Tipping isn't expected in Cambodia, but it is always appreciated. Many service workers in Cambodia earn a low wage, so if you are happy with the services provided by waiters, drivers, guides or others, leaving a small tip depending on the service is a good way to show your appreciation. Higher-end establishments, like upmarket restaurants and hotels, are beginning to include a service charge of 7–10% on travellers' bills. At cheaper eateries, like streetside food stalls or fast food outlets, a tip is not expected.
In terms of transport, it's not usually necessary to tip for short trips on a tuk-tuk or moto as you will likely be charged a tourist rate; however, if you book a driver for a day or two and are happy with the service, a tip would go a long way. Tipping also encourages excellent service in the future and is an entrenched element of the tourism industry in many Intrepid destinations.
Many temples and religious sites in Cambodia are free to visit, but some will have contribution boxes at entrances to cover the upkeep of these sacred places. Here, you may like to donate a few thousand riel at the beginning or end of your visit.
Cambodian locals are a very humble people, so if you do wish to leave a tip, please do so in a discrete manner – perhaps when shaking your guide's hand at the end of your time together. Carrying small notes in the local currency will make tipping easier. It is best to avoid tipping with coins, very small denomination notes or dirty and ripped notes, as this can be regarded as an insult.
Participate in a tipping kitty
On the first day of your trip your local leader may discuss the idea of running a group tipping kitty, which everybody contributes an equal amount to at the start of the tour. Your leader then uses this to tip drivers, local guides and hotel staff on your behalf. The leader will keep a running record of all monies spent, which can be checked at any time, and any money remaining at the end of the tour is returned to group members. This is often the easiest way to avoid the hassle of needing small change and knowing when and what is an appropriate amount to tip. Participation in this kitty is optional, and you are welcome to manage your own tipping separately if you prefer. Please note the tipping kitty excludes tips for your tour leader.
Tipping your local leader in Cambodia
You may also consider tipping your tour leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however the equivalent of USD 2–4 per person, per day, is a commonly used guideline. Of course, you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Click here to return to Cambodia FAQs
Our tours in Cambodia
18 Days
From
3060
Travel into the heart and soul of South East Asia on this comprehensive tour of Vietnam...
9 Days
From
1372
Travel from Vietnam to Thailand on a South East Asian adventure that explores Cambodia...
6 Days
From
2480
Uncover the mysteries of incredible Angkor Wat on a Premium tour of Cambodia. Travel...
6 Days
From
1399
Unearth the essence of Cambodia on a leisurely journey that spends time seeing the...
13 Days
From
5665
Be immersed in the rich historic and cultural heritage of Vietnam and Cambodia on this...
Tailor-Made trips
Take four or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary
18 Days
From
2872
Follow the ancient trails through Cambodia and Vietnam. Explore Angkor’s temples,...
20 Days
From
7355
Discover the incredible diversity, delectable cuisines, dramatic histories and natural...
14 Days
From
2036
See the Best of Cambodia on a trip from the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh, via the...
12 Days
From
1467
Hit Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City on a 12-day adventure through Cambodia with Intrepid....
9 Days
From
910
Follow the ancient trails on a trip to Thailand and Cambodia. Explore the temples of...
24 Days
From
10350
Discover the highlights and traditions of Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia on this 24-day...
13 Days
From
3556
Uncover the dramatic histories of these two beautiful countries on a trip through the...
9 Days
From
2166
See the best of Cambodia, learning about its history and customs as you cycle, trek and...
30 Days
From
5909
Travel into the heart and soul of South East Asia on this comprehensive tour of...
22 Days
From
2754
Bounce from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island, through Phnom Penh, Kampot and Siem Reap, then head...
12 Days
From
1332
Travel to Cambodia on a 12-day adventure from Ho Chi Minh City to Bangkok. Explore...
9 Days
From
1008
From Bangkok you'll hit the ancient streets and temples of Angkor in Siem Reap, get...
22 Days
From
2623
Explore South East Asia on a 22-day adventure through Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand –...
26 Days
From
2924
Experience the best of South East Asia with Intrepid. Marvel at the Angkor complex,...
12 Days
From
1573
Dive headfirst from Ho Chi Minh City into real Cambodia, visiting Phnom Penh, Siem Reap...
9 Days
From
2055
Munch your way through Cambodia on this mouth-watering food adventure from Phnom Penh...
13 Days
From
3395
See Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand from two wheels on this 13-day adventure from Ho Chi...
23 Days
From
3483
Explore vibrant Vietnam, charismatic Cambodia and beguiling Bangkok on this awesome...
20 Days
From
5022
Get to know Vietnam and Cambodia, each with their own uniquely enchanting culture and...
23 Days
From
2492
Take a trip with the lot – Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh, Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Hue, Phong...
35 Days
From
5778
Join us for the South East Asian trip of your dreams – a little bit of Bangkok, a pinch...
8 Days
From
1508
Encounter Cambodia's complex history and welcoming culture on a small-group family...
20 Days
From
5460
Taste the true flavours of Vietnam and Cambodia, feasting on local food and catching...
27 Days
From
6527
Gear up for an energising and rewarding cycling tour that takes in the best of...
