Cambodia: Temples, Chaos, and the Best $2 Meal You'll Ever Eat
Ancient ruins, floating villages, and a country that’ll change the way you see the world.
Cambodia doesn’t look like anywhere else. Angkor Wat alone would justify the trip, but it’s what comes after that hooks you. Phnom Penh is chaotic and beautiful and heartbreaking all at once. Siem Reap is a backpacker rite of passage that somehow still feels genuine. And then there’s the south coast – Koh Rong, Kep, the Cardamom Mountains, where the beaches are empty and the seafood costs almost nothing.
This is a country that’s been through horrors most of us can barely comprehend, and came out the other side with a warmth and openness that’ll genuinely catch you off guard. Cambodia will teach you things. It’ll also feed you some of the best food in Southeast Asia for pocket change. This guide covers all of it.
11-13 hrs
From the UK
Nov – May
Best time
Khmer
Main language
KHR (USD widely accepted)
Currency
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Cambodia is between November and May when the country experiences low rainfall and still enjoys warm temperatures. However, the climate in Cambodia is generally hot and humid all throughout the year.
Generally, any time of the year is a good time to travel in Cambodia, with each season having its advantages. The climate in Cambodia is generally hot and humid all throughout the year. Temperatures stay in the low- to mid-30s (Celsius) most of the year, dropping slightly at night. There are officially two seasons in Cambodia – wet and dry. In November–May you can expect dry conditions, while June–October will have the wettest conditions. What’s more, there’s benefits to travelling in both seasons, depending on what you’re looking to get out of Cambodia.
For a month by month look click here
What To Expect
Capital: Phnom Penh
Language: Khmer is the official language of Cambodia.
Currency: The currency in Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel. However, the US Dollar is accepted. 1 USD is equivalent to about 4.095 KHR and £1 GBP is 5.115 KHR. Check the latest rates here
Credit Cards & ATMs: Credit cards are accepted in the major tourist areas of Cambodia. You’ll be able to use them to pay for your purchases at high-end restaurants and hotels. However, a lot of the mid-range options and the hostels only accept cash. You can use your Maestro, Visa, and MasterCard to withdraw US dollars at Canadia Bank and ANZ Royal Bank ATMs. CASH IS KING!
Plugs: The plugs in Cambodia are type A, C, and G. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter
Safety: Cambodia is generally a safe country for all types of traveller. However, you’ll want to avoid walking home alone at night. Petty theft, especially at the beach can be common. The same goes for pickpocketing. Just keep your wits about you!
Random useful tip: Get up early and explore before the hottest part of the day, wear sunscreen all the time, wear relaxed, breathable clothing, and drink plenty of bottled water.
Dont’s: Don’t ever pay the tuk-tuk drivers before you depart.
Explore Cambodia
From the temples of Angkor to the beaches of Koh Rong — everything you need to plan your trip.
City Guides
Itineraries + Maps (coming soon)
Best Places to Visit & Things to Do
Best Time to Visit
Travel Tips
Everything Else
How Much Does Cambodia Cost?
Cambodia is one of the cheapest countries in Southeast Asia. Here’s exactly what you’ll spend.
🎒
Backpacker
~$20 USD / ~£16 / ~€19 per day
- Hostel dorms from $4–10/night
- Street food meals $1–3
- Tuk-tuks and local buses
- Free temples, markets, beaches
🍜
Mid-Range
~$40 USD / ~£32 / ~€37 per day
- Private guesthouse rooms $10–25/night
- Local restaurants and cafés
- Private tuk-tuks and motorbike rental
- Angkor Wat pass, boat trips, guided tours
🏨
Upscale
~$100+ USD / ~£80+ / ~€93+ per day
- Boutique hotels and luxury resorts
- Fine dining and rooftop cocktails
- Private drivers and domestic flights
- VIP temple tours, spa retreats
Detailed Cost Breakdown
Budget
- Hostel dorm: $4–10 / £3–8 / €3.70–9.30
- Guesthouse: $5–15 / £4–12 / €4.70–14
- Private hostel room: $10–25 / £8–20 / €9.30–23.30
Mid–Luxury
- Budget hotel: $15–40 / £12–32 / €14–37
- Airbnb apartment: $50+ / £40+ / €47+
- Boutique hotel: $80–200+ / £64–160+ / €74–186+
City Travel
- Tuk-tuk (short): $2–6 / £1.50–5 / €1.85–5.60
- Moto taxi: $1–3 / £0.80–2.40 / €0.95–2.80
- Local bus/minivan: $1–5 / £0.80–4 / €0.95–4.70
Long Distance
- Intercity bus (PP to SR): $10–25 / £8–20 / €9.30–23.30
- Taxi per km: $2–4 / £1.50–3.20 / €1.85–3.70
- Car rental per day: $50–100 / £40–80 / €47–93
Eat Cheap
- Street food: $2–5 / £1.50–4 / €1.85–4.70
- Local restaurant: $4–10 / £3–8 / €3.70–9.30
- Beer (local draft): $0.50–1.50 / £0.40–1.20 / €0.47–1.40
Eating Out
- Western restaurant: $10–25 / £8–20 / €9.30–23.30
- Coffee: $1–2.50 / £0.80–2 / €0.95–2.30
- Cocktails: $3–7 / £2.40–5.60 / €2.80–6.50
Budget Fun
- Museum entry: $2–10 / £1.50–8 / €1.85–9.30
- Free walking tour: Free (tip-based)
- Local market exploring: Free
- Cycling day rental: $2–5 / £1.50–4 / €1.85–4.70
Big Experiences
- Angkor Wat 1-day: $37 / £29 / €34.50
- Angkor Wat 3-day: $62 / £50 / €58
- Boat tour (Tonlé Sap): $10–50 / £8–40 / €9.30–47
- Guided trek: $20–50 / £16–40 / €18.50–47
10 Ways to Save Money in Cambodia
💧 1. Bring a reusable bottle with a filter — tap water isn’t safe and buying bottled water all day adds up fast
🍜 2. Eat at local Khmer restaurants and markets — tasty meals are much cheaper than tourist cafés
🛺 3. Use tuk-tuks smartly — agree the price before you get in, or use ride apps in bigger cities
🛍️ 4. Skip buying at temple entrances — shops a few streets away are usually cheaper
🛏️ 5. Choose guesthouses and hostels over big hotels — you’ll get solid value in most cities
📅 6. Travel in shoulder season — lower prices on stays and tours, with fewer crowds too
🏷️ 7. Negotiate politely at markets — bargaining is normal, but keep it friendly
🏞️ 8. Mix paid sights with free walks — riverside areas, markets, and local neighbourhoods cost nothing to explore
💵 9. Carry small US dollar notes and local riel — handy for exact change and avoiding awkward rates
📍 10. Book day tours in town after comparing a few places — hotel desks often charge more
Getting Around Cambodia
Cambodia’s not huge, but the roads are… interesting. Here’s how to get between places without losing your mind or your luggage.
Domestic Flights
Best for saving time. Only a handful of domestic routes exist — mainly Phnom Penh to Siem Reap.
✅ 45 minutes vs 6+ hours by bus
✅ Cambodia Angkor Air and Lanmei Airlines
❌ More expensive and limited schedules
Car & Bike Rental
Best for exploring at your own pace. Siem Reap countryside, coastal roads, temple loops — total freedom.
✅ From $8–15/day / £6–12 / €7–14
✅ Access to remote temples and villages
❌ Roads can be rough and traffic is chaotic
Public Transport
Best for budget travel between cities. Giant Ibis and Virak Buntham run comfortable routes between all major stops.
✅ Phnom Penh to Siem Reap from $10 / £8 / €9.30
✅ Air-conditioned, some with WiFi
❌ 6+ hours for main routes. Bring snacks.
Private Taxi / Car
Best for families, groups, or anyone who wants door-to-door comfort without the chaos.
✅ Can hire drivers for full-day temple tours ($25–40 / £20–32 / €23–37)
✅ Air-conditioned and private
❌ Self-driving not recommended for most visitors
Tuk-Tuk
The classic Cambodia ride. Best for getting around cities and short hops between nearby sites.
✅ Cheap and everywhere
✅ Negotiate or use PassApp/Grab
❌ Not suitable for long distances
Boats & Ferries
Best for Tonlé Sap lake trips and island hopping to Koh Rong and the southern islands.
✅ Scenic and memorable
✅ Fast ferries to Koh Rong from Sihanoukville ($10–25 / £8–20 / €9.30–23.30)
❌ Limited scheduled routes
Which Is Right For You?
Exploring one city
Tuk-tuk + walking (use Grab or PassApp)
Temple hopping in Siem Reap
Hire a tuk-tuk driver for the day
Phnom Penh to Siem Reap
Giant Ibis bus or a quick domestic flight
Island hopping down south
Bus to Sihanoukville, then fast ferry
Quick Tips
📱
Use PassApp or Grab
Way cheaper than negotiating. Metered pricing, no arguments.
💵
USD Works Everywhere
Carry small bills ($1 and $5). Change in Riel is normal.
⏰
Hire Drivers by the Day
Full-day tuk-tuk drivers cost $15–25 / £12–20 / €14–23 and know all the routes.
🚗
Skip Self-Driving
Traffic rules are “suggestions.” Let a local do the driving.
Book Tours & Tickets
Travel Resources
Travel Problems
Missed flights, lost luggage, dodgy hotels. It happens. Here’s how to handle all of it without losing your mind.
Theft & Scams
Pickpockets, tourist traps, and cons you won’t see coming. We break down the most common ones and how to avoid every single one.
Travel Insurance
Don’t skip this one. Especially travelling solo. We compare the best policies and explain exactly what you actually need.
FAQs
Do I need a visa to visit Cambodia?
Yes. Most visitors need a visa, but the good news is you can get one on arrival at the airport or land borders for $30 USD / £24 / €28. An eVisa is also available online through the official Cambodian government site for $36 USD / £29 / €33.50 (including processing fee). Tourist visas are valid for 30 days. Always check current requirements before you travel.
Is Cambodia safe for tourists?
Yes, generally very safe. Violent crime against tourists is rare. The main risks are petty theft (bag snatching from motorbikes in cities) and road safety — traffic in Cambodia is chaotic and accidents happen. Swim with caution at beaches, use common sense with valuables, and you’ll be fine. Solo female travellers report feeling safe throughout the country.
How long do I need in Cambodia?
Two weeks is the sweet spot for a first trip. That gives you enough time for Siem Reap and the temples (3–4 days), Phnom Penh (2–3 days), and either Battambang or the southern coast (3–4 days). If you’ve only got a week, focus on Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. If you’ve got three weeks, add Koh Rong, Kampot, and Kep.
What's the best way to get around Cambodia?
For city to city, intercity buses (Giant Ibis, Virak Buntham) are the most popular option. Within cities, tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis are everywhere — use Grab or PassApp for fair prices. Domestic flights exist between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap if you’re short on time. For the southern islands, fast ferries run from Sihanoukville. See our full transport breakdown above.
Is Cambodia expensive to visit?
It’s one of the cheapest countries in Southeast Asia. Budget travellers can comfortably get by on $20 USD / £16 / €19 per day in hostel dorms eating street food. Mid-range travellers spending $40–50 USD / £32–40 / €37–47 per day will have private rooms, restaurant meals, and paid activities. Even a luxury trip in Cambodia costs a fraction of what it would in Thailand or Vietnam. See our full cost breakdown above.
When is the best time to visit Cambodia?
November to May is the dry season and the most popular time to visit. December to February is the coolest and most comfortable. The wet season (June to October) brings afternoon downpours but also lush green landscapes, fewer tourists, and lower prices. Angkor Wat’s moat is fullest and most photogenic in September and October. Check our full best time to visit guide for a month-by-month breakdown.
Do I need travel insurance for Cambodia?
Absolutely yes. Cambodia’s healthcare system is limited, and serious medical issues often require evacuation to Bangkok. A hospital visit without insurance can be financially devastating. Make sure your policy covers medical evacuation — that’s the critical one. Compare options in our Travel Resources section.
Can I drink the tap water in Cambodia?
No. Tap water is not safe to drink anywhere in Cambodia. Stick to bottled water or bring a filter bottle (LifeStraw or Grayl). Bottled water is cheap (around $0.25–0.50 per bottle) and available everywhere, but a filter bottle saves money and reduces plastic waste over a longer trip.
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