Safety Tips in Cambodia, Travel Safety Tips

Cambodia Warnings and Dangers

Cambodia is a land of intrigue and mystery. It also a land that has been torn by many wars for the last several decades. It is fairly peaceful now and a lot of travelers enjoy exploring the country. Here are safety tips, warnings, and dangers for travelers in Cambodia.

Land Mines

There are a lot of land mines and unexploded bombs in Cambodia. Generally the cities are safe, as are well-traveled areas. But don’t go off the beaten path, such as into the woods, dry rice paddies or open fields. No one knows how many land mines there are, but there could be 10 million or more. It is not that uncommon for someone to be injured in this way, and there are many amputees in the country. Stay to the well-worn tourist areas and you should be fine.

Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh is a great city for exploring in the day time, but can be dangerous at night. Do not go out alone at night at all, and even avoid it with a small group if you can.

Prostitution

Prostitution is everywhere in Cambodia. A single male will likely be propositioned by the taxi driver, who will offer to get him a girl. AIDS is also a major problem, and some say as many as half the sex workers have it. Also be aware that despite the government’s attempts to fix it, underage prostitution is still an issue in Cambodia.

Beggars

Watch out for beggars. Some will be maimed by having been injured by one of the many land mines. There are local charities you can give to to help them. If you do give to one, you will likely find dozens more suddenly surrounding you.

Steps

There are many ancient temples in Cambodia, and you will likely visit them. Just be aware that these steps are hundreds of years old and are difficult to climb. Some are very steep, and some steps are crumbling.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about warnings and dangers in Cambodia.