How to Go from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong – Complete Travel Guide

Hi, I’m Chandan Singh, a traveler who has explored 18 countries across Asia, including Cambodia. In this blog, I’ll guide you on how to travel from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong, one of Cambodia’s most beautiful islands known for its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and peaceful atmosphere.

Koh Rong lies off the southern coast of Cambodia near Sihanoukville. To reach the island, travelers first need to go from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville by bus, taxi, or train, and then take a ferry from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong.

Let’s break down the journey step-by-step.

Step 1: Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville

Option 1: By Bus (Most Budget-Friendly)

Several bus companies like Giant Ibis, Virak Buntham, and Bayon VIP operate daily trips.
Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Ticket Price: Around $14to $20USD
Departure Point: Phnom Penh city center (varies by company)
Arrival: Sihanoukville Bus Terminal
You can book online through platforms like 12Go Asia.

Option 2: By Train (Scenic Option)

The Royal Railway of Cambodia runs between Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville.
Duration: About 7 hours
Ticket Price: Around $8 to $12 USD
Though slower than the bus, the train ride offers a relaxing and scenic journey through Cambodian countryside.

Option 3: By Taxi or Private Car (Fastest Option)

If you prefer comfort and flexibility, hire a private taxi.
Duration: Around 4 to 5 hours
Cost: Between $60 to $90 USD, depending on car type and negotiation.

Step 2: Sihanoukville to Koh Rong by Ferry

Once you arrive in Sihanoukville, you need to take a ferry to Koh Rong. Ferries depart from Sihanoukville’s Serendipity Pier.

Ferry Companies: Speed Ferry Cambodia, GTVC, Island Speed Ferry
Duration: Around 45 minutes to 1 hour
Ticket Price: $5to $11USD (one way)
Departure Times: Usually between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM

You can buy ferry tickets online or at the pier. Most companies also offer a return ticket valid for your chosen date.

👉 Tip: Confirm with your hotel in Koh Rong which pier you should arrive at — Koh Touch, Sok San Beach, or Long Set Beach — as ferries drop off at different spots.

Total Travel Time

From Phnom Penh to Koh Rong, expect your total journey to take 7 to 9 hours including transfer and ferry waiting time.

Useful Travel Tips

If possible, leave Phnom Penh early morning so you can catch the afternoon ferry.
Book ferry tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons (December to April).
Keep some cash in USD for tickets and snacks as ATMs are limited on the island.
If you arrive late in Sihanoukville, stay overnight and take the first ferry next morning.

Traveling from Phnom Penh to Koh Rong is easy and can be done comfortably in a single day. The journey combines a scenic overland route with a beautiful ferry ride across the Gulf of Thailand. Once you step foot on Koh Rong’s beaches, the long journey will feel completely worth it.