Cambodia
Southeast Asia • KHM
Last updated: October 12, 2026
Cambodia is a captivating destination known for its profound historical significance, highlighted by the magnificent Angkor Wat temple complex. Beyond its ancient ruins, the country offers vibrant markets, lush tropical landscapes, and a resilient culture that warmly welcomes visitors.
Visa Requirements
Most nationalities require a visa to enter Cambodia, which can be obtained upon arrival at major airports or in advance via an e-visa.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Passport-sized photograph
- Completed visa application form
- Visa processing fee in USD
Popular Attractions
Angkor Wat: This massive 12th-century temple complex in Siem Reap is the largest religious monument in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Bayon Temple: Famous for its iconic stone faces carved into the towers, this temple is a central highlight of the ancient city of Angkor Thom.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: Located in Phnom Penh, this former school serves as a sobering memorial to the atrocities committed by the Khmer Rouge regime.
Koh Rong: A stunning island paradise known for its pristine white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters, perfect for relaxation and snorkeling.
Tonle Sap Lake: As the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, it features unique floating villages that offer a glimpse into traditional riverside life.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Always remove your shoes before entering a private home or a temple as a sign of respect.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites by covering your shoulders and knees.
The 'Sampeah' is the traditional greeting, performed by pressing your palms together at chest level with a slight bow.
Avoid touching someone on the head, as the head is considered the most sacred part of the body in Khmer culture.
Use both hands when giving or receiving items from others to show politeness and appreciation.
Safety Tips
Be vigilant about your personal belongings in crowded areas to prevent bag snatching and pickpocketing.
Only drink bottled or filtered water and avoid ice in drinks if you are unsure of the water source.
Stick to well-traveled paths in rural areas, as unexploded landmines remain a historical hazard in remote parts of the country.
Use reputable transportation services or ride-hailing apps rather than unmarked taxis to ensure safe travel.
Keep a digital or physical copy of your passport and visa at all times for identification purposes.
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
MMR vaccine
Source: CDC
Before travel, to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella infections.
View sourceTdap vaccine
Source: CDC
Before travel, for protection against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis.
View sourceMMR
Source: CDC
Make sure you're up to date on your measles, mumps, and rubella vaccines before traveling.
View sourceTdap
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up to date on the tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis vaccines.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
Ensure vaccination is up to date before travel to prevent measles outbreaks.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Check that Tdap vaccination is up-to-date, especially for adults and children.
View sourceCOVID-19 Vaccine
Source: CDC
Ensure vaccination is completed for safer travel during the pandemic.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before traveling.
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, DTaP, 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, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Hepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to risk through contaminated food or 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 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 vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers to areas where food and water safety may be a concern.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
To prevent mosquito-borne diseases, use repellents, wear protective clothing, and stay in screened areas.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider rabies vaccination if engaging with animals or activities in remote areas.
Seek medical care immediately if bitten.
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 sourceInsect 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 sourceItinerary-Specific
Hepatitis B
Source: CDC
If you may have sexual contact with the local population or need medical treatment.
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
Recommended for travelers who might receive medical care or have sexual contact with new partners.
View sourceRabies vaccination
Source: CDC
For travelers engaging in activities that may expose them to bats or animals.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Recommended for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, or those with potential animal contact.
View sourceMalaria prevention measures
Source: CDC
If traveling to areas of Cambodia where malaria transmission occurs, use preventive measures and consider chemoprophylaxis.
View sourceJapanese Encephalitis
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers spending significant time outdoors in rural areas or during transmission seasons.
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