Cambodia
Southeast Asia • KHM
Last updated: October 12, 2026
Cambodia is a captivating Southeast Asian destination known for its rich history, resilient culture, and the awe-inspiring ruins of the Khmer Empire. From the iconic temples of Angkor Wat to the vibrant energy of its bustling cities and serene landscapes, it offers travelers a deeply moving and memorable experience.
Visa Requirements
Most nationalities require a visa to enter Cambodia, which can be obtained via an e-visa online, on arrival at major airports and land borders, or through a Cambodian embassy.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport with at least six months of validity remaining
- One or two recent passport-sized photographs
- Visa application form
- Proof of onward travel or return flight
- Sufficient funds to cover the stay
Popular Attractions
Angkor Wat: This massive 12th-century temple complex in Siem Reap is the largest religious monument in the world and a stunning masterpiece of Khmer architecture.
Bayon Temple: Located in the center of Angkor Thom, this temple is famous for its serene, massive stone faces carved into numerous towers.
Royal Palace, Phnom Penh: A magnificent complex that serves as the official residence of the King of Cambodia, showcasing traditional Khmer-style architecture and beautiful gardens.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: A poignant and important historical site in Phnom Penh that documents the tragic history of the Khmer Rouge era.
Koh Rong Island: A stunning tropical paradise known for its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant nightlife scene.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Dress modestly when visiting temples by keeping your shoulders and knees covered to show respect for sacred sites.
Avoid touching people on the head, as it is considered the most sacred part of the body in Cambodian culture.
Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple as a sign of respect.
Use both hands when giving or receiving items from someone, especially older individuals, to demonstrate politeness.
Public displays of affection are generally discouraged and considered inappropriate in traditional Cambodian society.
Always ask for permission before taking photographs of local people, especially monks.
Safety Tips
Drink only bottled or purified water and avoid ice in drinks if you are unsure of the source to prevent illness.
Keep your belongings secure and be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas to prevent pickpocketing.
Use reputable taxi or ride-hailing apps like Grab for reliable and tracked transportation within cities.
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and potential evacuations.
Keep digital and physical copies of your passport and important travel documents in a safe place separate from the originals.
Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or isolated areas to maintain personal safety.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Proof of vaccination is required for travelers arriving from countries with risk of YF transmission.
View sourcePolio
Source: CDC
Polio vaccination is recommended for travelers to Cambodia.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Core Vaccines
Routine Vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Varicella, Polio, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before travel.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To prevent gastrointestinal infections, eat well-cooked food and drink bottled or boiled water.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before traveling.
View sourceCOVID-19 Vaccine
Source: CDC
Ensure vaccination is completed for safer travel during the pandemic.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Check that Tdap vaccination is up-to-date, especially for adults and children.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
Ensure vaccination is up to date before travel to prevent measles outbreaks.
View sourceTdap
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up to date on the tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis vaccines.
View sourceMMR
Source: CDC
Make sure you're up to date on your measles, mumps, and rubella vaccines before traveling.
View sourceTdap vaccine
Source: CDC
Before travel, for protection against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis.
View sourceMMR vaccine
Source: CDC
Before travel, to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella infections.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Insect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Necessary to prevent mosquito-borne diseases prevalent in the region.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and use permethrin-treated gear.
View sourceFood and Water Safety
Source: CDC
Preventive measures required to avoid foodborne and waterborne illnesses.
Eat only thoroughly cooked food, drink bottled or boiled water, and avoid ice.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider rabies vaccination if engaging with animals or activities in remote areas.
Seek medical care immediately if bitten.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
To prevent mosquito-borne diseases, use repellents, wear protective clothing, and stay in screened areas.
View sourceTyphoid vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers to areas where food and water safety may be a concern.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To reduce the risk of traveler’s diarrhea and foodborne illness.
Only eat food that is thoroughly cooked and drink bottled or boiled water.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.
Contracted through contaminated food or water.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to risk through contaminated food or water.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Japanese Encephalitis
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers spending significant time outdoors in rural areas or during transmission seasons.
View sourceMalaria prevention measures
Source: CDC
If traveling to areas of Cambodia where malaria transmission occurs, use preventive measures and consider chemoprophylaxis.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Recommended for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, or those with potential animal contact.
View sourceRabies vaccination
Source: CDC
For travelers engaging in activities that may expose them to bats or animals.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who might receive medical care or have sexual contact with new partners.
View sourceJapanese Encephalitis
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers spending a lot of time outdoors in rural areas, especially during the transmission season.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
If you may have sexual contact with the local population or need medical treatment.
View sourceRisk Area: Rural areas throughout Cambodia
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View sourceRisk Area: Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and major urban centers
Chemoprophylaxis: No chemoprophylaxis required
Seasonality: No malaria risk
View sourceRisk Area: Rural areas, particularly near forested and border regions
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View sourceRisk Area: Rural and forest areas in most provinces
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View sourceRisk Area: Phnom Penh and other major urban centers
Chemoprophylaxis: No routine chemoprophylaxis required
View sourceRisk Area: Rural and forest areas throughout the country
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View source