The Ultimate Guide To Backpacking Cambodia In 2026
If you’re considering backpacking in Cambodia, I’ve got you covered with this in-depth Cambodia backpacking guide.
I visited Cambodia when backpacking across Southeast Asia, and it was easily one of my favorite countries in the region.
I spent several weeks exploring this backpacker-friendly country, and it won me over with its friendly locals, incredible Angkor Wat temples, and stunning landscapes.
Cambodia has a well-established backpacker route, with fantastic hostels, delicious food, and endless day trip options. Whether you’re an adventure traveler or you just want to relax on the beach, Cambodia has something for you!
Let’s jump in with everything you need to know before backpacking Cambodia!
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Is Cambodia A Good Backpacking Destination?
Yes! Cambodia is a great backpacking destination that should be on your Southeast Asia itinerary.
This underrated country has some of the most beautiful tropical beaches, stunning monuments, and friendly locals.
At the same time, you can easily backpack in Cambodia on a shoestring budget as the accommodation, transportation, and food are very affordable.
Also, I felt safe backpacking in Cambodia as a solo female traveler!
Pros
- Affordable – Cambodia is a country you can visit on a shoestring budget and easily spend less than $20 USD per day!
- Popular backpacking route – it is easy to get around Cambodia, as most people follow the same route. There are buses connecting virtually every tourist destination, and you can easily book them online or at your accommodation.
- Lots of backpackers – you’ll have no problem meeting other travelers in Cambodia, even if you start as a solo traveler!
- Incredible nature – Cambodia has some of the most beautiful islands in the region, with white sand beaches and gorgeous National Parks on the mainland.
- Stunning attractions – Angkor Wat is a UNESCO site and one of the most impressive places I’ve ever seen.
Cons
There aren’t many cons to backpacking around Cambodia, but you should know them.
- Expensive attractions – tourist attractions and activities can be expensive compared to the prices of food and accommodation. Angkor Wat tickets start at $40 USD, and trekking tours start at $50 USD.
- Long travel times – it takes quite a long time to get from one city to another, and you’ll probably spend several days just traveling between destinations in Cambodia.
Best Time To Visit Cambodia
Cambodia doesn’t have 4 distinct seasons as you’d find in Europe or North America. Instead, the weather in Cambodia is either hot and dry or hot and rainy.
The best time to visit Cambodia is when it is a little bit less hot and dry, from November to February.
High Season: November To February
Most backpackers visit Cambodia during the high season, from November to February.
The weather is sunny, dry, with low humidity and relatively pleasant temperatures.
The average temperatures are around 26-28℃, so it would still be considered summer in Europe, but it is winter in Cambodia.
High season is the best time for traveling around Cambodia, exploring, trekking, and enjoying the beaches.
Most backpackers in Cambodia come during the high season, so it is easy to meet other travelers.
However, you’ll need to book your accommodation several days in advance if you want to stay in the best hostels.
I didn’t notice prices significantly increasing, but it will be harder to negotiate discounts.
Hot Season: March to May
March to May would be considered summer in Cambodia. At this point, it hasn’t rained for a couple of months, and the temperatures are the highest.
April is the hottest month in Cambodia, with temperatures going up to 40℃.
It is still worth visiting in April as you get to join one of the most important celebrations in the country – the Cambodian New Year.
Also, if you survived backpacking Europe in the summer, you’ll be completely fine!
Rainy Season: June To October
The rainy season in Cambodia is from June to October, with most rainfall in September.
Before coming to Cambodia, I read that you should avoid Cambodia during the monsoon season, but I couldn’t disagree more!
I backpacked in Cambodia in October. Sure, it rained most days. However, the rain is very predictable – usually in the afternoon, and doesn’t last long.
It is not like autumn rain in Europe when it rains for weeks on end.
There are still many backpackers around; you can easily book the best hostels the day before, and you get to see stunning attractions like Angkor Wat without crowds.
I don’t understand why it is considered the worst period to visit Cambodia!
How To Get To Cambodia
Depending on whether you’re visiting Cambodia on a backpacking Southeast Asia route or you’re just spending 2 weeks in Cambodia for a holiday, you’ll either fly or take a bus to the country.
Flying To Cambodia
Cambodia has three airports– Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville.
Ideally, you’d fly into one and out of the other, so you don’t have to go back on yourself.
However, it is likely your return flight will be from the same airport. In that case, I suggest you fly to Phnom Penh.
Phnom Penh Airport To City Center
The cheapest way to get from Phnom Penh Airport to the city center is the local bus 3. It costs only 1500 Riel, which is less than $0,5 USD.
You’ll have to get out of the airport to take the bus. The bus stop is outside the fence, on the same side of the road as the airport.
Taxi drivers will try to tell you that the bus doesn’t exist -it exists. You can download the City bus app to see exactly where the bus is.
You’ll have to pay in cash, and from my understanding, they don’t give change.
To get small Riel notes, you can buy a SIM card as I did, or take a $1 USD dollar bill and ask a local at the airport to exchange it.
Alternatively, you can always get a taxi or a tuk-tuk. To avoid having to negotiate the price, order it on Grab – Uber alternative in Cambodia!
Siem Reap Airport To City
Siem Reap has a new airport, and it is about 50km from the city.
If you’re backpacking in Cambodia on a budget, you won’t be thrilled about the new airport, as you’ll need to take a shuttle to reach it.
The airport shuttle bus departs several times a day, starting at 7 AM, and costs $9 USD in one direction.
If you travel in a group, you can also take a taxi, which will cost about $30 to $40 USD.
Taking A Bus To Cambodia
If you’re coming from neighboring countries, the cheapest way to get to Cambodia is by bus!
Those coming from Thailand or Laos can take a bus to Siem Reap. If you’re coming from Vietnam, you can get a bus to Phnom Penh or Kampot.
I found that the easiest way to organize these cross-border buses is through your accommodation. Every hostel will have a list of buses you can book through them, and some routes are not even online!
You don’t have to worry about logistics when booking through a hostel, and they usually promote the most reliable bus operators.
However, you’ll pay a slightly higher price than if you book a bus ticket online.
If you want to save a couple of dollars, you can book the most common bus routes online, like a bus from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh.
It is a cheaper alternative, and a good idea if you’re traveling in a group.
Getting Cambodian Visa
Travelers from most countries need a visa to visit Cambodia.
You can get a visa on arrival or an e-visa. Both visa options allow you to stay in the country for 30 days.
Visa On Arrival
Getting a Cambodian visa on arrival is pretty straightforward.
As you get to the immigration, you’ll give your passport and pay for the visa at the first counter.
You’ll need $30 USD in cash. The bills need to be in good condition, with no chips, marks, or strong creases.
Immigration officers are very strict when assessing the condition of your bills, and they will not take them if they are damaged! Also, you can’t pay with a card or any other currency.
You’ll pick up your passport on the second counter in a couple of minutes with your visa in it.
You might need a passport-sized photo for the visa. It used to be necessary to have it, but they didn’t ask for it at Phnom Penh airport. Still, I would keep one on hand just in case!
E-Visa
Getting an e-visa for Cambodia is a good idea if you want to avoid the lines at immigration or you don’t have pristine US dollar bills with you.
E-visa is a slightly more expensive option because you’ll have to pay an additional processing fee.
Before opting for an e-visa, check if your point of entry is eligible for an e-visa. Most popular entry points, including the airports, are.
It takes at least 3 business days to get the visa, so plan your arrival accordingly!
Getting Around Cambodia
Cambodia’s public transportation is quite well developed, with plenty of public transport providers.
It is easy to travel through Cambodia by public transport and reach virtually every tourist destination.
By Bus
Buses are the most common way to get around Cambodia. Many different bus companies connect nearly every tourist site in the country.
You can book your bus tickets online, in person, or through your accommodation.
Most bus companies don’t require you to print out your online ticket, so you can just show it on your phone.
Some bus companies, like Giant Ibis, are considered to be safer and more comfortable than others, but they will also be slightly more expensive.
I used Giant Ibis and Airbus companies, and I had a great experience.
Minivans follow the same route as buses, and they can be a more comfortable alternative. You can book a regular minivan or a luxury minivan.
By Train
The Cambodian rail network is not very developed, and there are only two train lines in Cambodia: one from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville and another from Phnom Penh to Battambang.
Trains are air-conditioned and quite comfortable, but there is only one daily train departure, so you can’t be as flexible as with buses.
Travel times are similar to buses, so don’t expect fast train service.
By Ferry
To reach the popular Cambodian islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, you’ll have to take a short speedboat from Sihanoukville.
There are several daily departures, with the last ferry leaving Sihanoukville at 17:00.
You can buy the tickets online or as a combo trip from your hostel, including land transport to the city and the boat.
Cambodia Backpacking Route
Unlike the typical backpacking Vietnam route, which is better if you do it from south to north, it doesn’t make much difference which way you decide to travel through Cambodia.
There are three ways to backpack through Cambodia: north to south, south to north, or a round trip from Phnom Penh.
Depending on your starting point and interests, you can choose Cambodia backpacker routes that best fit your travel plans.
Best Places For Backpackers In Cambodia
Siem Reap
Siem Reap is the best backpacking destination in Cambodia. The magical Angkor Wat temple complex is one of the top reasons to visit Cambodia.
It also offers vibrant nightlife along Pub Street, day trips to the floating villages, and trekking in Kullen National Park.
Kampot
Kampot, a tranquil riverside town, is a must-visit for backpackers seeking a blend of nature and culture. Famous for its pepper plantations and colonial architecture, it is a great place to escape the crowds.
It is also a getaway to the Bokor National Park, Kep, and mesmerizing sunsets over the Kampot River.
Phnom Penh
The capital city of Phnom Penh is well worth a visit. It is a blend of history and modernity.
It is not the most beautiful capital in the region, but I enjoyed my time admiring the Royal Palace and strolling along the river.
You have to visit the Tuol Sleng genocide museum and the Killing Fields to understand Cambodia’s past with Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge.
I joined this Memorial tour that took us to both sites!
Koh Rong
Koh Rong is a haven for backpackers seeking pristine beaches and turquoise waters.
This untouched island offers an unrivaled opportunity to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature.
Here, you can immerse yourself in local culture, engage in adventurous water sports, or simply bask in the tranquility of the picturesque surroundings.
Battambang
Battambang is a place to spend a night or two, as it offers a more laid-back experience.
It is renowned for its French colonial architecture, ancient temples, and the famous bamboo train ride, which provides panoramic views of the countryside.
Best Backpacker Hostels In Cambodia
Cambodia has no shortage of budget-friendly accommodation.
Here are the best hostels for backpackers in Cambodia.
Phnom Penh
- Mad Monkey Phnom Penh: I stayed here for 3 nights in a female-only dorm, joined several events, and met amazing people.
- Onederz Phnom Penh: I stayed here too! The location was great – right by the river, the female-only dorm was comfortable, and the rooftop pool was fantastic. It is quieter than Mad Monkey.
Siem Reap
- Lub D Siem Reap: I stayed here for 4 nights. The room here was the best dorm room I’ve ever stayed in. Fantastic hostel!
- The Twizt Lifestyle Hostel: This is a beautiful hostel! It features large, comfortable rooms, a fantastic pool, and decorations that make it look like a 5-star hotel.
- Mad Monkey Siem Reap: Mad Monkey is the best party hostel in Siem Reap. Like other hostels of this chain, they also organize daily events and tours.
Kampot
- Karma Traders: Great backpacker hostel with events and a friendly atmosphere. Slightly out of the city center, but easy to organize activities.
- Onederz Kampot: I stayed here for one night and really liked the hostel. It is in a great location, a clean hostel with female rooms, and a fantastic swimming pool!
Koh Rong
- Mad Monkey: This Mad Monkey hostel has a perfect beachfront location. Like other hostels of this chain, they organize events, making it an excellent option for backpackers.
Koh Rong Samloem
- Onederz Koh Rong Sanloem: Onederz is the best backpacker hostel on the island, situated right on the beach. It is quite basic compared to their hostels on the mainland, but it has a great atmosphere.
- The Cliff Hostel: A friend of mine stayed here, and she loved the hostel for the stunning views and great atmosphere, but noted that it was very basic and didn’t have air conditioning.
Backpacking Cambodia Budget
Cambodia is a country where you can either spend $10 USD or $100 USD per day.
Your Cambodia travel budget will depend on your itinerary, accommodation preferences, and food.
- Hostels: $4-10 USD per night
- Food: $2-8 USD per meal
- Drinks: $2-5 USD per drink
- Transportation: $8-25 USD, depending on the distance
- Activities: $0-50 USD per day
Shoestring Backpacker: $15-25 USD per day
If you’re on a strict budget, you can expect to spend anywhere from $15-25 USD per day in Cambodia.
Hostels and food are cheap in Cambodia, but activities are more expensive.
If you want to keep your budget under $20 USD per day, you’ll have to stick to free activities most days and maybe one of Cambodia bucket list experiences.
Mid-range Backpacker: $25-40 USD per day
I consider myself to be a mid-range backpacker, and I spend around $40 USD per day while backpacking Cambodia.
I stayed in the best-rated hostels, ate a lot of vegan cakes, and went on several tours and a 3-day yoga retreat in Kampot.
I know most people won’t go to a yoga retreat in Cambodia, so my budget would be closer to $35 USD without it.
Activities are expensive in Cambodia.
A day pass for Angkor Wat starts at about $40 USD, the Genocide Memorial tour in Phnom Penh is about $25 USD, and trekking to Kullen Waterfalls is about $50 USD.
Is Cambodia Good For Vegans?
If you’re vegan backpacking in Cambodia, you’ll be glad to know that Cambodia is a great travel destination for vegans.
Traditional Cambodian food is not exactly vegan. However, nearly every restaurant also has tofu you can order instead of meat, and most Cambodian dishes can easily be made vegan.
Also, more and more vegan and vegetarian restaurants are popping up throughout the country.
Some of my favorite vegan-friendly restaurants in Cambodia are:
Basic Cambodian Phrases
I’m the last person who will tell you to learn the language of every country you visit. I’ve lived in France for over 5 years and still struggle with French!
However, I always look up several simple phrases in the local language, like hello, goodbye, and thank you. It makes a difference and puts a smile on people’s faces when you do so!
- Hello: “Susadei”
- Thank you: “Arkun”
- Goodbye: “Lear hi”
Cambodia Safety Tips
As a solo female traveler in Cambodia, I felt very safe.
However, certain parts of Cambodia, like Sihanoukville and Phnom Penh, have a bad reputation.
I didn’t have any problems in Phnom Penh, and Sihanoukville should probably not be on your Cambodia backpacking itinerary anyway.
Still, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid unnecessarily dangerous situations.
- Avoid Isolated Areas After Dark: While Cambodia is generally a safe country, it’s best to avoid strolling alone in secluded areas at night.
- Secure Your Belongings: Keep an eye on your belongings at all times, especially in crowded areas or in tuk-tuks, where pickpocketing can occur.
- Stick To Well-Trodden Routes When Hiking: Cambodia is known for its landmine issue – remnants from past conflicts, so stay on marked paths and never venture off into the jungle alone.
- Invest in Travel Insurance: Don’t overlook the importance of having good travel insurance, unpredictable incidents can always happen.
- Drink Responsibly: If you want to party in Cambodia, know your limits and be aware that local spirits can vary considerably in strength.
- Avoid Drugs: It is a bad idea to get involved with drugs in a foreign country where drugs are illegal, so just avoid it altogether.
- Get A Local SIM Card: You never know when you’ll need internet, and local SIMs are usually very affordable and worth it for peace of mind.
- Understand The Currency: Cambodia’s currency situation is somewhat complex as they use US dollars and local currency. As long as you understand the exchange rate you won’t have any problems!
Summary: Backpacker Guide to Cambodia
Cambodia is a fantastic destination for backpackers. This underrated country is a popular stop on every Southeast Asia backpacking route for a good reason!
There are so many reasons to visit Cambodia as a backpacker, from the stunning Angkor temples, the tranquility of rural Cambodia, or the bustling city life of Phnom Penh.
With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and friendly locals, Cambodia has something for everyone.
Now that you know everything you need to know about backpacking in Cambodia, here is your Cambodia packing list so you don’t forget to bring any essentials.
I’m sure you’ll love backpacking through Cambodia as much as I do!
