Is Cambodia safe? An honest guide for visitors
Short answer
Cambodia is generally safe for travellers, and the main tourist routes (Siem Reap, Battambang, Phnom Penh, Kampot, Kep) see millions of visitors without trouble. The realistic risks are bag and phone snatching in Phnom Penh, road accidents, scams and, in rural border areas, unexploded ordnance off marked paths.
The real risks
Bag and phone snatching
Thieves on motorbikes grab bags and phones, especially in Phnom Penh and sometimes in Siem Reap, including from passengers in tuk-tuks. Hold bags on the side away from the road and keep phones out of sight when riding.
Road accidents
Traffic is chaotic and night driving is dangerous. Choose reputable bus companies, avoid long journeys after dark, and wear a helmet on scooters.
Scams
Fake orphanage or donation appeals, inflated boat fees at Chong Kneas, and touts offering 'cheap' Angkor tickets. Buy passes only at the official centre or online, and book Tonle Sap boats through your hotel.
Landmines and UXO
Remaining mines are mainly in rural border areas. At remote temples and in the countryside, stay on marked paths.
Heat and dehydration
Highs of 30–38°C. Rest from 12:00 to 15:00 at Angkor and carry water.
Drugs
Penalties are severe, and drinks or 'happy' food offered in bars can be spiked or contain unknown substances.
Areas and times to take care
Siem Reap's Old Market area and Pub Street are busy and safe, with normal care late at night. In Phnom Penh, the riverside and BKK1 are popular with visitors; be most careful with bags and phones after dark anywhere in the city. In Sihanoukville, follow current official advice, as the town has changed quickly. Avoid going off trail in rural border regions.
Getting around safely
Use PassApp or Grab for tuk-tuks and cars: fixed prices and a record of the trip. Agree day rates with Angkor drivers in advance. Choose established bus companies for long distances and avoid overnight minibuses. If you rent a scooter, wear a helmet and check your insurance covers it.
Solo and women travellers
Many women travel Cambodia alone without serious problems. Dress modestly at temples (shoulders and knees covered) and in rural areas. Take app-booked tuk-tuks at night rather than walking, watch your drink in backpacker bars, and choose well-reviewed guesthouses.
Health, water and heat
Do not drink tap water; use bottled or filtered water and ice in established places. Dengue is a risk year-round, especially in the rainy season, so use repellent; malaria risk is low in the main tourist areas but exists in remote forested regions, so ask a travel clinic. Heat and sun are the everyday risk. Medical facilities outside Phnom Penh and Siem Reap are limited; get insurance with evacuation cover.
Official travel advice
Check your government's advice before you travel — it is updated when things change.
Some links on this page are partner links. If you book through them TonyPlan earns a small commission — the price you pay is exactly the same.
Common questions
Is Cambodia safe for tourists?
Yes on the main routes. Watch for bag and phone snatching from motorbikes in Phnom Penh, choose reputable buses and avoid scams.
Are landmines a risk for tourists?
Not on the main tourist routes or at Angkor. In rural border areas and at remote temples, stay on marked paths.
Can I drink the tap water in Cambodia?
No. Drink bottled or filtered water.