Cambodia might just be one of the easiest places in Southeast Asia to travel without breaking the bank—and the good news? You don’t have to sacrifice a thing. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, hiking through jungle trails, or lounging on hidden beaches, there are loads of budget-friendly tips for exploring Cambodia’s nature while keeping your wallet happy.

Here’s how we recommend doing it, straight from our team who’s been living the good (affordable) life across the country.

1. Go Where the Nature Is Free

Let’s start with the obvious: Cambodia’s natural beauty isn’t locked behind pricey tours or big entry fees. In places like Koh Rong Samloem, you can walk straight out of your bungalow and onto jungle trails or snorkel right off the beach. Waterfalls in Kampot, scenic riverfronts in Battambang, rice paddies outside Siem Reap—they’re all there for the exploring, no ticket required.

Pro tip from our island crew in M’Pai Bay: grab a snorkel mask and a sarong, and you’ve got everything you need for a full day out, no guide necessary.

2. Skip the Resorts—Stay Local

One of the best ways to stretch your travel budget and get a more personal experience is by staying in family-run guesthouses or eco-lodges. You’ll usually pay half the price of a big-name hotel, and you’ll get loads more character (and local recommendations) along the way.

From hammocks on the beach to tucked-away cabins in the hills, Cambodia’s full of simple, beautiful places to stay that don’t cost a fortune.

3. Eat Where the Locals Eat

You can fill up on delicious street food and local dishes for just a couple of bucks. Think fried noodles, fresh spring rolls, grilled fish, and coconut ice cream. Head to the local markets or food carts instead of tourist restaurants—you’ll get way more flavor for way less money.

In Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, our guides can point you to their favorite local spots (hint: it’s rarely the ones on TripAdvisor).

4. DIY Your Nature Tours

Sure, there are fantastic guided nature tours—and we offer some of the best—but if you’re really on a budget, you can still do plenty solo. Rent a bicycle in Siem Reap and pedal through the countryside. Hop on a boat taxi between villages on Tonlé Sap. Take a local bus to Kampot and explore the pepper plantations and caves on your own.

You don’t need a fancy tour to have a wild adventure—just a good attitude and maybe a bit of sunscreen.

5. Use Public Transport & Shared Rides

Private cars are comfy, but they add up fast. Cambodia has a pretty solid network of shared vans, local buses, and even tuk tuk ride shares that’ll get you from A to B without draining your budget. It’s not always the fastest, but you’ll see more and meet some characters along the way.

Island tip: boats between Koh Rong, Koh Rong Samloem, and the mainland are frequent and cheap if you book directly at the pier or through your guesthouse.

6. Bring the Basics With You

Nature here is generous—but the convenience stores, not so much. Bringing along basics like a refillable water bottle, quick-dry towel, and bug spray will save you money (and a lot of searching). Especially when you’re in remote areas or small villages, it’s better to come prepared.

Exploring Cambodia on a budget doesn’t mean cutting corners—it means traveling smart and making the most of the country’s natural gifts. From sunrise hikes to waterfall swims, you’ll find some of the best experiences don’t cost a thing.

And hey, if you ever want a little guidance or a tour that won’t blow the budget, we’re always here. Our local guides know how to do nature the right way—adventurous, affordable, and unforgettable.

Let’s get out there.