The Ultimate Cambodia Solo Female Travel Guide | 2026

Is Cambodia Good For Solo Travellers?

Absolutely! Cambodia is an excellent travel destination for solo travelers for a multitude of reasons. 

First, Cambodia follows a popular Southeast Asia backpacker trail, so it is easy to get around, ensuring you easily hit all the must-see tourist attractions while staying on a budget.

Second, Cambodia is home to some of the most impressive monuments in the region, with Angkor Wat being at the top of every Southeast Asia bucket list.

Its rich history and cultural heritage provide endless opportunities for exploration and learning. 

Third, the warm and friendly nature of the Cambodian people makes solo travelers feel welcome and at ease.

You’ll notice that many people speak English, or if they don’t, they’ll look for someone to translate!

Challenges of Traveling in Cambodia Solo

While I found Cambodia is a fantastic destination for solo travelers, it might not be at the top of the list of best destinations for first-time solo female travelers. 

Cambodia is less touristy than neighboring Thailand or Bali, so it might feel intimidating for beginner solo travelers.

You might face some challenges when backpacking in Cambodia, so being aware of and prepared for them can greatly enhance your travel experience.

• Scams: Like any tourist hotspot, Cambodia has its share of scams. These can range from overpriced tuk-tuk rides and pickpocketing to counterfeit currency exchange. 

• Currency: Cambodia uses both its local currency and USD, which can seem complicated at first, before you understand money in Cambodia.

• Language Barrier: If you stay in popular tourist areas, you won’t have issues with English, but it’s not widely spoken in rural areas.

• Transport: It takes a long time to travel in Cambodia as roads can be in poor condition. Prepare for long bus rides and unreliable public transportation.

• Internet Connectivity: I realized lately that I need to have a SIM card to feel safe as a solo female traveler, so losing signal in rural areas can be frustrating.

• Landmines: Most people won’t even know this is a problem, so just don’t venture off alone into the jungle.

Cambodia Visa

Travelers from most countries can easily obtain a visa for Cambodia on arrival or an e-visa. 

While Cambodia uses two currencies, Cambodian borders are infamous for only taking cash and pristine-looking US dollar bills for visa payment. I went to two money exchanges in Singapore to find the best-looking ones! 

However, it turns out that if your bills are not creased or broken, you’ll be fine, as the bill I got back was far from perfect. 

Still, if you don’t want to risk it, you can apply for an e-visa before arrival. They say it takes at least 3 business days for an e-visa to be approved, so do it at least a week before coming to Cambodia.

How To Get Around Cambodia

Once you’re in the country, the most popular mode of transportation around Cambodia is the bus. 

Buses operate extensively, connecting various cities and towns across the country. They are a reliable and budget-friendly choice for both locals and tourists, offering a chance to experience the country’s scenic landscapes during the journey. 

One thing to keep in mind is that travel times are almost always longer than it say when you book the ticket.

Nowadays, you can book bus tickets online, which is perfect if you’re traveling in high season. Most hostels can book bus tickets for you too, but of course, it is usually cheaper to do it yourself.

Also, there’s a network of trains that connects some of the major cities. For example, you can take a train from Phnom Penh to Kampot, but a friend told me it was the slowest train she ever took.

I don’t mind slower travel, especially when there are nice landscapes to enjoy along the way.

🚌 Check bus times and prices here!

How To Get Within Cities

Tuk-tuk is the most common way to get around within Cambodian cities.

If you don’t like negotiating taxi prices, like I assume most of us don’t, you can order a tuk-tuk on Grab or the local taxi-hailing app PassApp. 

I suggest you download Grab in Cambodia, even if you want to catch a taxi on the street, just so you know the average prices.

Unlike other cities in Cambodia, Phnom Penh has a bus! Their public transport system is quite well-developed, and you can download the City bus app to see the maps and where the closest bus is.

The public bus in Phnom Penh is quite cheap (about 1500 riel), and you can take it all the way to the airport!

Best Places For Solo Travel In Cambodia

Siem Reap

Siem Reap is by far the most popular place to visit in Cambodia. This vibrant city in northwest Cambodia is a solo traveler’s paradise. 

Home to the magnificent temples of Angkor, it offers a unique blend of historical grandeur and modern allure. Watching the sunset over the iconic Angkor Wat is one of the top things to do in Cambodia.

The city has several fantastic backpacker hostels, bustling night markets and pub streets, and diverse food options. 

Despite being a tourist hotspot in Cambodia, Siem Reap retains a laid-back charm, with friendly locals and a tranquil riverside setting. 

If you have 3 days in Siem Reap, the city also serves as a gateway to rural Cambodia, with plenty of eco-tourism options for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Kampot

Kampot, in the south of the country, is a great place to visit for those seeking a serene getaway. 

This quaint riverside town is known for its colonial architecture and breathtaking natural beauty.

It’s surrounded by lush mountains and pepper plantations, offering opportunities for trekking and exploring the production of Kampot’s world-renowned pepper. 

There are no tourist attractions in the town itself, but its laid-back riverside atmosphere is perfect for relaxation.

I loved the vibrant food and drink scene, brimming with hip cafes and bars, which offers a slice of modernity. 

I also went on a yoga retreat in Kampot, and it was a fantastic way to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of big cities.

Phnom Penh

I’ve heard mixed reviews about the capital of Cambodia and whether it is worth visiting Phnom Penh before coming. However, I quite enjoyed exploring this chaotic capital!

It is the best place to learn about the country’s history, as you get to visit memorial places like the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and killing fields. It is a somber, but important part of Cambodia’s identity.

I went on this Genocide memorial tour with my hostel.

I also enjoyed walking along the Mekong River promenade, and you can also go on a sunset river cruise! The Royal Palace is majestic, as are numerous temples you can visit in the city. 

There are some areas that I would avoid in Phnom Penh, like the infamous Red Light district, which I accidentally stumbled upon while looking for 7-Eleven.

Koh Rong

Cambodia also has several tropical islands for beach lovers and solitude seekers alike. 

Koh Rong is one of the most beautiful islands in the Gulf of Thailand, with pristine white sandy beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, and a diverse underwater world. 

The island offers a wide range of activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers, from snorkeling and scuba diving to jungle trekking and night swimming with bioluminescent plankton. 

It is also a perfect place to relax, with beachside bungalows, hammocks, and tranquil sunsets.

Despite its growing popularity, Koh Rong still retains its untouched charm, providing a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Koh Rong Sanloem

Just a short ferry ride from Koh Rong is another tropical island, Koh Rong Sanloem. This island is less developed than its neighbor, Koh Rong, ensuring a more tranquil and authentic experience. 

With untouched beaches, lush jungle interiors, and warm, clear waters, it’s a place to unwind and recharge to continue your backpacking Southeast Asia tour.

One thing to keep in mind is that Cambodian islands are more expensive than the mainland, and that includes food, drinks, and accommodation.

Battambang

Finally, we have Battambang for culture lovers. It is the second-largest city in Cambodia, renowned for its well-preserved French colonial architecture but most travelers visit to see the unique bamboo train. 

Battambang used to be the cultural capital of Cambodia, and today it is where you’ll find the most artists in the country.

If you love walking around admiring architecture, Battambang should be on your Cambodia itinerary.

Accommodation For Solo Female Travelers In Cambodia

I stayed in hostels when solo traveling in Cambodia, but there are also many cute guest houses and homestays throughout the country. 

Hotels in Cambodia

You can find fantastic hotels throughout the country for a fraction of the price of European hotels!

Most hotels are more than just a place to stay and feature large swimming pools and relaxing spa facilities.

Some of the best luxury hotels in Cambodia for solo female travelers are:

• Phnom Penh: Plantation Urban Resort & Spa
• Siem Reap: Eightfold Urban Resort
• Kampot: Kampot Riverfront Boutique

Best Hostels In Cambodia

One of the reasons why it is easy to travel to Cambodia as a solo female traveler is the backpacker-friendly hostels. Even if dorms are not your thing, private rooms are quite affordable too!

I am a firm believer that hostels are the best place to make friends as a solo traveler, so I was very excited to see how many social hostels there are in Cambodia. 

I stayed in all the best-rated Cambodia hostel chains, Mad Monkey, Lub D, and Onederz, that offered female-only dorms. It was easy to meet other travelers and join various events organized by hostels, even if you’re not into partying.

Hostels In Phnom Penh

• Mad Monkey Phnom Penh (I stayed here for 3 nights in a female-only dorm!)
• Onederz Phnom Penh (I stayed here too!)

Hostels In Siem Reap

• Lub D Siem Reap (I stayed here and loved my stay!)
• The Twizt Lifestyle Hostel
• Mad Monkey Siem Reap

Homestays With Local Families

I didn’t go for a homestay on this trip, but it sounds like the best way to learn more about Cambodian culture and traditions firsthand, as well as support the local communities. 

Many homestay options can be found in rural areas, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling cities.

Best Time To Visit Cambodia

Cambodia experiences two distinct seasons throughout the year: dry and wet.

The high season, which is the dry season, spans from November to May. It is characterized by clear skies and cooler temperatures as it is winter in Cambodia, making it a popular time for visitors. 

Most people visit Cambodia from December to February, and that’s when you’ll meet many other travelers and tours running every day.

Conversely, Cambodia’s rainy season, extending from May until October, brings frequent showers and higher humidity.

You’ll forget about the make-up and travel hairstyles, putting your hair up in a ponytail every day.

I visited in October, which some say is the worst time to travel to Cambodia. The weather forecast looked rather depressing, showing strong rain every day.

However, the showers were really short and quite predictable. 

In Phnom Penh, it rained for half an hour to an hour in the evening, and in Siem Reap, we got a 15-minute to half-hour shower in the afternoon. There were even several days without any rain!

Cambodia Female Packing List

If you’re wondering what to wear in Cambodia, I’ve got you covered. I am a big advocate of packing light, and it shouldn’t be a problem with high temperatures in Cambodia.

Here are some of the essentials to add to your packing list for Cambodia:

• Lightweight cotton clothes: Cambodia is hot and humid, so pack breathable clothes. It is perfectly fine to wear shorts and cropped tops in Cambodia unless you’re visiting temples.
• Temple attire: You need something that covers your knees and shoulders for visiting temples and memorial sites. Midi skirts or lightweight pants are my go-to.
• Comfortable walking shoes: I’d go for sneakers and sandals, don’t bring heels.
• Raincoat: Useful if you’re visiting in the rainy season, but sometimes you’ll just get wet.
• Sunscreen: Bring sunscreen from home, as it is very expensive and has whitening agents in Cambodia. Also, for some reason, face sunscreen in Cambodia is usually sold in 10ml packages.
• Mosquito repellent: You can buy one in Cambodia, just be aware you’ll need it.
• Hat and sunglasses: For protection against the sun.
• Lightweight scarf or wrap: I didn’t bring one, but if your dresses and shirts don’t cover your shoulders, you can use it when visiting temples.
• Basic toiletries: Although you can buy them there, you might prefer to bring your own.
• Travel adaptor: Cambodia uses Type A, C, and G plugs.
• Water bottle: Staying hydrated is very important, and you don’t want to contribute to plastic pollution in the country.

Remember, packing light is the way to go, especially if you plan on moving around a lot.

Is Cambodia Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

Yes, Cambodia is generally safe for solo female travelers. 

The locals are typically friendly and are known for their warm hospitality.

Hotels and guesthouses are accustomed to solo travelers and can provide helpful advice on safe routes and areas to avoid.

Street crime is relatively low in major cities like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, but like any destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. 

Moreover, transportation services such as Grab and PassApp are reliable and convenient options for solo travel, reducing the need to navigate the local public transportation system. 

Finally, the expansive community of fellow travelers and backpackers in Cambodia provides an additional layer of comfort, making it an attractive destination for solo travelers.

Cambodia Safety Tips

Keep Your Bags Closed and Close to You

Pickpocketing is common in many tourist areas. Keep your bags zipped and close to you at all times, especially when walking through crowded areas or using public transportation.

Use Common Sense When Going Out

I won’t tell you to not go out when traveling, because going out is a fundamental part of the backpacking experience.

However, stay aware of your surroundings, practice responsible drinking, and don’t leave your drinks unattended. 

Get A SIM Card

I found that having a working SIM card gives me a sense of safety as I can easily access important travel information online, call, and use navigation apps.

Want to have data as soon as you land? Get Holafly e-SIM and don’t worry about data in Cambodia!

Don’t Drink Tap Water

Tap water is not drinkable in Cambodia, so make sure to always get filtered water refills to avoid stomach issues.

Get Travel Insurance

You need travel insurance when abroad. I’ve heard stories of people not being admitted to a hospital after an accident before paying or proving they have travel insurance. Stay safe! 

Use Mosquito Repellent

There are several mosquito-borne diseases in Cambodia, and the best way to stay safe is to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes. 

Stay On Marked Paths When Trekking

If you’re trekking in Cambodia, you must stay on the trail due to the prevalent risk of unexploded landmines, remnants from past conflicts that still pose a serious hazard in certain rural areas.

Cambodia Solo Travel Budget

If you’re wondering is Cambodia expensive for solo travelers, you’ll be glad to know that Cambodia is generally a very affordable country to visit.

Without activities, you can expect to spend about 20-25 USD per day on food, transportation, and accommodation if you stay in hostels.

When you compare Vietnam and Cambodia, the prices might seem a bit higher as the Cambodian currency is linked to the USD. However, most things won’t be cheaper than 1 USD anyway.

Food, accommodation, and transportation are all relatively cheap in Cambodia. 

On the other hand, tourist attractions in Cambodia are significantly more expensive than the average prices in the country. For example, Angkor Wat tickets start at about 40 USD for a one-day pass.

Also, I got a lot of vegan food in Cambodia, which was more expensive than eating at night markets.

Therefore, your Cambodia budget will greatly depend on your travel style, itinerary, and how many paid activities you want to do. 

If you stay in private rooms, your daily average will be closer to 35 USD.