Cambodia Currency

On the whole Cambodia is an inexpensive place, although it is a bit more expensive than neighbouring countries like Vietnam and Thailand.

Of course you can reduce your costs by bargaining, although you shouldn't overdo this as in Cambodia foreigners are quoted higher prices, but not nearly as much as in e.g. Vietnam.

Cambodia's official currency is the riel, which is named after the fish used to make prahok, a fermented fish paste. The riel comes in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10.000, 50.000 and 100.000 (although the latter two are very rare). Coins are not used in Cambodia. The riel fluctuates around 4000 riel to a dollar.

Riels are mainly used in markets and to buy small items, like a bottle of water or to pay for small services like a moto or tuktuk ride (keep in mind, moto and tuk tuk drivers rarely have change, that is for foreigners, so be sure you have the exact amount ready).

US Dollars are widely accepted in Cambodia and actually serve as a second currency. US dollars are used for larger bills. Don't expect small shop venders to have change of anything more than a $5 note, and do expect small change in riel. Check your US dollars carefully as notes with a small tear are not accepted, especially the larger denominations of 5 dollars and more.

You don't need to change dollars into riel when enetering the country as you will inevitably pay a lot of things in dollars and receive change in riel, which you can use for smaller purchases.

Money changers are concentrated at the markets and change all well known currencies into US dollars. They usually offer a better rate than the banks.

Traveler’s cheques

Traveler’s Cheques are well accepted in Cambodia and can be cashed at money changers and most banks.

Shop around for the best rates and insist that you get small to medium denominations.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are still not widely accepted in Cambodia, but are gaining in acceptance, mostly at more expensive venues.

ATM’s

Available in Phnom Penh,Saim Reap and Sihanouk ville and now also in smaller towns like Battambang and Kompot

Western Union

Money transfers via Western Union are not cheap, so this should be a last resort, but this service is available in all major towns and cities.