Getting around in Cambodia
There are many transportation options available for traveling between or within different cities in Cambodia throughout your stay. It is up to you to choose according to your preferences and destination.
Two-wheeled and four-wheeled taxis
There are three types of taxis: moto-dops, tuk-tuks, and regular taxis.
Moto-Dops
Moto-dops are simple motorcycles or scooters. You sit behind the driver, and it is possible to borrow a helmet. The average cost for this transportation is around $2.
Tuk-Tuks
A tuk-tuk is a small cart attached to a motorcycle. It can comfortably carry up to four people. A tuk-tuk is slightly more expensive than a moto-dop but much more comfortable and less risky. The fare ranges from $2 to $5 depending on the distance. It is often possible to negotiate a $1 to $2 discount on the price. If the driver refuses to lower the fare, pretend to leave, and he will likely chase after you to accept your offer. Keep in mind that city transport is often included in travel agency packages. Recently, new types of tuk-tuks have been introduced, which resemble tricycles; the motorcycle and the passenger area are now integrated into a single unit. The fare for these tuk-tuks is metered. There are also apps available to book a tuk-tuk, such as CamGo, Pass App Taxi, or Uber. The tuk-tuk will pick you up directly at your location after confirming your request by phone. The fare for tuk-tuks booked through an app is often $2 to $3 less than the price offered by a tuk-tuk on the street. This option is very convenient if you are unsure how to explain your destination. You can also choose to take a regular taxi, which is probably safer once night falls.
Taxis
Just like in Europe, there are taxis available, either sedans or pick-up trucks. The fare varies depending on your chosen destination and the duration of the ride. For example, a taxi from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville could cost around $50. The Uber app is also available for taxis, since June 2017.
Buses
The bus remains the cheapest option for long trips. A bus journey from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville costs $10 per person for a 5 to 6-hour ride covering a distance of more than 200 kilometers. At this price, an international company will offer relatively modern and comfortable buses, sometimes even providing a small bottle of water and some snacks. Khmer companies offer slightly cheaper tickets, about $7 or $8 for the Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville route. These buses are less comfortable, make more frequent stops, and travel more slowly. Be cautious, as buses are not always punctual, and breakdowns can occur, though this is rarer with modern buses. Some bus companies offer night trips.
Trains
There is only one railway line in Cambodia. which operates the following route: Phnom Penh-Takeo-Kampot-Sihanoukville and vice versa. Expect about 8 hours of travel for the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville route at a cost of $7.
Boats
Boat transportation is expensive and may only be available for certain routes depending on the season. Traveling down the Tonle Sap River from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap is only possible when the water level allows. For reference, a ticket from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap costs around $35, and the journey lasts about 6 hours. Due to the high cost, boat trips have become more of a tourist attraction than a means of transportation.
Air Travel
It is possible to travel by plane within the country. For example, the airline Cambodia Air Angkor operates daily flights between Sihanoukville and Siem Reap, as well as between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.