Cambodia is a country of incredible beauty, history, and hospitality — but like anywhere in the world, it comes with its own set of challenges, especially for first-time visitors. So, is Cambodia dangerous for tourists? Not inherently, but being informed and cautious can make a world of difference in how you experience it.
🧠 Scams & Street Hustlers
In major tourist hubs like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, it’s not uncommon to encounter people trying to scam or overcharge tourists — from tuk-tuk drivers to souvenir sellers. Be polite but firm, and don’t be afraid to say no. Common scams include inflated tour prices, fake donation collections, or locals pretending to offer “free” help that leads to a demand for tips.
While we visited, we didn’t run into any serious issues — just the usual chorus of tuk-tuk drivers calling out and some persistent vendors. It was more annoying than dangerous, and easily handled with a smile and a shake of the head.
💎 Keep It Low-Key
Cambodia is a generally safe country, but wearing luxury jewelry or flashy accessories in public can attract the wrong kind of attention. Keep valuables hidden, and don’t flaunt expensive tech when you don’t need to.
🛌 Where You Stay Matters
Opt for accommodations in areas where other travelers are staying. Tourist-friendly neighborhoods usually have better infrastructure, more security, and staff who are used to dealing with international guests. Hostels, boutique hotels, or well-reviewed guesthouses are all good options.
🥘 Food & Water Safety
Cambodian cuisine is delicious — but street food hygiene can vary. Stick to busy stalls with high turnover, and always trust your gut (literally and figuratively).
We also used bottled water even for brushing our teeth, just to be safe. Tap water is a no-go — always opt for bottled or filtered water.
Food poisoning isn’t uncommon, so bringing basic meds like activated charcoal or oral rehydration salts is smart. A small pharmacy kit goes a long way.
🦟 Malaria & Vaccinations
For most touristy destinations like Siem Reap and Angkor Wat, malaria risk is extremely low — but it’s never zero. We used basic protection like mosquito spray and wore long sleeves in the evening.
We also took the opportunity to renew our vaccinations before the trip, including tetanus and hepatitis A. These aren’t required for entry, but they’re recommended for general travel and gave us extra peace of mind.
🚨 Stay Alert, Not Anxious
Cambodia is not a war zone. Millions visit safely every year. But staying aware, using common sense, and respecting local customs will go a long way. If something feels off, it probably is.
All in all, Cambodia is a captivating and welcoming destination, but taking a few smart precautions—like staying in tourist-friendly areas, avoiding tap water, and being mindful of common scams—can make your journey safer and far more enjoyable.
I’ve summarized the most important things to keep in mind in the infographic below — quick, practical tips every traveler should know before they go.
Leave a Reply