Angkor region: Getting there
The fastest and easiest way to get to Siem Reap
is by air. As far as I know Royal Air Cambodge, formerly known as
Kampuchea Airlines, is the only company frequenting Siem Reap
airport. Flight time is about 50 minutes. Flights are from Phnom
Penh only, and seem to depend on the amount of tourists willing
to go to Siem Reap. In busy times there are several flights a
day. Buy a ticket in Phnom Penh, and expect to have to visit the
Siem Reap office upon arrival to arrange for your flight back.
The national airline now flies French-built (and maintained)
ATR-72 aircraft on domestic destinations, so happily the days of
ancient Russsian flying contraptions are over. In 1997 the price
of a ticket Phnom Penh-Siem Reap was US$ 43 for a single trip,
accompanied by US$ 5 airport tax, US$ 91 for a return ticket. A
10 kg bagage limit may apply.
Any plane coming in will be met by taxis willing to take you to a
hotel or guesthouse. Hassle a bit and get a ride for a few
dollars.The airport is some 8 km from the center of Siem Reap.
|
|
There are possibly other means to travel to Siem Reap, but most are cumbersome and tiring. In the past the government also insisted foreigners go by air. By car the trip will take two days over very bad roads, so forget it. There is also a possibility to go by ferry, or sometimes speed boats. The first takes two days, the latter the better part of one day. Remember, you want to be fresh if you want to walk around the Angkor ruins for a few days, so I suggest to go by air.
