This comprehensive guide serves as your trusted resource, ensuring a seamless travel experience through Siem Reap – Angkor International Airport and onwards to your accommodations.

Location

Located approximately 45 kilometers east of downtown Siem Reap, the airport is strategically positioned to serve as the primary gateway for travelers embarking on a journey to the renowned Angkor Wat complex.

The location of the new airport, in comparison to the old airport which was just 5 km from town, was chosen due to several reasons, including:

• Allowing long-haul direct flights with larger airplanes to accommodate international travelers, particularly tourists from America and Europe;
• Facilitating more domestic and international flights to meet the expected growth in tourism numbers;
• Minimizing the impact of vibrations and air pollution on the Angkor Archaeological Park and Siem Reap town;
• Providing space for the ever-expanding city of Siem Reap, which is poised to introduce various new tourism attractions and a whole new city named Grand Siem Reap. This new city, located just 8 km from the new airport, will feature residential, commercial, and tourism zones, further enhancing the area’s development;

For a visual representation of the airport’s location in proximity to Siem Reap town and the Angkor Wat temple complex, consult the Google map below.

Getting to and from the New Siem Reap Airport

Accessing the airport is facilitated by the newly constructed “Angkor Highway”, reducing travel time considerably. This 24.5-kilometer highway, commencing near national road 6 at the 294 km marker, has alleviated some traffic congestion. Nevertheless, despite this new route, the total distance between Siem Reap town and the airport remains at approximately 45 km with an estimated travel time of 1 hour and 15 minutes. Anticipate further reductions in travel times in the coming years, thanks to improved road connections and a light-rail line project currently under a feasibility study by the Cambodian government.

Official Transportation Options & Prices

Travelers have 3 official transport options available to get to and from Siem Reap Airport:

1. Private car (up to 7 persons): $35 per vehicle;
2. Mini-van (8 to 15 persons): $40 per vehicle;
3. Shuttle bus service: $8 a person for a single trip or $15 for a return ticket;

Airport Shuttle Bus Service: Schedule, Drop-off Points, Pick-up Points

From Siem Reap airport, shuttle buses depart to town at 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:30pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm, 6:00pm, 8:00pm, 10:00pm and will bring you directly to CDF Angkor Duty Free Store in downtown Siem Reap (Wat Bo area). From there you can travel to your hotel by rickshaw or tuk-tuk which should only take a couple of minutes.

For travelers heading from Siem Reap town to the airport, the shuttle service departs from CDF at 5:30am, 7:00am, 8:00am, 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 4:30pm and 7:00pm.

New: Airport Shuttle Express by Cambodia Post

Thanks to this recently added shuttle bus service by Cambodia Post, travelers have even more transport options to get to and from Siem Reap Airport. At $8 a person, the cost is equally affordable as the official shuttle bus.

From Siem Reap airport, shuttle buses depart to town at 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 15:00pm, 16:30pm, 18:00pm, 20:00pm. The drop-off point is at the Siem Reap Post Office along the riverside in the center of town. Depending on the location of your hotel, this may be a more convenient drop-off point than CDF Angkor Duty Free Store.

For travelers heading towards the airport, shuttle buses depart from the Siem Reap Post Office at 7:00am, 9:00am, 11:00am, 12:30pm, 14:00pm, 15:30pm, 17:00pm.

Other Transportation Options

In addition to the official transport options provided by the airport, travelers currently have a range of alternative choices:

• Private taxi services, priced at approximately 25 USD per car;
• Private shuttle services, available at around 12 USD per person, which is slightly more expensive than the official service, but available 24/7 with direct drop-off at your hotel;
• Taxi-booking platforms like Grab or the local variant PassApp. Consider booking a private car, as tuk-tuks or rickshaws may not be allowed to enter the airport;

It’s important to note that the availability and regulation of these alternative services may change in the future. For the latest updates, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us via our contact form, Facebook, or Instagram.

Airport Parking Rates

For those considering using their own transportation to or from the airport, it’s essential to note the available parking spaces and associated rates:

• Type A vehicles (normal cars with up to 7 seats / trucks with a load capacity under 2 tons): 4000 riels (1 USD) for the initial 30 minutes, and 2000 riels (0.5 USD) for every additional 30 minutes.
• Type B vehicles (medium buses with 8 to 19 seats / trucks with a load capacity from 2 to 5 tons): 5000 riels (1.25 USD) for the first 30 minutes, and 3000 riels (0.75 USD) for each extra 30 minutes.
• Type C vehicles (large buses with 20 to 56 seats / trucks with a load capacity above 5 tons): 8000 riels (2 USD) for the initial 30 minutes, and 4000 riels (1 USD) for every additional 30 minutes.

Please note that motorcycles, tuk-tuks, and rickshaws are prohibited from parking in this area. Remember, parking is at your own risk, and the airport cannot be held responsible for any property loss or damage incurred.

Airlines and Destinations

The following 10 airline companies operate at the airport:

• AirAsia: International flights to / from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia;
• AirAsia Thailand: International flights to / from Bangkok – Don Mueang Airport, Thailand;
• Bangkok Airways: International flights to / from Bangkok – Suvarnabhumi Airport, Thailand;
• Cambodia Angkor Air:
  • International flights to / from Da Nang, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam;
  • Domestic flights to / from Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville;
• China Eastern Airlines: International flights to / from Kunming and Shanghai – Pudong Airport in China;
• Lao Airlines: International flights to / from Pakse, Laos;
• Singapore Airlines: International flights to / from Singapore;
• Sky Angkor Airlines: International flights to / from Seoul – Incheon Airport, South Korea;
• Thai Smile: International flights to / from Bangkok – Suvarnabhumi Airport, Thailand;
• Vietnam Airlines:
  • International flights to / from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam;
  • International flights to Luang Prabang in Laos;

While currently serving a limited number of destinations, there are strong indications of upcoming developments. Rumors have circulated about potential direct flights to and from India, promising to facilitate seamless travel for passengers from the Indian subcontinent. Additionally, an agreement with Qatar Airways is reportedly in the works, which could open up new routes connecting Siem Reap to an even wider global audience.

Airport Departures – What to Expect

While the domestic departure zone is on the ground floor, international travelers should ensure they are dropped off at the first floor.

Upon entering the international departures terminal, travelers will encounter a modern and spacious environment designed to meet their various needs. This includes convenient amenities such as a currency exchange booth, a coffee shop, luggage wrapping services, charging stations, and water refill stations. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available as well throughout the airport!

Airport Arrivals – What to Expect

Upon your arrival at Siem Reap Airport, if you don’t already have a Cambodian visa, you’ll need to apply for a visa-on-arrival before proceeding through immigration. ATMs and an exchange booth are available should you require US dollars for the visa fee.

Cambodia uses two currencies: Cambodian Riel (KHR) and US Dollar (USD). However, the visa-on-arrival can only be paid in US Dollar. Don’t miss our article about safely exchanging money in Siem Reap!

After clearing immigration, a brief walk will lead you to the baggage claim area and the airport exit. Once outside, you can easily arrange transportation to Siem Reap town using the previously mentioned options. Additionally, travelers will find several booths offering local SIM cards with prepaid mobile data plans to stay connected during their visit. During our latest visit, Cambodia’s 3 main mobile carriers were available: Metfone, Cellcard, and Smart Mobile.

Technical Details

Siem Reap Angkor International Airport covers an area of approximately 700 hectares and holds a 4E category, featuring a runway capable of accommodating larger long-haul aircraft. With 56 gates for passengers, it represents Cambodia’s commitment to modernizing its air travel infrastructure.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the recent opening of Siem Reap – Angkor International Airport ushers in a new era of travel possibilities. However, as this airport is still in its early days, we anticipate numerous changes on the horizon. These changes may include a broader range of direct flights, the introduction of new airline carriers, potentially more flexible transport options into town, the addition of new shops and restaurants, and an overall enhanced passenger experience.

We’re dedicated to keeping this article current and accurate, and we welcome your input. If you have feedback or come across new information regarding the airport, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are available through our contact form or the comment section below.

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Cambodia uses two currencies: Cambodian Riel (KHR) and US Dollar (USD). The Cambodian Riel is the official currency, while the US dollar is widely accepted, especially in tourist areas. In this article, we’ll provide you with tips for safely exchanging money in Siem Reap, as well as a list of trusted currency exchange services to ensure you get the best possible exchange rates.

Riel or US Dollar?

It’s worth noting that Cambodia is gradually moving away from the US dollar and towards the riel. This shift is starting with smaller notes, such as the 1 USD and 5 USD bills. This means that it’s becoming more important to have a supply of Cambodian riel on hand, especially for smaller purchases and transactions.

However, if you’re worried about getting Cambodian riel before you arrive in the country, don’t be. You can pay in US Dollars anywhere at Siem Reap’s new airport, including the taxi stand; And even the visa you receive upon arrival must be paid for in US Dollars.

Torn and Damaged US Dollar Bills

It is important to make sure that any US dollars you bring to Cambodia are in good condition, without tears or damage. This is because Cambodians consider torn or damaged US dollar bills to be unusable, and they will not accept it.

Additionally, when exchanging money or paying for goods and services, be sure to carefully inspect the US Dollar bills you receive and refuse any that are torn or damaged. Many businesses in Siem Reap will not accept damaged bills, and you may have difficulty exchanging them at currency exchange booths or banks. Therefore, it’s always recommended to check the condition of bills before accepting them and request a replacement if necessary. However, it’s worth noting that torn or damaged Cambodian Riel bills are generally not a problem.

ATMs

ATMs are widely available in Siem Reap, and most accept foreign cards. However, some ATMs may charge high withdrawal fees or have lower withdrawal limits. Make sure to notify your bank before traveling to ensure your card will work in Cambodia. One of the most reputable and popular banks in Cambodia is ABA (Advanced Bank of Asia Ltd.), which has a significant presence in Siem Reap. Most ATMs in Siem Reap are operated by ABA and are conveniently located across town.

Credit Cards

Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay) are accepted in more and more places in Siem Reap, especially in upscale restaurants, hotels, spas and shops. However, smaller businesses may not accept credit cards, so it’s always a good idea to carry cash as a backup.

Digital Payments

Digital payments are becoming increasingly popular in Cambodia, and ABA Bank is leading the way with their digital payment app. The app allows for payments by QR code in almost all shops, restaurants, and other businesses in Siem Reap. This technology has made transactions more convenient and streamlined for locals and expats who have a local ABA bank account. However, for tourists who do not have a Cambodian bank account, digital payments may not be a practical option.

In addition to digital payment apps like ABA Bank, some shops in Siem Reap also accept Alipay, which is the Chinese equivalent of PayPal, and PiPay, a local payment app. These options are especially useful for Chinese tourists who may already be familiar with Alipay, as well as for expats who use PiPay regularly.

Exchange Rates

It’s important to compare exchange rates before exchanging money. You can check current exchange rates on the official website of the National Bank of Cambodia or use a currency converter app. Avoid exchanging money at places that offer rates significantly lower than the official exchange rate.

When exchanging money, be aware of fees and commissions that may be added. Make sure to count the money you receive and verify the exchange rate before leaving the exchange booth. Additionally, be careful when exchanging money on the street, as scams are not uncommon.

Expert tip: It’s advisable to avoid exchanging money at Siem Reap’s new SAI airport. The foreign exchange rates offered here are far from good. Instead, consider waiting to exchange money until you reach the town and utilize one of the recommended exchange services listed below.

Trusted Currency Exchange Services in Siem Reap

There are many places to exchange money in Siem Reap, including banks, exchange booths, and hotels. To ensure that you get the best value for your money, we recommend visiting the reputable exchange services listed below:

Huy Keang Currency Exchange: Conveniently located near Pub Street (opposite the new Zando Fashion Store), they usually offer the best exchange rate in town. A second branch of Huy Keang is located further down Sivutha Boulevard, opposite Maybank.

Apsara Exchange: Located just to the left of Huy Keang Exchange. While Huy Keang often offers better exchange rates, it’s always a good idea to compare rates between the two exchange booths, as they are located right next to each other. This way, you can ensure that you’re getting the best possible deal.

Hak Chuong Currency Exchange: Also located on Sivutha Boulevard, about 100 meters beyond the Park Hyatt Hotel when coming from the city center.

If you prefer to exchange money at a bank counter, we recommend visiting any ABA branch in Siem Reap. Currently, there are two locations in town, with three new branches under construction as of April 2023. While banks may not offer the best exchange rates, exchanging money at a bank counter can be a safe and convenient option. Just be sure to check the bank’s fees and rates before exchanging, and compare them with other options in the area to ensure that you’re getting the best possible deal.

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There is much scepticism about night buses and therefore it’s not highly recommended to travel on them due to a number of safety factors; namely theft and risk of accident due to driver fatigue.

Phnom Penh to Siem Reap by Taxi

A taxi, usually an SUV, is between $60 and $100 from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, for private use. Expect high speed and a lot of weaving in and out of traffic. Taxis can be a very effective means of getting from A to B in Cambodia, but are not for the feint hearted.

Phnom Penh to Siem Reap by Bus

The following bus companies offer a direct service between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

Giant Ibis

Giant Ibis is the most reputable bus company in Cambodia; they are renowned for their safety standards and extra modern conveniences on their buses. Buses are medium size, seating around 25-30 people. They have charging ports and wifi, and a welcome refreshment. They also have a television and normally show movies on the trip. Generally the Giant Ibis bus will make two stops on the journey, one for a rest room and drinks and another where you can buy something to eat, as well as rest room and drinks. They have two drivers and a host on board, who will speak English and Khmer.

The terminal in Phnom Penh is near the night market, though if you book through your hotel or guesthouse they will pick you up at the hotel. You need to be ready around an hour before the bus departure time for the shuttle to collect you. The terminal in Siem Reap is just out of town (not far from the Angkor National Museum) and you’ll need to take a tuk tuk to your guesthouse or hotel, which shouldn’t cost more than $5, depending on location.

Ticket price: $17

Mekong Express

Mekong Express is another well-known and reputable operator that run coaches between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. The drivers often don’t speak English, and announcements are normally made in Khmer. The Mekong Express makes two stops along the journey. There is a wifi, snacks and television, normally with loud Khmer karaoke songs and film clips, so you may want to bring your own entertainment.

The Mekong Express terminal in Phnom Penh is near the night market and if you book through your guesthouse or hotel they will pick you up and take you to the terminal. The terminal in Siem Reap is very centrally located, on Sivatha Boulevard, from here it should only be about a $3 tuk tuk ride to your hotel or guesthouse.

Ticket price: $13

Capitol Tours

Capitol Tours operates coaches between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap in a low fuss and efficient manner. You will be entertained with Khmer karaoke songs and film clips. The bus will stop at least once during the journey.

The bus terminal in Phnom Penh is near Olympic Stadium, you need to buy your ticket here and board the bus here too. The Siem Reap terminal is a short way from town near Psar Krom market; it should be about $3 or so in a tuk tuk to your hotel or guesthouse.

Ticket price: $8 (There is also a VIP van service for $12,5.)

Check out CamboTicket to book your bus tickets online for the above mentioned companies and others.

Phnom Penh to Siem Reap by Mini Van

There is a vast array of mini van services between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap and all around Cambodia, here’s a selection.

Virak Buntham

Virak Buntham have regular services to Siem Reap from Phnom Penh. If you book via your hotel or guesthouse, they will send a tuk tuk to take you to the bus station. The van has minimal customer service, but this is one of the most comfortable mini vans available. There is Wi-Fi and air conditioning and reclining seats, that actually recline so far you could probably lie down – though obviously not if you don’t want to make an enemy with your neighbour behind. There is one stop along the way. The bus terminal in in the center of Siem Reap, near the riverside roundabout.

Ticket price: $14+ (depending on your hotel’s mark-up)

Cambodia Post

Cambodia Post have a mini van service that operates between the two cities post offices. It is purely a passenger van, not one piled up with mail! The van is reasonable and there are two stops on the way. There are two trouble spots in the van to be wary of, the seat next to the driver, which is above the engine and thus elevated, not great if you are even a moderate height, and in the back above the rear wheel, extremely cramped and uncomfortable, so do your best to avoid these seats. You need to arrange your own transport to the Phnom Penh post office and from the Siem Reap post office to your hotel or guesthouse.

Ticket price: $10,5

Seila Angkor Express

Seila Angkor are one of the most frequent services with a departure every 1-2 hours from Phnom Penh. If you book from your hotel or guesthouse, you can be collected to go to the bus terminal. There is Wi-Fi and air conditioning and one stop along the way. The terminal in Siem Reap is fairly close to town, opposite Samaki Market. It should be around $3-4 for a tuk tuk, or more if your hotel is further away.

Ticket price: $12,5

Check out CamboTicket to book your mini van tickets online for the above mentioned companies and others.

The post Overland Travel from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap appeared first on Siemreap.net.

Cambodia has lifted any COVID-19 requirements as of October 3, 2022.

Passport and Visa Requirements

You need an international passport, issued by your country and valid for at least six months starting from the entry date in Cambodia. You’ll also need one passport-size photograph, taken no more then 12 months ago.

The nationals of Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam and Myanmar do not need a tourist visa and may stay in Cambodia for between 14 and 30 days. More information here.

Visa Types and Fees

Cambodia offers several visa types to visitors of the country, from which the tourist and business visa are the most common ones.

Tourist (T) Visa

A tourist visa (T-type) costs US$30 and is valid for 30 days. Tourist visas can be extended 1 time for an extra period of 30 days. Several travel agents in town offer the visa extension service, which normally costs around $50 including service fee.

Ordinary (E) Visa

An ordinary visa (E-type), often referred to as a business visa, costs US$35 and is valid for 30 days. This visa can be extended indefinitely for 1 month, 3 months, 6 months or 1 year at a time, 6 and 12 month visas allow the holder multiple entries into Cambodia. If you have a 1 or 3 month visa and you leave Cambodia, your visa becomes void and you will need a new one if you re-enter Cambodia. Prices to extend range from $50 for a 1 month extension to $290 for a 1 year extension.

Since August 2016, the following extensions of stay are available for the E-type visa: EB (business), EG (general), ER (retirement), ES (student), ET (technician), EP (proposal). Most foreigners who intend to stay long term in Cambodia apply for the EB type visa. If you are aged above 55 years old and have no intention to work, then you can also apply for the ER (retirement) visa.

Khmer (K) Visa

The K-type visa can only be given to Cambodian descendants that enter Cambodia with a foreign passport. They need to have valid documents to show that one or both of their parents are Cambodian citizens. The K-visa will be issued one time and is free of charge. The visa will allow the applicants to enter the Cambodian kingdom an unlimited number of times.

Diplomatic (A), Official (B) and Courtesy (C) Visa

Diplomatic, Official and Courtesy visas are provided for free, but you will have to meet very specific requirements for these visa types.

Applying for a Cambodian Visa

Most people apply for a visa on arrival in Cambodia. However, it’s also possible to obtain a visa beforehand by applying for it online or by contacting an overseas Cambodian embassy.

Visa on Arrival

A Cambodian visa on arrival can be purchased on entering the country, either at one of the international airports or at one of the official checkpoints when crossing the border by land.

There are currently only two international airports in Cambodia, one in Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh and one in Siem Reap. Cambodian visas are available at both of these airports.

Read our in-dept guide about the new Siem Reap airport, including arrival tips and an overview of transport options into town.

If you are entering Cambodia by land, you can apply for a visa at one of the official checkpoints. These checkpoints are available at the following border crossings:

• Border crossings with Thailand: Poipet, Cham Yeam (Koh Kong), O’Smach
• Border crossings with Vietnam: Bavet, Kha Orm Sam Nor
• Border crossing with Laos: Dom Kralor

The Poipet border crossing: Since most tourists coming from Thailand pass by the Poipet border crossing, queues can sometimes get very long. Try to arrive early morning at the border, lunch time is very busy and avoid weekends if you don’t want to lose time. Read this detailed overview of traveling from Bangkok to Siem Reap via Poipet, if you plan to follow this route.

Good to know: When you apply for a visa on arrival in Cambodia and fail to provide the required photograph, the official will usually charge you US$1 extra on top of the applicable visa fee. Additionally, when you apply for a visa on arrival at overland borders, expect to pay an extra couple of dollars on top of the advertised fee.

Online: e-Visa

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has established a system to process an online visa for Cambodia, called the e-Visa. You will have to complete the online application and provide a scan of your passport and photo (4×6). You will have to pay US$35 by credit card (US$30 for the visa and US$5 processing charge). The processing time will take 3 days and it permits you to stay for 30 days in Cambodia. It is valid for 3 months from the issuing date. The visa gets issued to your email, it’s your responsibility to print it.

You can enter Cambodia with an e-Visa via the following international airports and overland border crossings:

• Siem Reap – Angkor International Airport
• Phnom Penh International Airport
• Border crossings with Thailand: Poipet, Cham Yeam (Koh Kong)
• Border crossing with Vietnam: Bavet

You can apply for the e-Visa on the following website: https://www.evisa.gov.kh/. Make sure to read the latest e-Visa requirements carefully since they change regularly.

Not supported countries: If you are a citizen of one of the following countries, then you will not be able to apply for an e-Visa: Afghanistan, Algeria, Arab Saudi, Bangladesh, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Nigeria. Please research if you can apply for a visa on arrival or contact the nearest Cambodian embassy.

Cambodian Embassies

A third way to obtain a visa is through one of the overseas Cambodian embassies. Check the following list of Cambodian embassies to see if there’s one available in your country.

Visa Documents

The following 3 documents have to be filled in when you apply for a visa on arrival. It doesn’t matter if you arrive by air or land. Make sure you indicate clearly for which visa you are applying. It’s impossible to change a tourist visa into a business visa afterwards.

• Visa Application
• Customs declaration
• Arrival/departure card

Visa Extensions

If you want to stay longer than 30 days in Cambodia, you will have to extend your visa at the Immigration Department in Phnom Penh. Their offices are located on Nr 223, Confederation de Russie (Airport Road), opposite the Phnom Penh International Airport. Contact them by phone on +855 12 581 558.

However, when you stay in Siem Reap or another city, you don’t need to travel to Phnom Penh. You can just ask a local travel agency to take care of the extension. They will charge you a fee for the extension and you may have to provide them with a passport-size photograph (4×6). You will have your passport and visa extension back in about 10 working days.

A diplomatic, official and courtesy visas can be extended at the Consular Department, Ministry of Foreign Affaires and International Cooperation in Phnom Penh.

Good to know: If you overstay your visa, you will have to pay US$10 a day as a penalty on leaving the country.

Visa Scams

Beware of visa scams at all overland border crossings, but especially at Poipet and Koh Kong. Never let somebody else arrange a visa for you. The visa application is very easy and only costs $US30 for a tourist visa. Do not listen to drivers and touts who will offer their help and make you believe that a visa costs US$40 or more.

Some immigration officials will ask a 100 Baht surcharge at the Poipet immigration office. 100 Baht is more or less US$3. Decide for yourself if you are willing to pay this extra ‘bribe’ or not. To avoid it, you could ask them in a polite way for a receipt or explanation. However, never lose your good mood or show any anger. This can only give you extra hassle.

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On The Road

The driving style is very different for people unaccustomed to it and the roads are not in very good repair most of the time. If you’re a pedestrian, don’t use the “I’ll just walk slowly and they’ll go around me” technique for crossing the road. Most of the time motorists are looking at their phones. If they’re in a big car, they will assume right of way. The onus is on you, be careful out there!

If you’re cycling, try to go with the flow of the traffic, most traffic doesn’t stop unless there is a severe obstacle (usually a Lexus trying to squeeze down a small street and not having enough room). Try to flow and also understand that you’re the bottom of the pecking order; motos and cars are bigger than you and their drivers will act as such. If you have a basket on your bike, don’t carry things in it at night time (read further down about bag snatches).

If you’re on a motorbike, it is advised actually that you don’t. The law is that unless you’ve lived in Cambodia 3 months or longer, you are not legally allowed to ride a motorbike here. It is also illegal to hire a motorbike, despite the many places offering this service. If you are using a moto taxi / moto dop, then make sure your insurance covers you for this. Read the small print, do you need to be wearing a helmet? Most moto taxis don’t offer an extra helmet, so keep this in mind.

Personal Safety

The additional factor that comes with many big cities and tourist towns is pick-pockets and petty thefts. That’s not to say theft of your property is insignificant, what we mean here is bag snatching or having your phone swiped off the table in front of you. Furthermore, we would advise not carrying a bag out with you late at night; it’s better to be safe than sorry! Even if you think you don’t have any valuables in your bag, a thief is unlikely to stop and ask you first – his eye will be on the bag and the bag alone. It’s not worth the risk as you can get injured in the process. Also keep your items in your sight or in a secure location.

Diseases

Dengue fever has been reported even in towns, so whilst unlikely, if you do end up with an illness like this, you could be in hospital for a very long time. Hospitals in Cambodia are very expensive, you will want to check the extent of cover when you arrange your health insurance to cover something like this. Even if you are fit and healthy in your country, the illnesses and bugs in Cambodia can still find a way to get to you. Another common issue can be parasites, these can be easily treated with over the counter medicine, however if you suffer a serious upset, you are best off seeing a doctor.

What To Do If Something Happens

Medical Emergency

The Royal Angkor International Hospital (privately run by Bangkok Hospital) is the best option for an emergency, if you get a choice. Be prepared for upfront ambulance fees if you get picked up by an ambulance from the Royal Angkor International Hospital or another private clinic.

Serious illness or injury may require medical evacuation, probably to Bangkok or Singapore.

The costs at Royal Angkor will generally run into the hundreds, even for a basic treatment and a medical evacuation can exceed $20,000 just to a nearby country. Medical travel insurance including evacuation insurance is highly advisable.

Whilst the costs at Royal Angkor International Hospital are high, most people report that their insurance company was able to pay direct or reimburse quite quickly.

Tourist Police

If you have an incident or theft situation, report it immediately to the police. Your insurance will want the report within 24 hours of it occurring. The best option is to go to the Tourist Police, most tuk tuk drivers will know it’s location, it is next to where the Angkor Ticket Office used to be. Nowadays, there’s also a Police Box located at the intersection of Pub Street and Hospital Street (Pi Thnou Street) in case urgent police assistance is required in the most touristic part of town.

Police Box:

• Location: intersection of Pub Street and Pi Thnou Street
• Hotline (24/7): 012 57 38 48
• Email: policebox_srp@yahoo.com

Tourist Police:

• Location: Charles De Gaulle Boulevard
• Hotline: 012 40 24 24

Non-urgent Illness

Neak Tep Hospital on 7 Makara Street is a very good option. Although it’s recommended to take a native Khmer speaker with you, there are some English-speaking doctors available.

Neak Tep Hospital:

• Hours: Open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week
• Address: 7 Makara Street, Sangkat Sala Kamroeuk
• Phone: 017 928 655
• Email: enquiries@neaktepclinic.com

Ambulance Service: 017 928 655 or 015 883 899

Non-urgent Medical Services

Dentists and Dental Clinics

Contrary to the general medical services, dentistry in Siem Reap has a very good reputation; it’s well-priced and good quality.

Stunning Dental Clinic offers full dental services including cosmetic, restorative, bleaching, dentures, implants. We highly recommend Dr. Chour Darith, dentist at Stunning Dental Clinic and repeatedly voted ‘Best Dentist’ by his local and international clients.

• Hours: Mon – Sun: 8am – 6pm
• Address: Wat Bo Rd
• Phone: 011 999 767

Pharmacies

U-Care is one of the most respected pharmacies in Cambodia, with 2 very central locations in Siem Reap:

• U-Care, Old Market area – tel: 095 888 562
• U-Care, Sivutha Boulevard – tel: 095 888 564

Angkor Thom Pharmacy has a great reputation amongst the expat community due to the pharmacist being well qualified and the spouse being a trained dermatologist. Located on Sivutha Boulevard, tel: 061 525 203.

Optometrists

Angkor Optics:

• Address: Sivatha Boulevard (next to Canadia Bank)
• Tel: 017 974 726

Other Emergency Services

Fire Department – Tel: 012 78 44 64

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Angkor Wat with Kids

A visit to the Angkor temples, which are the main draw, after all, can be done very easily with children with a little planning. Purchasing a three day ticket allows you to spend two or three mornings exploring the temple complex, either by tuk tuk (more fun) or by hiring a car or van with a driver (less fun but possibly cooler). This way, you’ll have the afternoons free to rest, enjoy a leisurely lunch or cool down in the hotel’s pool. Take plenty of cold water with you, and the tuk tuk ride between temples are ideal for cooling down and resting weary legs.

Bike rides

The city is perfect for bike rides. Within a few minutes you can be admiring rice paddies and grazing water buffalo in the countryside. Many hotels offer free use of bicycles. However, if yours doesn’t, it’s easy to hire one for the day, or longer, for just a dollar or two. Don’t forget a helmet and some drinking water.

Cinema

Siem Reap is lucky enough to have two modern cinemas with 2D and 3D screens showing all the latest Western and Khmer releases, so anyone missing some blockbuster movie action during their stay can easily catch up. Legend Cinema is located at The Heritage Walk shopping complex, while Platinum Cineplex is along Sivutha Boulevard near Pub Street.

Also don’t miss: our top 10 activities for children in Siem Reap!

Eating out

Children and babies are welcomed in almost all cafes and restaurants in Siem Reap, but here are a few favourites for children. Some have play areas, others have an appealing menu or particularly child-friendly staff or surroundings:

Kameng Leng, located in Wat Bo area, is perfect for kids between 0 and 5 years old. They can enjoy playing with educational wooden toys in the indoor and outdoor areas, which help them develop their skills and creativity. You can also treat them to delicious and healthy dishes, made with fresh local ingredients that are free of chemicals and preservatives.

Viva Mexican & Khmer Restaurant has two locations in the Pub Street area and is popular with families who enjoy their tasty pizzas and the all-important sombreros to try on. Try the generous portion of giant onion rings!

Gelato and Coffee Lab makes an ideal pit stop after a busy day. Taste traditional Italian gelato that’s made fresh, daily, or an all-natural sorbet.

The practicalities

Parents will be relieved to know that you can lay your hands on most of the essentials that you’ll need when you’re on holiday with the children.

Pharmacies – for plasters, pain relief, upset tummy advice and relief for mosquito bites, there is U-Care pharmacy with two very central locations or Angkor Thom Pharmacy on Sivutha Blvd. Consult our health and safety guide for more tips.

Books & toys – IBC Book Center, on Road 6 near the intersection with Wat Bo Road, for toys such as Lego, board games, Hot Wheels cars and an array of children’s books in English. Also try Asia Market and Angkor Market (upstairs) for toys including pool inflatables. Lucky Mall and Angkor Market supermarkets for nappies, baby food, toiletries, snacks and drinks.

Bring with you swim nappies, baby or paediatric paracetamol (eg Calpol), sun screen (you can buy it in Siem Reap pharmacies and supermarkets but you’ll find it’s very expensive).

Have you spent time in Siem Reap with your young children? What did your children enjoy the most? Why not let us know? We’d love to hear from you!

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Giving Money to Begging Children

Some of these kids have great lines to feed you; tell you they’re going to school in the afternoon (or vice verse in the morning if you see them in the afternoon), that the money goes to their education. Whilst this may be true if you were to encounter them in the countryside, chances are that if you’ll see them near the Angkor temples or Pub Street, that’s very likely not where the money will actually go.

The money might go to the family, surely that’s a good thing? Nope, this is the tough love approach. When families expect or demand their kids to go out begging or selling to bring in money, this is only a short-term solution to their financial difficulties. This type of behaviour sets the children up for an even more difficult future as the country develops and the poor get further and further behind.

Refusing to feed this system, gives the children a lot higher chance of going to school, so they’ll have an opportunity to break the cycle of poverty and gain a better future for themselves and their children in turn.

How about giving food to begging children? It seems kind enough, but be cautious. This may get the child into trouble with those higher up the chain of command. And similar to giving money, it creates a lifestyle of dependence and likely will mean the child can progress to no other way of living in the future, they will just continue to beg for food or money. Especially avoid giving sweets or soft drinks. It may seem cruel but most Cambodians can’t afford dental care. The last thing they need is more damage to their teeth!

Can I give toys, toothbrushes, school books or rice? In this case, make sure you go through some good channels. There are numerous scams relating to rice and school books, so do some research and if you’re asked on a whim, see if you can take some details or simply advise them that you will seek to help later.

Plan before you act. Many schools will have (and should have, if they don’t then again, do more research!) strict gift giving policies; they prefer your donation be pooled until there is a fair amount of gifts for all students and none are singled out or made to feel more or less special. Talk to the head of school to find out how best to help with donations. Don’t just turn up at the gate, instead phone and make an appointment.

Siem Reap’s Baby Milk Scam

Chances are if you’re around the Old Market / Pub Street area you’ll run into a woman or child carrying a baby and asking you to buy a $20 (at least) can of milk powder for the baby instead of money. This seems like an honest plea for help, but it’s actually a scam. Be very careful and firmly but politely decline.

The milk scam explained: In case you agree to buy a can of milk powder, you will be shown to a specific shop and buy it over the counter. However, once you’ve left the scene, the milk powder will be returned to the store and the money divided amongst the scammers and the store owner. Finally the milk will end up on a shelf in that same store to be sold again and again.

The real situation is, if a mother was actually unable to feed her baby, there are NGOs that will give powdered milk for free.

Giving Money to Old or Disabled People

This is where things get more complex. In Cambodia there is no welfare system, thus if an old person has no family to support them then they have no way of fending for themselves and this can be very dire. Similar to the older generation, there is no welfare system for people with disabilities. In fact, a strand of Buddhist philosophy points to that disability as a punishment for bad deeds in a previous life.

Our general advice here is to use common sense, it’s okay to give and in many cases this will bring much relief.

A Better Way to Help

There are local NGOs supporting people across all of these areas and they are a good place to go if you really want to help in a meaningful way.

Last but not least, use some common sense! You don’t need to be cold hearted and callous but it can feel like that when refusing a pleading face. Just remember, you are actually helping more by not giving money, in most cases. Apply some logic and if you feel uncomfortable, seek advice.

Have you had experience with this? Please share thoughts and recommendations for travellers with us in the comments section below.

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Embassies in Cambodia

Australia

Brunei

Bulgaria

Canada

China

Cuba

Czech Republic

France

Germany

India

Indonesia

Japan

Democratic Republic of Korea (North Korea)

Republic of Korea (South Korea)

Kuwait

Laos

Malaysia

Myanmar

Pakistan

Philippines

Russia

Singapore

Sweden

Switzerland

Thailand

Timor Leste

Turkey

United Kingdom

United States

Vietnam

Consulates in Cambodia

Belarus

Belgium

France (Siem Reap Consulate)

France (Sihanoukville Consulate)

Republic of Korea (Siem Reap Consulate)

Vietnam (Battambang Consulate)

Vietnam (Sihanoukville Consulate)

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Cambodian Embassies

Australia – Canberra

Belgium – Brussels

Brunei – Bandar Seri Begawan

China – Beijing

Cuba – Havana

France – Paris

Germany – Berlin

India – New Delhi

Indonesia – Jakarta

Japan – Tokyo

Democratic Republic of Korea (North Korea) – Pyongyang

Republic of Korea (South Korea) – Seoul

Kuwait – Kuwait City

Laos – Vientiane

Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur

Myanmar – Yangon

Philippines – Manila

Russia – Moscow

Singapore – Singapore

Switzerland – Geneva

Thailand – Bangkok

United Kingdom – London

United States – Washington, D.C.

Vietnam – Hanoi

Cambodian Consulates

Belgium – Ostend

China – Chongqing

China – Guangzhou

China – Hong Kong

China – Kunming

China – Nanning

China – Shanghai

France – Lyon

France – Toulouse

Japan – Fukuoka

Japan – Nagoya

Japan – Osaka

Japan – Sapporo

Republic of Korea (South Korea) – Busan

Switzerland – Zurich

Thailand – Aranyaprathet

Turkey – Ankara

Turkey – Istanbul

United States – Boston

United States – Los Angeles

United States – Philadelphia

United States – Seattle

Vietnam – Ho Chi Minh City

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Bangkok to Siem Reap: Travel Options

There are plenty of travel options available to make the overland trip from Bangkok to Siem Reap:

• Tourist bus or mini van departing from Khaosan / Sukhumvit Road
• Bangkok – Siem Reap direct bus line
• Minivan service departing from Ekkamai Bus Terminal
• Casino bus service departing from Lumpini Park
• Bangkok to Siem Reap by private taxi
• Public bus from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet bus terminal
• Train from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet train station

Note that only the first two travel options will bring you all the way from Bangkok to Siem Reap. The other ones will only bring you to the Thai border town Aranyaprathet (or Aran in short) from where you’ll have to continue your trip to Siem Reap individually.

Tourist Bus or Mini Van Departing from Khaosan / Sukhumvit Road

Tickets can be purchased in most travel agencies in Bangkok and prices can vary dramatically, from 300 to 600 Baht on Khaosan Road, or as much as 1000 Baht at some travel agencies on Sukhumvit Road. Shop around and bargain a little to get a price you’re happy with.

Expect to stop once or twice for snack and toilet breaks. However, if the driver stops right before reaching the Cambodian border at an official-looking building with a big sign saying “Consulate-General of the Kingdom of Cambodia”, this is not the official visa office, so don’t get your visa here. More details on the following page.

When you arrive at the border, cross the Thai immigration and apply for the Cambodian visa and afterwards cross the Cambodian immigration. If you are shown to a row of desks under a tarp before you go into the visa office, this is okay, usually the staff here will give you the visa form, explain about the photographs but should not ask for any money. From here enter the building and in 5-10 minutes you will have your visa. Don’t be surprised if asked for an extra few dollars at this point. Once you are on the Cambodian side of the border, you will be put on a shuttle bus to the Poipet bus terminal, from where you continue your trip to Siem Reap.

Bangkok – Siem Reap Direct Bus Line

The Bangkok – Siem Reap direct bus line, organized by Transport Co. on the Thai side and Nattakan on the Cambodian side, offers three daily connections between Bangkok and Siem Reap.

The bus departs in the morning from the Mo Chit (Northern) bus station in Bangkok, located close to the famous Chatuchak weekend market. Departure times are 8am, 8.30am and 9am. Tickets can be purchased online by credit card or Paypal on CamboTicket (US$28). The whole trip takes about 7 to 8 hours. The bus is air-conditioned and there’s a toilet on board. Snacks and lunch are served as well.

No need to take your luggage when arriving at the border, but make sure to take your valuables! At Thai immigration, you’ll have the privilege to use the fast lane (which is a big benefit in the busy high season)! Once passed the immigration check, you can arrange your visa at the official Cambodian visa office. Continue walking to Cambodian passport control and get your visa stamped. Afterwards, the bus will pick you up again and continues the ride to Siem Reap, where you will be dropped off at the Nattakan Bus Station.

Mini Van Service Departing from Ekkamai Bus Terminal

Go to the Eastern Bus Terminal, better known as Ekkamai, for minivans to Aranyaprathet / Poipet.

The Victory Monument was a central point in Bangkok from where minivans departed, for decades, now the vans operate from the main bus terminals. There is a free shuttle bus from the Victory Monument and to go to Cambodia you need the eastern bus station. You want to go early to avoid queues when you arrive at the border. The trip should take 4 hours, depending on traffic and expect an extra half hour somewhere if the driver stops for a meal break. As soon as a van is filled up with travelers, it will depart. The price per person should be 230 Baht, but be aware that this only covers the trip from Bangkok to the Cambodian border. Once you’ve crossed the border and entered Cambodia, you will need to find ongoing transport to Siem Reap.

The good thing about this minivan service is that there’s no visa scam. The van will drop you at walking distance from the border. From there continue your trip individually, though you may wish to arrange to share a taxi with other travellers. Details for transport to Siem Reap in the “Poipet to Siem Reap” section.

Casino Bus Service Departing from Lumpini Park

Poipet is the border town on the Cambodian side and has several casinos in a duty-free declared zone between the Thai and Cambodian immigration offices. Since casinos (and gambling in general) are not allowed in Thailand, hordes of Thai punters hit the road every day to spend their money in the casinos of Poipet. As such, there is a daily bus service departing from Lumpini Park in Bangkok organised by the casinos.

Departing from the south-eastern corner of Lumpini Park from 5am onwards for around 200 Baht. You don’t need to book but it’s a good idea to arrive early, especially on the weekend. Note that if you are Cambodian (or have a Cambodian companion travelling with you), you may be denied access to the bus or have to pay extra, because it is assumed you will be travelling on and not spending money at the casinos.

Similar to the minivans, there is no visa scam when using this service. More details on the next page.

Bangkok to Siem Reap by Private Taxi

Travel by taxi is the fastest and easiest way to travel from Bangkok to the Cambodian border, especially if you can share the cost with other travellers.

Finding a taxi in Bangkok is easy. Just wave a taxi down and negotiate a price. Depending on your negotiation skills, you should be able to agree on a price between 1800 and 2500 Baht for the trip from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet.

Note:

•  It’s best to avoid taxis that are waiting in front of your hotel, especially if they are advertising trips to tourist destinations like Pattaya, Koh Chang and alike. Usually these taxis charge you 3500 Baht or more.
• Never pay your taxi driver upfront. Pay him once you reached the border with Cambodia.
• Make sure to have the exact amount with you in Thai Baht. It’s an old trick of many taxi drivers to say that they don’t have any change to give back to you.

After crossing the Thai – Cambodian border, you’ll have to find additional transport to continue your trip to Siem Reap. This can either be a bus, minivan or taxi. Read the Poipet to Siem Reap section for more information.

Public Bus Service from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet

It’s possible to travel from Bangkok to the Cambodian border by public bus. You can take the bus either at the Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit) or at the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai).

The Northern Bus Terminal is the best choice for buses to Aranyaprathet. Buses leave every half hour to hour from the ground floor of the terminal and you can choose between first class – 209 Baht and second class – approx. 160 Baht.

At the Eastern (Ekkamai) bus terminal, buses leave every 1 or 2 hours. The fee is 203 Baht for a seat on an air-conditioned bus.

The whole trip to the Aranyaprathet bus terminal takes around 5-6 hours. On arrival, there will be plenty of tuk tuks available to bring you to the border for around 100 Baht. Choose one of the drivers but be wary of a possible visa scam that he may try to pull before reaching the border.

Train Service from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet

Travelling by train is a slow option, but it is cheap and a very unique experience, if you’re not in a rush. You can catch a train to Aranyaprathet from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong train station. There are other stations further along the line, but since Hua Lamphong is the train’s departure point, hopping on here gives you the best guarantee for a good seat.

There are two trains a day to Aranyaprathet. The first one leaves Hua Lamphong station in the early morning at 5.55 o’clock and arrives in Aran at 11.35 lunch time. The second one leaves in the early afternoon at 13.05 o’clock and its arrival time is 17.35 in the evening. Unless you plan to spend the night in Aran, we recommend that you take the early morning train. Expect delays.

A one-way train ticket to Aranyaprathet is 48 Baht (or 1.5usd), which is an amazing bargain for a trip of 255kms!

On arrival at Aran’s train station, there will be lots of tuk tuk drivers. Expect to pay 50-80 Baht for the short trip to the border. Be wary of a visa scam that your tuk tuk driver may try to pull along the way to the border. More details on the following page.

Crossing the Thai / Cambodian Border

Poipet, Cambodia’s border town with Thailand, is only known for two reasons: its casinos and its notorious border crossing. In this section you’ll find the information you need to make a successful border crossing.

Cambodian Visa Scam

Somewhere close to the border, your driver may stop at an officially looking building, showing a big sign saying “Consulate-General of the Kingdom of Cambodia”. He will try to convince you that you have to apply for a Cambodian visa in this building. Do not believe him! It’s a scam. He receives a commission for bringing you there and you will be charged about 50% more than the amount of the official visa fee.

So, if you’re in a tuk tuk make it clear to the tuk tuk driver that you want to go straight to the border and that you already have a Cambodian visa (even if this is not the case). Once there, you’ll first have to cross Thai immigration and afterwards you can arrange the visa yourself at the real Cambodian visa office. It takes 5 minutes of your time and is a very easy process! If you’re in a bus or minivan that stops here, be aware of the situation. If you do fall into the trap the fee is around 1600 Baht or US$45, while the official price is only US$30.

Crossing the Thai – Cambodian border

The opening hours for the border are 7am – 8pm. (There is no time difference between Thailand and Cambodia.) It’s recommended to arrive at the border as early as possible, to avoid the lunch peak period between 11am and 2/3pm. If you arrive after closing time, you’ll be forced to spend the night in Aranyaprathet, which is definitely not the most interesting town in Thailand!

To cross the border, follow these 3 easy steps:

1. Thai immigration: Cross the passport control at the Thai immigration office. The office is located on the left hand side of the road. Look out for a blue sign saying “Passport control” and “Departure”.
2. Cambodia visa office: Apply for a Cambodian visa in the official visa office. The building is located on the right side of the traditional style arch that welcomes you to the country. Above the entrance you’ll see a sign saying “Border Check Point of Poipet”.
3. Cambodia immigration arrivals: Cross the passport control at the Cambodian immigration office. This building is also located on the right side of the road. There’s a blue sign above the entrance saying “Arrival”.

Poipet to Siem Reap & Arrival

Straight after leaving the Cambodian immigration office, several touts (in official looking uniforms) will approach you to use a free shuttle bus (or minivan) to the Poipet tourist bus terminal. Unless you already booked onwards transport to Siem Reap, ignore them because this free shuttle bus is part of a transport monopoly scam. The Poipet Tourist Passenger International Terminal, where the free shuttle will bring you, is located several kilometres out of town. Once you arrive there, you will have no other option than to use their overpriced transport options.

Walk straight past them. Cross the roundabout and keep on walking into Poipet’s main street. Here, you should be able to pick up a ride to Siem Reap in a private or shared taxi at acceptable prices. A private taxi costs around US$35, while a seat in a shared taxi will set you back around US$8.

The Poipet Tourist Passenger International Terminal

Unfortunately, despite its official sounding name, the Poipet Tourist Passenger International Terminal is a rip-off. An “official” private taxi to Siem Reap costs US$48. A seat in a shared taxi costs US$12. There’s also a bus available for US$9 a person, but be aware that this bus will drop you off a few kilometres outside of the centre of Siem Reap. Several tuk tuks will be waiting here to bring you to your guesthouse at an additional cost ($4-5 depending on its location).

Arriving in Siem Reap

The trip from the Poipet border to Siem Reap should take 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic and weather conditions. The bus will probably drop you at Siem Reap’s bus terminal, which is located several kilometres out of town along National Road 6. In this case, you’ll need to negotiate a price with one of the tuk tuk drivers that will approach you. Make sure though that he will bring you to the guesthouse that you request and not to a different place (where he will receive a commission upon your booking).

In case you are arriving in Siem Reap by taxi, make sure that you don’t pay the driver until he drops you off at exact location that you request. Do no believe that taxis are prohibited from entering Siem Reap. Also, do not let him drop you off at the taxi park, a different guesthouse or hand you over to a waiting tuk tuk (from which he will receive a commission).

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