How to get from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville
Why visit Sihanoukville?
Sihanoukville is a bustling coastal town in southwest Cambodia. Also called Kampong Som, it’s a tourism hotspot known for its casinos, modern hotels, and vibrant nightlife. With its strategic port and airport, the town is an ideal starting point when visiting the nearby islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem.
For some, Sihanoukville is no more than a transit hub. But if you have extra time, you can explore the map to find gems like the golden sands of Ochheuteal Beach and the luxury resort of Kompong Dewa. Immerse in the local culture at the market during the day. And at night, check out Sokha Hotel and Sky Bar for an electric buzz.
What are the 3 ways to travel from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville?
There are 3 ways to travel the 530 kilometre (329 miles) distance from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville. You can choose between the bus, taxi and flight. The journey takes 2 hours 45 minutes to 13 hours 30 minutes and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at 52,000 KHR ($13).
Siem Reap to Sihanoukville by Bus
The bus journey from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville costs 52,000 KHR ($13) and takes around 7 hours 30 minutes to 13 hours 30 minutes, making it one of the longer overland routes in Cambodia. To avoid spending most of the day on the road, many travellers choose an overnight bus instead.
There are six bus companies operating on this route, and most offer night services.
For long-distance overnight trips like this one, buses are required to have two drivers who split driving duties, which helps reduce fatigue on the road. While night buses in Cambodia once had a weaker safety reputation, conditions on this route have improved in recent years with better roads and newer buses.
That said, night travel can still involve added risk, as lighting and road conditions can vary along the way.
You can check the bus schedules below to find a departure time that works best for you.
Bus schedules from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville
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In Cambodia, transport companies often adjust the vehicle type based on how many people are travelling. You might book a bus but end up in a minivan, or the other way around, depending on demand.
Each company also uses its own office as the departure and arrival point, so make sure to check the exact location when booking.
Siem Reap to Sihanoukville by Flight
Taking a flight from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville is the most convenient option if you don’t want to spend over 7 hours on the road.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan your trip:
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Step 1: Siem Reap city centre to Siem Reap Airport
The new Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport (SAI) is about 45 kilometres away from the city centre. Depending on traffic and your choice of transport, the trip can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.
The cheapest option is the airport shuttle bus, with tickets starting from 32,000 KHR ($8). Buses leave from 7 Makara Street, around two kilometres from the main tourist area.
If you want to travel more comfortably and save time, a private transfer is a good choice. You can hail a taxi, use a ride-hailing app, or pre-book a car through services like BookAway. Prices usually range from 100,000 KHR ($25) to 180,000 KHR ($45).
There are also tuk-tuks and shared minivans to the airport, but they’re slower and not ideal in bad weather. You can read more about all the transport options on our Siem Reap airport page.
Step 2: Siem Reap to Sihanoukville by Flight
Flying is the fastest way to get from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville, with a flight time of just over an hour.
Air Cambodia operates at least two direct flights daily. Airfares from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville start from 425,000 KHR ($105). Prices can rise during peak season, though, so it’s best to book early!
Step 3: Sihanoukville Airport to Sihanoukville city centre
Sihanoukville International Airport (KOS) is about 25 km from the city centre. There’s no public transport, so you only have 2 choices: an air-conditioned private transfer and an open-air tuk-tuk.
Air-conditioned private transfers are faster and more comfortable, but pricier. Here you have 3 options: airport taxi, taxi booked via Grab or PassApp, and pre-booked cars through BookAway and Camboticket. Prices range from 100,000 KHR ($25) to 120,000 KHR ($30).
Tuk-tuks are a good alternative if you’re on a budget and want a more local way to get from Sihanoukville Airport to the city centre. Expect to pay between 48,000 KHR ($12) and 80,000 KHR ($20). You’ll find tuk-tuks just outside the airport, but it’s cheaper to book them through the Grab app.
Check out our full Sihanoukville Airport guide for a closer look at these options.
Siem Reap to Sihanoukville by Taxi
A private transfer from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville is the easiest and most convenient option. The journey takes 8 hours 30 minutes, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no need to worry about extra transfers.
Prices for private transfer start at 630,000 KHR ($155) for a 4-seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about 157,000 KHR ($39.50) each.
Private Transport options from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Frequently Asked Questions about Siem Reap to Sihanoukville
What is the distance from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville?
The distance from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville is 530 kilometre (329 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville?
The fastest way to get from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville is by flight and takes 2 hours 45 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville?
The cheapest way to get from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville is by bus with ticket costs starting from 52,000 KHR ($13).
Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
