tourisme
Updated 2026-06-01 5 min
In short
- ●359,471 international tourists visited Angkor from January to May 2026, according to Cambodianess.
- ●Down 31.8% compared to the same period in 2025.
- ●Siem Reap's tourism sector is directly affected, with repercussions for expats working in hospitality and tourism.
- ●No emergency measures announced by authorities so far.
359,471
International Visitors
January - May 2026
Period
-31.8%
Annual Decrease
Cambodianess
Source
Key Facts at a Glance
- 359,471 tourists. Angkor Archaeological Park welcomed 359,471 international visitors from January to May 2026.
- 31.8% drop. Compared to the same period in 2025, attendance fell by nearly a third.
- Period covered. The first five months of 2026 (January to May).
- Direct impact on Siem Reap. The decline affects the entire local tourism ecosystem.
- No measures announced. Authorities have not yet communicated a recovery plan.
How It Happened
The decline in attendance is part of a trend observed over several months. Here are the key milestones:
- Early 2025: Angkor saw higher attendance compared to 2024, driven by the return of Chinese tourists.
- Mid-2025: Gradual slowdown in tourism recovery, increased regional competition (Thailand, Vietnam).
- January 2026: Start of the year with a notable drop in arrivals, attributed to the global economic situation.
- February - May 2026: The trend continues month after month, with a cumulative decline of 31.8% over the first five months.
- June 1, 2026: Publication of figures by Cambodianess, raising the alarm.
Breakdown
Detailed data by nationality is not yet available, but the historical distribution of Angkor visitors allows us to anticipate the most affected segments:
| Segment | Usual Share | Estimated Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Chinese tourists | ~35% | Sharp decline (travel restrictions, sluggish Chinese economy) |
| European tourists | ~25% | Moderate decline (inflation, flight costs) |
| American tourists | ~10% | Slight decline |
| Asian tourists (excl. China) | ~20% | Stable to slight decline |
| Other | ~10% | Variable |
What This Means for Siem Reap
- Reduced number of customers in hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies, leading to lower income for expats working in these sectors.
- Possible slowdown in hiring and increased precariousness for expats on seasonal contracts.
- Decreased demand for transport services, tour guides, and ancillary activities.
- Some expats may consider leaving Siem Reap for other destinations or sectors.
- Rents and cost of living may drop slightly in the short term, but overall economic activity is weakened.
How to Stay Out of Trouble
- Diversify your income sources: Don't rely solely on tourism; explore remote work, online teaching, or other activities.
- Reduce fixed expenses: Negotiate your rent, cut unnecessary subscriptions.
- Stay informed: Follow announcements from the Ministry of Tourism and expat associations.
- Update your visa: Ensure your status is in order to avoid complications if your situation changes.
- Build an emergency fund: Save at least 3 months of living expenses.
- Network: Join expat groups to share opportunities and advice.
- Consider retraining: Learn digital skills or other in-demand fields.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main cause of this decline?
Several factors: global economic slowdown, regional competition, and possibly a drop in Chinese tourism.
Have Cambodian authorities reacted?
No concrete measures have been announced so far. Tourism stakeholders hope for promotional actions.
How many tourists visited Angkor in 2025?
In the same period in 2025, the number was approximately 527,000 visitors (estimate based on the 31.8% decline).
Does this decline affect all months of 2026?
Figures from January to May show a continuous trend. It is possible the decline will continue.
What do you recommend for expats in Siem Reap?
Diversify income, reduce expenses, and stay informed about sector developments.
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Published by
Siem Reap Hub
The community guide for expats and travelers in Siem Reap, Cambodia