Most Efficient Ways To Get Around In Cambodia

How to Travel between Cambodia Cities

Below are the modes of transportation to use between cities in Cambodia for your reference.

By Plane

Domestic flights are the fastest transportation in Cambodia to travel between major cities of the country. For example, a flight from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap takes about 45 minutes, while the bus journey takes 6-8 hours. It is also generally more comfortable, convenient, and time-saving. 

There are some popular Cambodia airlines you can choose from such as Cambodia Angkor Air, Cambodia Airways, Bassaka Air, JC International Airlines, etc.

Cambodia Angkor Air

Cities in Cambodia that have an international and domestic airport are Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville. Other airports in Cambodia that only offer domestic flights  include Battambang Airport, Mondulkiri Airport, and Stung Treng Airport.

Here are the prices and travel times by plane between some popular destinations in Cambodia:

By Long Bus/ Minivans

Long buses are one of the most affordable ways to travel in Cambodia. Tickets are usually much cheaper than flights or taxis. You can usually buy tickets at the bus station or online.  Long buses are a flexible way to travel, as you can usually choose your departure time and the type of bus you want to take.

How to get around in Cambodia

There are bus services to most major cities in the country. Long buses can operate daily from 5 AM to 11 PM. Here are the prices and travel times by long bus between some popular destinations in Cambodia:

Long buses have a higher frequency of travel, are comfortable and convenient. If you want to travel faster, you can book minivans. This will help save about 1 - 2 hours of travel time, of course, at a higher price ranging from 2 - 5 USD difference.

By Train

Train travel in Cambodia is a unique experience that allows you to see the country from a different perspective. Train travel is a relatively affordable way to travel in Cambodia. The trains in Cambodia are air-conditioned and have comfortable seats.

However, the train service in Cambodia is not as popular as it once was. Currently, the train service in Cambodia is operated by the Cambodian Railway Corporation (CRC). The CRC operates a single line that runs from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville. The journey costs about 11 USD with 7 hours traveling and the trains are not very frequent. The train journey from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville is particularly scenic, as it passes through the Cardamom Mountains and along the coast.

Traveling by train in Cambodia

If you want to experience this means of transportation in Cambodia, you should check the schedule and book tickets in advance as the train service is not as frequent as it could be.

Here are the 3 most popular ways to travel between cities around the country, where airplanes and long buses are clearly popular choices. You can also try the train if you want to experience an interesting form of transportation in Cambodia. 

Expand your knowledge with our post about travel guide to Cambodia!

Transportation to getting around the city

Below are some effective and popular modes of transportation to get around when traveling in a location in Cambodia:

Tuk-tuk and Remork Moto

In general, both of these modes of transportation in Cambodia are popular and they have become an integral part of the local culture:

• Tuk-tuk is a Cambodia transportation that is most commonly used to describe a covered vehicle with a bench seat that can accommodate up to six passengers depending on its size.

• Remork moto is a more specific term that refers to a three-wheeled vehicle that is pulled by a motorcycle. The Remork is typically used for short-distance transportation in Cambodia. They are also known as ‘remorques’ in French. That is why local people here call it Remork-moto.

Remork moto in Cambodia

These two types of transportation in Cambodia are a great way to get around town, as they are relatively inexpensive and can maneuver through narrow streets and traffic. They are also a fun and unique way to experience Cambodian culture. 

The price of a Tuk-tuk or Remork moto ride in Cambodia can differ based on the distance covered and the time of day. Typically, for a short ride within a city, you can anticipate paying approximately $1 to $3. They are also commonly used for airport transportation, with fares usually around $9.

When taking a Tuk tuk or Remork moto in Cambodia, it is important to negotiate the price before you get in. Drivers will often start by quoting a higher price, so be prepared to bargain. It is also a good idea to know the approximate distance you are traveling, so that you can get a fair price.

A small tuk-tuk that accommodate 2 passengers

Public Bus

Bus is always an affordable choice. Public buses in Cambodia can be found in all major cities and towns. 

There are also a number of apps that can help you find public buses in Cambodia. These apps include: City Bus Official App, Phnom Penh Bus App, and Khmer Bus. These apps can help you find bus schedules, routes, and fares. They can also help you track the location of buses in real time. 

Public buses in Cambodia are easy to find in cities

Bus stops in Cambodia are typically marked with a blue sign with the words "Bus Stop" in Khmer and English. You can also ask a local for directions to the nearest bus stop. The fare for public buses in Cambodia is KHR 1,500 (US$0.37) per person, regardless of the distance. You can pay the fare in cash or with a prepaid card.

Taxi

Taxis are another popular mode of transportation in Cambodia. They are more expensive than tuk-tuks, but they are also more private and comfortable. Taxis in Cambodia are metered, so you will know the exact fare before you get in. 

There are a few different taxi companies operating in Cambodia, including Global Taxi, Great Wall Taxi, and Choice Taxi. Here are their hotline numbers:

• Global Taxi: +855 11 311 888

• Great Wall Taxi: +855 10 310 666

• Choice Taxi: +855 23 923 923

You can use online apps to book many service transportation in Cambodia

You can hail a taxi on the street, or you can book one in advance by calling the company or using a taxi-booking app such as PassApp, GrabTaxi, Tada, and WeGo Taxi.

In general, you expect to pay between $2 and $5 for a short ride within a city. Taxis are also a popular way to get to and from the airport along with tuk-tuk, and the fare for this is typically around $15.

Motodop 

Motodops in Cambodia refer to motorcycle taxi services commonly found in cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Motodops are a popular and convenient mode of transportation for short distances. Local motorbike drivers offer their services to ferry passengers to their desired destinations, often navigating through traffic and narrow roads. Motodop drivers are recognized by their brightly colored vests or jackets.

Motordop is a motorbike ride-hailing service popular in Cambodia big cities

When booking a motodop online through apps as we mentioned above, you will need to provide your pickup location, destination, and the date and time of your ride. The booking fee is typically around $1. 

One special thing is that even when you book online, you can still negotiate the price of your ride. It normally costs around $1 and $3 for a short ride around the city.

Once you have booked your motodop, you will be given a confirmation number. You can show this number to your driver when you arrive at your pickup location.

Cyclo

A cyclo is a three-wheeled bicycle rickshaw, they are also known as ‘samlors’. Cyclos are typically pedaled by a single driver, who sits in the back and pedals the front wheel. The passenger sits in the front seat, which is enclosed by a canopy to protect from the sun and rain. Cyclos can seat up to two passengers.

Cyclo can be found in major tourist attraction in Cambodia

The cost range of cyclo is the same as tuk-tuk, about $1 and $3 for a short ride within a city. This transportation in Cambodia is popular in tourist destinations, serving short distances for you to relax and enjoy the cityscape.

Bicycle/Motorbike Rentals

Renting a bicycle or motorbike is a proactive and suitable way to explore Cambodia according to your travel pace. Prices for bicycle rentals start from around $1 per day, while motorbike rentals start from around $5 per day.

There are many local rental companies in Cambodia, so you can find one that suits your needs and budget. Here are some contacts that you might need:

• Angkor Wat Scooter Rental (Siem Reap): +855 92 444 444

• Victory Motorcycle Rental & Repairs (Siem Reap): +855 99 480 280

• EMC MOTORBIKE RENTAL BKK1(Siem Reap): +855 81 366 933

• Battambang Scooter Rental (Battambang): +855 93 777 777

• Cambodia Cycling (Phnom Penh): +855 12 855 822

Riding bicycle is a popular choice for people exploring Cambodia countrysides

When renting a bicycle or motorbike, be sure to inspect the vehicle carefully for any damage. You should also wear a helmet at all times, as it is mandatory in Cambodia.

Boat/Ferry Services

Cambodia is a country known for its abundance of rivers and lakes. If you plan on visiting the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, Tonle Sap, exploring the tranquil rivers in Siem Reap, or taking a boat trip to a picturesque island in the Gulf of Thailand, you will need water transportation services.

Boating is a good choice when visit destinations like Tonle Sap Lake or Kratie in Cambodia

There are multiple ways to conveniently acquire boat tickets, including searching online or seeking recommendations from your accommodation provider. The price range for boat and ferry services in Cambodia can differ based on several factors such as travel distance, boat type, and season. As a general estimate, one-way tickets typically cost between $10 and $50.

Some useful tips for you

We recommend you to check the following things when using transportation in Cambodia:

• Be prepared to bargain: In Cambodia, it is customary to bargain when using transportation. The initial price that the driver quotes you will likely be higher than the final price you will pay.

• Know the approximate distance you are traveling: This will assist you in estimating the distance and negotiating a reasonable price for your ride. One way to determine the approximate distance you will be traveling is by using apps like Google Maps.

• Wear a helmet: It is crucial to wear a helmet while riding a bicycle or motorbike in Cambodia, as it is a mandatory requirement.

Rotei ses - a traditional Cambodia transportation

• Be aware of the traffic: The traffic in Cambodia can be chaotic sometimes, so be prepared to drive carefully if you drive yourself.

• Tip your driver if you are satisfied with the service.

• Although USD is widely used as the currency in Cambodia, it is still advisable to keep some small amounts of Cambodian Riel currency with you, especially when you are taking public buses.

In addition to the mentioned methods, there are a few other less commonly used but interesting local transportation methods such as Rotei ses -  a traditional form of transportation in Cambodia which is essentially an ox cart, usually pulled along by water buffalo or cows in rural areas. It is  a common sight in rural Cambodia, and they are a popular way for locals to get around. Or if you travel to Battambang, don't forget to experience Nori - a type of transportation in Cambodia that is made from bamboo slats that are mounted on a steel frame, and they are powered by a small engine. People in Battambang created nori as a way to transport goods and people along the abandoned railway lines.   

Noris was created to utilized the abandoned railways

There are many interesting ways to travel in Cambodia, aren’t they? You must be eager to experience some transportation in Cambodia as they are quite fascinating as well as intricately woven into the local culture and way of life. Feel free to connect with us through the contact information available on our website for any support you may need during your journey to Vietnam and Cambodia.