Getting Around Cambodia: Your Ultimate Guide to Transportation

Emma Ji
Aug 18
2 min read

Navigating transportation in a new country can feel a little intimidating, but in Cambodia, it’s all part of the adventure. From classic tuk-tuks to overnight buses and scenic ferries, getting around is surprisingly easy and often a fun way to experience local life.

Here is your complete guide to transportation in Cambodia, covering everything you need to know to travel like a pro.

Getting Around Cambodia

Getting Around in the Cities

Tuk-tuks: The most iconic way to travel. You have two main options: negotiating a price on the street or using a ride-hailing app. Apps like Grab and PassApp are incredibly popular, offering fixed prices and a clear map, which avoids any haggling and makes a ride a breeze.
Moto-taxis (Moto-dop): Were widely used in the past not long ago, but they disappeared when new apps appeared. We can still find some near markets in the countryside.
Bicycles & Scooters: Renting a bicycle is a fantastic way to explore smaller towns like Kampot or Battambang. Scooters offer more freedom to explore the countryside. Rentals are available in most major cities for a very reasonable price (typically $5 to $10 per day for a scooter).

Traveling Between Cities

Buses & Minivans: These are the most popular and cost-effective ways to travel between cities.
- Bus Companies: Look for reputable companies like Giant Ibis, known for its comfort and safety, or Virak Buntham, which has a very extensive network across the country.
- Routes & Prices: A trip from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap usually costs around $10-$15 and takes about 5-6 hours.
Trains: The train network is currently undergoing a revitalization. While it's not as extensive as the bus network, the line between Phnom Penh and Poipet or Kampot is operational and can offer a slower, more scenic, and safer alternative to the bus.
Flights: Domestic flights between Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville are a great option if you're short on time. They are the fastest way to travel but can be costly, with flights typically ranging from $80 to $120.
Boats & Ferries:
- To the Islands: Ferries are the best way to get to islands like Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem from Sihanoukville (a round trip is typically around $25).
- River Travel: For a more scenic journey, you can take a river cruise between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap (check the availability at your hostel), though be prepared for a long travel day.

Essential Travel Tips

Getting around Cambodia is finally quite easy.

Book Locally: To save both time and money, book your bus tickets and tours directly through your hostel or guesthouse. The staff at places like The Place Hostels have the best local connections and can arrange everything for you at a fair price.
Check Reviews: Always check reviews of bus companies before you buy a ticket.
Night Minivans: If you are pressed for time, avoid taking night minivans as they can be risky due to safety concerns.
Negotiate: When hailing a tuk-tuk on the street, it's polite to negotiate the price before you get in. If you prefer to avoid haggling, just use one of the ride-hailing apps.