Cambodia

How to get from Kep to Koh Rong

Compare all transport options: bus, ferry, train, flight. Prices, durations and tips from a local expert.

FASTEST
1h 50min
💶
From
8€
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Distance
119 km
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There are 1 way(s) to get from Kep to Koh Rong

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

🚌 Departure from Kep
📍Buses from Kep usually depart from the main bus station located slightly outside the town center, or from specific operator offices like Sorya Bus. Confirm your exact departure point when booking. It's a small, manageable station with basic amenities.
🚇From Kep town center, you can easily reach the bus station by tuk-tuk. The ride typically takes 5-10 minutes and costs around $2-$3 USD (€1.80-€2.70). Arrange this with your accommodation or flag one down on the street.
Bus departures from Kep to Sihanoukville typically start around 7:00 AM and run until late afternoon, with several services throughout the day. Ferries from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong usually run hourly or every two hours from morning until early evening.
💸 Transport from 8€ per person
Fastest: 1h 50min
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia

Practical tips

💡
Book Ferry Tickets in Advance

Especially during peak season or holidays, ferry tickets to Koh Rong can sell out. Book online via 12go.asia or Baolau.vn a few days ahead to secure your spot and avoid missing the last boat, which is a common worry for travellers heading to the islands.

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Verify Departure Points

Bus terminals and ferry piers can sometimes be a bit out of the way. Double-check the exact location of your departure points for both the bus in Kep and the ferry in Sihanoukville to avoid confusion and ensure timely arrival.

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Pack Light for Ferry Travel

Space can be limited on ferries, and you might need to carry your luggage short distances on and off the boat. Opt for a backpack or a smaller suitcase that's easy to manage to make your transfer smoother.

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Beware of Scams in Sihanoukville

Sihanoukville's bus station and pier areas can be bustling with touts. Be firm but polite, decline unsolicited offers for taxis or tickets, and only deal with official counters or pre-booked transfers to avoid being overcharged or scammed by fixers.

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Allow Buffer Time

Cambodian transport can sometimes run on 'Khmer time'. Build in extra time between your bus arrival in Sihanoukville and your ferry departure to account for potential delays and ensure a stress-free connection.

🛣️ The journey experience

Planning your trip from Kep to Koh Rong? Getting to the islands in Cambodia can feel a bit like a puzzle, especially with varying schedules and routes. You want to know the real deal, not just the advertised best-case scenario. We've laid out the most reliable options for you, comparing travel times and prices so you can pick the best fit for your adventure.

The most common and straightforward way to get from Kep to Koh Rong involves a bus journey to Sihanoukville, followed by a ferry. Expect the bus segment to take around 3-4 hours, depending on the operator and traffic. Companies like Sorya Bus or Giant Ibis offer comfortable options. Once in Sihanoukville, you'll transfer to a ferry, which typically takes another 45 minutes to 2.5 hours to reach Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem, depending on the type of boat (fast ferry vs. slower passenger boat) and your specific destination pier. The total door-to-door journey can easily range from 6 to 8 hours.

While touts might try to sell you combined tickets, booking your bus and ferry separately or through a reputable online platform like 12go.asia or Baolau.vn is often the safest bet. This way, you avoid inflated prices and last-minute surprises. Always confirm departure points and times, especially for ferries, as schedules can shift. Having your bookings confirmed digitally means you won't be relying on outdated information, ensuring a smooth and worry-free transfer to the islands.

Frequently asked questions — Kep → Koh Rong

✨ Why visit Koh Rong?

  • Dive into the crystal-clear waters for snorkeling and discover vibrant coral reefs.
  • Witness the mesmerizing bioluminescent plankton phenomenon after sunset.
  • Relax on pristine white-sand beaches like Long Beach or Koh Rong Sanloem's Saracen Bay.
  • Trek through lush jungle trails to discover hidden waterfalls and viewpoints.
  • Enjoy fresh seafood BBQs on the beach at local restaurants.
🌙
Recommended stay
3 to 5 nights — perfect for island hopping, relaxation, and exploring diverse activities.

☀️ When to visit Koh Rong?

TROPICAL MARITIME

November to May — dry season with sunny days and calm seas, perfect for beach and water activities.

Jan 😊
Feb 😊
Mar 😊
Apr 😊
May 😐
Jun 😐
Jul 😞
Aug 😞
Sep 😞
Oct 😐
Nov 😊
Dec 😊
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In Koh Rong — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Koh Rong
Compare the best rates available
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What to do in Koh Rong?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE
🌊
Relax on Long Beach
Long Beach, also known as 7-Mile Beach, offers pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It's less crowded than other spots. Tip: Arrive by boat taxi early in the morning for the best light and tranquility, starting from around 5€ for a return trip.
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Snorkel or Dive Coral Reefs
Explore the vibrant underwater world surrounding Koh Rong. Many local operators offer snorkeling trips to nearby islands like Koh Koun or dedicated dive excursions. Look for PADI-certified centers for safety. A half-day snorkeling trip typically costs around 10-15€, including equipment.
Witness Bioluminescent Plankton
As night falls, certain beaches on Koh Rong come alive with glowing bioluminescent plankton. The darker the sky, the more spectacular the show. Best observed away from light pollution. Many boat tours offer specific trips for this experience, usually around 5-10€ per person.
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Jungle Trek to Waterfalls
Venture inland and discover Koh Rong's lush jungle. Several trails lead to hidden waterfalls, particularly impressive during the rainy season. Wear sturdy shoes and bring insect repellent. Consider hiring a local guide for deeper exploration; prices vary but start around 15-20€ for a half-day.
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Sunset from a Viewpoint
There are several elevated spots on the island offering breathtaking sunset views over the Gulf of Thailand. Head to Police Beach or a hilltop resort bar for an unobstructed panorama. Arrive early to secure a good spot and enjoy a refreshing drink. Drinks typically cost from 2-5€.
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Savour Local Khmer Cuisine
Explore the local eateries and street food stalls, particularly in Koh Touch village, for authentic Khmer dishes. Don't miss Fish Amok or fresh seafood BBQ. Prices are very reasonable. Expect to pay 3-7€ for a substantial meal at a local restaurant. Look for places frequented by locals.
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Kayak or Paddleboard serene bays
Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calmer, shallow bays and discover hidden coves at your own pace. It's an excellent way to get away from the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the coastline. Rentals typically cost around 5-10€ per hour or for a half-day.
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Explore Koh Touch Village
Koh Touch is the main village and ferry hub, offering a bustling atmosphere with guesthouses, restaurants, and small shops. While busy, it's a good place to observe local life and find essential services. Be aware it can be noisy at night. Stroll through the alleys to discover local crafts.

⏱️ How long to visit Koh Rong?

2 to 7 days

For an independent francophone traveler, plan 3-5 days. This allows full exploration of beaches, snorkeling, and the lively village. If you have less time, 2 days is enough for a quick overview, but you will miss the more remote spots and the relaxed island vibe. For more, take your time, relax, explore, do not rush.

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