Cambodia

Quick Overview

Capital: Phnom Penh
Population: 15.76 million
Official language: Khmer
Time zone: Indochina time (ICT)
Emergency #: 199
Vaccinations required: Yes
Risk of malaria: Yes
Climate Info

Cambodia: Travel Health Information

Officially known as the Kingdom of Cambodia, this country includes many natural attractions as well as historical and cultural sites. Popular destinations include Angkor Wat, the National Museum of Cambodia, the Royal Palace, Prasat Preah Vihear, Occheuteal Beach and the Koh Kong Conservation Corridor. 

Healthcare

The standards for patient care and medical services in Cambodia may differ from your home country. Cambodia has both public and private health sectors. Compared to international standards, the country has too few doctors and nurses and the quality of healthcare is poor, especially in rural regions. Professional psychiatric treatment or medication can be difficult to access.

In the event of a medical emergency, contact your travel health insurance company immediately. Hospitals in Cambodia typically require upfront payment in cash, regardless if you have travel health insurance. Due to limited healthcare services, medical evacuation to Singapore or Thailand is common for both mental and physical health emergencies. Ensure that you have accessible funds to cover upfront fees and adequate  travel health insurance, including evacuation. Before you depart, check with your insurer about the extent of their coverage in Cambodia.

Pharmacies and medications

The quality of medication in pharmacies varies greatly and routine medications and supplies may be unavailable or in short supply. Avoid buying medications from markets or unlicensed pharmacies, as fake medication is a common concern.

If you are travelling with medication, check with Cambodia's embassy, consulate, or Ministry of Health for details on medication allowances and restrictions. Note that these sources may provide incomplete or out-of-date information.

Road safety

Roads in major cities are adequate but rural roads are poorly maintained. Traffic-related injuries and fatalities are common. Public transportation is not reliable and vehicles may not be maintained according to safety standards. Motorcycle taxis are also unsafe and drivers often fail to provide helmets for passengers. The national seat belt and helmet law only applies to drivers, but passengers should wear their seat belts at all times in cars and always wear a helmet on a motorcycle. 


  • World Health Organization. Global Health Observatory (GHO) data: Cambodia.
  • World Health Organization. Regional Office for the Western Pacific. (2009). Road Safety in the Western Pacific Region: call for action. Manila : WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific.
  • World Health Organization. Regional Office for the Western Pacific. (2015). The Kingdom of Cambodia health system review. Manila: WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific.
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