US Issues Urgent Travel Advisory for Thailand and Cambodia as Rising Border Violence Disrupts Tourism Plans

Published on December 16, 2025

In a significant development for travelers to Southeast Asia, the U.S. Department of State has issued updated travel advisories for Thailand and Cambodia, citing escalating violence in areas along their shared border. The advisory comes in response to increasing tensions between both nations, with a surge in violent incidents in the border regions, raising concerns for tourists and locals alike.

For travelers planning to visit Thailand or Cambodia, the warnings have created a wave of concern and a reevaluation of travel plans. The U.S. government is urging its citizens to exercise heightened caution, particularly in the areas closest to the border between the two nations. The advisory has been triggered by clashes between Cambodian and Thai military forces, as well as reports of civilian casualties from the violence.

What the U.S. Travel Advisory Says

The official travel advisory from the U.S. Department of State places both Thailand and Cambodia under “Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution” overall, but with a more serious warning for areas close to the Thailand-Cambodia border, which are rated as “Level 4 – Do Not Travel.” This level of alert is a reflection of the deteriorating security situation in the regions most affected by the conflict, such as the areas around Poipet in Cambodia and the border town of Aranyaprathet in Thailand.

According to the U.S. Department of State‘s website, the violence between Thai and Cambodian forces, including exchanges of artillery fire, has led to the displacement of civilians and created significant safety risks for travelers. Both governments have issued statements that they are working to ensure the safety of their citizens and visitors in urban centers like Bangkok and Phnom Penh, where tourism continues unabated. However, the situation at the border remains unstable and could worsen in the coming days.

Thailand’s Reactions and Security Measures

Thailand, which remains a major tourism destination for visitors from all over the world, has taken significant steps to reassure travelers. The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that tourism operations in areas outside the conflict zones remain unaffected, and that security measures have been heightened in key tourist destinations, such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. These areas are still considered safe for foreign visitors.

However, Thai authorities have advised that travelers avoid the border regions, as well as certain southern provinces such as Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat, which have long been hotspots for violence and unrest. Thai officials have been actively working with international partners, including the U.S. Embassy in Thailand, to provide emergency assistance and support to travelers caught in the conflict zones.

Cambodia’s Efforts to Address the Crisis

Cambodia, which shares a long and historically complicated border with Thailand, has also been forced to adjust its approach in light of the growing violence. According to statements from the Cambodian Ministry of Tourism, efforts to ensure the safety of travelers are a priority, with special attention given to areas near the border and the most popular tourist spots in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

Local governments are working alongside international agencies to evacuate foreign nationals and citizens from the conflict zones. In addition, Cambodia is working to facilitate the safe return of travelers stranded at the border after the closure of checkpoints due to the violence. Thousands of travelers have been affected by the border closure, and both countries are collaborating to manage the growing crisis.

Landmines and other risks remain a major concern in Cambodia’s rural areas, with the U.S. Department of State recommending that visitors remain cautious and avoid less-traveled regions due to the potential presence of unexploded ordnance.

Practical Advice for Travelers

Travelers who have booked trips to either Thailand or Cambodia in the near future should stay up to date with the latest official guidance. The U.S. State Department continues to monitor the situation closely and is working with embassy staff to provide assistance to Americans who may find themselves in need of help.

Travel insurance that includes coverage for emergency evacuations is strongly advised, especially for those who plan to visit any regions near the Thailand-Cambodia border. Additionally, travelers should always check with their respective embassies for the latest advisories and information about the availability of support services.

Key safety tips include:

• Avoid the border regions: Areas within 50 km of the Thailand-Cambodia border should be avoided at all costs.
• Register with your embassy: Use the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive updates and assistance.
• Stay informed: Regularly check reliable sources for the latest safety information from local authorities and embassies.

Ongoing Impact on Tourism and Travel Plans

For the broader travel industry, this advisory is expected to have significant ripple effects. Tourism-dependent economies in both Thailand and Cambodia will feel the impact, particularly in border areas where the conflict has escalated. Local businesses in regions like Siem Reap, which rely on international tourists visiting temples like Angkor Wat, could face disruptions. However, as urban centers like Bangkok, Phnom Penh, and Pattaya remain unaffected, the overall tourism sectors in these countries are likely to experience a shift in the patterns of visitation.

Travel advisories such as these often lead to a drop in tourist arrivals from certain regions, particularly when violence is involved. For now, it remains to be seen how long this period of instability will last, but both nations are making concerted efforts to restore confidence and safety in their most popular travel destinations.

The Road Ahead

As the situation in Thailand and Cambodia continues to develop, travelers are encouraged to keep their plans flexible and stay informed through official channels. Whether you are planning a cultural trip to Cambodia’s ancient temples or exploring Thailand’s bustling urban life, the majority of the region remains welcoming to tourists. However, the rise in border violence serves as a stark reminder of the dynamic security risks that travelers must navigate in today’s world.

For now, official government advice remains clear: avoid border areas, stay informed, and exercise caution when traveling in Thailand and Cambodia. If you’re planning to travel soon, keeping up with official channels like the U.S. Department of State or the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs will be your best guide to ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.