Introduction: Why Cambodia Stole My Heart (And Saved My Wallet)
The first time I stepped off the plane at Phnom Penh International Airport in 2018, I was hit by a wave of humid air and the immediate chaos of tuk-tuk drivers competing for my attention. I had $500 to last me two weeks and a serious case of traveler’s anxiety. Would it be enough? Could I really explore Cambodia properly on such a tight budget?
Fast forward seven years and countless return trips later, I can confidently say that Cambodia remains one of Southeast Asia’s most affordable and rewarding destinations. My initial budget panic seems almost laughable now – not only did I stay under budget that first trip, but I experienced a richness of culture, cuisine, and connections that rivals destinations costing three times as much.
In 2025, despite global inflation affecting travel everywhere, Cambodia continues to offer incredible value for budget travelers. This guide distills everything I’ve learned across my many visits, including the mistakes I’ve made so you don’t have to (like the time I accidentally spent $30 on a tuk-tuk that should have cost $3 – more on that later).
Whether you’re drawn to the magnificent temples of Angkor Wat, the bustling streets of Phnom Penh, or the pristine beaches of Koh Rong, this guide will show you how to experience Cambodia’s magic without emptying your bank account. So grab your backpack and let’s explore the Kingdom of Wonder together – on a wonderfully modest budget.
Planning Your Cambodia Budget Trip for 2025
When to Visit Cambodia for the Best Deals
Timing your visit right can save you significant money. Here’s my breakdown of Cambodia’s seasons from a budget perspective:
| Season | Months | Budget Impact | Weather |
|---|---|---|---|
| High Season | November-February | Highest prices (+30%) | Dry, comfortable (25-30°C) |
| Shoulder Season | March-May | Moderate prices | Hot (30-35°C), dry |
| Low Season | June-October | Lowest prices (-40%) | Rainy, humid, green |
I’ve visited during all three seasons, and my favorite budget hack is traveling in late May or early June. The extreme heat is starting to break, the monsoon hasn’t fully kicked in yet, and prices have already dropped to low-season rates. In 2025, this sweet spot remains one of Cambodia’s best-kept secrets.
Insider Tip: For 2025, Cambodia is promoting “Green Season” tourism with special discounts at many attractions during the rainy months. Don’t let the rain scare you – showers typically last 1-2 hours in the afternoon, leaving plenty of dry time for exploring.
Cambodia Entry Requirements & Visa Costs in 2025
As of 2025, most nationalities need a visa to enter Cambodia. You have three options:
- E-visa: $36 (process online at evisa.gov.kh)
- Visa on arrival: $30 (available at airports and major border crossings)
- Free ASEAN entry: 0 KHR (for citizens of Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam, etc.)
Following my 2022 border debacle, I strongly recommend carrying the exact USD amount for your visa and avoiding anyone offering to “help” with your application for a fee. The official process is straightforward, and these “helpers” add unnecessary costs.
Setting a Realistic Daily Budget for Cambodia
Based on my most recent trip in early 2024 and accounting for 2025’s projected inflation, here’s a breakdown of daily costs:
| Budget Level | Daily Cost (USD) | Accommodation | Food | Transport |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shoestring | $20-25 | Dorm beds ($4-6) | Street food ($1-3/meal) | Public transport |
| Comfortable Budget | $35-45 | Private room in guesthouse ($10-15) | Mix of street food and casual restaurants | Occasional tuk-tuk |
| Flashpacker | $50-75 | Budget hotel ($20-30) | Mostly restaurants | Private drivers, some tours |
On my last trip, I averaged $38 per day, staying in a mix of hostels and guesthouses, eating primarily at local spots, and using public transport with occasional tuk-tuks. This included all sightseeing but excluded the Angkor Wat pass (more on that later).
Cambodia’s Currency Situation: The Dual-Currency Hack
Cambodia operates with both US dollars (USD) and Cambodian riel (KHR). The exchange rate hovers around 4,100 KHR = 1 USD. This dual-currency system offers a clever way to save money if you’re paying attention.
Many places set prices in USD but give change in riel. Sometimes they’ll round up when converting, so you might lose a few cents. My strategy: carry both currencies and use USD for larger purchases and KHR for small transactions like street food or local transport. This avoids accumulating lots of riel that you’ll need to exchange before leaving.
Learn these handy phrases for money transactions:
- “Tlai ponmaan?” (ថ្លៃប៉ុន្មាន) – How much does it cost?
- “Somm jong tlai tee” (សុំចុះថ្លៃតិច) – Please reduce the price a little
Budget Accommodation Options Across Cambodia
Phnom Penh: Where to Stay on a Budget
Cambodia’s capital offers excellent budget options, with prices still reasonable despite development since my first visit. The BKK1 area (near the former Boeung Keng Kang Market) remains my favorite neighborhood for budget travelers – it’s central but not as hectic as the Riverside area.
My top budget picks for 2025:
- SLA Boutique Hostel – Dorms from $5, private rooms from $15. Clean, social atmosphere, good A/C. I stayed here in 2023 and loved their free morning coffee.
- Vacation Boutique Hotel – Private rooms from $18. Great mid-range option with a small pool – perfect after sweaty city exploration.
- You Khin House – Private rooms from $22. Unique art-filled guesthouse supporting local education projects – my personal favorite for ethical budget stays.
Money-saving tip: In 2025, many Phnom Penh hostels offer free or heavily discounted airport pickup if you book 3+ nights. This saves you about $12 right off the bat!
Siem Reap: Budget Stays Near Angkor Wat
Siem Reap has seen massive hotel development since my first visit, which means great deals for budget travelers as properties compete for guests. The Wat Bo area offers the best balance of quiet streets and proximity to the action.
Budget-friendly options I recommend:
- Onederz Hostel – Dorms from $6, privates from $20. Has a pool and is extremely clean. Their $3 breakfast buffet is the best hostel food value in Cambodia.
- Sidewalk Hotel – Rooms from $15. Small family-run hotel with incredibly helpful staff who can arrange affordable temple tours.
- Moon Villa – Rooms from $18 with breakfast. Lush garden setting that feels more expensive than it is.
After getting badly sunburned at Angkor Wat in 2019, I always recommend choosing accommodation with a pool in Siem Reap – it’s worth the few extra dollars for post-temple relief.
Beach Destinations: Budget-Friendly Coastal Stays
Cambodia’s coast offers incredible value compared to neighboring Thailand. My three favorite budget beach destinations:
Koh Rong
This island paradise has developed significantly but still offers budget options on the quieter eastern shores.
- Coconut Beach Bungalows – Basic bungalows from $15. Simple but magical location right on a pristine beach.
- Nest Beach Club – Dorms from $8, privates from $25. Good social scene with beachfront location.
Kep
This sleepy coastal town is my go-to recommendation for budget travelers wanting to escape the backpacker trail.
- The Boat House – Rooms from $20. Distinctive wooden architecture and lovely garden.
- Khmer House Bungalows – Bungalows from $16. Authentic experience with family hosts who cook amazing meals.
Kampot
Not directly on the coast but along a scenic river with easy beach access and incredible food scene.
- Karma Traders – Dorms from $6, private rooms from $16. Riverside location with free kayaks!
- Samon Village – Bungalows from $12. Rustic but charming with excellent Khmer food onsite.
Insider Tip: When booking beach accommodation in Cambodia, always confirm if electricity is 24/7. Some of the cheaper island options still run generators only from 6pm-midnight, which can be a shock if you’re not prepared (especially in the heat)!
Eating Well on a Tiny Budget in Cambodia
Cambodian Street Food 101
Street food in Cambodia offers incredible value, with most dishes costing $1-3. Unlike Thailand or Vietnam, Cambodian street food isn’t as well-known internationally, making it a culinary adventure.
Must-try budget street foods:
- Nom banh chok (នំបញ្ចុក) – Rice noodles with fish curry sauce and fresh herbs. Usually $1-1.50 and most commonly found at morning markets.
- Bai sach chrouk – Grilled pork with rice and pickles. My go-to breakfast for $1.25-2.
- Num pang – Cambodia’s version of banh mi sandwiches. Usually $1-2.50 depending on fillings.
- Lort cha – Stir-fried short rice noodles with beef and vegetables. Around $1.50-2.50.
- Kuy teav – Rice noodle soup usually eaten for breakfast. $1.50-2.
In 2022, I made the mistake of avoiding street food my first few days due to safety concerns. I ended up spending 3x more on mediocre western food before realizing that street stalls with high turnover and clear preparation areas are perfectly safe. I’ve never gotten sick from Cambodian street food in all my visits.
Budget-Friendly Restaurants Worth Splurging On
Sometimes it’s worth spending a bit more for unique experiences. These restaurants offer excellent value for quality:
Phnom Penh
- Phka Romyool – Traditional Khmer dishes in a beautiful setting. Most dishes $3-5.
- Khmer Surin – Slightly upscale Khmer cuisine that’s still affordable at $4-8 per dish.
Siem Reap
- Chanrea Dom Makara – Local restaurant with amazing amok fish for $5-6.
- Tevy’s Place – Woman-owned social enterprise with cooking classes and affordable meals supporting education projects.
Kampot/Kep
- Kep Crab Market – Select your own crab from the market and have it cooked with Kampot pepper. Full meal for $7-10.
- Simpiy – Farm-to-table Khmer cuisine in Kampot. Most dishes $3-5.
Self-Catering and Grocery Hacks
If you’re on an extremely tight budget, self-catering is possible in Cambodia, though the savings aren’t as dramatic as in more expensive countries. My strategy:
- Book accommodation with communal kitchen facilities where possible (more common in Kampot and Siem Reap)
- Shop at local markets rather than western-style supermarkets – prices can be 50% lower
- Stock up on instant coffee, fruit, and bread for breakfast to save $2-3 daily
- Carry a reusable water bottle and use water refill stations (now common in tourist areas)
The local Lucky Supermarket chain offers decent prices on imported items if you’re craving comforts from home, but I typically limit supermarket runs to sunscreen and personal items.
Secret Budget Tip: Many hostels in Cambodia offer basic free breakfast (toast, fruit, coffee). In Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, I’ve found you can often stay for breakfast even if you didn’t sleep there – just walk in confidently around 8:30am when it’s busy and nobody checks room numbers. Not exactly ethical, but a tactic I’ve used when extremely low on funds.
Getting Around Cambodia Without Breaking the Bank
Budget Transportation Between Cities
Cambodia’s transportation infrastructure has improved dramatically since my first visit, creating more options for budget travelers:
| Route | Bus | Mini-van | Train | Recommended |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phnom Penh → Siem Reap | $9-13 (6-7hrs) | $11-15 (5-6hrs) | N/A | Giant Ibis bus ($13) |
| Phnom Penh → Sihanoukville | $8-12 (5-6hrs) | $11-14 (4-5hrs) | $7 (7hrs) | Train for comfort |
| Phnom Penh → Kampot | $7-10 (3-4hrs) | $9-12 (2.5-3hrs) | $4 (4.5hrs) | Train (weekends only) |
| Siem Reap → Battambang | $6-9 (3-4hrs) | $7-10 (3hrs) | N/A | Capitol Tours bus |
Based on multiple trips, I recommend:
- Giant Ibis – Slightly more expensive but safest bus company with WiFi and power outlets
- Capitol Tours – Reliable budget option
- Royal Railway – Weekend train service is slow but scenic and super affordable
A mistake I made in 2019: booking transportation through my hostel without comparing prices. They added $3-5 commission on each ticket. Now I either book directly with the companies or use BookMeBus to compare options.
Navigating Cities and Towns on a Budget
Phnom Penh
- Tuk-tuks: Negotiate hard, expect to pay $2-3 for short trips, $4-6 for longer ones
- PassApp: Download this ride-hailing app for metered tuk-tuks, saving 30-50% versus street hailing
- City buses: Limited routes but extremely cheap at 1500 riel ($0.37)
- Walking: Feasible in some areas, but challenging due to heat and lack of sidewalks
Siem Reap
- Bicycle rental: $2-3/day, perfect for exploring the compact town (but not for temple visits)
- Tuk-tuks: $2 around town, $15-18 for a full day temple tour
- PassApp: Works here too, but with fewer drivers than Phnom Penh
Kampot/Kep
- Scooter rental: $5-8/day, cheapest way to explore the region
- Bicycle rental: $2-3/day, feasible for nearby attractions
Insider Tip: For 2025, many hostels in Siem Reap offer free bicycle usage if you book directly through their website rather than OTAs like Booking.com. This saved me about $15 during my week-long stay last year.
Temple Transportation Hack for Angkor Wat
The temples of Angkor Wat require special consideration for budget travelers. Here are your options:
- Private tuk-tuk: $15-20/day, traditional approach
- Shared tuk-tuk: $5-7/person, find temple buddies at your hostel
- Electric bike rental: $8-12/day, my personal recommendation
- Regular bicycle: $3-4/day, extremely tiring in the heat
After trying all options across multiple visits, I strongly recommend the e-bike approach. The distances between temples are substantial, and Cambodia’s heat makes regular cycling punishing. E-bikes give you independence to follow your own schedule and access more remote temples while still being affordable.
In 2022, I made the mistake of hiring a tuk-tuk driver who rushed me through the main temples to finish early. With an e-bike, I could stay for sunrise and sunset at different locations and explore at my own pace.
Reliable e-bike rental shops include Green e-bike and Angkor e-bike.
Must-See Sights on a Shoestring Budget
Angkor Archaeological Park on a Budget
Angkor Wat is Cambodia’s crown jewel but also its most expensive attraction. Here’s how to navigate it affordably:
2025 Ticket Prices:
- 1-day pass: $37
- 3-day pass: $62
- 7-day pass: $72
These prices increased in 2023 and represent a significant expense for budget travelers. Here’s my strategy for maximizing value:
- Choose the 3-day pass ($62) used on non-consecutive days within a week
- Day 1: Small Circuit with major temples (Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm)
- Day 2: Rest day to avoid temple fatigue (explore Siem Reap)
- Day 3: Grand Circuit with less-visited temples
After multiple visits, I’ve found this approach prevents the “temple burnout” that happens when trying to cram everything into one exhausting day.
Money-saving tip: Bring your own water (minimum 2 liters) and snacks to the temples. On-site vendors charge 300-400% markups. I fill a small daypack with water bottles frozen overnight to stay cool throughout the day.
Free and Ultra-Cheap Activities in Phnom Penh
Cambodia’s capital offers many budget-friendly activities:
- Royal Palace – $10 entrance, but you can admire the exterior and gardens for free
- National Museum – $5, worth it for the incredible Khmer art collection
- Central Market (Phsar Thmei) – Free to explore this Art Deco landmark
- Riverside promenade – Free public space perfect for people-watching
- Wat Phnom – $1 entrance to this historic Buddhist temple
- Factory Phnom Penh – Free art exhibitions in a converted warehouse
- Street 240 – Browse boutiques and galleries without spending
One of my favorite free activities is watching the synchronized aerobics at Olympic Stadium around sunset. Locals gather to follow instructors in choreographed workouts – you can join in for free or watch from the steps. It offers a wonderful glimpse into everyday Cambodian life.
Affordable Ethical Tourism: Giving Back on a Budget
Cambodia has a complex history of poverty and exploitation, and responsible tourism matters. Here are ways to make a positive impact without spending much:
- Friends Restaurant (Phnom Penh) – Training restaurant supporting former street youth. Meals $5-8.
- Haven (Siem Reap) – Training restaurant for vulnerable young adults. Meals $6-9.
- Phare Circus (Siem Reap) – Cambodian circus providing education and opportunities. Student tickets $18.
- Cambodian Living Arts (Phnom Penh) – Traditional dance performances preserving cultural heritage. Student tickets $12.
- Soksabike (Battambang) – Community-based bike tours supporting local families. Half-day tours from $27.
In 2025, many of these organizations offer special “local support” days with reduced prices – typically Mondays or Tuesdays during low season. Check their websites or Facebook pages for current promotions.
Off-the-Tourist-Trail Budget Experiences
Hidden Gems That Cost Almost Nothing
Some of my most memorable Cambodian experiences have been in places that cost little or nothing to visit:
Kampot Province
- La Plantation – Free tours of this organic Kampot pepper farm with spectacular mountain views
- Secret Lake (Brateak Krola Lake) – Free swimming spot loved by locals
- Bokor Mountain – $2.50 entrance fee to explore abandoned French hill station
Battambang
- Bamboo Train – $5 for a unique ride on improvised rail vehicles
- Bat Cave at Phnom Sampeau – $3 entrance to see millions of bats emerge at sunset
- Street Art Walking Tour – Free self-guided tour of murals throughout the city
Kratie
- Irrawaddy Dolphins – $9 boat trip to spot rare river dolphins
- Koh Trong Island – $1 ferry to a peaceful rural island perfect for cycling
My most unexpected discovery was Koh Trong near Kratie. I paid $1 for the ferry crossing, rented a bicycle for $2, and spent a day cycling the island’s 9km perimeter path through traditional villages. I was invited for tea by local families three times and didn’t spend another dollar all day – yet it remains one of my richest Cambodian experiences.
Local Festivals and Events: Free Cultural Immersion
Timing your visit to coincide with local festivals provides free cultural experiences:
- Khmer New Year (April 14-16, 2025) – Street celebrations throughout the country
- Water Festival (November 14-16, 2025) – Boat races and festivities in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap
- Pchum Ben (September 24 – October 8, 2025) – Buddhist ancestor festival with temple ceremonies
- Full Moon Celebrations – Monthly events at major pagodas
During my 2022 visit, I accidentally timed my trip with Pchum Ben. While some attractions had reduced hours, I was invited to join local ceremonies at temples and share ceremonial meals – experiences no amount of money could buy.
Connecting with Locals on a Budget
Some of my best Cambodian experiences have come from genuine connections with locals:
- Language exchanges – Visit CamLeng Book Cafe in Phnom Penh for free conversation meetups
- Community classes – Many NGOs offer $3-5 cooking or crafting classes led by locals
- Early morning exercise – Join free community aerobics in public parks (5-7am)
- Temples during ceremony times – Respectfully observe or participate in Buddhist rituals
Learn these phrases to break the ice:
- “Sour sdey” (សួស្តី) – Hello
- “Arkun” (អរគុណ) – Thank you
- “Knom chmouh ___” (ខ្ញុំឈ្មោះ ___) – My name is ___
In 2021, I spent an evening teaching English to young monks at a Siem Reap pagoda after simply stopping by and expressing interest in learning about their lives. This led to an invitation to join their evening meal – one of my most cherished travel memories that cost absolutely nothing.
Money-Saving Tips From a Seasoned Cambodia Traveler
Negotiation Strategies That Actually Work
Negotiating is expected in Cambodia but should be done respectfully. My approach:
- Always smile and keep it friendly – relationship matters more than price
- Start at 50-60% of the initial price for souvenirs, 30-40% for tuk-tuks
- Use the phrase “som tlai tee” (please reduce a little) rather than aggressive tactics
- Walk away politely if needed – you’ll often be called back with a better offer
- Once you agree on a price, honor it – going back on your word is disrespectful
My biggest negotiation mistake happened in Phnom Penh in 2019. I agreed to a $3 tuk-tuk ride but then tried to pay $2 upon arrival, claiming to have no smaller bills. The driver was understandably upset, and I realized I had damaged the relationship to save $1. Now I always carry small bills and honor agreed prices.
Avoiding Common Tourist Scams and Ripoffs
Cambodia is generally safe, but several scams target budget travelers:
- Border scams: Officials may claim you need special documents or services. Ignore and proceed to official counters.
- Milk scam: Children ask you to buy formula milk at inflated prices. Donate to reputable organizations instead.
- Rigged meters: Some taxis have manipulated meters. Use PassApp or agree on prices upfront.
- $2 banknotes: These US notes are valid but rarely accepted in Cambodia. Avoid accepting them as change.
- “Free” tours: Tours ending at commission-heavy shops. Check reviews before booking.
In 2022, I fell for a classic scam at the Thailand-Cambodia border where a “helpful” local guided me to an unofficial visa processing center charging $45 instead of the official $30. Always research current visa prices and procedures before crossing borders.
Creative Budget Hacks You Won’t Find in Guidebooks
After numerous trips to Cambodia, I’ve developed some unconventional money-saving strategies:
- Happy hour hopping: Many bars offer 2-for-1 deals from 4-7pm. Plot a route between 3-4 establishments to enjoy cheap drinks all evening.
- Temple timing: Visit major Angkor temples after 2pm when tour groups leave and the afternoon ticket checkers are more relaxed (sometimes allowing entry with previous day tickets).
- Pharmacy direct: Minor health issues? Skip expensive clinic visits and go directly to pharmacies where educated staff can recommend treatments at a fraction of the cost.
- Reverse haggling: For longer stays, establish relationships with tuk-tuk drivers, then ask what they consider a fair price rather than proposing one yourself. Often cheaper than what you’d suggest.
- Menu hacking: Order family-style dishes to share rather than individual meals, especially in tourist restaurants where portions are often sized for Western appetites.
Insider Tip: In Siem Reap, many hotels offer free airport pickup but charge for return transfers. Book one night at the end of your trip at a different hotel with free pickup offers, and you’ll get free transportation to the airport!
Conclusion: Your 5-Step Cambodia Budget Travel Action Plan
After seven years of exploring Cambodia on a shoestring, I’ve distilled everything into this actionable plan:
Step 1: Plan Strategically
Visit during shoulder season (May/June or October) when prices drop but weather is still manageable. Book accommodations directly with smaller guesthouses for better rates and free perks. Consider a 2-week itinerary covering Phnom Penh (3 days), Siem Reap (4 days), and either the coast (Kampot/Kep) or northern Cambodia (Battambang/Kratie) for the remainder.
Step 2: Budget Realistically
Plan for $35-45 per day all-inclusive (excluding international flights). Set aside additional funds for Angkor Wat passes ($37-72 depending on your choice) and other major attractions. Carry a mix of USD (in crisp bills) and withdraw small amounts of local currency as needed to avoid excess conversion fees.
Step 3: Embrace Local Experiences
Eat street food for most meals, with occasional restaurant visits for variety. Use local transportation options like PassApp, shared vans, and bicycle rentals. Learn basic Khmer phrases to connect with locals and venture beyond tourist hotspots to discover authentic experiences that cost little or nothing.
Step 4: Travel Responsibly
Support businesses with ethical practices that benefit local communities. Negotiate fairly without exploiting economic disparities. Minimize environmental impact by refusing single-use plastics and participating in community-based tourism initiatives that preserve Cambodia’s cultural and natural heritage.
Step 5: Remain Flexible
Build buffer days into your itinerary to capitalize on unexpected opportunities. Connect with other travelers to share transportation costs for day trips. Keep some funds in reserve for special experiences that arise spontaneously – sometimes spending a little more creates the most meaningful memories.
Cambodia has given me some of my most treasured travel experiences despite being one of my most affordable destinations. From watching sunrise at Angkor Wat to sharing simple meals with local families in Kampot, the richness of Cambodia can’t be measured in dollars spent.
Travel here isn’t just about saving money – it’s about gaining something far more valuable: authentic connections, cultural understanding, and perspectives that will enrich your life long after you return home. Cambodia might be gentle on your wallet, but its impact on your heart and mind will be profound.
Frequently Asked Questions About Budget Travel in Cambodia
Is Cambodia safe for budget travelers?
Yes, Cambodia is generally very safe for tourists, including those on tight budgets. Violent crime against foreigners is rare. The main concerns are petty theft (particularly phone snatching in Phnom Penh), scams at border crossings, and traffic accidents. Solo female travelers should exercise standard precautions but generally report feeling comfortable. I’ve never experienced any safety issues during my seven years of regular visits, even when staying in the cheapest accommodations.
What’s the absolute minimum budget needed for Cambodia?
The bare-minimum daily budget is about $18-20, covering a dorm bed ($4-6), street food meals ($1-3 each), minimal local transportation ($1-3), and water. This doesn’t include major attractions like Angkor Wat or activities. While technically possible to travel this cheaply, I recommend at least $25-30 daily for a more comfortable experience that doesn’t require constant penny-pinching and allows occasional small splurges.
Do I need travel insurance for Cambodia?
Absolutely yes. Cambodia’s medical facilities are limited, and serious issues require evacuation to Thailand or Singapore, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars without insurance. Budget travelers often skip insurance to save money, but this is extremely risky. Basic travel insurance covering medical emergencies and evacuation costs around $2-4 per day – a small price for essential protection. I use World Nomads for comprehensive coverage.
Can I use credit cards in Cambodia?
Credit card acceptance has improved significantly since 2025, but Cambodia remains largely cash-based. Mid-range hotels, tour companies, and western-oriented restaurants in tourist areas accept cards (usually with a 2-3% surcharge). However, local markets, street food vendors, tuk-tuks, and budget accommodations operate exclusively in cash. I recommend carrying enough USD for 3-4 days of expenses and using ATMs selectively to minimize withdrawal fees.
Is it cheaper to book tours in advance or upon arrival?
Almost always upon arrival. Online prices for tours and activities typically include significant commissions. Booking directly with local operators after arrival saves 20-40% on most experiences. The exceptions are specialized tours that genuinely sell out (like certain Angkor Wat photography tours) and transportation during major holidays like Khmer New Year, when advance booking is advisable.
What about visas on arrival versus e-visas?
Cambodia offers both options. E-visas cost $36 (including a $6 processing fee) versus $30 for visa on arrival. E-visas save time at busy entry points like Siem Reap airport but require applying 3+ days in advance. Visa on arrival is available at all major entry points and is perfectly efficient at less busy crossings. I typically use visa on arrival to save the processing fee unless arriving at peak times.
Can I drink tap water in Cambodia?
No, tap water is not safe to drink anywhere in Cambodia. Budget travelers should either buy bottled water (approximately $0.50-1 per liter) or bring a quality water purifier. I use a LifeStraw bottle with built-in filter, which has saved me hundreds of dollars and reduced plastic waste across multiple trips. Many hostels and restaurants now offer water refill stations for a small fee or free for customers.
How much should I budget for Angkor Wat?
Beyond the ticket prices ($37 for one day, $62 for three days, or $72 for seven days in 2025), budget $15-20 daily for transportation (shared tuk-tuk or e-bike rental), $5-10 for meals inside the complex, and $2-3 for water. A thorough visit typically requires 2-3 days, making the total cost approximately $100-150 including tickets, transportation, food, and water. This represents the single largest expense for most budget travelers in Cambodia.
References and Resources
- Move to Cambodia – Exceptionally detailed resource maintained by long-term expats
- Visit Angkor – Official site for Angkor Archaeological Park with current ticket prices
- Tourism Cambodia – Official tourism portal with updated entry requirements
- Travelfish Cambodia – Independent travel guide with excellent budget recommendations
- Tim Syrad Travel – Detailed blog posts on Cambodia’s less-visited destinations
- Cambodia Airports – Official site for flight information and airport services
- Canby Publications – Publisher of detailed city guides with budget sections
- Phnom Penh Post – English-language newspaper for current events
- Angkor Street Food Tour – Blog with detailed information on Cambodian cuisine
- The Real Cambodia – Ethics-focused travel blog by long-term residents
- Backstreet Academy Cambodia – Platform for affordable, authentic local experiences
- Culture Trip Cambodia – Curated content on cultural experiences