Siem Reap Transport

Visa and Travel Requirements Visas may be acquired at overseas Cambodian embassies or upon arrival at the international airport in either Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. Tourist visas can be extended a maximum of 3 months.

By Air The majority of travellers to Cambodia fly into Pochentong International Airport in Phnom Penh, but one can also fly directly to Siem Reap from Bangkok.

By Land It is possible access into Cambodia by land from neighbouring countries, Vietnam, Thailand and more recently from Laos.

By Boat The water route between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap offers a very Cambodian experience. A cluster of boat companies are concentrated on Route 5 just north of the Japanese bridge. There's a choice of inside seating or perching on the roof of the boat, with the best spots going to those who arrive early. The view is better but the sun hotter for roof-riders. Both inside and outside tend to be noisy. Boats leave Phnom Penh at 7 am. Getting the ticket a day before is a good idea. Boats leave Siem Reap at 7 am. Note: If the moto or driver buys the ticket or accompanies the passenger, he gets a much-appreciated commission and the cost is the same to the passenger.

Ferry ply the Tonle Sap River which tends to be more interesting than the distant banks of the much-wider Mekong and the fishing activity is intense, offering some great photo opportunities. Tonle Sap to Siem Reap is an adventurous alternative to air travel. The first leg of the trip is quite photographic as it winds past fishing boats and villages. The end of the trip is marked by the hill, Phnom Krom, which is the docking point 12km south of Siem Reap. During the dry season, the ferry stops short of the dock and passengers transfer to smaller boats to traverse the final few hundred meters. Ferries depart Phnom Penh daily at 7:00am from the docks north of the Cambodian-Japanese Friendship Bridge on Sisowath Quay.

Note: Through generally safe, the ferry has experienced breakdowns, groundings and other sometimes serious difficulties. Travel is best during the wet season (June-November). Dry season low waters can mean smaller, less comfortable boats.

By Bus There are a few busses that service the route to/from Phnom Penh as well as outlying tourist spots the only drawback is the condition of the roads. Dial 015631114 to check on bus times and destinations available.

Car Hire is available, again with or without a driver. They tend to be cheaper if located away from the main hotel complexes and the like.

Motorbike Rental is available with or without a driver.

Bicycle Rental If your hotel doesn't already supply these ask around at guest-houses for a spare bike.

On Foot Everywhere within Siem Reap is walk-able, so public transport is often resorted to when visitors feet get tired or the weather is too hot. Do not however step off the well beaten path as landmines are still prevalent in the more rural areas.