Last updated May 17, 2021
The lush tropical forests of Cambodia hide amazing ancient treasures. The stunning stone temples at Angkor Wat (the largest religious monument in the world), Bayon and Ta Prohm are some of the finest examples of ancient architecture in the world. Cambodia's rich and complex history makes it a perfect destination for lovers of architecture, archeology or political history.
Is travel insurance required for Cambodia?
While there is no requirement for travel insurance, you'll be required to pay a sizable deposit upon entering Cambodia to cover COVID-19 testing and any connected care. As of April 2021, you'll require a visa, which must be arranged before arrival, as the government has suspended the e-visa and the visa-on-arrival programs.
At the moment, the Cambodian Embassies are only accepting application for official, business-sponsored, and diplomatic visas, and aren't issuing tourist visas. Due to the COVID-19, Cambodia requires visitors to test for COVID-19 as soon as they enter the country. The process currently is as follows:
- Upon arrival, all visitors must pay a $2,000 deposit and fully abide by locally enforced quarantine measures for 14 days.
- Visitors will be transported to a testing site where they will be given a test for Covid-19.
- Visitors must possess a COVID-19 negative test issued no more than 72 hours prior to the date of the arrival. This is required regardless of vaccine status.
- Purchase a local health insurance package for COVID-19 treatment from Forte Insurance Company. The cost is $90 for a $50,000 policy valid for 20 days.
COVID-19 in Cambodia
Cases of Covid-19 in Cambodia are very low compared to other countries and the majority of cases are visitors from other countries. As a result, Cambodia is very cautious about visitors at this time. However once you arrive, you are unlikely to contract Covid-19 as long as you adhere to basic safety protocols including wearing face masks and washing your hands.
Health & safety tips
While Cambodia is much safer than it was even ten years ago, the region is known for its political instability and widespread poverty contributes to high levels of disease. When traveling in Cambodia, take extra precautions at night, in nightclubs and in remote areas. Although most areas are safe to explore, more remote areas may still have landmines buried. Be sure to hire an experienced guide if you are venturing off the beaten path.
Be aware of the sources of your food and water, especially if you're eating street food. Poor food hygiene can lead to worms, intestinal parasites, giardia, dysentery, cholera and salmonella. Be sure to pack some bug spray as well, as mosquitos in Cambodia are known to carry malaria, dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis. Finally, HIV/AIDS is a widespread problem in Cambodia, avoid blood-contamination and practice safe habits while in the country.
Medical facilities in Cambodia are generally smaller and more scaled-back than those in western countries. Travel medical insurance with coverage for medical evacuations is highly recommended for any travelers to Cambodia.
Necessary vaccinations
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) recommend the following vaccinations for Cambodia: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, polio, MMR (measles, mumps and rubella), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, malaria, typhoid, pneumonia and influenza. Rabies is also recommended if you are likely to come into contact with wild animals. Some travelers will also require vaccines for yellow fever and Japanese encephalitis depending on your travel plans and your doctor's recommendations.
The COVID-19 vaccine may become mandatory for travelers once it is more widely available.
Visas & documentation
Most visitors will need a passport and visa for Cambodia. Visa fees are generally $30 or less and will cover travel for 30 days with opportunities for visa extensions if necessary. A few countries including Thailand, India, China and Korea have different visa arrangements so that citizens of those countries may not need a visa for shorter stays. Find out more about visa requirements and exceptions.
