Cambodia trip budget 2025 – how much does a trip to Cambodia really cost?

1. Why Cambodia is a budget-friendly destination in 2025

Cambodia remains an affordable travel hub even as tourism continues to grow. Compared to nearby countries like Thailand or Vietnam, Cambodia offers lower average costs for accommodation, food, and entrance fees. The official currency is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), but US dollars are widely accepted and often preferred in tourist areas.

In 2025, exchange rates remain stable—$1 USD equals around 4,100 KHR—making price conversions simple for travelers. You’ll find great value in both major cities and smaller rural destinations.

2. How much does a Cambodia trip cost per day?

Daily budget for different travel styles

Your daily budget in Cambodia depends heavily on your travel style. Here’s a general breakdown:

3. Cambodia travel costs breakdown (2025)

Accommodation prices

Cambodia offers accommodation for all types of travelers. Even budget hostels often include free Wi-Fi and breakfast.

• Hostel dorms: $5–$10 per night

• Guesthouses or budget hotels: $20–$40

• Mid-range hotels (with aircon): $50–$80

• Luxury or boutique resorts: $100–$300+ (especially in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, or Koh Rong)

Food and drink costs

Eating in Cambodia is deliciously affordable. Local dishes pack flavor without emptying your wallet.

• Street food meals (noodles, fried rice): $1–$3

• Local restaurants: $4–$10

• Western-style restaurants: $10–$25

• Beers: $1

• Coffee or smoothie: $1–$3

Tip: Try “fish amok” or “beef lok lak” for a tasty local experience!

Transportation and getting around

Getting from place to place is inexpensive, especially when using local transport.

• Tuk-tuk rides: $1–$3 for short distances

• City buses: Rare, but available in Phnom Penh

• Intercity minivans or buses (Siem Reap ↔ Phnom Penh): $10–$15

• Scooter rental: $6–$10/day

• Domestic flights (Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville): $60–$90

Grab app (like Uber) is available in major cities, offering more transparent pricing than street-haggling.

Entrance fees and activities

Cambodia’s temples, museums, and experiences offer high value for the cost.

• Angkor Wat 1-day pass: $37

• 3-day Angkor pass: $62

• Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: $5

• Floating village boat tour: $20–$30

• Cooking class or guided tour: $15–$50

4. How long to stay and what’s the total trip cost?

Here’s what a realistic budget looks like based on trip length and travel style:

1-week Cambodia trip estimate:

• Backpacker: $200–$300

• Mid-range: $500–$700

• Luxury: $1,200+

2-week Cambodia trip estimate:

• Backpacker: $400–$600

• Mid-range: $800–$1,200

• Luxury: $2,000+

This includes transport, accommodation, meals, entrance fees, and basic shopping. International flights are not included but are usually $200–$600 round-trip depending on origin.

5. Tips to save money while traveling in Cambodia

Even with rising tourism, there are plenty of ways to keep costs low while enjoying a rich experience.

Budget hacks that actually work

• Eat where locals eat – street food is safe and delicious

• Negotiate tuk-tuk rides in advance

• Buy bus tickets at local travel agents instead of online platforms

• Stay in local guesthouses, which offer better rates than chain hotels

• Travel in the shoulder season (May–September) for lower prices

Travel tools and apps

• Grab – for tuk-tuk and car rides in cities

• Agoda or Hostelworld – for best hotel/hostel deals

• Wise or Revolut – to avoid foreign transaction fees

• Maps.me – offline navigation without needing data

6. Is Cambodia expensive? what travelers say

Travelers often describe Cambodia as one of the most affordable countries in Southeast Asia. Many say they spent less than expected, especially outside of touristy Siem Reap.

However, costs can spike if:

• You visit only high-end tourist spots

• Book luxury hotels during peak season

• Rely on foreign-owned restaurants

The key is balance: splurge on what matters (e.g., a guided tour or beautiful hotel), and save on transport and meals.

7. What to eat and do without overspending

Must-try dishes under $5

• Fish amok – creamy coconut curry with freshwater fish

• Nom banh chok – Khmer rice noodles with green curry

• Prahok ktis – fermented fish dip with veggies

• Grilled skewers – popular evening street snack

• Fresh sugarcane juice – cheap and refreshing

Low-cost things to do

• Rent a bicycle to explore Angkor temples

• Visit Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace and National Museum

• Swim or snorkel on Koh Rong beaches

• Watch free or low-cost traditional Apsara dance shows

• Wander local markets in Battambang or Kampot

8. What to prepare for your travel budget

• Bring small USD bills – ATMs give large denominations

• Visa fee – $30 on arrival (or apply online for e-visa)

• Travel insurance – expect ~$2–$5/day

• SIM card – $5–$10 with 30-day data packages

Build in a small buffer (~10–15%) for spontaneous activities or emergencies.

Is Cambodia worth it?

Absolutely. Cambodia is one of the few places where a modest budget brings access to world wonders, welcoming locals, and authentic cultural experiences. Whether you’re sipping coffee in a colonial café or climbing ancient temple steps, you’ll find that your money goes far in this unforgettable country.