shared a separate video on social media from the protests where the men could be heard chanting “we want Trump.”

The university has a painful history of racist episodes, and, for some, the videos evoked the mob and deadly riots that sought to stop the enrollment of James Meredith, the first Black student at the school, in 1962. And while the school has shed some of its Confederate imagery, in 2012, two students were arrested after racial slurs were chanted at a protest over former President Barack Obama’s re-election. In 2014, a noose was placed around a statue of Mr. Meredith.

“It is important to acknowledge our challenging history, and incidents like this can set us back,” Mr. Boyce wrote. “It is one reason why we do not take this lightly and cannot let the unacceptable behavior of a few speak for our institution or define us.”