No Need to Exchange Money Before Arrival
You don’t need to change currency before coming to Cambodia—exchange rates here (especially near markets) are usually better than abroad. (The standard rate is around 4,000 riels for 1 USD.)
Currencies Used
Cambodia uses both US dollars (USD) and Khmer Riels (KHR). Larger purchases are in dollars, and most small change is given in riels, as small dollar bills have largely disappeared.
Note Quality Matters
Only clean, undamaged US bills are accepted by Cambodian businesses.
ATM Withdrawals
ATMs are common in cities, dispense mainly USD $100 bills, and usually charge $4–$6 per withdrawal. Otherwise, you can also withdraw Khmer riels at the ATMs.
Paying by Card and with Bakong for Tourists
Most major hotels, supermarkets, and some large shops accept international Visa and Mastercard for payments. However, card acceptance is less common in small businesses, markets, or rural areas.
For easier, cashless payments anywhere in Cambodia—including small vendors, tuk-tuks, and local markets—tourists can use the Bakong for Tourists app. This is Cambodia’s official national payment solution, designed especially for foreign visitors. With Bakong, you can:
- Register as a tourist with your passport and set up a digital wallet in English.
- Top up your wallet with international credit or debit cards, or by exchanging cash after arrival.
- Make purchases at thousands of merchants simply by scanning a QR code.
- Always use the standard exchange rate (4,000 riels = 1 USD) within the app for transparency.
Bakong’s QR code payment system is widely used and accepted, especially in cities and tourist areas. This makes it easy to go nearly cashless as a visitor, and it’s supported by an extensive local merchant network.
Quick Tips
- Exchange your cash after arrival for the best rates.
- Download and register for the Bakong for Tourists app to enjoy safe, cashless, and convenient payments.
- Always carry some cash for rural travel or in case digital/mobile payment isn’t available.
