How to Get Around in Cambodia: Transportation Guide & Eco-Tours

Navigating Cambodia’s Cultural and Natural Treasures

Cambodia, a land of ancient Khmer temples, vibrant cities, and serene coastlines, captivates travelers with its iconic Angkor Wat, bustling Phnom Penh, and pristine Sihanoukville beaches, drawing millions annually to explore its rich heritage. Whether journeying from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap (320 km, 5–6 hours by bus) or island-hopping to Koh Rong, understanding how to get around in Cambodia ensures a smooth, respectful adventure, perfect for cultural enthusiasts, families, and eco-travelers. With diverse transport options like buses, tuk-tuks, ferries, and flights, Cambodia offers flexibility for every budget and travel style, connecting its urban hubs, rural villages, and coastal escapes.

Navigating Cambodia supports sustainable tourism through eco-friendly transport options and local initiatives like community-supported ferries and temple preservation projects. Legend Travel Group, Southeast Asia’s leading sustainable tourism ambassador with over 17 years of expertise, enhances your journey with eco-conscious tours and transfers. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to get around Cambodia with sustainability and cultural respect!

Travel Note

Cambodia’s transport hubs, like Phnom Penh’s Riverside (open 24/7) and Siem Reap’s Central Market (open 7:00 AM–6:00 PM), connect via eco-friendly buses, tuk-tuks, and ferries to key attractions, ensuring authentic, green exploration.

Legend Travel Group excels as the region’s premier local travel curator, dedicated to unveiling Vietnam, Cambodia, and Southeast Asia’s treasures through safe, eco-conscious journeys. Our Cambodia transport solutions feature sustainable options, expert guides on Khmer culture, and initiatives supporting local communities and ecosystems. Specialists provide insights on how to get around in Cambodia, cultural etiquette, and green travel practices for seamless adventures. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before, and 24/7 support, we ensure effortless exploration. Register a free account on our platform to save travel plans, craft eco-focused itineraries, and receive fresh updates—enhancing your Cambodian journey!

Seamless Travel Across Cambodia’s Diverse Landscapes

Getting around Cambodia offers a range of transport options, from budget-friendly buses to scenic ferries, each providing unique cultural and scenic experiences. Here’s your comprehensive guide to how to get around in Cambodia:

• Bus Travel:

  • Overview: Affordable, reliable option for intercity travel (e.g., Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, 320 km, 5–6 hours).

  • Operators:

    • Economy: Mekong Express, Capitol Tour ($8–$12 or 32,000–48,000 KHR).

    • Standard: Virak Buntham, Cambolink21 ($12–$16 or 48,000–64,000 KHR).

    • Premium: Giant Ibis, sleeper buses ($15–$22 or 60,000–88,000 KHR).

  • Booking: Via apps, terminals, or Legend Travel Group. Fees $1–$3 (4,000–12,000 KHR).

  • Eco-Tip: Choose fuel-efficient buses like Giant Ibis to reduce emissions.

  • Tip: Morning buses (6:00 AM–9:00 AM) for daytime arrivals; book 1–2 days ahead.

• Tuk-Tuk (Local Transport):

  • Overview: Iconic three-wheeled vehicles for short distances in cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

  • Cost: $2–$5 (8,000–20,000 KHR) for city rides; $15–$25 (60,000–100,000 KHR) for full-day temple tours.

  • Booking: Apps like PassApp or street hailing; negotiate fares upfront.

  • Eco-Tip: Opt for e-tuk-tuks ($3–$5 or 12,000–20,000 KHR) to minimize impact.

  • Tip: Use “sok sabay” (hello); confirm price before riding.

• Ferry Travel:

  • Overview: Scenic option for Phnom Penh to Siem Reap (250–300 km, 6–8 hours, July–March) via Tonle Sap Lake.

  • Operators:

    • Standard: Angkor Express Boat ($25–$35 or 100,000–140,000 KHR).

    • Premium: Mekong Explore ($40–$50 or 160,000–200,000 KHR).

  • Booking: Through hotels or Legend Travel Group; book 1–2 days early.

  • Eco-Tip: Choose sustainable boats to support lake conservation.

  • Tip: Depart 7:00 AM–8:00 AM for daylight views; bring sunscreen ($6 or 24,000 KHR).

• Air Travel:

  • Overview: Fastest option for long distances (e.g., Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, 50–60 minutes).

  • Airlines: Cambodia Angkor Air, AirAsia ($40–$100 or 160,000–400,000 KHR).

  • Airports: Phnom Penh International (PNH), Siem Reap–Angkor International (SAI).

  • Booking: Via apps or Legend Travel Group; book 1–2 weeks early for deals.

  • Eco-Tip: Choose fuel-efficient flights; use digital boarding passes.

  • Tip: Morning flights (7:00 AM–10:00 AM) maximize exploration time.

• Private Car/Taxi:

  • Overview: Flexible for intercity travel (e.g., Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville, 230 km, 4–5 hours).

  • Cost: $50–$110 (200,000–440,000 KHR); shared taxis $12–$25 per person (48,000–100,000 KHR).

  • Booking: Via apps, hotels, or Legend Travel Group for eco-options.

  • Eco-Tip: Opt for hybrid taxis to reduce emissions.

  • Tip: Arrange stops at local markets; book 1–2 days ahead.

• E-Bike/Cycle:

  • Overview: Ideal for city exploration or temple tours in Siem Reap.

  • Cost: $5–$8/day (20,000–32,000 KHR) for e-bikes; $2–$4 (8,000–16,000 KHR) for bicycles.

  • Booking: Local rentals or Legend Travel Group for guided tours.

  • Eco-Tip: E-bikes are zero-emission; perfect for eco-conscious travelers.

  • Tip: Wear helmets ($2 or 8,000 KHR); navigate with offline apps (Maps.me).

• Cultural Etiquette for Travel:

  • Greetings: Use “sok sabay” (hello); smile politely to drivers and staff.

  • Dress: Modest attire (cover shoulders/knees); scarf ($4 or 16,000 KHR) for temples.

  • Behavior: Keep noise low; no littering; respect local customs at stops.

  • Eco-Advice: Use digital tickets; bring reusable water bottles ($5 or 20,000 KHR).

  • Tip: Say “arkun” (thank you); tip drivers $1–$3 (4,000–12,000 KHR) for good service.

Note: Transport options reflect current trends; verify schedules with operators. Our tours enhance with sustainable practices.

These budget-friendly, eco-activities, $0–$37, complement your journey:

1. Explore Angkor Wat (Siem Reap)

Visit the UNESCO temple at sunrise, entry $37 (148,000 KHR).

• Cost: $37.

• Hours: Daily, 5:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Use e-bikes ($5–$8 or 20,000–32,000 KHR).

• Tip: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Angkor Eco-Trail ($90–$130).

2. Tour Royal Palace (Phnom Penh)

Admire Khmer architecture, entry $10 (40,000 KHR).

• Cost: $10.

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Walk or e-tuk-tuk ($3 or 12,000 KHR).

• Tip: Part of Legend Travel Group’s Palace Eco-Tour ($50–$90).

3. Cruise Tonle Sap Lake (Siem Reap)

Discover floating villages, boat $12–$18 (48,000–72,000 KHR).

• Cost: $12–$18.

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Community-supported eco-boats.

• Tip: In Legend Travel Group’s Lake Eco-Cruise ($70–$110).

4. Shop Central Market (Phnom Penh)

Bargain for crafts, daytime, items $1–$5 (4,000–20,000 KHR).

• Cost: $1–$5.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Cycle ($2 or 8,000 KHR).

• Tip: Featured in Legend Travel Group’s Market Eco-Tour ($45–$85).

5. Relax at Otres Beach (Sihanoukville)

Unwind with drinks, evenings, $2–$4 (8,000–16,000 KHR).

• Cost: $2–$4.

• Hours: Daily, open 24 hours.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Walkable eco-zone.

• Tip: Highlight of Legend Travel Group’s Coastal Eco-Chill ($50–$90).

November to March offers mild weather for comfortable bus rides, ferry trips, and temple tours, ideal for exploration. Avoid April-May heat or June-October rains for smoother travel; February or May balances pleasant conditions and fewer crowds.

Details for seamless travel:

• Booking: Reserve buses, ferries, or taxis via apps, hotels, or Legend Travel Group for eco-packages. Book 1–2 days early; peak seasons require earlier reservations.

• Navigation: Pin key hubs like “Central Market, Phnom Penh” or “Angkor Wat, Siem Reap” in offline apps (Maps.me). Parking: $0.50–$1 (2,000–4,000 KHR).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Prioritize buses, e-tuk-tuks, or e-bikes for low emissions.

• Travel Tip: Morning departures maximize daylight exploration; combine transport modes for flexibility.

Pack for a respectful, versatile journey:

• Documents: Passport, Cambodia visa ($42 or 168,000 KHR); wallet ($8–$12 or 32,000–48,000 KHR).

• Clothing: Modest, lightweight attire; scarf ($4 or 16,000 KHR); long pants ($5 or 20,000 KHR) for temples.

• Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($5 or 20,000 KHR); snacks ($2–$4 or 8,000–16,000 KHR).

• Tech: Phone with offline maps; charger ($15–$25 or 60,000–100,000 KHR); local SIM ($7–$10 or 28,000–40,000 KHR).

• Eco Items: Reusable tote ($4 or 16,000 KHR); phrase card ($2 or 8,000 KHR).

• Extras: Small USD/KHR for tips; travel towel ($5 or 20,000 KHR). Tip: Modest attire respects cultural norms.

Costs for Getting Around in Cambodia

Transport Costs

• Bus: $8–$22 (32,000–88,000 KHR).

• Tuk-Tuk: $2–$5 (8,000–20,000 KHR).

• Ferry: $25–$50 (100,000–200,000 KHR).

• Flight: $40–$100 (160,000–400,000 KHR).

• E-Bike: $5–$8/day (20,000–32,000 KHR).

Visa & Travel Costs

• Cambodia Visa: $42 (168,000 KHR).

• Snacks: $1–$3 (4,000–12,000 KHR).

Activity Fees

• Angkor Wat: $37 (148,000 KHR).

• Royal Palace: $10 (40,000 KHR).

• Tonle Sap Boat: $12–$18 (48,000–72,000 KHR).

• Central Market: $1–$5 (4,000–20,000 KHR).

• Otres Beach Drinks: $2–$4 (8,000–16,000 KHR).

• Souvenirs: $3–$7 (12,000–28,000 KHR).

• Eco-Tour: $20–$35 (80,000–140,000 KHR).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $25–$45 (bus, tuk-tuk, snacks).

• Mid-range: $50–$80 (ferry, e-bike, activities).

• Luxury: $100–$160 (flight, private car, upscale dining). Tip: Transport $2–$50; visa $42; activities $0–$37; eco-tours add value.

• Etiquette: Use “sok sabay” for greetings; dress modestly; respect drivers and locals.

• Transport Choices: Buses for affordability; e-tuk-tuks for cities; ferries for scenery.

• Schedules: Morning departures for daylight exploration; check seasonal ferry availability.

• Sustainability: Digital tickets reduce waste; choose eco-friendly operators.

• Navigation: Use e-tuk-tuks ($2–$5 or 8,000–20,000 KHR) for short trips.

• Weather: Dry season for smoother travel.

• Cultural Note: Engage politely at stops; respect local customs.

• Legend Tours: Eco-transfers and cultural briefings included.

Navigate Cambodia with our eco-tours:

• Angkor Eco-Trail ($90–$130/person, 1 day): Temple tour with e-bike, eco-snack ($3–$5 or 12,000–20,000 KHR). Guide, tips included.

• Market Eco-Tour ($45–$85/person, half day): Central Market visit, sustainable meal, culturally sensitive stops.

• Cambodia Explorer ($280–$400/person, 4 days): Multi-city tour with eco-lodges, meals, green transport. Prices include guides, sustainable logistics, entries. 25% off for groups of 4+! Register a free account to track, save, and tailor your Cambodia itinerary.

How to get around in Cambodia unlocks a seamless journey through its temples, cities, and beaches, with eco-friendly options like buses ($8–$22 or 32,000–88,000 KHR), tuk-tuks, and ferries fostering sustainable exploration. From Phnom Penh’s vibrancy to Siem Reap’s ancient wonders, these transport modes connect you to local experiences. Legend Travel Group’s Cambodia Tours blend seamless travel with green tours for deeper cultural connections, ensuring a sustainable Cambodia Travel adventure. Create your free account to monitor guides, design vibrant itineraries, and explore further—reach out at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com for your sustainable Cambodian adventure!
Ready to navigate Cambodia’s wonders? Reserve your eco-friendly tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable journey!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group