Responsible travel in Cambodia: a practical guide

Tourism brings jobs and income to Cambodia, but it can also cause harm when visitors' money or behaviour supports exploitation, damages heritage or harms the environment. The good news is that responsible travel is mostly about simple choices.

Spend money where it helps

• Stay in locally owned guesthouses and hotels.
• Eat at local restaurants and markets.
• Hire licensed local guides.
• Buy crafts from artisans and social enterprises.
• Book community-based tourism experiences.

Protect children

• Avoid orphanage visits and volunteering with children.
• Don't give money or buy from children selling on the street or at temples; it can keep them out of school.
• Support organisations that keep families together and children in school.
• If you see a child at risk, contact local child protection services or a child protection hotline.

Wildlife

• Avoid elephant rides, animal shows and wildlife photo props.
• Never buy wildlife products.
• Choose ethical wildlife experiences that prioritise animal welfare.

Heritage

• Don't climb on fragile structures or touch carvings at Angkor.
• Never buy antiquities or temple artefacts.
• Dress respectfully at temples and pagodas.

Waste and plastic

• Carry a refillable water bottle and use refill stations where available.
• Refuse plastic straws and bags.
• Take your rubbish with you from beaches and trails.

Respect local culture

• Learn a few words of Khmer.
• Ask before photographing people.
• Respect religious customs and sacred sites.
• Avoid public displays of anger.

Choose responsible operators

Look for tour operators that employ local staff, pay fair wages, support communities and follow environmental best practices.

Travel slowly

Staying longer in fewer places spreads your spending more widely, reduces transport emissions and gives you a deeper experience.

Give thoughtfully

If you want to donate, research organisations carefully and give to established groups with transparent finances rather than handing out money or gifts directly.

A responsible traveller's checklist

1. Choose locally owned accommodation and restaurants.
2. Hire licensed local guides.
3. Avoid orphanage visits and child-focused volunteering.
4. Skip elephant rides and animal shows.
5. Carry a refillable bottle and refuse single-use plastic.
6. Dress modestly at religious sites.
7. Ask before photographing people.
8. Never buy antiquities or wildlife products.
9. Book community-based tourism experiences.
10. Research organisations before donating.

Frequently asked questions

Does responsible travel cost more?

Not necessarily. Many responsible choices, such as eating local food, staying in family guesthouses and avoiding unnecessary flights, cost less.