Welcome to Siem Reap — Now Let’s Get You Out of the Airport
Landing in Siem Reap feels a little cinematic.
One minute, you’re stepping off a long-haul flight. The next, warm air hits your face, palm trees sway in the distance, and somewhere out there… Angkor Wat is waiting.
But first, reality kicks in.
You’re standing inside Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI), wondering:
How do I actually get into town?
Is there a shuttle? A taxi? Is this going to be expensive? And why does the airport feel so far from everything?
I’ve been there. Literally.
This guide walks you through exactly how to get to and from Siem Reap Airport, without stress, scams, or second-guessing. No fluff. No confusing jargon. Just real answers, written for travelers from the United States who want things clear, calm, and handled.
Let’s do this.
What Is Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI)?
First things first.
What is the IATA code for Siem Reap Airport?
The official airport code is SAI.
This is important because:
- The old Siem Reap airport (REP) is closed
- All flights now land at Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI)
If your booking says SAI, you’re in the right place.
How Far Is Siem Reap Airport from the City Center?
Let’s address the biggest surprise right away.
How far is Siem Reap Airport from city center?
About 45–50 kilometers (28–31 miles).
That means:
- 1 to 1.5 hours by road
- Longer during rain or peak travel hours
Yes, it’s far.
No, you didn’t book the wrong airport.
This is normal.
The upside? The ride is smooth, scenic, and surprisingly relaxing.
Transportation Options from Siem Reap Airport to the City
This is where most people start Googling frantically. Relax. You have options.
What transport options are available from the airport to Siem Reap city?
Here’s the full breakdown.
Option 1: Official Airport Shuttle Bus (Best Value)
If you like simple and affordable, this is your move.
Airport shuttle basics:
- Cost: around $8 per person
- Runs daily, timed with flight arrivals
- Drops you near central Siem Reap (Pub Street area)
Pros
- Cheap transport from Siem Reap airport
- Safe and official
- No haggling
Cons
- Fixed schedule
- May wait for other passengers
Option 2: Airport Taxi (Fast & Private)
If you’re jet-lagged, traveling with luggage, or just want the door-to-door experience.
Airport taxi Siem Reap cost:
- $25–$35 USD depending on vehicle type
Pros
- Private
- Comfortable
- Best for families or groups
Cons
- More expensive than shuttle
Tip from experience:
Always confirm the price before getting in.
Option 3: Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab / PassApp)
Yes, they work. Sometimes.
- Availability depends on time and demand
- Prices can fluctuate
- Pick-up areas may vary
This option is improving, but it’s still less reliable than taxis or shuttles at SAI.
Option 4: Private Hotel Transfer (Zero Stress)
Many hotels offer:
- Airport pickup
- Fixed price
- Driver waiting with your name
If your hotel offers this, take it. Seriously.
Transportation from SAI to Angkor Wat
Quick clarity here.
You do not go directly from the airport to Angkor Wat.
You go to Siem Reap city first, then visit Angkor the next day.
From town to Angkor Wat:
- Tuk-tuk
- Taxi
- Guided tour
Most travelers do sunrise tours, so staying in town matters.
Siem Reap Airport Shuttle Schedule (What to Expect)
There isn’t a flashy timetable online, but here’s the real-world truth:
- Shuttle buses run daily
- They align with major flight arrivals
- Tickets are sold at the airport
If you land during normal daytime hours, you’ll find one.
Arrival Procedures at Siem Reap Airport
Let’s walk through this calmly.
Arrival procedures Siem Reap airport:
- Immigration
- Visa check (if needed)
- Baggage claim
- Customs
- Transport hall
The airport is modern and organized. It’s not chaotic.
Are there visa services on arrival at Siem Reap Airport?
Yes.
Siem Reap visa on arrival process:
- Available for many nationalities, including U.S. passport holders
- Bring:
- Passport
- Passport photo (sometimes optional)
- USD cash
You can also use Cambodia’s e-arrival system if eligible.
Can You Buy a SIM Card at Siem Reap Airport?
Absolutely.
Siem Reap airport SIM card price:
- Around $5–$10 USD
- Includes data packages for tourists
Major providers are available right after customs.
Pro tip:
Buy it before leaving the airport. It’s easier than searching later.
Is There Free Wi-Fi at Siem Reap Airport?
Yes.
Siem Reap airport Wi-Fi access:
- Free
- Decent speed
- Enough for messaging, maps, and bookings
Still, don’t rely on it long-term. Get a SIM.
Currency Exchange & ATMs
Where can I exchange currency at the airport?
- Currency exchange counters in arrivals
- ATMs available
Cambodia runs heavily on USD, so bring small bills if you can.
Luggage Storage at Siem Reap Airport
Siem Reap airport luggage storage:
- Limited
- Not ideal for long storage
If you need storage, your hotel in town is usually the better option.
Airport Lounges at Siem Reap Angkor International Airport
Are there lounges at Siem Reap Airport?
Yes.
Airport lounge Siem Reap Angkor International:
- Available for eligible passengers
- Some accept lounge passes
- Comfortable, quiet, air-conditioned
How Early Should You Arrive Before Departure?
This matters.
How early should I arrive before my flight from Siem Reap Airport?
- International flights: 2.5–3 hours early
- Road travel is long
- Traffic is unpredictable
Plan backward. Always.
SAI Airport Parking Information
Driving yourself? Rare, but possible.
SAI airport parking information:
- Short-term and long-term parking available
- Mainly used by locals and drivers
- Clear signage, organized layout
Quick Comparison Table: Best Transport Options
| Option | Cost | Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shuttle Bus | ~$8 | 1–1.5 hrs | Budget travelers |
| Taxi | $25–$35 | ~1 hr | Comfort & groups |
| Ride-Hailing | Varies | ~1 hr | App users |
| Hotel Transfer | Varies | ~1 hr | Stress-free arrival |
Final Thoughts: Getting to Siem Reap Is Easier Than It Looks
Here’s the truth.
Yes, Siem Reap Angkor International Airport is far from town.
Yes, that feels annoying at first.
But once you understand your options, it’s smooth. Predictable. Calm.
My advice?
- First-timers: take the shuttle or hotel transfer
- Families or tired travelers: book a taxi
- Everyone: arrive early for departure
Siem Reap is worth it. The temples, the food, the slow evenings — all of it.
And now, you know exactly how to get there and back like a pro.
Your Turn
Have questions about transport, visas, or planning your Siem Reap trip?
Drop them below — I read every one.
Or better yet, bookmark this guide. You’ll thank yourself later.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Siem Reap Airport
The IATA code for Siem Reap Angkor International Airport is SAI. The old airport code REP is no longer used.
Siem Reap Airport is about 45–50 kilometers (28–31 miles) from downtown Siem Reap. The drive usually takes 1 to 1.5 hours.
The official airport shuttle bus is the cheapest option. It costs around $8 per person and runs daily based on flight arrivals.
Yes. Siem Reap Angkor International Airport offers an official shuttle bus service that connects the airport to central Siem Reap.
Yes, ride-hailing apps like Grab and PassApp work at the airport, but availability may be limited during peak hours.
Yes. Visa on Arrival is available for many nationalities, including U.S. passport holders. Cambodia also offers an e-Arrival system.
Yes. You can buy a tourist SIM card at the airport arrivals hall. Prices usually range from $5–$10 USD with data included.
Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, suitable for basic browsing and messaging.
Currency exchange counters and ATMs are available in the arrivals area. U.S. dollars are widely accepted in Cambodia.
For international flights, you should arrive at least 2.5 to 3 hours early, especially due to the long drive from the city.
Yes. Siem Reap Airport has passenger lounges available for eligible travelers and some paid lounge access options.