Transport and Driving in Cambodia

One of the first challenges that expats moving to Cambodia will have to deal with is transport – indeed, one might say that getting around Cambodia is something of an adventure.

Improvements to the national highway network have made driving easier than it once was, with the building of new highways and the surfacing of many dirt roads. However, getting from A to B can still be time-consuming and dangerous, and expat-friendly public transport options are limited.

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Public transport in Cambodia

There aren’t many options for expats to get around in Cambodia. Many local forms of transport are seen as dangerous, and there are very few local bus networks in Cambodia, with only a handful of routes in Phnom Penh (which aren’t widely used by expats).

When it comes to travelling from one city to another, often the best option is a domestic flight or a luxury bus service. Within the capital city, many expats rely on taxis.

Trains

There are just two lines in Cambodia, both originating in Phnom Penh. The train service is run by Royal Railways Cambodia and stops at Kampot, Takeo and Sihanoukville.

Buses

Buses are the cheapest way to get around Cambodia, and they connect all major cities and towns. Popular bus companies include Giant Ibis and Mekong Express, both of which operate luxury buses on the most popular intercity routes. All buses are privately run and fares are generally very affordable.

Minibuses

Minibuses are the main alternative to buses, at a similar price point. They usually serve the same routes as buses and also go to smaller destinations that are unreachable by bus. They tend to be slightly faster, but can get overcrowded.

Remork-moto

Remork-motos are large trailers hitched to a motorcycle and are used throughout rural Cambodia to transport people and goods. Often referred to as tuk-tuks by expats and foreigners travelling in Cambodia, these are a great way to explore temples.

Cyclos and motos

As in Vietnam and Laos, the cyclo is a cheap way to get around cities. These are Cambodia’s version of the bicycle rickshaw, but are becoming less common. The motos are more prevalent on Cambodian roads. These small motorcycle taxis are a quick way of making short trips around towns and cities. Not many moto drivers and cyclo riders speak English, so expats should know the local name of their destination. We'd also advise that expats settle on the fare with the driver before setting off.

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Taxis in Cambodia

Hiring private taxis in Cambodia is getting easier, but there are still very few metered taxis, with just a handful of operators in Phnom Penh. Other taxi options include shared taxis and minibuses.

Grab became the predominant ride-hailing service in Cambodia after acquiring Uber a few years ago.

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Cycling in Cambodia

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Air travel in Cambodia

Phnom Penh International Airport is the largest airport in Cambodia, though the country’s busiest airport is Angkor International Airport in the tourist hub of Siem Reap. Numerous international and regional airlines operate at these airports, including the national carrier, Cambodia Angkor Air.