Buses in Cambodia

Several bus companies operate daily services between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap along National Route 6. The journey typically takes around six hours depending on road conditions. Buses generally depart from the morning through midday. Book through a reputable operator and confirm pickup points in advance, as some companies offer hotel pickup in central areas.

Comfort varies significantly between operators. Larger companies tend to run newer vehicles with air conditioning and reclining seats. Some offer onboard WiFi and a small snack or water. Avoid overcrowded minivans on longer routes when possible, as they have a poorer safety record. Paying slightly more for a full-size bus from a well-known operator is generally worth it.

Yes. International bus routes connect Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam) via the Bavet-Moc Bai border crossing, typically taking six to seven hours. Routes also run from Siem Reap and Phnom Penh to Bangkok (Thailand) via the Poipet-Aranyaprathet crossing. Bring your passport and ensure you have the correct visa arranged before boarding, as buses wait at the border for immigration processing.

Phnom Penh does not have a single central bus terminal. Most major operators have their own stations or offices, many clustered around the area near the Central Market or along the riverfront. Your ticket confirmation should specify the exact departure point. Some companies offer pickup from hotels or guesthouses in the city center for an easier start.

For popular routes like Phnom Penh to Siem Reap or cross-border services, booking at least a day ahead is recommended, during peak season from November through February or around Khmer holidays. You can often book online through travel platforms or directly at your guesthouse. For less-traveled domestic routes, same-day tickets at the station are usually available.

Most operators allow one large bag stored underneath and a small carry-on. There typically is no strict weight limit enforced. But oversized items like bicycles or surfboards may require negotiation and sometimes an extra fee. Keep valuables and essentials in your carry-on rather than checked luggage. If you are carrying a backpack, it usually goes in the cargo hold on full-size buses.

Major routes between Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville are paved and in reasonable condition. Secondary roads to smaller towns can be rough, during the rainy season from June through October when flooding and muddy stretches may cause delays. Night buses operate on some routes but road lighting is minimal outside cities, so daytime travel is generally preferred.