Money & Currency
The Dual Currency System
Cambodia has one of the most unusual currency situations in the world: There is a national currency (Riel, KHR), but in everyday life, almost everything is paid for in US dollars. Both currencies circulate in parallel:
- US dollars: Accepted everywhere — hotels, restaurants, tuk-tuks, supermarkets. Prices are quoted in USD.
- Riel: For small amounts under 1 USD. Change is often given in Riel (1 USD = 4,100 KHR). Also common in markets and street food stalls.
USD — Important Rules
- Bring USD cash! Preferably fresh, undamaged bills. Torn, marked, or heavily worn bills are REJECTED.
- Small bills: 1-, 5-, and 10-dollar bills are worth their weight in gold. 50- and 100-dollar bills are hard to change, except in hotels and banks.
- Coins: US coins are NOT accepted — only bills.
ATMs
ATMs are available in all cities and tourist areas. Most dispense USD (some also Riel):
- Withdrawal limit: Usually 200–500 USD per transaction
- Fees: 4–5 USD per withdrawal (plus your home bank's fees)
- Recommended banks: ABA Bank (lowest fees, reliable), ACLEDA Bank, Canadia Bank
Credit Cards
Accepted in upscale hotels and restaurants in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap (often with a 2–3% surcharge). On the islands, in Kampot, Battambang, and the northeast: cash only!
💡 Tipp
Bring at least 200–300 USD in small bills (1s, 5s, 10s). This is enough for the first few days and gives you flexibility. For longer trips: Withdraw from ABA Bank ATMs — they have the lowest fees (4 USD) and dispense up to 500 USD at once.
