How to avoid scams in Cambodia?

As with any country in the world, caution is necessary when traveling. Although the techniques and situations may vary from one continent to another, many travelers fall victim to scams every year worldwide. To avoid any unpleasant surprises during your trip to Cambodia, we have compiled a list of the most common scams targeting tourists.

Scams and transportation in Cambodia

Tuk-tuks and rickshaws: pitfalls to avoid

Snatching theft

Snatching theft is well-known worldwide, and Cambodia is no exception. The technique of the thieves is often the same: stealing bags and phones from travelers riding in tuk-tuks. Since these vehicles are relatively slow, it is easy for motorbikes – usually a rider and a passenger – to snatch the bag and flee without being caught.

Change issues

Before hiring a tuk-tuk or rickshaw, ensure that you have small change and not large bills. This will help you avoid certain drivers who, after completing the ride, will claim they cannot give you change and ask for a higher fare than expected.

Extended routes and increased fares

Many tuk-tuk drivers take advantage of tourists’ unfamiliarity with the city by extending the journey with detours. Using apps like PassApp and Grab (available in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap) can be very helpful to know the expected fare and route before starting the trip.

Check the meter at the end of the ride

Most rickshaws (2-3 passenger seats) are equipped with a meter to calculate the final fare. Checking the fare displayed at the end of the ride ensures you pay the correct amount. Some drivers may try to increase the fare and quickly reset the meter, making it impossible to know the exact amount.

Wearing a helmet in Cambodia

Although not strictly a scam, not wearing a helmet on a scooter – as many Cambodians still do – can cost you a fine. It is important to remember that just because you are traveling in Cambodia does not mean safety should be ignored. Road safety awareness is not as strong as in some other countries, and the risk of accidents remains very real. If you plan to rent a scooter in Cambodia, make sure to wear a helmet, even if it’s hot. Additionally, not wearing a helmet is an offense, and police officers will not hesitate to issue fines.

Taking the bus in Cambodia

Bus: Announcing stops

If you plan to take a night bus from one city to another, setting an alarm for the time you are supposed to arrive can save you a lot of trouble. Some night bus drivers do not speak English and fail to announce the names of stops. Make sure you can get off at the correct place!

Booking bus tickets online

It is not recommended to book bus tickets online in Cambodia as you might encounter issues like unprocessed bookings or buses not showing up. One reason for this is that priority is often given to customers who have already paid, leaving behind travelers who only made an online reservation. It’s best to go directly to the bus company’s office to make a booking.

The money trap

Currency exchange offices

Beware of counterfeit bills at currency exchange offices. Some dishonest individuals may slip fake bills into the stacks of exchanged money. It’s safer to ask your hotel for recommendations or check forums to find a reliable exchange office.

Beware of large denominations

We can’t stress this enough: Cambodia is a poor country, and it is often difficult for small shops to provide change for large bills such as 100,000 riels (approximately $25). So imagine the situation with a $100 bill. If you need to get change, it’s best to visit a bank or a supermarket. If that's not possible, taking a photo of your bill before exchanging it can be very useful. Some people may exchange it with a fake one and later claim your bill is counterfeit. By taking a photo, you’ll have access to the serial number to verify if it’s indeed yours.

Damaged bills

Lorsqu’on vous rend la monnaie, prêter attention à l’état du billet est essentiel. Des billets marqués par des taches d’encre, “réparés” au ruban adhésif ou déchirés (ne serait-ce que sur 1 mm) ne seront pas acceptés. Ne pas hésiter donc à refuser un billet malmené. En revanche, les billets anciens visibles par leur jaunissement sont totalement utilisables.

Visits and activities in Cambodia

Negotiating at the market

Tourists often pay more than locals when buying food or souvenirs at the market, as no prices are displayed. Be sure to negotiate prices to avoid paying more than necessary.

Relaxation moment or catastrophe?

You will find massage salons offering various services at very competitive prices all over Cambodia. However, be cautious about leaving your bag unattended during these moments of relaxation.

Postcards from Cambodia

Although sending a postcard from your trip to Cambodia to loved ones is a lovely gesture, some people may not care and will simply peel off the stamp to resell it.