Phnom Penh To Koh Rong Guide: Transport, Time, and Cost

A trip from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong satisfies your preference to combine the urban vibe with island serenity. After traveling to the coast by car, you board a ferry and, on your way, see great scenery and end up on unspoiled sandy beaches.

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Overview Of Phnom Penh To Koh Rong

Phnom Penh to Koh Rong is a journey that attracts all sorts of travelers with its mix of culture, heritage, and beach vacation bliss. It begins in Phnom Penh, the energetic capital of Cambodia, which boasts royal palaces, temples with secrets from the ancient world, museums with substance and meaning, and streets filled with the energy of local activity and heritage.

After the rich experience of Phnom Penh, one can slow down with the Koh Rong rhythm, beaches with sparkling white sand and turquoise waters, and a laid-back atmosphere filled with warmth and sunshine. It is an excellent combination for all sorts of travelers: couples on honeymoon, backpackers seeking adventure, or families looking for a beach vacation. Combining both places in one vacation is a great way to get contrasting experiences with unforgettable memories filled with the beauty and warmth of Cambodia.

How Far Is It From Phnom Penh To Koh Rong

The journey from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong will depend on the route and port you want to use, and it is around 230-250 kilometers. Most tourists begin their journey from Phnom Penh all the way down to Sihanoukville, which is around 220 kilometers and can be done by bus, van, or even in a private vehicle. This part of the journey offers the rural landscape of Cambodia.

Catch a speedboat or ferry from Sihanoukville for the trip over to Koh Rong. This takes anywhere from 25 to 45 minutes. So the total travel time from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong is about 5.5 to 7 hours. This is quite an efficient route for travel purposes and makes it relatively easy for people wanting to escape the city because of the laid-back atmosphere the island offers.

How To Travel From Phnom Penh To Koh Rong

Relocating from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong is simpler than it sounds when using appropriate transport and organizing well in advance. This guide will assist you in investigating the best travel alternatives for a seamless and pleasant trip to this tropical island.

3.1. By Motorbike

Travelling by motorbike from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong is not even an option, since Koh Rong is an island. You have to begin the journey by road to Sihanoukville and then by ferry or speedboat to the island. Depending on the company, by road from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville, the prices for transportation by bus or taxi range from 10-20 USD per person.

A return ferry ride from Sihanoukville, if directed to Koh Rong, costs around $25-$30. If you plan to rent a motorbike from Sihanoukville, the charge can be $5-$10 per day, depending on the company. However, the convenience of taking a motorbike from Sihanoukville should be considered against the convenience of getting one at Koh Rong.

Factors	Details
Price	The prices for motorbike rentals can start from $10 to as high as $30 a day, covering the usually disregarded ride to Sihanoukville and ferry arrangements. The type of motorbike, rental duration, and parking fee at the port ultimately determine the cost.
Time	The time it takes to travel from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong is a total of 5.5 to 7 hours. This is comprised of the 4.5-5.5-hour bus ride to Sihanoukville and another ferry or speedboat ride that takes 25-45 minutes to reach Koh Rong.
Best for	Best for experienced riders, adventure seekers, and flexible travelers who enjoy long-distance motorbike journeys, scenic routes, and independent travel, while being confident with road conditions and safety requirements.
Notes	Start early, check ferry schedules, wear a helmet, avoid night riding, and allow extra time for traffic delays.

3.2. By Bus or Minivan

For many travelers, the option to travel from Phnom Penh down to Sihanoukville by bus or minivan is a popular, wallet-friendly option. Tickets usually cost about $10 to $20 per person, but may vary according to the company and type of service. It generally takes some 4.5 to 6 hours to make the ride, depending on traffic and road conditions. Generally speaking, buses and minivans are the best options for getting to Sihanoukville before you go on to Koh Rong, given their frequent departures, dependable schedules, and affordable fares.

Phnom Penh down to Sihanoukville by minivan

Factors	Details
Price	Approximately $9-$16 per person for a one-way journey, depending on the service operator. In the case of journeying by Minivan Bus Services, the cost for most operators stands at about $12-$20 for a one-way journey for a single passenger.
Time	These buses and vans usually take 4.5-6 hours to reach from Phnom Penh, making them a budget-friendly and popular choice for travelers heading toward Koh Rong.
Best for	Great for budget-conscious travelers, backpackers, or first-time travelers in search of a simple, easy-on-the-pocket journey.Perfect for those who love comfort and convenient itineraries without long drives. It is a convenient option for those travelers who plan to proceed to Koh Rong by ferry.
Notes	So, to avoid Fully Booked Trips, it is best to purchase your tickets in advance, especially during weekends and holidays. Just choose reputable bus or minivan companies for your safety and convenience. Furthermore, allocate some extra time for travel in case of heavy traffic and the ferry ride to Koh Rong Island.

3.3. By Private Car

Using a private car to travel from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville is an excellent option for those who want comfort and privacy. This mode of transport would be most suitable for a family who wants a relaxed and private experience, or a group of friends or lovers who want to enjoy a fun experience together. The time it takes to travel by private car is 4.5 to 5.5 hours, and it surely is costlier than the minivans and the buses, but it would be totally worth it given the convenience and peace of mind it provides at the onset of the journey.

Factors	Details
Price	Hiring a private car from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville typically costs around $70–120 per vehicle one way, depending on the car type, service quality, and number of passengers.
Time	Driving time: 4.5–5.5 hours from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville by private car. Boat time: 25–45 minutes by ferry or speedboat to Koh Rong.
Best for	This option is best for experienced riders who enjoy long-distance travel, flexibility, and adventure, and who are comfortable with varying road and weather conditions.
Notes	Ferries to Koh Rong run only during the day, so arrive in Sihanoukville early. Allow extra buffer time for traffic and ferry schedules.

3.4. Self-Drive Car Rental

The use of a self-driving car rental gives you control over your journey from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville because you can go as fast as you want. It is the most recommended choice for road travelers who are particular about their privacy and convenience.

Factors	Details
Price	Taking a motorbike from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong costs about 15-25 USD for the gas alone in order to complete the entire 320 km distance. If you have to rent a motorbike, it will be 8-15 dollars a day. Thus, the total cost is usually around 25-40 dollars,
Time	The time usually takes around 7 to 9 hours.
Best for	This option is best for experienced riders who enjoy long-distance travel, flexibility, and adventure, and who are comfortable with varying road and weather conditions.
Notes	The time it takes to travel from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong by private vehicle is estimated to be 5.5 to 7 hours. The travel time from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville is estimated to be 4.5 to 5.5 hours.

Tips for Traveling from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong

Planning a trip route from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong will help all aspects of the trip go smoothly. Here are a number of steps to take to ensure that all time is saved, all pitfalls are avoided, and all trips are enjoyed.

Pick a smart departure time: leave early in order to avoid National Road 4 traffic congestion, allowing sufficient time to reach Sihanoukville and get on a same-day ferry or speedboat to Koh Rong.
Purchase your transportation tickets early. It is essential to reserve seats on the bus, minivan, or private vehicle before the visit date and on special days like weekends and holidays.
If you plan a trip to Sihanoukville, make sure to check the schedules of ferries carefully, since you may want to add some time between traveling and getting on a ferry. Sometimes, it might take a bit longer, and it is always a good time to plan for that.
Wear a proper helmet, bring your documents with you, check the bike for a few things before setting out, and avoid motorbiking in the evenings. It’s also a good idea to check the weather and road conditions.

Recommended Stops Along the Way

Reaching the islands is only one aspect of traveling from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong; another is taking in a few fascinating stops en route. Before the beach getaway starts, these locations can add local flavor, culture, and relaxation to your trip if you have a little more time.

A Peaceful Riverside Stop In Kampot

Kampot is among the most well-known refueling stations on overlanding routes from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong. Kampot is the ideal place for a break during long overlanding routes, as it has a colonial town with a relaxed atmosphere. The town has French colonial architecture and a peaceful café culture. Nature lovers are able to tour the world-famous Kampot pepper farms or go kayaking in the Kampot River. The town is also a short overland journey away from Bokor National Park.

Keep – A Great Place At The Beach

Kep is one of the many stops on the Phnom Penh to Koh Rong that is famous for seafood and ocean views. You can find fresh blue crabs at the Popular Kep Crab Market, located right on the beach. If you enjoy hiking, the Kep National Park has many hiking trails with views of the Ocean. If you are looking for a quiet beach to relax in, the Beaches of Kep offer a peaceful, quiet atmosphere, especially before continuing your trip to Sihanoukville, to catch the ferry to Koh Rong.

Sihanoukville – Gateway To Koh Rong

Sihanoukville is a major transit point and a critical point for people moving to and from Koh Rong. This is because Sihanoukville is where the ferry services that people use to go to Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem are located. Sihanoukville has various accommodation and dining options for tourists and is a great place to spend a night before going to other destinations. Areas like Otres Beach are peaceful, while others are near modes of transportation.

FAQs About Traveling From Phnom Penh to Koh Rong

Below are the most frequent queries travelers pose while arranging travel routes from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong. They range from transport options, timing, to the ease of travel. The FAQs below should answer your queries on preparing yourself for the trip.

Are there all-inclusive or package tours to Koh Rong?

Yes. Many travel agencies also offer combination packages that will take care of your journey from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville, a ferry to Koh Rong, and your stay in Koh Rong, if you choose to dine or engage in activities, to name a few. These are especially helpful to novice tourists.

Is the road easy to travel from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong?

The road from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville is generally in good condition and easy to follow. This is especially true for buses, private cars, and experienced motorbike drivers. Also, remember that with traffic and weather conditions, travel times might be affected; it would thus be prudent to schedule your time and leave some buffer.

Final Thoughts

Starting a Koh Rong adventure from Phnom Penh will be a rewarding combination of culture, scenery, and island life. You can choose from various ways of getting there: bus, minivan, private car, or motorbike. All you need is a bit of planning, an early start, and advance bookings to have your journey run without hitches from start to finish. Meanwhile, for reliable travel tips, friendly guides, and handpicked experiences in Cambodia, Seni World is always your partner of choice to plan wiser, travel smarter, and create long-lasting memories.

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