Phnom Penh's transport is dominated by tuk-tuks and apps. Here's how to navigate fares, avoid overcharging, and stay safe.
Phnom Penh's transport mix — tuk-tuks, moto-taxis, PassApp, and Grab — is more varied than most Southeast Asian capitals. Traditional taxis are less common; tuk-tuks and ride-hailing apps dominate. Overcharging tourists is the primary issue rather than organised scams. The app-based revolution (particularly PassApp, Cambodia's local ride-hailing platform) has given visitors transparent pricing for the first time. This guide covers what you should actually pay for every journey type — from the airport to the Killing Fields — and the situations where overcharging is most common.
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PassApp is Cambodia's dominant ride-hailing app and works excellently in Phnom Penh — covering both tuk-tuks and cars with upfront pricing in USD. Grab also operates and is another reliable option. For airport arrivals at Phnom Penh International, both apps have designated pick-up zones. A typical central Phnom Penh tuk-tuk journey should cost USD $2–4 via app; more for outlying areas. For day trips to the Killing Fields (Choeung Ek), Silver Pagoda, and S-21 museum, negotiate a half-day rate of USD $15–25 with a trusted driver.
A chartered tuk-tuk driver for the day is one of the most popular ways to see Phnom Penh's main sites. The key is to agree all terms upfront: which sites, what time you start, how many hours are included, and the total price. USD $25–40 for a full day covering the Killing Fields, S-21, Royal Palace, and the riverside is reasonable. The driver waits at each site while you tour inside. Entrance fees are always extra — a legitimate driver will tell you this upfront, not spring it on you mid-trip.
Phnom Penh tuk-tuk drivers outside major tourist sites (Royal Palace, National Museum, riverside) are friendly but often charge tourist premiums. Walking one block away and booking via PassApp typically gets you the same journey for 30–50% less. Use the app as your benchmark before negotiating with any street driver.
Be aware of the "free ride" offer: some tuk-tuk drivers offer you a free or very cheap first ride, intending to take you to a shop or gem dealer where they earn commission. Once you're inside the shop you'll feel significant pressure to buy. Simply say no if offered any "special deal" that involves visiting a shop.
How much should a tuk-tuk cost in Phnom Penh?
Short city journeys: USD $2–4 via PassApp. Tourist-area tuk-tuks quote USD $5–10 for the same rides. Always check the app fare before negotiating.
Is Grab available in Phnom Penh?
Yes — both Grab and PassApp (the local Cambodian alternative) operate well in Phnom Penh. PassApp is often slightly cheaper and has more tuk-tuk coverage.
What currency should I use for tuk-tuks in Phnom Penh?
USD is the default for tourist transport. KHR (Riel) is also accepted — as of 2026, USD $1 ≈ KHR 4,100. Cambodia operates a dual-currency economy; either works.
How much should I pay for a day trip to the Killing Fields?
A tuk-tuk to Choeung Ek (Killing Fields) and back from the city centre costs USD $6–9 each way via PassApp, or USD $12–20 for a chartered return with waiting time. Entrance to the Killing Fields is USD $6 per person, paid separately.
Are there taxis (cars) in Phnom Penh?
Traditional metered taxis are rare. Grab and PassApp both offer car options (similar to Uber) for a more air-conditioned alternative to tuk-tuks — useful in heavy rain or for airport journeys.
Is it safe to use moto-taxis (motorbike taxis) in Phnom Penh?
Moto-taxis are cheap and common for solo travellers. Agree the price before getting on. Helmets are not always provided — you can bring your own or buy a cheap helmet at markets. They are less safe than tuk-tuks or cars but widely used by locals.
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