Cambodia isn’t the easiest country to get around, but it’s manageable with some planning. In this guide, I’ll cover transportation options in Cambodia—from buses and tuk-tuks to car rentals—so you can move around safely without breaking the bank.
Public Transportation in Cambodia
Cambodia isn’t well-known for its public transportation. It’s not like Europe or big cities in the U.S., where you have regular buses or trains connecting every corner of the country. But, there are still ways to get around.
Buses
Buses are your best option for traveling between major cities and tourist destinations. The most popular companies are Giant Ibis, Mekong Express, and Sorya. They’re affordable, reliable, and often have air conditioning, which can be life-saving in the Cambodian heat.
Fares range from $5 to $15, depending on the distance. For example, a bus from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap costs about $10. Buses are pretty safe, but the roads can be rough, and travel times can be longer than expected due to traffic or road conditions.
Mini-buses
Mini-buses are another option. They’re faster than regular buses but tend to be less comfortable. There’s less legroom, and you’ll often find them filled to the brim with passengers. But if you’re in a hurry, mini-buses are a good option since they’re quicker and stop less frequently.
Prices are similar to regular buses, ranging from $7 to $12 for most routes. Companies like Cambotrails and Virak Buntham offer mini-bus services.
Local Bus Services in Cities
In cities like Phnom Penh, there are local buses, but they’re not widely used by tourists. Most locals prefer tuk-tuks or motorbikes. The bus routes can be confusing if you don’t speak Khmer. Plus, they’re not always reliable in terms of schedule.
A single ride costs less than $1, but you’ll need patience. Unless you’re on a tight budget, I’d recommend skipping these and opting for a tuk-tuk or taxi instead.
Taxis and Rideshare Services
Taxi services in Cambodia aren’t as common as in other countries, but you do have a few options. Let’s break them down:
Regular Taxis
You can find taxis in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, especially around the airports and key tourist areas. These aren’t metered, so always agree on a price before getting in. Fares from Phnom Penh airport to the city center are around $12-$15.
Taxis are usually safe, but it’s always good to have your hotel arrange one for you, just to avoid getting overcharged. Taxi drivers generally don’t speak much English, so having your destination written down can be helpful.
Rideshare Apps: Grab and PassApp
Grab and PassApp are the two main rideshare services in Cambodia. They’re much cheaper than regular taxis, and since the price is set in the app, there’s no need to negotiate. Grab is more widely used, especially in Phnom Penh, while PassApp is better for hiring tuk-tuks.
Fares for rides are reasonable, usually around $2-$4 depending on the distance and time of day. Plus, you can pay in cash or via the app. However, like anywhere, always make sure to follow basic safety precautions. Share your trip with someone if you’re traveling alone.
Tuk-tuks
Tuk-tuks are everywhere in Cambodia. They’re a three-wheeled motorcycle taxi, and they’re pretty much the go-to mode of transport for short distances.
Prices for short trips within the city are $1 to $3. For longer trips—like going from Siem Reap city center to Angkor Wat—it’ll cost around $5 to $10, depending on your negotiation skills. Tuk-tuks are safer than motorbike taxis, but always agree on a price before you get in.
Another tip: I’ve often found it helpful to say where I’m going in Khmer. It helps avoid misunderstandings and sometimes lowers the price, as locals appreciate the effort you’re making.
Motorbike Rentals
Motorbikes are a popular way to get around in Cambodia, especially for short-distance trips. You can rent motorbikes in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville, with rental prices ranging from $5 to $10 per day.
But here’s the thing: traffic in cities like Phnom Penh is chaotic, and accidents involving motorbikes are common. Riding in Cambodia isn’t for beginners or even for casual drivers used to light traffic. You’ll need to be confident in your skills to handle the road hazards and the unpredictable flow of other vehicles.
If you do rent a motorbike, make sure you wear a helmet. It’s not just for your safety—it’s also required by law. Fines for violations aren’t high (usually around $5), but it’s not worth the risk of an accident.
Car Rentals
Renting a car in Cambodia is usually not recommended unless you’re planning to visit areas outside of the cities where public transportation or taxis aren’t available. If you do need to rent a car, you can find rental companies in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville.
How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Car?
Car rentals cost around $25 to $60 per day for an economy vehicle. Most rental agencies offer a driver with the car for an extra $20-$30 per day, which I recommend. Driving in Cambodia can be stressful due to poor road conditions and aggressive drivers, so it’s often better to let a local handle it.
Driving in Cambodia: What You Need to Know
If you’re set on driving yourself, here are a few things you should be aware of:
- Traffic is unpredictable: You’ll be dealing with cars, tuk-tuks, motorbikes, and pedestrians competing for space. There aren’t many traffic signals, and drivers often ignore them when they do exist.
- Road conditions vary: Paved roads in the city centers are manageable, but once you get off the main roads, expect potholes, dirt roads, and uneven surfaces.
- You need a valid international driving permit (IDP) to rent a car.
Overall, while it’s possible to rent and drive yourself, it’s only advisable if you’re really confident in dealing with chaotic traffic and poor infrastructure.
Boat and Ferry Services
Cambodia also offers ferry services between islands and along the Mekong River. Siem Reap to Phnom Penh by boat, for example, is a popular route, and the trip takes around 5-6 hours. Services are generally reliable during the dry season, but boats might not run during the rainy season when water levels are unsafe.
Ferries between Sihanoukville and Koh Rong cost about $25 for a round trip and take around 45 minutes to an hour. The seas can get rough, so if you’re prone to seasickness, it’s better to take motion sickness medicine beforehand.
Costs and Safety Tips
When it comes to transportation in Cambodia, costs are reasonable, but always be aware of a few key things:
Negotiate Prices
Whether you’re taking a tuk-tuk or a taxi, it’s crucial to negotiate the fare in advance. If you’re using an app like Grab or PassApp, you won’t have to worry about this, but otherwise, always confirm the fare before the trip starts.
Watch Your Belongings
Like many places, petty crime can be an issue. Keep your bags or valuables close, especially if you’re riding in a tuk-tuk or on a boat. Theft usually happens quickly, so it’s better to stay cautious.
Travel Insurance
If you’re renting a motorbike or planning to drive a car in Cambodia, make sure you have solid travel insurance that covers accidents or injuries. Road accidents here are common, and medical care, while available in larger cities, can be expensive. Better to be safe than sorry.
Final Thoughts
While transportation in Cambodia may not be as convenient as in more developed countries, there are still plenty of ways to get around—whether it’s by bus, tuk-tuk, or car rental. The key is to plan ahead, stay safe, and be flexible with your schedule. Whether you’re exploring Angkor Wat or relaxing on the beaches of Koh Rong, just make sure you’re aware of your transportation options.
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