The best eSIM for Cambodia depends on how much data you need, but for a typical trip eSIM Ahora offers plans from $1.62, activated by QR code in about 30 seconds with no roaming from your home carrier. A 3 GB, 30-day plan costs $5.87. You connect, with top-ups available and nationwide coverage. Compatible with iPhone XS or newer, Samsung Galaxy S21+ and Google Pixel 3+.
Full-speed data every day; after the daily cap the speed is reduced.
Full speed up to 500 MB/day, then 512 Kbps.
Every eSIM can be installed within 180 days of purchase. Plan validity starts when you first connect.
Your eSIM picks between these networks on its own. If you see bars and nothing loads, you can pick one by hand.
Your Cambodia eSIM runs on Cellcard and Metfone, and your phone picks whichever has the better signal. Other local networks won't carry your data: if you see signal bars and nothing loads, turn off automatic network selection (iPhone: Settings → Cellular → your eSIM → Network Selection; Android: Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → your eSIM) and pick Cellcard or Metfone by hand.
Smart Axiata (leader), Cellcard and Metfone (Viettel Cambodia) are the three main operators. Excellent 4G+ across Phnom Penh (capital), Siem Reap (Angkor gateway), Sihanoukville (coast), Battambang, Kampot and Kep. 5G in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap since 2022 (initial rollout). Angkor archaeological complex (UNESCO, 400 km², 1,000+ temples): 4G at main temples (Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm 'Tomb Raider', Preah Khan); remote temples (Beng Mealea, Koh Ker, Banteay Chhmar) have weaker coverage. South coast (Koh Rong, Koh Rong Sanloem islands) has basic coverage. Mixed Type A/C/G plugs, 230V/50Hz.
Fly into Phnom Penh (PNH) or Siem Reap-Angkor (REP — new airport 2023 at 40 km from Angkor). Currency Cambodian riel (KHR), ~4,100 KHR per USD; USD UNIVERSALLY accepted (de facto co-currency). Mid-range dinner 5-15 USD, guesthouse 15-30 USD, mid-range hotel 50-150 USD. Classic itinerary: Siem Reap (Angkor 2-3 days) + Phnom Penh (S-21, Killing Fields, Royal Palace) + coast (Sihanoukville or Koh Rong islands) or Battambang (rural, bamboo train). Cambodia is mainstream SE Asia's cheapest destination. eVisa or visa-on-arrival 30 USD.