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Places To Avoid In Cambodia For Tourists

Cambodia, renowned for its majestic Angkor Wat, serene beaches, and rich Khmer culture, is a must-visit destination. However, certain areas pose risks that travelers should be aware of to ensure safety in Cambodia. This guide highlights places to avoid in Cambodia in 2025, explains why they’re risky, and offers practical safety tips. With proper planning, you can explore Cambodia confidently and securely. For tailored, safe itineraries, consider consulting a trusted travel agency in Cambodia like Autour Asia.

I. Why are certain areas of Cambodia to be avoided?

1. Common risks for travellers

Cambodia is welcoming but poses certain risks that travelers must consider to ensure safety in Cambodia. In urban areas, bag-snatching is common in crowded tourist spots, particularly in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Scams, such as fake guides or "free rides" leading to overpriced shops, often target unsuspecting visitors. In rural regions, unexploded landmines pose a serious threat. Sihanoukville has faced issues with organized crime, though recent government efforts have improved safety. Additionally, methanol poisoning from drinks at unverified bars is a concern. Staying vigilant helps travelers avoid these risks.

2. The importance of preparing well before the trip

A successful trip to Cambodia begins with thorough preparation. Check travel advisories from embassies, such as those of France, Canada, or the UK, to assess whether Cambodia is safe to visit and identify risky areas. Register with your country’s travel alert system for real-time updates. Purchase travel insurance covering medical emergencies, cancellations, and flights. Also, read recent TripAdvisor reviews to spot common scams. Careful planning ensures a safe and enjoyable trip to Cambodia.

II. Places to avoid in Cambodia

1. Urban areas with high crime

a/ Phnom Penh: Riverfront & BKK District

The Riverfront and Boeung Keng Kang (BKK) districts in Phnom Penh attract visitors with their trendy restaurants and lively atmosphere but are among the places to avoid in Cambodia due to frequent bag-snatching by motorbike riders, especially at night. To stay safe, avoid wearing flashy jewelry or carrying loose shoulder bags. Use trusted apps like Grab for transportation and stick to well-lit areas. With caution, you can safely enjoy Phnom Penh’s vibrant districts.

b/ Siem Reap: Pub Street

Pub Street in Siem Reap, the heart of Cambodia’s nightlife, draws crowds with its lively bars and vibrant restaurants. However, its vibrancy attracts pickpockets and scammers. Common scams include “free tours” by tuk-tuk drivers, who lead you to shops pressuring you to buy. Alcohol-related issues, like theft or disputes, are also reported. Secure your belongings, avoid suspicious offers, and monitor your drinks to ensure a safe, enjoyable evening.

c/ Sihanoukville: Beaches & tourist areas

Sihanoukville, once a serene seaside destination, has faced crime issues linked to casinos and gangs. Security has improved since 2024, but precautions are needed, especially at night on Ochheuteal and Serendipity beaches. Opt for Victory Beach, which is safer. To ensure safety in Cambodia, avoid unregulated parties on nearby islands where robberies occur. Stay updated via local alerts and choose reputable venues to enjoy Sihanoukville’s coastal beauty safely.

2. Border and rural areas

a/ Border with Thailand: Preah Vihear, Ta Moan, Ta Krabey

Border areas with Thailand, such as Preah Vihear, Ta Moan and Ta Krabey, are among the places to avoid in Cambodia due to occasional military tensions and the presence of anti-personnel mines. These regions, often isolated, are not suitable for independent travelers. If you want to visit sites like the Temple of Preah Vihear, opt for an organized tour with an experienced guide. Always stay on marked paths and follow the recommendations of local authorities to avoid danger in these sensitive areas.

b/ Laos Border: Stung Treng (Dom Kralor Border Post)

The Dom Kralor border crossing in Stung Treng, near Laos, is a place where scams are frequent. Unofficial agents sometimes demand fraudulent visa fees or bribes. To avoid these problems, only go through official checkpoints and check the visa requirements on the official website of the Cambodian embassy. Keep copies of your documents and stand firm against suspicious requests. Proper preparation will allow you to cross this border without hassle.

c/ Campaigns around the temples

Rural areas near lesser-known temples, like those in Battambang and Koh Ker, face risks from unexploded landmines, a legacy of past conflicts, prompting the question: Is Cambodia safe? Provinces like Banteay Meanchey and Oddar Meanchey are particularly affected. To stay safe, stick to marked trails, avoid unguided tours, and heed warning signs. Report suspicious objects to authorities. These precautions ensure you can explore Cambodia’s ancient sites safely.

III. Cambodia Safety Advices for Tourists

1. General preventive measures

Traveling to Cambodia with peace of mind requires a few simple reflexes to guarantee your safety in Cambodia. Keep your valuables in a secure bag and use hotel safes. For your travels, prefer reliable solutions such as Grab or clearly identifiable tuk-tuks. Be careful, some dishonest drivers pretend that your hotel is closed to direct you to another establishment where they receive a commission. In the evening, avoid wandering alone through dark alleys and be wary if someone offers you a drink at a bar. With a little common sense, you'll avoid worries and enjoy your Cambodian adventure to the fullest!

2. What to do if something goes wrong

If you face theft or assault, call the Cambodian tourist police at +855 12 942 484, faster than the general emergency line 117. Save digital and paper copies of your passport, visa, and insurance in a secure app like Google Drive, and note your embassy’s contact details for quick help. For medical emergencies, choose private clinics like Royal Phnom Penh Hospital, which are better equipped. Acting quickly and calmly helps you resolve issues and get back to enjoying your trip.

3. Safe alternatives to risk areas

To get around the places to avoid in Cambodia, discover equally captivating alternatives. In Siem Reap, the peaceful bars of Wat Bo Road offer a quieter vibe than Pub Street. For beach lovers, Kep and Koh Rong Samloem are havens of peace, far from the dangers of Sihanoukville. Battambang, with its picturesque villages, and Kampot, known for its rivers and pepper fields, are perfect for an authentic experience, whether you're traveling with your family or alone. These secure destinations promise you a stay rich in discoveries.

Cambodia is a mesmerizing destination, blending history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. By following our tips, such as using reliable transportation, avoiding scams like fake free spins, and choosing safe places like Kampot or Kep, you will have an unforgettable adventure. For a stress-free trip, with Autour Asia - travel agency in Cambodia, which offers itineraries designed for your safety in Cambodia while avoiding places to avoid in Cambodia. Prepare well, stay alert, and immerse yourself in the magic of the Khmer kingdom with complete peace of mind!