Cambodia is a truly remarkable country that offers so much to its visitors. From the magnificent Angkor Wat to beautiful beaches, hipster cities, and delicious food, Cambodia has it all. Having spent three months exploring the country, I can confidently say that it is a destination worth visiting. And if you’re wondering about the cost of traveling in Cambodia, you’ve come to the right place!
What to Know About Money in Cambodia
Cambodia’s currency is called the Riel (KHR), but don’t worry, you’ll mostly be using U.S. dollars during your stay. The exchange rate is around 4,000 riels for one U.S. dollar. Most prices are quoted in USD, although both currencies are accepted everywhere. You’ll find that convenience stores and markets usually quote prices in riel, while ATMs dispense U.S. dollars. Just keep in mind that you can’t take any riels outside of Cambodia, so make sure to exchange them before leaving the country.
How to Find Cheap Flights to Cambodia
If you’re planning to visit Cambodia from outside of Southeast and East Asia, you’ll likely need to take an indirect flight. Direct flights to Cambodia are limited. To find cheap flights, I recommend using Secret Flying and Skyscanner. Secret Flying is a website that offers flight deals at amazing prices. I’ve personally found incredible deals on flights through this site. Another great option is Skyscanner, which allows you to search for flights from an entire country to Cambodia and offers flexible travel dates.
The Cost of Accommodation in Cambodia
When it comes to accommodation, Cambodia offers options for all budgets. If you’re looking to save money, hostels are a great choice. You can find hostels all over the country, and prices are similar to other Southeast Asian countries. Expect to pay around $5-10 per night for a dorm bed and $15 for a private room. If you’re on a tight budget, you can also consider free accommodation options such as Couchsurfing, housesitting, and WWOOFing.
For those who prefer more comfort, Cambodia has some impressive hotels and guesthouses. Even on a mid-range budget, you can find a seriously impressive hotel for around $60 per night. Some of my favorite spots include Aquarius Hotel in Phnom Penh, RikiTikiTavi in Kampot, Q Bungalows in Kep, and Primefold Hotel in Siem Reap. These hotels offer excellent amenities, beautiful rooms, and fantastic locations.
The Cost of Transportation in Cambodia
Getting around Cambodia is relatively easy and affordable. Most people choose to travel by bus or minivan, as it’s a cost-effective option. Giant Ibis is the biggest and best bus company in Cambodia, and their buses are equipped with A/C, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and snacks. Bus rides typically cost around $10. If you’re traveling in a group, it may be more economical to hire a private taxi and split the cost.
For shorter distances, taxis, tuk-tuks, and the PassApp ride-hailing app are prevalent. PassApp is like the Uber of Cambodia and makes getting around hassle-free. It’s always best to avoid renting a car in Cambodia due to poor roads and the hassle of acquiring a Cambodian driving license. Flying is also an option for saving time, but flights within Cambodia are relatively affordable, costing around $50 per flight.
The Cost of Food in Cambodia
Cambodian cuisine is often overlooked but offers a wide variety of delicious dishes. The best part is that food in Cambodia is both tasty and inexpensive. If you’re on a tight budget, you can find meals for as little as $1. Even if you’re traveling on a higher budget, you won’t spend much more than $5 a day on food. Local street food is affordable and delicious, so there’s no need to pay more.
If you’re looking for more upscale dining options, Phnom Penh and Siem Reap have some fantastic restaurants to offer. I highly recommend Backyard Cafe and Idli Dosa in Phnom Penh for delicious and healthy options. For a special night out, consider dining at Malis in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. Don’t miss the opportunity to try local delicacies like tarantulas in Skuon or barbecued field rats in Battambang, available at incredibly low prices.
The Cost of Activities in Cambodia
When it comes to activities, Angkor Wat is a must-visit attraction in Cambodia. While it can be crowded and expensive, it’s absolutely worth it. If you want to avoid the crowds, you can hire a tuk-tuk driver and ask them to take you to the quieter ruins where there are fewer tourists. The one-day pass costs $37, and there are also three-day and seven-day passes available.
Aside from Angkor Wat, there are plenty of other activities to keep you busy in Cambodia. Exploring the Cambodian coastline and visiting islands like Koh Rong and Rabbit Island are great options. In Phnom Penh, you can visit attractions like the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and the Killing Fields. In Siem Reap, make sure to check out Phare, the Cambodian circus, and consider going on day trips to nearby attractions.
Miscellaneous Expenses for Cambodia
Other costs to consider while traveling in Cambodia include the Cambodian visa, which costs $30 plus a $6 processing fee. Cambodia also offers e-visas, which can be obtained online. You can also purchase a Cambodian eSIM for your phone, which costs around $4.50 and includes 1GB of data. Investing in travel insurance is essential to cover any unexpected medical expenses. SafetyWing is a highly recommended travel insurance provider.
How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Cambodia?
The cost of traveling in Cambodia can vary depending on your budget and travel style. Based on my personal experiences, here are the average daily costs:
- Backpacking budget: $24 a day
- Mid-range budget: $69 a day
- Higher-end splurge budget: $145 a day
As you can see, Cambodia is a destination that can be visited on a shoestring budget or enjoyed with a bit of luxury. No matter how much you spend, Cambodia offers incredible value for your money.
So, if you’re considering a trip to Cambodia, go ahead and start planning your adventure. Whether you’re on a tight budget or looking to splurge, Cambodia has something for everyone. And don’t forget to visit Angkor Wat – it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
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