Cambodia Volunteer Safety: What to Know

The main risks

1. Road traffic. The single largest injury risk. Moto-taxi (especially Phnom Penh) and bicycle accidents are common. Always wear a helmet. If you can't ride a motorbike in your home country, don't try in Cambodia.
2. Remaining landmines in some rural border areas. Stick to well-trafficked paths and follow your program's guidance strictly in rural Battambang, Pailin, Banteay Meanchey, and along certain border zones. Programs in major towns are not affected.
3. Petty theft and scams. Phone-snatching from moto-taxis in Phnom Penh has been reported. Don't display electronics openly while riding.
4. Flood risk during wet season (May-October). Plan around rainy season for rural placements; some access roads become impassable.
5. Food and waterborne illness. Common — use bottled water, eat at busy places where food is cooked fresh, carry rehydration salts.

Health considerations

• Vaccinations: Routine vaccines, Hepatitis A, Typhoid commonly recommended; sometimes Japanese Encephalitis for rural placements. Speak to a travel-health professional 6-8 weeks before departure.
• Malaria: Low in cities, present in some rural and border areas. Discuss prophylaxis with a clinic.
• Dengue: Year-round risk, peaking in rainy season. Use repellent.
• Healthcare: Phnom Penh has international clinics (Royal Phnom Penh, Calmette). Serious cases often referred to Thailand. Travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is essential.

For solo female volunteers

Generally well-tolerated. Dress modestly outside tourist areas and at temple sites. Use registered taxi services or Grab over street tuk-tuks at night. Programs with on-site female support staff are easier first-time placements.

Insurance

Comprehensive insurance with medical evacuation is essential — serious cases are usually evacuated to Bangkok. Confirm the policy covers volunteer work and any motorbike riding.

Before you go

• Register with your government's traveller registration service.
• Save your program's 24/7 emergency contact.
• Photograph passport, visa, insurance — cloud-stored.
• Local emergency: 117 (police), 119 (medical). English is limited on these lines — your program's contact is more reliable in an emergency.
• Check current advisory within 30 days of departure.