Should You Drink Tap Water in Cambodia?
If you’re planning your first trip to Cambodia, you’ve probably asked yourself: Can I drink the tap water there? The quick answer is no.
Why You Should Avoid It
Cambodia’s clean water system has improved a lot, especially in Phnom Penh. You’ll even find articles online talking about how far it’s come. But even so, the water still runs through many old pipes and older distribution systems. Everyone we know at home usually has an extra personal filter, and most families still boil their water before drinking it.
What’s Safe to Drink?
The good news is bottled water is cheap and easy to find. You can buy a big bottle for under $1 almost anywhere: mini-marts like 7-Eleven, Smile, Lucky, street stalls, and guesthouses all stock them. You can even get small bottles on the street for about $0.50.
Many hotels and hostels also offer free filtered water stations. Bring a reusable bottle and refill when you can, it saves money and cuts down on plastic waste.
What About Ice and Street Food?
Most restaurants and cafes use factory-made ice, which is generally safe for locals. But if you’re visiting for a short time or just arrived in Cambodia, it’s smart to be careful with ice and raw veggies at first. If you know the ice is factory-made and clean, go ahead and enjoy it, we know how hot it is here, and ice really makes a difference during the day.
Stay Hydrated and Enjoy
Locals usually carry their own water bottles and add ice from home or trusted places, then refill them during the day. If you can, do the same, but we know that’s not always easy for visitors. So just grab a big bottle of water, keep it with you, and stay hydrated as you explore Cambodia.