Tourism in Cambodia in 2025: Fewer Visitors, More Revenue

According to the 2025 report from the Cambodian Ministry of Tourism, the country welcomed 5.57 million international tourists, a 16.9% decrease compared to 2024. Despite this decline, tourism revenue increased. This trend suggests that visitors are spending more per trip, possibly due to higher-end tourism or longer stays.

The full report has not yet been published in detail, but these figures confirm an uneven recovery in the sector after the pandemic. The drop in arrivals may be explained by regional competition (Thailand, Vietnam) and global economic factors.

If you live in Siem Reap, this trend is good news for your daily life: fewer tourists means less crowding at temples, fewer traffic jams, and a calmer atmosphere. However, the increase in revenue per tourist could lead to higher prices in hotels, restaurants, and tourism services. Expats working in tourism (guides, agencies, hotels) may see a more demanding but higher-spending clientele.

For digital nomads, coworking spaces and cafes remain accessible, but rental prices in tourist areas could rise slightly if the high-end demand continues.

• Enjoy less crowded temples: plan your visits early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid groups.
• Adjust your budget: if you work in tourism, adjust your rates to match the higher-spending clientele.
• Explore off-the-beaten-path activities: with fewer tourists, small local operators are more available.
• Follow quarterly reports from the Ministry of Tourism to anticipate trends.

Don't jump to conclusions that tourism is in crisis. The drop in arrivals may be temporary and linked to external factors (visas, competitiveness). Conversely, the rise in revenue may mask inflation that hurts expats on fixed incomes. Beware of rumors about a massive recovery: the figures show stabilization, not a boom.

The Ministry of Tourism is expected to publish detailed data by market (tourist origin, length of stay, average spending). This information will help better understand the trend. Also watch visa policies: simplification could boost arrivals. Finally, the rainy season (June-October) is traditionally quieter, which could accentuate the decline before a rebound in peak season.