Overall Travel Safety in Cambodia
Cambodia remains broadly safe for international visitors who plan their trips carefully and stay far from the Thai Cambodian border, where active conflict continues to pose serious risks. While heightened caution is advised nationwide, daily life and tourism activities in most central and southern parts of the country continue without disruption. Official advisories emphasize that the security situation is highly localized, meaning travelers who follow guidance and monitor updates can still visit Cambodia safely, provided they avoid affected regions entirely.
Rising Security Risks Along the Border
Since early December 2025, fighting along the Thai Cambodian frontier has escalated, involving heavy weapons and air operations that have resulted in civilian casualties and large scale displacement. Multiple governments now advise travelers to exercise increased caution across Cambodia, while issuing clear warnings against travel to border zones. The volatility of the situation, combined with unexploded ordnance and ongoing evacuations, makes these areas unsuitable for any non essential travel at this time.
Border Provinces and Areas to Avoid
International travel advisories consistently warn against all travel within approximately fifty kilometers of the Thai Cambodian border. Provinces such as Preah Vihear, Oddar Meanchey, Banteay Meanchey including Poipet, parts of Battambang, Koh Kong, and sensitive temple areas near the frontier have experienced shelling, airstrikes, and land mine risks. With more than half a million people displaced, these regions face humanitarian strain and unpredictable security conditions, reinforcing the need for tourists to avoid them completely.
Conditions in Major Tourist Destinations
In contrast, Phnom Penh and the main urban areas of Siem Reap province remain calm and fully operational. Tourism infrastructure, hotels, restaurants, and transport services are functioning normally, and some countries have reduced special alerts for these cities to standard caution levels. Visits to Angkor and city attractions continue as usual, provided travelers steer clear of far northern temple zones near the border. Tour operators have adjusted routes accordingly to ensure visitor safety.
Border Crossings and Transportation Routes
Land border crossings between Thailand and Cambodia, including major checkpoints such as Poipet, are largely closed or subject to tight restrictions due to ongoing hostilities. However, air travel into Phnom Penh and Siem Reap from non Thai destinations remains unaffected. For travelers determined to visit Cambodia during this period, flying directly into the country and avoiding overland routes from Thailand is currently the safest option.
Practical Safety Advice for Travelers
Anyone considering travel should consult their home country’s Cambodia travel advisory immediately before booking and again prior to departure, with close attention to restricted zone maps. Visitors are strongly advised to avoid border provinces and remote northern or western districts, remain in lower risk areas such as central Phnom Penh, core Siem Reap, Kampot, and Kep, and register with their embassy when possible. Staying informed through local news and official Cambodian authority updates is essential, as the situation near the frontier can change quickly.
Conclusion
Cambodia is not closed to tourism, but it demands informed and cautious travel decisions. By avoiding conflict affected border regions, relying on air travel, and staying within well established tourist centers, visitors can continue to experience the country safely. Vigilance, flexibility, and respect for official guidance remain the keys to responsible travel during this period of regional tension.