Getting Around Cambodia
From tuk-tuks and ride-hailing apps to buses, trains, and ferries — everything you need to know about transport in Cambodia, including prices and practical tips.
Overview
Cambodia's transport infrastructure has improved dramatically in recent years. Major highways connecting Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, and border towns are now well-paved. However, rural roads remain rough, and traffic in cities can be chaotic by Western standards.
The most common ways to get around are tuk-tuks for short trips, ride-hailing apps like PassApp and Grab for city travel, and long-distance buses between major destinations. Trains have been revived on two routes, and domestic flights connect Phnom Penh with Siem Reap in just 45 minutes.
Tuk-Tuks
The iconic Cambodian tuk-tuk (a motorcycle pulling a covered trailer) is the default mode of transport for tourists. You'll find them everywhere — outside hotels, at temples, and cruising streets looking for passengers.
How to Use
- Negotiate first: Always agree on the price before getting in
- Short rides: $1-3 within city centers
- Full day hire: $15-25 for a day of sightseeing
- Angkor Wat circuit: $15-20 for the small circuit, $25-30 for the grand circuit
Negotiation Tip
Start at about 50-60% of the first asking price. Most drivers expect haggling. Having your destination written in Khmer on your phone helps avoid misunderstandings.
Ride-Hailing Apps
Ride-hailing apps have transformed city transport in Cambodia. No more haggling — prices are metered and transparent.
PassApp (Most Popular)
Cambodia's homegrown ride-hailing app dominates the market, especially in Phnom Penh. Offers tuk-tuks, cars, and motorbike taxis. Cheaper than Grab in most cases. Cash payment standard, some card options.
Grab
Southeast Asia's leading ride-hailing app works in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Slightly more expensive than PassApp but accepts credit cards more reliably. Available vehicle types include GrabBike, GrabTukTuk, and GrabCar.
Pro Tip
Download both PassApp and Grab before arriving. PassApp is better for tuk-tuks, while Grab often has more cars available. Compare prices on both for the best deal.
Long-Distance Buses
Buses are the most popular and affordable way to travel between Cambodian cities. The industry has matured significantly, with premium operators offering WiFi, USB charging, snacks, and comfortable seats.
Bus Company Comparison
| Company | Level | Routes | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Giant Ibis | Premium | PP–SR, PP–SHV, PP–Kampot | $13-18 | WiFi, USB, snacks, punctual |
| Mekong Express | Premium | PP–SR, PP–SHV, PP–HCMC | $11-15 | WiFi, AC, comfortable seats |
| Virak Buntham | Mid-range | Most routes nationwide | $8-13 | Wide network, sleeper buses |
| Capitol Bus | Budget | PP–SR, PP–Battambang | $8-10 | Basic, frequent departures |
| Sorya Transport | Budget | PP–SR, PP–SHV | $7-10 | Oldest company, basic |
Key Routes & Times
- Phnom Penh → Siem Reap: 6-7 hours, $10-18
- Phnom Penh → Sihanoukville: 4-5 hours, $10-15
- Phnom Penh → Kampot: 3-4 hours, $8-12
- Phnom Penh → Battambang: 5-6 hours, $10-14
- Siem Reap → Battambang: 3-4 hours, $8-12
Trains
Cambodia's railway was revived in 2016 after decades of neglect. The Royal Railway operates two routes. Trains are slow but scenic and offer a unique travel experience.
Routes
- Phnom Penh → Sihanoukville: ~7 hours, $7 one way. Departs Friday–Sunday.
- Phnom Penh → Poipet: ~14 hours, $7 one way. Limited schedule.
Trains have basic seating, ceiling fans, and a snack cart. The PP–Sihanoukville route passes through beautiful countryside. Book at Phnom Penh Railway Station or online.
Limited Schedule
Trains run on a limited schedule (typically weekends only) and are much slower than buses. Check the Royal Railway Cambodia Facebook page for current timetables, as schedules change seasonally.
Domestic Flights
If time is limited, domestic flights connect Cambodia's three international airports. The most popular route is Phnom Penh to Siem Reap (45 minutes vs 6+ hours by bus).
Routes & Airlines
- Phnom Penh ↔ Siem Reap: Cambodia Angkor Air, Lanmei Airlines — $50-120
- Phnom Penh ↔ Sihanoukville: Limited services — $60-100
- Siem Reap ↔ Sihanoukville: Seasonal, check availability
Book through airline websites or comparison sites. Prices fluctuate seasonally — book early in high season (November–February).
Ferries & Boats
Boats serve Cambodia's islands and a few river routes. Speed boats are the main way to reach Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem.
Popular Routes
- Sihanoukville → Koh Rong: 45 min speed boat, $20-25 round trip
- Sihanoukville → Koh Rong Sanloem: 45 min, $20-25 round trip
- Phnom Penh → Siem Reap (river): Scenic Tonle Sap boat, ~5 hours, $35 (seasonal)
Rough Seas
Boats to the islands may be cancelled during storms or rough seas, especially June–October. Have a flexible schedule if island-hopping during wet season.
Motorbike Rentals
Motorbikes offer freedom to explore at your own pace, especially in rural areas and island destinations. Rental is easy and cheap.
Rental Details
- Automatic scooter: $5-8/day
- Semi-automatic (Honda Dream): $5-7/day
- Manual (250cc+): $15-30/day
- Passport required: Most shops take your passport as deposit (or a cash deposit of $50-100)
Safety Warning
Cambodia has one of the highest road fatality rates in Southeast Asia. Always wear a helmet, drive defensively, avoid night riding on rural roads, and ensure your travel insurance covers motorbike accidents (many policies exclude them by default).
Transport Price Comparison
| Transport | Price | Per | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuk-tuk (city) | $1-5 | per ride | Negotiate before boarding |
| PassApp tuk-tuk | $1-4 | per ride | Metered, no haggling |
| PassApp car | $3-8 | per ride | AC, metered |
| Motorbike taxi | $0.50-2 | per ride | Short distances only |
| City bus (PP) | $0.37 | per ride | Phnom Penh only, 1,500 KHR |
| Long-distance bus | $8-18 | per trip | Between major cities |
| Train | $7 | per trip | PP to Sihanoukville |
| Domestic flight | $50-120 | one way | PP to Siem Reap |
| Ferry to Koh Rong | $20-25 | round trip | 45-min speed boat |
| Motorbike rental | $5-15 | per day | Semi-auto or scooter |
Essential Tips
Do
- • Download PassApp & Grab before you arrive
- • Carry small USD bills ($1, $5) for tuk-tuks
- • Book Giant Ibis or Mekong Express online in advance
- • Save your hotel address in Khmer on your phone
- • Wear a helmet on motorbikes — always
Avoid
- • Paying before the ride ends
- • Riding motorbikes at night on unlit roads
- • Budget "minivan" services (often dangerous)
- • Accepting rides from airport touts at inflated prices
- • Driving without proper insurance coverage
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Guides
Get Cambodia Travel Updates
Visa changes, travel tips, and destination guides delivered to your inbox.
No spam, unsubscribe anytime. We respect your privacy.