⚠️ SAFETY UPDATE (January 16th, 2026):
Yes it is still safe to travel to Cambodia and visit the Angkor Archaeological Park. The ceasefire continues along the Cambodia-Thailand border since 27th December, it is still recommended to avoid the border area in your plans for the time being.
While central and southern Cambodia (including Phnom Penh and the islands) remain physically safe from fighting, the situation is volatile so do not travel to the northern border provinces.
Table of Contents
- The Conflict: What is Happening Right Now?
- No-Go Zones: Areas You Must Avoid
- Is Siem Reap (Angkor Wat) Safe?
- Safe Zones: Where You Can Still Go
- Transportation & Border Crossings
- Standard Safety Advice (Theft & Health)
- FAQs About the Current Crisis
The Conflict: What is Happening Right Now?
As of December 9, 2025, heavy fighting has reignited between Cambodian and Thai military forces. Following the breakdown of the October ceasefire, clashes have escalated significantly.
- Airstrikes & Shelling: Reports confirm shelling and airstrikes in border provinces including Preah Vihear, Oddar Meanchey, and Banteay Meanchey.
- Civilian Impact: Over 300,000 people have been evacuated on each side.
- Political Context: Diplomatic relations are strained, and the “Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration” ceasefire has effectively collapsed. Trump’s peace agreement hangs in balance.
No-Go Zones: Areas You Must Avoid
You must cancel any plans to visit the northern border regions immediately. The following provinces are considered unresolved Conflict Zones:
- Preah Vihear Province: The area surrounding the Preah Vihear Temple is a primary flashpoint.
- Oddar Meanchey: Reports indicate airstrikes near Samrong City.
- Banteay Meanchey: Fighting reported in O Bei Choan district. The city of Poipet (a major border crossing) is dangerously close to the conflict and should be avoided.
- Pursat (Western Border): Clashes reported in the Veal Veng district.
Is Siem Reap (Angkor Wat) Safe?
Status: Safe
Siem Reap is approximately 150km from the heaviest fighting and is not currently under attack. However, the situation is tense:
- Refugee Hub: The city is receiving thousands of displaced civilians fleeing the border. Hospitals and services may be strained.
- Airspace: With military aircraft active in the north, civilian flights into Siem Reap (SAI) may face delays, diversions, or cancellations.
- Recommendation: If you are already there, stay alert and monitor news hourly. If you have not arrived yet, consider deferring your trip until the situation stabilizes.
Safe Zones: Where You Can Still Go
The conflict is currently contained to the northern border. The following areas are physically removed from the fighting and remain generally safe, though the mood may be somber:
- Phnom Penh: The capital remains calm, though you should expect increased security checks and potential political demonstrations.
- Sihanoukville & The Islands (Koh Rong/Samloem): These southern coastal areas are far from the conflict zone and tourism is operating normally.
- Kampot & Kep: Currently unaffected.
Transportation & Border Crossings
- ⛔ Land Borders are CLOSED: Do not attempt to cross into Thailand via land (Poipet, Cham Yeam, or O Smach). Crossings are either officially closed or extremely dangerous.
- ✈️ Flights: Fly directly into Phnom Penh (PNH) to avoid the northern airspace. Check with your airline constantly, as flight paths change based on military activity.
Standard Safety Advice (Theft & Health)
While the war is the headline, standard travel risks still exist in non-conflict zones:
- Bag Snatching: Remains a risk in Phnom Penh. Keep phones hidden and bags strapped across your chest.
- Health: Dengue fever cases are rising. Use strong insect repellent. Do not drink tap water.
FAQs About the Current Crisis
Q: I have a flight to Siem Reap tomorrow. Should I cancel?
A: Check with your airline first. If the flight is operating, it is technically possible to go, but you risk getting stuck if the airspace closes. Many travelers are rerouting to Phnom Penh or cancelling.
Q: Is there a risk of the fighting spreading to Phnom Penh?
A: It is highly unlikely. The conflict is territorial, focused on the border demarcation lines. Phnom Penh is far from the front lines.
Q: What should I do if I am currently in a border province?
A: Leave immediately. Move south toward Siem Reap city or Battambang city.
Q: What does the embassy say?
A: For a precise alert, please reach out to your respective embassy.
U.S. Embassy in Cambodia: U.S. citizens should continue to avoid all travel within 50 kilometers of the Cambodia–Thailand border.
Ambassade de France au Cambodge
Embassy of Malaysia: avoid non-essential travel to Preah Vihear, Oddar Meanchey, Banteay Meanchey, Battambang and Pursat Provinces.
Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade: We continue to advise do not travel to areas within 50 kilometres of the Cambodia-Thailand border.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office UK: advises against all but essential travel to within 80km from the border with Thailand
Final Thought
Safety First, Adventure Second.
Cambodia is a resilient and beautiful country, but December 2025 is a dangerous time to visit the north. But Cambodia is still safe to travel to. If you are already in the country, move from the border and head south to Phnom Penh or the islands. If you are planning a trip, we strongly advise you to postpone visits to the border regions until the ceasefire is restored.
Stay safe, stay informed, and keep your embassy’s emergency number on speed dial.
