Essential Apps for Visiting Cambodia

Traveling to Cambodia offers unique experiences, from exploring the ancient temples of Angkor Wat to relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Koh Rong. However, navigating the country and making the most of your trip is easier with the right mobile applications. Whether you need help with translation, transportation, accommodation, or local insights, these essential apps will make your Cambodian adventure smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a complete guide to the must-have apps for your visit to Cambodia.

When it comes to navigating Cambodia’s cities and countryside, Google Maps is indispensable. This app provides accurate directions, whether you’re traveling by foot, car, or tuk-tuk. You can easily find popular attractions, restaurants, hotels, and ATMs. Plus, with the ability to download offline maps, Google Maps remains accessible even without internet connection, perfect for remote areas.

Key Features:

• Real-time navigation for driving, walking, and public transit.
• Offline maps for areas with limited internet access.
• Reviews, ratings, and opening hours for local businesses.

Tip: Download maps of key destinations like Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and Sihanoukville in advance for seamless access.

Grab is Southeast Asia’s leading ride-hailing app, and it’s widely used in Cambodia, especially in major cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. You can book rides easily, choose from a range of vehicle options, and even pay through the app. Grab also offers food delivery services, so you can enjoy local meals delivered to your doorstep.

Key Features:

• On-demand rides and food delivery.
• Transparent pricing with fare estimates.
• Secure cashless payments via the app.

Tip: Use Grab instead of hailing street taxis to avoid price haggling and language barriers.

Khmer24 – For Local Shopping and Deals

If you’re interested in local shopping or want to find deals on souvenirs, electronics, and other items, Khmer24 is the leading marketplace app in Cambodia. It’s popular among locals for buying and selling a wide range of products and can be helpful for travelers seeking bargains or unique local finds.

Key Features:

• Browse and buy a variety of items.
• Local deals and special offers.
• Direct communication with sellers.

Tip: Use this app to compare prices for items and get a sense of local market prices before buying.

XE Currency – For Currency Conversion

With Cambodia’s unique currency situation—both the Cambodian riel (KHR) and US dollars (USD) are widely used—XE Currency is essential for accurate conversions. XE Currency allows you to monitor live exchange rates and convert prices on the go, helping you avoid overpaying or misunderstanding prices.

Key Features:

• Real-time exchange rates for multiple currencies.
• Offline mode to view recent conversion rates.
• Conversion history for quick reference.

Tip: Refresh the app with Wi-Fi to get updated rates, especially if you’re planning on exchanging money.

Although many Cambodians in tourist areas speak English, some knowledge of the local language can be helpful.
Google Translate supports Khmer (Cambodian), allowing you to translate text, photos, or even live conversations. It’s invaluable for reading signs, ordering food, or asking for directions in Khmer.

Key Features:

• Real-time voice translation.
• Text translation in over 100 languages, including Khmer.
• Camera translation for translating written text on menus or signs.

Tip: Download the Khmer language pack for offline use to access translations anytime.

Foodpanda is a popular food delivery app in Cambodia, offering a wide variety of local and international cuisines delivered right to your door. Available in major cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, Foodpanda connects users with hundreds of restaurants, ranging from street food vendors to well-known international chains. The app is intuitive and allows for real-time tracking, plus it offers multiple payment options, including mobile payments, making it perfect for travelers who want an easy dining solution without the need to venture out.

Key Features:

• Extensive selection of restaurants and cuisines, both local and international.
• Real-time tracking for accurate delivery status updates.
• Convenient payment options, including mobile payments.

Tip: Look out for Foodpanda’s frequent discounts and promotions—it’s an easy way to try a variety of Cambodian dishes at affordable prices, perfect after a busy day of sightseeing.

For restaurant recommendations, hotel reviews, and popular activities, TripAdvisor remains one of the best apps for reliable travel insights. You can browse user reviews, see photos, and make reservations for dining and activities across Cambodia. It’s an excellent resource for discovering top-rated sites and authentic dining options.

Key Features:

• Detailed reviews and traveler photos.
• “Near Me” feature to discover nearby attractions.
• Bookings for activities, tours, and dining.

Tip: Use the “Save” feature to bookmark places you want to visit.

Booking.com and Agoda – For Accommodation

Booking accommodation in advance is crucial in Cambodia’s tourist hotspots. Booking.com and Agoda are two popular platforms that offer extensive options for hotels, guesthouses, and hostels across the country. Both apps allow for flexible booking, secure payment options, and frequently offer exclusive discounts.

Key Features:

• Wide range of accommodations, from budget to luxury.
• Flexible cancellation options and secure bookings.
• Price comparison to find the best deals.

Tip: Check both apps for competitive rates as some hotels have better deals on one platform.

For getting around Cambodia like a local, PassApp is a widely used ride-hailing app, especially popular for booking tuk-tuks and rickshaws. Unlike Grab, PassApp focuses primarily on traditional Cambodian transport options, making it ideal for short-distance travel within cities like Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville. With affordable prices and cash payment options, PassApp is a convenient and budget-friendly choice for tourists looking to experience authentic Cambodian transport.

Key Features:

• Book tuk-tuks and rickshaws, as well as standard cars.
• Affordable, with cash payment options.
• User-friendly app with real-time tracking.

Tip: Use PassApp alongside Grab to compare rates and find the best transport option for your needs. PassApp’s tuk-tuk services offer a local experience and are often cheaper for short rides within city centers.

Nham24 is Cambodia’s leading food delivery app, offering an extensive selection of local and international cuisines right at your doorstep. Available in cities like Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Battambang, Nham24 connects you with hundreds of restaurants, from traditional Cambodian eateries to popular global chains. The app is easy to use, provides real-time tracking, and offers multiple payment options, including cash on delivery—ideal for tourists looking to enjoy local flavors without having to navigate the city.

Key Features:

• Wide range of restaurants and cuisines, with both local and international options.
• Real-time tracking for accurate delivery updates.
• Multiple payment options, including cash and mobile payments.

Tip: Use Nham24 to explore Cambodian street food and traditional dishes from the comfort of your hotel or Airbnb. It’s a great way to try local specialties without the hassle of searching for restaurants, especially after a long day of sightseeing.

iTranslate Voice – For Voice Translation

For travelers who prefer hands-free communication, iTranslate Voice is a great tool that lets you translate spoken language in real time. The app supports Khmer, so you can communicate directly with locals by speaking into your phone, making conversations smoother and more natural.

Key Features:

• Real-time voice translation.
• Offline mode available with the pro version.
• Easy-to-use interface for quick translations.

Tip: Use iTranslate for longer conversations or when ordering food at local eateries.

Prey Nokor News – For Local News and Updates

Staying informed about local news and events can enhance your travel experience. Prey Nokor News provides updates on Cambodia’s current events, local happenings, and cultural news, all in English. It’s especially useful for staying informed about any travel advisories, weather updates, or public holidays during your trip.

Key Features:

• News in English, focusing on Cambodia and Southeast Asia.
• Push notifications for breaking news.
• Coverage of travel and tourism updates.

Tip: Check the app daily to stay updated on any changes that could impact your plans.