Cambodia Travel Safety Guide 2026: Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh, and Coastal Islands

Cambodia is a rapidly developing country that welcomes millions of tourists, primarily to the magnificent temples of Angkor. It's generally safe, but poverty-driven crime, landmines in rural areas, and health risks require preparation.

Overview & Safety Rating

RiskVector Safety Score: 7.0/10 (Moderate Risk)

Cambodia is safe in tourist areas (Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, Battambang). Violent crime is uncommon but armed robbery and bag snatching occur. The biggest risks are health-related (dengue, food poisoning) and traffic accidents.

Common Risks & Scams

Health & Medical

Siem Reap and Phnom Penh have decent private clinics (Royal Phnom Penh Hospital, Angkor Hospital for Children). Rural healthcare is extremely basic.

Transportation Safety

Natural Disasters

Landmines — Cambodia-Specific Risk

Cambodia is one of the most heavily mined countries in the world. While tourist areas are completely cleared, rural areas are NOT.

Political Stability

Cambodia is effectively a one-party state under Prime Minister Hun Manet (succeeding his father Hun Sen in 2023). The country is very stable. Protests are effectively banned. No significant terrorism risk. Political instability doesn't affect tourists.

Tips for Safe Travel

Emergency Numbers

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Best Travel Insurance for Cambodia

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