How to get from Sihanoukville 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.
What are the 4 ways to travel from Sihanoukville to Kep?
There are 4 ways to travel the 120 kilometre (75 miles) distance from Sihanoukville to Kep. You can choose between the bus, shared minivan, taxi and train. The journey takes 2 hours 35 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes and the quickest way is by train. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at 32,000 KHR ($8).
Sihanoukville to Kep by Bus
Taking the bus from Sihanoukville to Kep is one of the most affordable ways to travel. Fares start from 32,000 KHR ($8), and the journey takes around 3 hours to 3 hours 30 minutes.
You’ll have three bus companies to choose from on this route: Champa Mekong*, Kampot Express and Rith Travel Tour.
Champa Mekong is often the cheapest option, but they don’t have the best reputation. Travellers report mixed experiences, and they’re also tricky to book online in advance. We don’t really recommend booking with them.
Among the other bus companies, Kampot Express gets slightly better reviews and tends to be a more reliable choice.
That said, bus travel in Cambodia can still be a bit hit or miss. Delays, last-minute schedule changes, and varying comfort levels are fairly common.
Bus schedules from Sihanoukville to Kep
Sihanoukville to Kep by Shared Minivan
A minivan ride from Sihanoukville to Kep costs around 54,000 KHR ($13.50). The minivan journey takes about 3 hours, depending on traffic.
There is only one company operating on this route: Kampot Transports.
Note that in Cambodia, transport companies often adjust the vehicle type based on how many people are travelling. You might book a minivan but end up in a bus, or the other way around, depending on demand.
Minivan schedule from Sihanoukville to Kep
Departure and Arrival Stations
Minivans depart from the Kampot Transports office and drop passengers off at their Kep bus station.
Sihanoukville to Kep by Train
The train is a scenic and affordable way to get from Sihanoukville to Kep. Train fares start from 69,000 KHR ($17.10), and the journey takes around 2 hours 35 minutes.
From Thursday to Sunday, Cambodia Royal Railway operates KiHa model trains on this route. These are refurbished Japanese trains and are noticeably more comfortable than the regular service, with better seating, stronger air conditioning, and improved onboard facilities.
On days when the KiHa train does not operate, passenger services continue to use older carriages, which are less comfortable and offer fewer amenities.
Note that train travel in Cambodia is slow and delays are common, so this option is best if you are not on a tight schedule. Still, many travellers choose the train because it provides a calmer journey through rural countryside and small towns along the way.
Departure Station
The train from Sihanoukville to Kep leaves from Sihanoukville Railway Station, about 6km from the main beach area. Fares for a tuk-tuk ride start from 20,000 KHR ($5), but you might find cheaper options if you book through PassApp.
Train schedule from Sihanoukville to Kep
Arrival Station
You will arrive at Kep Railway Station, about 12 km north of Kep Beach.
Tuk-tuks usually wait outside, and fares start from 20,000 KHR ($5). However, drivers are known for overcharging, so be ready to negotiate.
If you have Grab or PassApp, check the fare in the app first and use it only as a benchmark. You can try booking through the app too, but service in Kep is limited. Plus, because of the remote location, drivers might take a while to show up or not accept the ride at all.
Sihanoukville to Kep by Taxi
A private transfer from Sihanoukville to Kep is the easiest and most convenient option. The journey takes 3 hours, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no need to worry about extra transfers.
Expect to pay around 201,000 KHR ($50) when you hail a taxi on the streets. But make sure to agree on the price in advance to avoid any awkward price debates when you arrive.
Another option is to book your taxi online through 12Go.Asia or Camboticket. Fares from Sihanoukville to Kep start from 265,000 KHR ($66) to 281,000 KHR ($70). It’s a bit more expensive, but in return, you will get a larger car with more legroom and luggage space than the standard sedan taxis you find on the street.
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Sihanoukville to Kep. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Frequently Asked Questions about Sihanoukville to Kep
What is the distance from Sihanoukville to Kep?
The distance from Sihanoukville to Kep is 120 kilometre (75 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Sihanoukville to Kep?
The fastest way to get from Sihanoukville to Kep is by train and takes 2 hours 35 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Sihanoukville to Kep?
The cheapest way to get from Sihanoukville to Kep is by bus with ticket costs starting from 32,000 KHR ($8).
Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
