Useful information for traveling to Cambodia: visa, security, health, currency

Practical information for traveling to Cambodia: what you need to know before you go

1. Visa for Cambodia: essential procedures

To enter Cambodia, most nationalities require a tourist visa. Two options are available:

Visa on Arrival (VOA) : Issued at international airports and some land border crossings. Bring a passport-size photo and USD 30 in cash.
E-visa : simpler, you can obtain it online via the official website https://www.evisa.gov.kh .

The tourist visa is valid for 30 days and can be extended once.

2. Safety: travel with peace of mind in Cambodia

Cambodia is generally a safe country for tourists. However, some precautions are recommended:

Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas.
Beware of snatch theft, especially in large cities.
Always keep a copy of your passport and visa.

In case of emergency, dial 117 for the police, 119 for medical emergencies, or 118 for the fire department.

3. Health: precautions before departure

No vaccinations are mandatory, but some are recommended:

Hepatitis A and B
Typhoid
Tetanus and DTP
Rage (if you are planning rural stays)

Bring your personal medications, a first aid kit , and mosquito repellent (risk of dengue fever and malaria in certain rural areas).

4. Climate in Cambodia: when to go?

Cambodia enjoys a tropical climate with two main seasons:

Dry season : November to April (ideal for visiting)
Rainy season : May to October (heavy rains but lush green landscapes)

The average temperature is 25 to 35°C year-round. The best months to visit are December to February to avoid the extreme heat.

5. Currency and Payment

information for traveling to Cambodia

The official currency is the Cambodian riel (KHR) , but the US dollar (US$) is widely used, especially for large payments. Smaller expenses (markets, tuk-tuks, etc.) are often paid in riel.

1 US$ ≈ 4,000 riels
ATMs often give out dollars
Bank cards are accepted in tourist hotels and restaurants

📶 6. Internet and communication

Mobile coverage is good, even in rural areas. Buy a local SIM card upon arrival (Smart, Cellcard, or Metfone) for:

access the Internet in 4G
make local calls
use navigation or translation apps

A passport is required to purchase a SIM card.

7. Useful tips for tourists

Download Maps.me or Google Maps offline for your travels.
Learn some basic Khmer words or use a translation app.
Negotiate prices before getting into a tuk-tuk.
Dress respectfully when visiting temples.

Conclusion

Traveling to Cambodia is an enriching experience, but proper preparation is essential to fully enjoy your stay. With this practical information (visa, health, safety, climate, money, etc.), you can leave with confidence!