Explore Angkor by Tuk Tuk
A tuk tuk, also called mototaxi or moto-ramauk, is a motorized rickshaw usually seating two people. This is probably the most popular mode of transportation in Angkor.
Advantages
A tuk tuk has several advantages.
- Fun way to get around
Although not the most comfortable ride, a tuk tuk ride around Angkor is a fun and memorable experience. - Flexibility
A tuk tuk provides a lot of flexibility. Decide yourself what temples you want to visit and how long to stay at each one. Choose what time to start the trip and when to end. Changes to the itinerary can be made at any time. - Convenience
The driver will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel. - Cheap
Tuk tuks are cheap. How cheap depends on the itinerary and your bargaining skills.
Disadvantages
Unfortunately there are some disadvantages as well.
- Not the most comfortable
A tuk tuk is not the most comfortable ride. It can get hot and dusty. Although open on the sides, a tuk tuk is covered offering protection from sun and rain. - Slow
The ride is fairly slow. Although not a problem for short trips around the main temples close to Siem Reap, a tuk tuk is not well suited for longer trips.
Prices
A tuk tuk will cost around US$ 30 to US$ 50 for the day.
If you plan to visit some of the more remote temples like the Banteay Srei or Kbal Spean in the Phnom Kulen Hills, expect to pay more because of the larger distances covered. Likewise, if you want to see the sunrise at one of the temples, expect to pay a few dollars more because of the early hour the trip starts.
Find a tuk tuk driver
As there are plenty of tuk tuk drivers around, it is easy to find one. Make sure the driver speaks English well enough to avoid misunderstandings.
- Book online
The easiest way is to book a tuk tuk tour in advance. - At hotel
Most hotels will be able to book a tuk tuk for you or recommend you one. - Find one on the street
Plenty of tuk tuks drive around the streets of Siem Reap looking for customers. Negotiate price, duration and itinerary. - Use an app
Use the Grab or PassApp. They require a Cambodian phone number. Buy a sim card at the airport or in town.
Before the trip
Prepare for the trip.
- Driver’s phone number
Make sure to get the driver’s phone number and give him yours. - Pick up time & hotel
Agree with the driver at what time he will pick you up at your hotel. - Itinerary
Know what temples you want to visit. Make sure to agree with the driver on your itinerary and duration of the trip. - Price
Agree on the price.
As most drivers know the Angkor Archaeological Park very well and know the schedules of tour buses, you can ask him for suggestions on how to avoid some of the crowds.
During the trip
Tell the driver which places you want to go, he will drop you off there and wait for you to come back.