Getting around Cambodia
General information
For all forms of transport in Cambodia, it’s true to say that an adventurous and flexible attitude is necessary. When it comes to punctuality and creature comforts, the transport in Cambodia can’t be compared to that of European countries. When creating your Travel Plan our specialists will use a mix of options, giving you an adventurous and varied trip. We have compiled some information about the different types of transport you will take below.
Domestic Flights
To maximise your time in Cambodia, it might be necessary for us to arrange one or more internal flights. The roads aren’t as developed as other areas of South East Asia, so it can take a while to cover relatively small distances. Flights offer you the chance to do in one hour what might take the best part of a whole day on a bus or by car, therefore if time is a factor, a quick and good value internal flight is a great option. Unfortunately flight schedule changes happen from time to time and are beyond our control. However, we’ll keep you up to date before you leave, but once in Cambodia, our local agents will do their best to solve any problems you might have.
Buses
For a number of shorter journeys, the air-conditioned (tourist) bus is the best option, as it’s not practical to do the journey by train and internal flight, for example the trip between Phnom Penh – Battambang or Sihanoukville. The buses depart/arrive close to the hotels we arrange in both places so it’s very convenient. Short stops are made at restaurants along the way to allow you to stretch your legs, buy something to eat or drink and freshen up. Travelling by coach is relatively inexpensive, but can’t be recommended for all parts of your journey. This is because the roads are not properly laid everywhere.
Local Transport
For the shorter transfers, for example from your hotel to the airport/bus station or around town, it’s best to take a taxi, bike rickshaw or tuk tuk. These are very easy to arrange locally with several drivers waiting in busy areas or outside hotels. You’ll get to experience the city up close and it’s lots of fun too. These short journeys will cost on average 1-2 dollars, depending on your haggling skills! For a taxi from the airport in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap to your hotel will probably cost around US $10-15 dollars.
Travelling with Meaning
When you travel in Cambodia it is tempting to go for the shorter flight, but you may miss out on the wonderful countryside, not only that, but travelling by bus is more economical and lowers your carbon footprint. Hiring bicycles in the smaller cities is the best way to get around, you can visit anywhere that you please, and you never know what experiences you may run into. Cycle rickshaws are also a great way to go, they are very environmentally friendly and you will also be supporting the local community.
