eSIM for Cambodia: what actually works
A researched, up-to-date guide to mobile data in Cambodia. Operators, coverage, prices, and when a local SIM beats us.
Choose your eSIM Cambodia according to the length of your stay and your expected data use. 5 GB is generally enough for maps, messaging and social media, while video streaming and hotspot use require more data. The plans shown range from 1 to 20 GB and start at $1.90. They are fully refundable within 30 days provided the eSIM has not been used on a network at the destination. The activation link is sent by email after purchase.
Cambodia eSIM plans
Prices in USD. Instant QR activation. Pick your data, land connected.
Clear data. Clear price.
Drift plans show a fixed data allowance, validity period and final price before checkout.
About “unlimited” plans: Plans marketed as unlimited, including Holafly plans, may still be subject to local network Fair Usage Policies (FUP) and temporary speed reductions after heavy use. Unlimited data does not always mean unlimited full-speed data.
Coverage in Cambodia
Cambodia has surprisingly good mobile data for its size. The three operators (Smart, Cellcard, Metfone) all run nationwide 4G, and 4G is the real story for travellers in 2026: 5G has only just started in Phnom Penh and is not meaningfully available yet. Coverage is strong in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, Kampot and around the Angkor temples. Rural provinces, the Cardamom Mountains and Mondulkiri are patchier, often 3G or limited signal. The internet is open, with no VPN needed for normal use.
Local operators
Smart Axiata
4G (5G urban trials)local eSIM availableThe widest nationwide 4G and the network most travel eSIMs use. The best all-round choice for getting around the country.
Cellcard
4G (5G in Phnom Penh)local eSIM availableOften the fastest 4G in the cities, with good urban coverage and strong customer service. A solid alternative to Smart.
Metfone
4Glocal eSIM availableVietnam-backed, the largest subscriber base, and the strongest reach in rural and border areas, though speeds can be a touch slower.
⚠️ An eSIM covering Cambodia connects on arrival with no SIM swap. If you are crossing overland from Thailand, Vietnam or Laos, a regional Asia eSIM keeps you connected across borders.
Networks available by plan
The network depends on the plan you choose. These are the published operators for the first six plans currently sold.
| Plan | Published operators |
|---|---|
| 1 GB · 7 days | Metfone, Cellcard |
| 3 GB · 15 days | Metfone, Cellcard |
| 5 GB · 30 days | Metfone, Cellcard |
| 10 GB · 30 days | Metfone, Cellcard |
| 20 GB · 30 days | Metfone, Cellcard |
Buying a local SIM instead
Where to buy: Airport arrival kiosks and operator shops (passport required to register)
Price: 3 to 5 USD
A Smart Traveller SIM at around $5 for 30 GB is cheap and easy if you have time at the airport. A travel eSIM saves you the registration queue and works the moment you land.
How much data for Cambodia
What to expect by trip type.
| Itinerary | Days | Data needed |
|---|---|---|
| Temples and cities (Phnom Penh, Siem Reap) | 5 to 7 | 5GB |
| Classic loop with Sihanoukville | 10 to 14 | 5 to 10GB |
| Island stay (Koh Rong) | 3 to 5 | 3GB |
The verdict
The verdict
Our eSIM wins when: you want to land connected for a short or mid-length trip without queuing at a SIM kiosk or handing over your passport.
A local SIM wins when: you stay several weeks and want the lowest price per GB, where a Smart Traveller pack is hard to beat.
On the competition: Unlimited plans rarely make sense here. 4G is enough for maps, ride-hailing and messaging, and a capped data pack covers a normal trip for far less.
Bottom line: For most travellers our eSIM is the simplest call: land connected for the temples and cities, no kiosk, no passport copy. For very long stays a local Smart pack wins on price.
Cambodia eSIM FAQ
Is there 5G in Cambodia in 2026?
Barely. 5G has only just started rolling out in Phnom Penh and is not meaningfully available to travellers yet. 4G is the standard and is more than fast enough for maps, ride-hailing and streaming in all the main tourist areas.
Will my data work at Angkor Wat?
Yes. The main Angkor temple complex around Siem Reap has decent 4G. Coverage is strong across Siem Reap town. It is the remote provinces and mountains, not the temples, where signal thins.
Do I need a VPN in Cambodia?
No. The internet is open for normal tourist use. Google, WhatsApp, Facebook, YouTube and the usual apps all work without a VPN.
Which app do I need for taxis?
PassApp and inDrive are the most used ride-hailing apps in Phnom Penh and larger towns, and both need mobile data. PassApp is Cambodia's homegrown option and works well in the capital.
Cities & islands in Cambodia
Local coverage, the best network by area, and the same plans that work nationwide.
Ready to sort your Cambodia eSIM?
Pick the plan that fits your trip to Cambodia, or work out exactly how much data you need first.