Crossing the Border from Bangkok to Siem Reap by Bus: A First-Timer’s Survival Guide
Traveling from Bangkok to Siem Reap by bus is a popular choice for budget travelers. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough of our journey, ensuring a smooth experience for first-timers.
The main reasons we took the Bangkok to Siem Reap bus was for safety and peace of mind since everything is taken care of for you by the Giant Ibis staff. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first overland border crossing, this guide will help you navigate the process with confidence.
How to Get from Bangkok to Siem Reap: Fly, Train, or Bus
There are several ways to travel from Bangkok to Siem Reap, each with its own pros and cons:
- Flight: The fastest option, taking just about an hour. However, flights can be expensive, with prices ranging from $80 to $200 USD. This is ideal for those short on time but not on budget.
- Train: A more adventurous route, involving a train ride from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet, followed by crossing the border and arranging onward transport to Siem Reap. While this option is budget-friendly, it’s time-consuming and less straightforward.
- Bus: A perfect balance between cost and convenience. Direct bus services, such as those offered by Giant Ibis, provide a hassle-free experience with added perks like visa assistance and comfortable seating.
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Why You Should Book with Giant Ibis
Giant Ibis is a highly reputable bus company known for its reliable service between Bangkok and Siem Reap. Here’s why it stands out:
- Comfortable Buses: The buses are equipped with reclining seats, ample legroom, air conditioning, and even onboard Wi-Fi. During our journey, we found the seats spacious and the air conditioning pleasantly cool, making the 9-hour trip surprisingly comfortable.
- Safety Record: Giant Ibis prioritizes passenger safety with professional drivers and well-maintained vehicles. The drivers rotate shifts every two hours, ensuring they remain alert throughout the journey.
- Visa Assistance: One of the biggest advantages of traveling with Giant Ibis is their VIP immigration service. The English-speaking staff assist passengers with the Cambodian visa process at the border, making the experience seamless and stress-free.
Bangkok to Siem Reap Bus: Before You Travel
Giant Ibis Bus ScheduleGiant Ibis operates multiple buses daily from Bangkok to Siem Reap. Below is an overview of the schedules and pricing.
| Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7:45 AM | 14:15 | ~8 hrs | $35-40 |
| 8:45 AM | 16:00 | 7-8 hrs | $35-$40 |
We took the 7:45 AM bus, and it’s worth noting that this was the only bus for that day. Make sure to plan your morning accordingly to avoid missing it.
Buying Bus Tickets
Tickets can be purchased online through the Giant Ibis website or 12Go. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. Alternatively, you can buy tickets in person at the Giant Ibis office on Khao San Road in Bangkok.
Getting a Cambodian Tourist Visa in Advance
While it’s possible to obtain a visa on arrival at the border, securing a Cambodian eVisa online before your trip can save time. The eVisa costs $36 USD and is valid for 30 days. If you opt for a visa on arrival, Giant Ibis staff will guide you through the process, which involves filling out a form, providing a passport-sized photo, and paying a $30 USD fee.
Travel Day: Bangkok to Siem Reap What to Expect
What to Pack for the Bus
- Travel Documents: Passport, visa (if obtained in advance), and bus ticket.
- Bring USD in Cash – Cambodia prefers US dollars for visas and many expenses.
- Check Visa Requirements – Some nationalities need visas in advance, so check requirements before you go.
- Download Offline Maps – Internet can be spotty at the border and in Siem Reap.
- Carry Small Bills – Helpful for small purchases and paying visa fees.
- Comfort Items: Neck pillow, light blanket or shawl, and earplugs.
- Entertainment: Books, music, or downloaded movies.
- Snacks and Water: While Giant Ibis provides a light meal, having extra snacks is always a good idea.
Getting to the Pick-Up Point in Bangkok
The bus departs from the Giant Ibis office in Phra Nakhon. Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to check in and avoid any last-minute rush. We learned this the hard way, as Bangkok’s morning traffic can be unpredictable. Plan to leave your accommodation at least an hour in advance.
What Is the Bus Like?
The Giant Ibis bus exceeded our expectations in terms of comfort and amenities. The reclining seats provided ample legroom, and the onboard Wi-Fi allowed us to stay connected during the journey. While the Wi-Fi was intermittent at times, it was still a nice touch. The air conditioning was perfectly set—not too cold, as some reviews had warned. The bus also provided complimentary meals, including a croissant and coffee for breakfast and fried rice for lunch. These thoughtful touches made the long journey more enjoyable.
Crossing the Thailand-Cambodia Border
The Border Crossing Process
The border crossing at Poipet can be intimidating for first-timers, but with the help of the guided Giant Ibis staff, the process is straightforward. Here’s how it works:
- Exit Thailand: The bus stops at Thai immigration for passport exit stamping. You can opt to leave your valuables in the bus but we chose to take our backpacks with us. The Giant Ibis staff leads the group through the process. You will walk to the Thai side to get your exit stamp and then continue to walk to the Cambodian side on foot.
- Enter Cambodia: After walking across the border, you’ll apply for a Cambodian visa. Giant Ibis staff will be leading the group and assist with the paperwork and expedite the process.
- Re-board the Bus on the other side: Once all passengers have completed immigration, the journey continues to Siem Reap.
We were impressed by how seamless the process was. The staff collected our passports, visa fees, and immigration forms, and within minutes, we were through. The entire border crossing took about 30-40 minutes, including a short wait at Cambodian immigration.
Arriving in Siem Reap
Location of Siem Reap’s New Bus Station
The Giant Ibis bus arrives at their designated terminal near the city center. From there, tuk-tuks and taxis are readily available to take you to your accommodation. We used the Grab app to book a tuk-tuk, which was both convenient and affordable. You can book our awesome Grab driver Rozy who was super professional, friendly, and a knowledgeable guide.
Where to Stay in Siem Reap
Siem Reap offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget:
- Budget: Hostels and guesthouses in the Wat Bo area.
- Mid-Range: Boutique hotels near the Old Market.
- Luxury: Resorts along Charles de Gaulle Avenue.
We stayed at a newly built hotel that felt like a slice of Bali, with its wooden decor and welcoming staff. The hospitality was exceptional, and the room was spacious and comfortable.
Is the Bangkok to Siem Reap Bus Worth It?
Taking the bus from Bangkok to Siem Reap is one of the most cost-effective and hassle-free ways to travel between the two cities. Giant Ibis stands out for its comfort, reliability, and excellent service. From visa assistance to onboard amenities, they make the journey smooth and enjoyable.
If you’re a budget traveler, backpacker, or simply someone looking for an overland adventure, this bus ride is a fantastic option. Would you take the bus from Bangkok to Siem Reap? Dm us on Instagram if you have any more questions.
