Getting around Cambodia: Transportation for Every Journey

Getting around Cambodia: Transportation for Every Journey

Whilst transport networks continue to improve across Cambodia, it’s still worth putting some time into planning the best way to travel around this Southeast Asian nation.

In fact, researching transportation should be next on your list of priorities after applying for a Cambodia or, if you’re not eligible, looking into the Cambodia visa on arrival

The good news is that there are plenty of ways to get from A to B, whether you’re making a quick trip across town or a long journey from one city to another. If you’re traveling to Cambodia on a budget there’s no need to worry, transportation is generally inexpensive, particularly if you opt for local options. 

To help you plan a hassle-free trip to Cambodia, we’ve put together this guide to the modes of transportation available and when they may come in useful. 

Traveling to Cambodia: Flights and Border Crossings

For most travelers, flying is the most convenient way to reach Cambodia. If you’re heading to Cambodia from Europe or the US, you’ll most likely need to get a connecting flight in another Southeast Asian or East Asian country.

Phnom Penh International Airport is the largest and busiest airport in the country with flights arriving daily from across the globe. Siem Reap International Airport is a good choice if you’re starting your trip by visiting Siem Reap and Angkor Wat, Cambodia’s most famous attraction.

If you’re visiting Cambodia as part of a Southeast Asian adventure, you may be arriving from neighboring Thailand, Vietnam or Laos. Whilst a short flight may still be the best option, you can also get to Cambodia across a land border, often by a special minibus service.

Traveling long distances in Cambodia

If you want to experience as much of what Cambodia has to offer as possible, you’ll need to make 1 or 2 longer journeys during your stay.

To get from one part of the country without wasting too much time in the process, it’s a good idea to plan your itinerary carefully and decide in advance how you’re going to make the journey.

Domestic flights in Cambodia

Catching a short-haul flight between cities is a quick and comfortable option if your budget allows for it. Airlines operating within Cambodia include Cambodia Angkor Air, Cambodia Bayon Airlines, and Bassaka Air.

The flight from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap takes around 1 hour, prices can be compared online and vary depending on the time of year. 

Coach and minibus services in Cambodia

A cheaper alternative to flying is to take a coach. With networks covering all major and several minor towns and cities, buses offer a convenient way to get around Cambodia.

The bus from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap takes 5 to 6 hours and costs under $10. Bus companies are privately run and in some cases, it’s possible to purchase tickets in advance to guarantee your seat.

If you prefer a more comfortable trip you can pay a bit extra and opt for one of the luxury services available on the more popular routes. The vehicles are modern and often offer wifi and extra facilities.

Minibuses cover many of the same routes as coaches. Although usually faster, they are also more expensive and often crowded, minibusses are good if there is no coach service. 

Using shared taxis in Cambodia

The speediest way to get from A to B is by shared taxi. You pay for a seat and the vehicle departs when full.

Shared taxis often serve areas not covered by coaches and minibusses, so can be perfect for traveling between smaller towns and rural areas.

There are no fixed schedules but most depart in the morning from local transport stops. 

Traveling short distances in Cambodia

You’ll have no problem getting around towns and cities in Cambodia, with plenty of transportation available. You can also get a feel for the local way of life, as the best services are those used by the residents. 

Get around quickly on a motorbike taxi

Motorbike taxis, more commonly known as motos, are often considered the best way to get around Cambodian towns and cities quickly. Motos are inexpensive and plentiful, you’ll find riders gathered around transport stops and major attractions.

For safety, only use a moto if the rider offers you a helmet and travel one at a time. Don’t be put off if you have a backpack, most riders will be able to accommodate small pieces of luggage.

Remorques, the Cambodian version of the tuk-tuk

If you’re familiar with tuk-tuks in Thailand, this is Cambodia’s equivalent of the auto-rickshaw. The Cambodian tuk-tuk has become increasingly popular amongst locals and tourists in recent years, consisting of a covered trailer for up to 4 passengers pulled by a motorbike.

For hopping between temples or getting from one part of the city to another, the remorque is your ideal solution.

Is there Uber in Cambodia?

Uber no longer operates in Cambodia, however, there is an equivalent service called Grab. Download the app before you go and you’ll be able to hail rides in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.

Grab is the best way to get guaranteed fares and pay using a credit or debit card. 

Olivia Watson

Olivia is a world traveler who has been to 27 countries in just over 15 years. She loves to share her knowledge of traveling to help others travel safer, cheaper and have more fun.
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