How to Travel Around Cambodia

Cambodia, as a travel destination, is quite a small and different country. During your travels, you will go from busy cities to far quieter temples in just a couple of hours of travel. There are many different travel options available in the country. Let us have a look at how best to travel around Cambodia according to where you want to visit.

Plan Your Route Before You Land

Cambodia has three main travel areas to go about from and to: Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville. So it is important to decide beforehand which cities you want to visit so that you can plan out your route, which will make sure you can avoid any unnecessary backtracking. If you are short on time, it is best to fly between the cities. Whereas, if you want to see the beautiful countryside, use ground transport like cars, buses or minivans.

Use Domestic Flights for Long Distances

Cambodia has a few domestic airports, and flights between Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville will take less than an hour of flight. They generally save a lot of time compared to road travel, but are far more expensive compared to other forms of travel. It is important to book tickets early as seats fill fast and sell out quickly, especially during holidays. If you book early, you can sometimes get good tickets at a more affordable price.

Hire a Driver for Flexibility

If you are travelling in a group or want full control, hire a car with a driver. Many locals offer daily rates, and this works well for visiting remote temples or rural villages. Many hotels, such as FCC Angkor by Avani, will be able to arrange a car for you. Even though they are a Hotel in Siem Reap City, they will be able to provide you with great transport options for many of your travel needs.

Take a Bus for Budget Travel

Buses are a cheap and widely available mode of transport in Cambodia. They connect most towns and cities. Choose trusted companies like Giant Ibis or Mekong Express, as they offer cleaner buses and better safety. It is advisable to bring some snacks and a jacket as the air-conditioning is often strong, and breaks along the journey are limited.

Try Minivans for Faster Ground Travel

Minivans are quicker than the slower large buses. They also leave more often than the buses and reach smaller towns. The downside is that the rides can feel cramped. If you are a tall person or have heavy luggage that you are carrying with you, it is best to consider other options so that you can have a more comfortable ride.

Ride a Tuk-Tuk in the City

Tuk-tuks are the easiest way to move around within the cities. They can be found everywhere and are easy to flag down for a quick ride. It is better to discuss and agree on a price before you start your journey if you are using one that you hail from the road or a stand. You can also use a ride-hailing app to avoid being cheated on high fares. Tuk-tuk rides are a quick and easy ride for short distances, but for longer rides, they can get uncomfortable.

Rent a Bicycle or Scooter

In small towns or rural areas, bikes give you freedom when travelling. The area of Siem Reap is a place that is more suited for cycling, especially so near the crowded Angkor Wat. If you use a scooter, it will let you cover more ground, for which you will need a valid license and basic riding skills.

Use Boats for Unique Routes

You can travel using boats as another mode of transport when it comes to travelling between Siem Reap and Battambang or Phnom Penh. The trips may take longer than using a bus, but they show a lovely side of Cambodia. You should expect delays if water levels are low, and pack light and bring water and snacks.