Cambodian Currency for Tourists: Riel & USD Guide

Welcome to Cambodia, a captivating country where ancient history meets vibrant modern life! As you prepare for your adventure, one crucial aspect to understand is the local currency system. For tourists, navigating Cambodian currency – primarily the Cambodian Riel (KHR) and the widely used US Dollar (USD) – can seem a bit complex at first. This comprehensive guide will demystify the payment landscape, offering essential tips on currency exchange, ATM usage, credit card acceptance, and smart money management to ensure your Cambodian journey is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Understanding the dual currency system is key to making the best payment choices, whether you’re exploring ancient temples or sampling local street food. [4]

Understanding Cambodia’s Dual Currency System: Riel and USD

Cambodia operates under a unique “dual currency system,” where both the Cambodian Riel (KHR) and the US Dollar (USD) are widely accepted and used in daily transactions. [2] This system evolved over decades, influenced by historical factors and economic stability. While the Cambodian Riel is the official national currency, the US Dollar has become a de facto second currency, especially in urban areas and tourist hotspots. [3]

What is the main currency in Cambodia?

The official currency of Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel (KHR). [7] You’ll see its symbol, ៛, on price tags and banknotes. However, the US Dollar (USD) is also a dominant force in the economy, particularly for larger transactions, hotel stays, tours, and meals in more established restaurants and shops. In many places, prices will even be quoted directly in USD. [3]

Why Does Cambodia Use the US Dollar?

The widespread use of the US Dollar in Cambodia is a result of several historical and economic factors. Following periods of significant political instability and hyperinflation in the late 20th century, public confidence in the Cambodian Riel eroded. [9] The influx of US Dollars, particularly during the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC) mission in the early 1990s, led to its rapid adoption as a more stable and trusted medium of exchange. [8] This dollarization helped stabilize the economy and foster international trade and investment. [8]

Which Cambodian Currency Is Used More?

While the US Dollar is prominent for major purchases and in tourist-heavy zones like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, the Cambodian Riel is essential for smaller transactions and in rural areas. Many street vendors and small shops commonly use an exchange rate of 4,000 Riel to $1 USD. [1] This informal fixed exchange rate makes it easy to switch between the two. The National Bank of Cambodia reported that 15% of daily transactions utilize the Riel, and electronic Riel payments nearly doubled in growth in early 2024 compared to the previous year, indicating efforts to promote the national currency. [1]

Essentially, for most tourists, you’ll encounter and use both. USD is convenient for hotels, tour agencies, and larger restaurant bills, while KHR is perfect for quick snacks, local markets, short tuk-tuk rides, and getting precise change. Knowing when to use Riel versus USD in Cambodia will significantly enhance your travel experience.

Navigating Exchange Rates and Cambodian Money Conversion

Understanding the Cambodian currency exchange rate is straightforward due to the unofficial peg between the Riel and the US Dollar. The common street rate you’ll encounter is approximately 4,000 KHR to 1 USD. While the official rate from the National Bank of Cambodia might fluctuate slightly (e.g., around 4,008 KHR to 1 USD as of late August 2025), the 4,000:1 ratio is widely accepted for convenience in daily transactions. [10]

For those looking for a Cambodian currency converter, you’ll find that many currency exchange apps and online tools reflect this stable relationship, often showing figures very close to 4,000 KHR per US Dollar. This stability makes Cambodian money conversion relatively simple, reducing the need for constant mental calculations.

When Should I Use Riel Versus USD in Cambodia?

Knowing when to use each currency is a key Cambodia travel money tip:

• US Dollars (USD): Ideal for larger expenses such as accommodation, entry fees to attractions like Angkor Wat (e.g., tickets to Angkor Archaeological Park), tour packages, upscale dining, and major purchases. Many businesses, especially those catering to tourists, will list prices in USD. [1]
• Cambodian Riel (KHR): Best for small transactions. This includes street food, drinks from small stalls, short tuk-tuk rides, souvenirs at local markets, and getting change for USD payments. Vendors often give change in Riel even if you pay in USD, especially if the amount is less than a dollar. Having small denominations of Riel will be incredibly useful for these daily interactions. [1]

Accessing Your Funds: ATMs in Cambodia for Tourists and Banks

Accessing cash is generally easy in major Cambodian cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. ATMs are widely available, especially in urban and tourist areas. However, there are a few important considerations for tourists.

Are there ATMs in Cambodia for tourists?

Yes, ATMs are readily available throughout Cambodia, particularly in cities and popular tourist destinations. You’ll find machines from various banks like ABA Bank and ACLEDA Bank. Most ATMs in Cambodia dispense only US dollars when foreign bank cards are used, typically in denominations of $50 or $100 bills. [1] It’s advisable to withdraw smaller amounts if possible, or immediately break larger bills at a bank or a larger shop, as getting change for a $100 bill can be challenging for small purchases. All ATMs in Cambodia charge a withdrawal fee, which typically ranges between $4 and $6 USD per transaction. [1]

When using ATMs, always prioritize machines located inside or directly outside banks for added security. For safety tips for money in Cambodia, it’s wise to be discreet, avoid flashing large amounts of cash, and be aware of your surroundings, especially when making withdrawals.

Credit Cards Accepted in Cambodia: Cash or Card in Cambodia?

The question of whether to use cash or card in Cambodia is a common one for travelers. The answer often depends on the type of establishment and the transaction size.

Can I use credit cards in Cambodia?

Yes, credit cards are accepted in Cambodia, particularly Visa and MasterCard. More than 60% of transactions made by tourists in Cambodia were completed using credit cards, according to an analysis by Visa Consulting & Analytics (VCA) based on VisaNet data. [1] You’ll find that most hotels, larger restaurants, international retail chains, and tour operators in major cities and tourist areas will readily accept credit cards. However, smaller businesses, local markets, street food stalls, and tuk-tuk drivers almost exclusively operate in cash.

Always inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid your card being flagged for suspicious activity. Be aware of potential foreign transaction fees from your home bank, which can add up. Some Cambodian establishments might also levy a small surcharge (typically 2-3%) for credit card payments to cover their processing fees.

Bakong App: A Glimpse into Digital Payments

Cambodia is also making strides in digital payments. The National Bank of Cambodia launched the Bakong app, a blockchain-based payment system that allows users to make transactions in both Riel and USD. [4] While primarily used by locals, this innovative platform signifies a move towards more electronic payments and could become increasingly relevant for tourists in the future. Electronic Riel payments, in particular, have seen significant growth. [1]

Practical Cambodia Travel Money Tips

Here are some essential Cambodia travel money tips to help you manage your finances efficiently and safely during your trip, whether you’re exploring Angkor Wat on a budget or enjoying the bustling streets of Phnom Penh.

1. Check Your USD Notes Carefully

Cambodians are very particular about the condition of US Dollar banknotes. Torn USD notes, heavily creased, or defaced bills may be rejected by banks and businesses alike. Ensure any USD you bring into the country or receive as change is in crisp, good condition. This can be a significant hassle if not anticipated.

2. Always Carry Small Denominations (Both USD and KHR)

This is perhaps the most crucial tip for the best way to pay in Cambodia. Having a mix of small USD bills ($1, $5, $10, $20) and various Riel denominations (e.g., 1,000៛, 2,000៛, 5,000៛) will make your life much easier. It avoids situations where vendors can’t make change, especially for small purchases like a bottle of water or a short tuk-tuk ride. Remember, getting change for a $50 or $100 bill can be difficult outside of major establishments.

3. Spend Your Riel Before You Leave

Unlike the US Dollar, the Cambodian Riel is generally not convertible outside of Cambodia. This means you should aim to spend all your remaining Riel before you depart. While you technically can’t take Cambodian Riel out of Cambodia in large amounts, small amounts for souvenirs are usually fine. Don’t worry about trying to exchange leftover KHR at an international airport; you’ll likely get a very poor rate or simply be unable to. It’s much better to use it up on last-minute snacks, drinks, or small gifts.

4. Be Mindful of the Cost of Travel in Cambodia

Cambodia can be a very affordable travel destination, especially if you embrace local markets and street food. However, understanding the cost of travel in Cambodia and budgeting accordingly is important. While hostels and guesthouses can be very cheap, attractions like Angkor Wat require a significant entry fee. For detailed budget planning, consider our guide on Cambodia budget travel under $30 a day.

• Budget travelers: Rely heavily on Riel for daily expenses like street food and local transport (tuk-tuks). Cash is king here.
• Mid-range to Luxury travelers: Will use more USD for hotels, nicer restaurants, and organized tours. Credit cards become more viable for these larger expenses.

Tipping Etiquette Cambodia

Tipping etiquette in Cambodia is generally more relaxed compared to Western countries, but it is appreciated. It’s not strictly mandatory in most local establishments, but for good service, a small gratuity goes a long way, especially given the typically modest wages.

• Restaurants: In higher-end restaurants, a 5-10% tip is appropriate if a service charge isn’t already included. For local eateries, rounding up the bill or leaving a few thousand Riel is common.
• Tour Guides and Drivers: For excellent service from tour guides, consider tipping $5-$10 USD per day. Drivers (especially for multi-day trips) might appreciate $2-$5 USD per day.
• Hotel Staff: A small tip of $1-$2 USD for porters or housekeepers is a kind gesture.
• Tuk-tuk Drivers: Rounding up the fare is a common practice. For a longer service or good driving, an extra 2,000-4,000 Riel (or $0.50-$1 USD) is generous.

How Much Cash Should I Carry in Cambodia?

Deciding how much cash to bring Cambodia depends on your travel style and itinerary. Given the prevalence of both USD and KHR, and the accessibility of ATMs, you don’t need to carry excessive amounts of cash.

• Daily Budget: For a budget traveler, plan for around $20-$30 USD per day for food, local transport, and small activities (plus accommodation). A mid-range traveler might spend $50-$100+ USD per day. [1]
• Initial Cash: It’s wise to arrive with about $100-$200 USD in small denominations ($1, $5, $10, $20) to cover initial expenses like visa on arrival fees (if applicable), airport transfers, and your first day’s meals before you have a chance to visit an ATM or exchange money.
• Replenishing Cash: You can easily replenish your cash at ATMs as needed. Withdraw larger sums from ATMs to minimize transaction fees, but be sure to secure your cash safely. Consider dividing your money and keeping some in a secure travel wallet or hotel safe.

Balancing convenience and safety, it’s generally recommended to carry enough cash for a day or two’s worth of expenses, relying on ATMs and credit cards for larger or less frequent payments. Always remember safety tips for money in Cambodia, such as using a money belt and being discreet with your cash.

Conclusion

Navigating Cambodian currency for tourists is manageable once you understand the dual system. The US Dollar serves as the primary currency for larger purchases and tourist services, while the Cambodian Riel is essential for daily small transactions, especially at local markets and street food stalls. With readily available ATMs (dispensing USD) and increasing credit card acceptance, managing your money in Cambodia is convenient. Remember to carry a mix of small USD and KHR denominations, check your USD bills for condition, and spend your Riel before you leave. By following these payment tips, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy the wonders of Cambodia without financial worries. For further reading on Cambodia’s economy and currency, refer to the National Bank of Cambodia

Frequently Asked Questions