Tourist Info

Health & Safety

Cambodia’s health system is vastly improving, but even with these improvements there are still a number of health risks that may cross your path.

With some advance knowledge you can certainly reduce risks.

By no means am I a doctor; the below information is not medical advice and is aimed at healthy adults only. Pregnant women and people traveling with children should search specialised advise from their GP.

Vaccinations

Although no vaccinations are officially required for entry to Cambodia, they are highly encouraged.

Your routine vaccines like polio, measles/mumps/rubella (MMR), and diphtheria/pertussis/tetanus (DPT) should be up-to-date. These vaccinations are recommended even if you do not travel.

Check at least 6 weeks before your departure with a specialised travel medicine health care provider for their suggested vaccinations. Your GP should be able to recommend a specialist.

The vaccination specialist should provide you with an International Certificate of Vaccination, which we recommend taking with you on your travels.

Food

Check food for smell and colour before eating it. Peel vegetables and fruit or wash them with bottled water. Make sure your food is fully cooked. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially before eating.

Keep in mind that the local knowledge of hygiene is still basic.

The staff at Rikitikitavi are trained in personal and food preparation hygiene. We practice western health and safety standards throughout the business.

Drinks

It’s hot, so drink plenty of water, but never drink tap water. Good quality bottled water is available everywhere, with a quality difference between mineral and purified water. Avoid the cheap, blueish bottles of water.

Salt

Salt deficiency can cause headaches, dizziness, fatigue and muscle cramps. Add a pinch of salt to your dinner, or supplement with rehydration salts (ORS).

Sun protection

Wear sun protection whenever going out, even when it’s cloudy or raining. A hat or an umbrella can keep your face out of the sun. Wear sunglasses to avoid damage to your eyes. Apply sun block frequently. Drink plenty of water to avoid sunstroke. Seek shade.

Prickly heat

Tropical heat and humidity may cause an itchy rash (often on limbs and abdomen) which is caused by transpiration getting ‘stuck’ under your skin.

Make sure you keep cool, wear clean, airy clothes and dry yourself well after a shower.

‘Prickly heat’ powder or (medicated) talcum powder gives a quick relief and keeps the skin dry for a longer period. An air conditioned room will also reduce the rash.

Mosquitos

The best way to avoid mosquito-borne diseases is to avoid mosquito bites:

  • Use a mosquito repellent containing 30%-50% DEET or citriol (lemon eucalyptus) day and night; use mosquito devices and citronella only as a secondary control. Citronella may smell lovely, but is not effective.
  • Wear light coloured trousers and long-sleeved shirts.
  • Keep doors and windows closed if possible.
  • Stay in a room with air conditioning if you can afford it and if available.
  • If you have no air conditioning in your room, use an (impregnated) mosquito net.
  • Treat, or have your room treated with a flying insect spray.
  • Avoid bathrooms with bucket shower and toilet; stagnant water is a breeding ground for mosquito larvae

Medicine

Though local pharmacies seem very well stocked and incredibly cheap, one should always bring essential medications to Cambodia as there is no guarantee they will be available locally.

Keep your medication in its original packaging and if required, take the original prescription. Make sure you follow airport guidelines for maximum liquid allowance.

When buying medicine in Cambodia, make sure the product is genuine and within the sell by date.

Health Insurance

Local health facilities may not always be sufficiently equipped. We recommend taking out medical insurance including medical evacuation. Check with your insurance adviser what your best available options are.

First-Aid Kit

In Cambodia, the nearest doctor might be far away, so bring a first-aid kit.
Purchase one before you set off on your trip; your nearest adventure store should have a variety of cleverly packed first-aid kits available.

Road Safety

Traffic accidents are a leading cause of injury among travellers. Reduce the risk by taking precautions:

  • Do not drink & drive
  • Wear a seat belt
  • Wear a helmet
  • Read up on Cambodian road rules before you head of on a rented scooter.
  • Avoid getting on overloaded buses or taxis
  • Hire a local driver, when possible
  • Avoid driving at night

Check out the Moto Rules and Tips by Steve Gosselin – the way traffic works (not how it should work) in Cambodia.