Is Cambodia a Safe Place for Travelers?

Introduction: Is Cambodia a Safe place for Travelers? Honest Advice from Long-Term Expats

Cambodia is a land of ancient temples, vibrant cultures, and warm hospitality. But if you’re planning a trip here, you may be wondering: is Cambodia a safe place to travel? At Angkor Travel Photography, we’ve lived and worked in Cambodia for over a decade, and we’ve welcomed thousands of travelers from around the world.

This brief guide offers a real-world view of travel safety in Cambodia in 2025 based on real-life experience.

General Travel Safety in Cambodia

In short: yes, Cambodia is generally a safe country for tourists. Cambodia’s low crime rate against foreigners surprises many visitors. The atmosphere in cities like Siem Reap is generally relaxed and welcoming, even at night.

Like anywhere in the world, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions. What you may encounter more frequently is petty theft or minor scams, especially in busy markets or nightlife areas.

While no country is perfect, Cambodia’s safety profile compares favorably to many Western countries, especially when it comes to personal safety and public violence. With basic precautions  most travelers report a trouble-free trip.

Common Scams in Cambodia

Scams exist everywhere and Cambodia is no exception. But compared to most of popular western Countries Cambodia’s scams tend to be lower-stakes and easier to avoid with a bit of caution.

• • Tuk-tuk drivers quoting inflated prices (always agree in advance)

  • Fake charity or orphanage tours
  • Overpriced souvenirs in tourist zones

Tip: book tours and transport through reputable providers, agree on prices upfront, and follow trusted local recommendations (like ours!).

Health and Hygiene in Cambodia

Healthcare in Cambodia has improved but still lags behind Western standards and you may find medical infrastructure limited outside Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Always carry travel insurance that covers evacuation.

That said, day-to-day safety feels good. Food hygiene is a bit more of a gamble here than in western Countries, but the risks are easily managed:

• Eat where locals eat, busy means fresh!

• Use hand sanitizer and avoid ice in rural areas

• Travel insurance with evacuation coverage is essential

Road Safety in Cambodia: A Real Risk to Watch

While Cambodia is safe in many ways, the traffic can be a culture shock especially in cities like Phnom Penh. Here’s the honest truth: road safety is one of the biggest risks for travelers in Cambodia.

What to Expect on Cambodian Roads

• Traffic rules are loosely followed

• Motorbikes often carry multiple people or goods

• Poor lighting and unmarked vehicles are common

• Potholes, stray dogs, and unpaved roads add to the danger

Should You Drive or Rent a Motorbike?

We advise against renting motorbikes, unless you’re licensed and highly experienced. Helmets are essential, but often skipped.

Instead, choose:

• Tuk-tuks (they are very cheap, but always negotiate price in advance)

• App like Grab or Pass App (in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap and major cities)

In Cambodia for driving motorbike under 125cc the driving license is not requested, but many travel insurance policies won’t cover you if you crash while riding without a license or helmet. Check with them before!

Pedestrian Safety

Even walking requires caution, remember that when you cross the road you never have priority, even on pedestrian crossings.

• Sidewalks are rare or blocked

• Drivers may not stop for pedestrians

• Always look both ways, even on one-way streets

Political Stability and Social Climate

Cambodia is politically stable, though protests and political discussions are best avoided as a visitor. The country is welcoming to foreigners, and tourists are rarely involved in political issues.

Is Cambodia Safe for Solo and Female Travelers?

Yes, Cambodia is considered safe for solo travelers, including women. Locals are friendly and curious, and travelers often report feeling welcomed and respected.

However, women might experience occasional catcalling or stares, especially in less-touristed areas. Dressing modestly (especially when visiting temples), staying in well-reviewed accommodations, and avoiding walking alone late at night are good general practices. Harassment is rare, especially compared to cities like Paris, Rome, or New York.

Respecting local customs (e.g., dressing modestly) goes a long way in avoiding unwanted attention.

Safety for Photographers and Creators

Carrying camera gear in Cambodia is generally safe. Just follow smart practices:

• Use discreet, padded bags

• Keep gear with you in vehicles

• Avoid flashing expensive equipment in crowded markets

• Be respectful when photographing people and temples

For a safer and deeper experience, join our guided photography tours around Angkor, Siem Reap, and remote provinces.

Is Cambodia Safe for Solo and Female Travelers?

What about the recent brief border conflict with Thailand in mid-2025.

The situation has now fully stabilized. After a ceasefire in July and a 13-point peace plan in August, Cambodia and Thailand signed the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord on October 26 2025, under ASEAN mediation. The agreement commits both sides to withdraw troops, clear landmines, and maintain open communication through a joint monitoring team.

For travelers and photographers, this means Cambodia remains safe. The popular destinations — Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Kampot, and the southern coast — were never affected by the clashes. Caution is only advised near isolated border zones.

The new peace deal marks a hopeful step for regional stability,  and a reminder that Cambodia’s beauty, heritage, and people continue to welcome the world with open arms.

Final Thoughts: Is Cambodia a Safe Place for Travelers?

Yes  Cambodia is safe for travelers, it is one of Southeast Asia’s most rewarding travel destinations, safer than many Western countries and in some ways, it’s even more peaceful.

Whether you’re solo, a couple, or with family, with a little common sense and cultural awareness you will not have problems. 

Here, you’ll find kindness, curiosity, and beauty at every turn, along with a few quirks that just take getting used to.

Quick Safety Recap

✅ Cambodia is safer than many Western cities in terms of violent crime
✅ Petty theft is possible, but avoidable with simple precautions
✅ Health infrastructure is basic, get travel insurance
✅ Always be careful on the roads
✅ Locals are welcoming and helpful, especially outside tourist traps
✅ Respecting cultural norms keeps interactions positive and smooth

Stay Informed Before You Travel

Before visiting Cambodia or any international destination, it’s a good idea to check your government’s official travel advisory website for the most up-to-date information on safety, entry requirements, health guidelines, and local conditions.

Here are the official resources for some major countries:

• USA – travel.state.gov

• Australia – smartraveller.gov.au

• United Kingdom – gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

• Italy – viaggiaresicuri.it

• France – diplomatie.gouv.fr

Checking these sources before you travel helps you stay informed and prepared—so you can focus on enjoying your journey safely and confidently.

Want to Explore Cambodia with Local Experts?

Join one of our photography tours or custom adventures designed for travelers who want more than just snapshots. With our deep local experience, you’ll see Cambodia safely, meaningfully, and creatively. View our experiences

Want to know when is the best season for travelling in Cambodia?

Click here and read our article When to go to cambodia!

SPOILER ALERT: it’s probably not what you think…