How to get from Kampot to Kep

Why visit Kep?

Kep is the smallest region in Cambodia, yet it offers plenty to spend a few exciting days in this small beach town. At its peak, the French’s enthusiasm for luxury made it one of the most inviting destinations in Cambodia.

See what all the fuss was about and try some of the tastiest and freshest seafood at Kep Crab Market, relax on Kep Beach or spend the day discovering the nearby town of Kampot. 

There are 4 ways to travel the 23 kilometres (14 miles) from Kampot to Kep. You can choose between the bus, taxi, ferry and motorbike. The journey takes 30 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes and the quickest way is by bus. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at $3 (12,000 KHR).

The journey from Kampot to Kep takes about 30 minutes. Since it’s a short trip, taking the bus is a good and cheap option.

Travelling by motorbike between Kampot and Kep is a popular option among backpackers. You can take a motorbike taxi or drive a motorbike rental. Prices start from $4 (16,000 KHR).

Instead of sedan taxis, you can also find motorbike taxis along the streets of Kampot. Expect to pay around $5 (20,000 KHR) for a one-way journey.

Planning only for a day tour to Kep? You can inform the driver, agree on the terms and pay a little more — $8 (32,000 KHR) – $10 (40,000 KHR) — for a return trip.

There is little traffic on the roads between Kampot and Kep but always be cautious when riding a motorbike.

Another great option if you want to make a day trip is to rent a motorbike. Most motorbikes are below 125cc and don’t require a driver’s license.

You can rent a motorbike for only $4 (16,000 KHR) a day and most of them are in good condition. Many travellers recommend renting one with Hong Kimeng Moto Rental because this is a reliable company.

Bear in mind that you may have to leave your passport at the rental shop as a form of collateral. Motor rental shops often have small drawers or lockers to keep your passport.

Crab Shuttle offers one daily ferry trip to Kep. If you’re not in a hurry and want to enjoy a good view of the coast, taking the ferry is a good experience.

Don’t expect high-end ferry units because Crab Shuttle operates local, wooden-type boats. The boat provides basic safety measures like life jackets and a first aid kit. Keep in mind that they only offer trips when the weather is okay. Food and drinks are available onboard.

The boat leaves from the riverside in front of Rikitikitavi Hotel at 9:00 in the morning. You will arrive at the Koh Tonsay Boat Terminal in Kep around 11:20.

A one-way ticket costs $10 (40,000 KHR) and a roundtrip ticket costs only $13.50 (54,000 KHR). If you buy the roundtrip ticket, be informed that the boat leaves Koh Tonsay Boat Terminal at 15:00. This means you will only have 3.5 hours to spend in Kep.

If you wish to visit Rabbit Island as well, you can arrange a ride with Crab Shuttle. After reaching Kep, it is just another 30min boat trip to Rabbit Island.

Taking a taxi is comfortable and allows you to enjoy the views along the way.

Hailing a taxi from Kampot costs $20 (80,000 KHR). Some travellers might be able to lower this price to $15 (60,000 KHR), but your chances are small.

You can hail a taxi on the street, ask your hotel to arrange one or book a taxi online. A 4-seater SUV taxi booked online costs $25 (100,000 KHR) and has better legroom.