How to Get from Siem Reap to Battambang

A minivan ride from Siem Reap to Battambang costs around . The minivan journey takes about , depending on traffic. There are companies operating on this route: . Both get good reviews from travellers, but we recommend taking Larryta Express if you want to keep costs down.

The bus is an affordable way to get from Siem Reap to Battambang. Bus fares start from $10, and the journey takes around 3-4h. Road conditions between Siem Reap and Battambang are generally good, with most of the route running on paved highways. Buses also run on frequent schedules throughout the day. You can choose from three bus companies operating on this route: Giant Ibis, Airbus and Virak Buntham Express.

The ferry from Siem Reap to Battambang is mainly taken for the experience, not for speed or comfort. Tickets cost $40, and the journey takes at least 4h 15m. In reality, though, it usually takes 6 to 7 hours, sometimes even longer. The ride gives you a look at everyday life along the river. You pass floating villages, fishing boats, and homes built right on the water, so you can see how people actually live and move around here. Views along the riverbank are not extraordinary, but you get to see parts of Cambodia that most travellers miss. Keep in mind that ferries on this route do not follow the same safety standards you might expect elsewhere. Boats here are local, wooden ferries with very basic facilities. It can get hot, space is limited, and the engine noise runs throughout the journey. Even so, the ferry can be a worthwhile experience if you are curious about river life and don’t mind a bit of an adventure. Compared to the bus, it is slower and less comfortable, but far more memorable.

Departure Station

The ferry departs from Chong Kneas Ferry Port in Siem Reap. To get there, you can take a tuk-tuk from the city centre for [price 10 USD] per person. You can also buy tickets at the ferry station for cheaper, around [price 35 USD], but it’s worth being careful. Many travellers report scams in the area, from tuk-tuk drivers to people adding extra charges to ferry tickets. Also note that even if someone says the ferry operates during the dry season, the journey can be much longer and more difficult. Low water levels may mean transferring between trucks and boats along the way. For a smoother trip, it’s best to travel during the months of August to February.