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    Kep - travel guide
    1. Home
    2. Cities
    3. Kep
    1. Home
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    3. Cities
    4. Kep

    Kep

    Southern Coast, Cambodia

    Kep, a quiet seaside town in southern Cambodia with about 4,000 residents, lies 150 km south of Phnom Penh. Known for its French colonial past, it sits near Kep National Park, where visitors can hike ...

    Find tours, hotels, restaurants, and guides in Kep

    Getting There

    From Phnom Penh, travelers can take a direct bus to Kep. Companies such as Capitol Tours and Mekong Express operate daily services with fares around $8-$10 USD. The journey typically takes 3 to 3.5 hours. From Siem Reap, buses are less frequent and often require a transfer in Phnom Penh. The total journey from Siem Reap can take 8 to 10 hours with combined bus tickets costing between $15 and $20 USD. Private taxis are also available from Phnom Penh at about $50-$60 USD one way.

    Getting Around

    Within Kep, tuk-tuks are the most common mode of transport and usually charge $2-$5 USD for short trips around town. Motorbike rentals are available for about $6-$10 USD per day, providing flexibility to visit places like Kep National Park or travel to Rabbit Island. Bicycles can be rented for roughly $3-$5 USD per day and are useful for short distances. Walking is also feasible in the small town center.

    What to See

    Kep National Park provides marked trails of 3 to 5 kilometers with views of the sea and town, free to enter. The Kep Crab Market is the main spot for fresh seafood and has several simple restaurants; entry is free. Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay) lies about 4 kilometers offshore; boat rides cost roughly $5-$10 USD each way, and small bungalows are available for rent. The French Colonial Villas, though many are in ruins, give insight into Kep's history and can be seen around the town without an entry fee. The Butterfly Farm, located near the park, provides a chance to see local butterfly species; entrance is around $3 USD.

    Food & Drink

    Kep is known for its seafood, particularly blue crabs harvested from the nearby sea. The Crab Market area has multiple restaurants serving crab cooked with Kampot pepper, a local specialty. Meals at these places typically cost $5-$10 USD per person. Other Cambodian dishes such as fish amok and fresh spring rolls are also common. There are small cafes and bars near the beach area where drinks cost around $1.50-$3 USD. For more variety, some mid-range restaurants in town offer mixed menus including Western options.

    Where to Stay

    Budget accommodation includes guesthouses and hostels with prices from $8 to $15 USD per night. Mid-range hotels and boutique guesthouses typically charge between $20 and $50 USD per night, offering air conditioning and private bathrooms. Upscale resorts near the coast or on Rabbit Island range from $60 to over $100 USD per night, featuring amenities such as pools and sea views. Booking in advance is recommended during the high season from November to April.

    Where to Stay (25)

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    Bathroom with double sinks, large mirror, and green walls leading to a bathtub by a round window with blinds
    Resorts
    Agoda
    5 Star Rating
    9/10
    Excellent
    (589 reviews)
    Knai Bang Chatt Resort

    5-star resort in Kep National Park with an ocean-view infinity pool and luxury amenities. Rated 9.3/10 by guests.

    ~€122
    per night
    View →
    Book on Agoda
    Outdoor swimming pool with clear blue water surrounded by tropical plants and a pavilion under a blue sky
    Resorts
    Agoda
    5 Star Rating
    9/10
    Excellent
    (655 reviews)
    Try Palace Resort Kep

    5-star resort near Kep National Park and Crab Market with highly rated staff and upscale facilities.

    ~€299
    per night
    View →
    Book on Agoda
    aerial view of resort buildings with red roofs surrounded by dense green trees and two swimming pools
    Resorts
    Agoda
    4 Star Rating
    9/10
    Very Good
    (500 reviews)
    Veranda Natural Resort

    4-star resort with bungalows offering remarkable views in Thmey Village near Kep National Park. Rated 8.5/10 with noted friendly staff and cleanliness.

    ~€68
    per night
    View →
    Book on Agoda
    Outdoor swimming pool with mosaic tiles surrounded by lounge chairs and colorful umbrellas at a multi-story hotel
    Hotels
    Agoda
    4 Star Rating
    9/10
    Very Good
    (483 reviews)
    Vakara Hotel Kep

    Vakara Hotel Kep features sea views and top-rated staff for $133/night.

    ~€122
    per night
    View →
    Book on Agoda
    bed with gray headboard and red pillows near window with sheer and dark curtains in bright room
    Villas
    Booking.com
    8/10
    Very Good
    (352 reviews)
    Villa Samathi

    8.3-star villa with an infinity pool and garden views in Kep National Park.

    ~€138
    per night
    View →
    Book on Booking.com
    Indoor seating area with wooden tables and chairs under a thatched roof with bamboo pillars and warm lighting
    Guesthouses
    Booking.com
    8/10
    Very Good
    (292 reviews)
    Visal Sak Guesthouse

    Guesthouse rated 8.3/10 located on street 33A near Kep National Park, known for friendly staff and affordable $26/night rates.

    ~€23
    per night
    View →
    Book on Booking.com

    Restaurants (10)

    View all →
    KEP SUR MER Restaurant restaurant in KepInternational

    KEP SUR MER Restaurant

    · ⭐ 4.7

    KEP SUR MER serves crispy prawn tempura and rich crab cakes with grilled prawns, all enjoyed from a balcony with sea breezes. Friendly staff speak fluent English.

    Kep Natural Restaurant restaurant in KepBar

    Kep Natural Restaurant

    · ⭐ 4.7

    Fresh tuna carpaccio and fish amok stand out on the menu, paired well with cocktails in an open-air setting by the sea. The relaxed atmosphere includes pool table fun and a friendly husky dog roaming about. Locals appreciate the blend of Khmer and Western dishes.

    Captain Chims Restaurant restaurant in KepInternational

    Captain Chims Restaurant

    · ⭐ 4.6

    Captain Chims serves hearty chicken amok and flavorful Khmer vegetable curry near the beach. Casual ambiance with generous portions and fresh, comforting flavors from breakfast to dinner.

    Le bouchon de Kep restaurant in KepBar

    Le bouchon de Kep

    · ⭐ 4.6

    Tapas and Mediterranean dishes prepared by a chef from Marseille define this relaxed bar where you can play pétanque or ping pong. Some patrons mention sparse crowds and inconsistent service, but the generous, succulent tapas remain a highlight.

    Sreypov SeaFood Restaurants restaurant in KepSeafood

    Sreypov SeaFood Restaurants

    · ⭐ 4.6

    Sreypov Seafood Restaurant serves grilled crab and chili fish in a laid-back seaside setting. Locals enjoy the gentle sea breeze alongside fresh, flavorful dishes.

    Italian Corner restaurant in KepItalian

    Italian Corner

    · ⭐ 4.5

    Italian Corner serves authentic homemade pasta and pizza, often using local seafood and Kampot pepper. The owner Alberto creates a welcoming vibe in a cozy space that includes a small garden area. Recommended dishes include bruschetta with mozzarella and a varied antipasto selection.

    Practical Info

    🍜 Food & Drink

    Local Specialties

    • Kep Crab: Blue crabs caught locally, often boiled and served with Kampot pepper sauce.
    • Amok Trey: A traditional Cambodian steamed fish curry made with coconut milk, herbs, and spices....
    🏛️ Attractions

    Top Attractions

    Kep National Park...

    🚕 Getting Around

    Within Kep, tuk-tuks are the most common mode of transport and usually charge $2-$5 USD for short trips around town. Motorbike rentals are available for about $6-$10 USD per day, providing flexibility to visit places like Kep National Park or travel to Rabbit Island. Bicycles can be rented for rough...

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Do I need a visa to visit Cambodia?
    Yes, most foreign visitors need a visa to enter Cambodia. A tourist visa can be obtained on arrival at major entry points or online as an e-visa before travel. The visa costs around $30 USD and is valid for 30 days. Make sure your passport has at least six months validity and two blank pages.
    Is Kep safe for tourists?
    Kep is generally safe for tourists. Crime rates are low compared to larger Cambodian cities. Standard precautions such as securing belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night are advised. Traffic can be busy on main roads, so be cautious when walking or riding motorbikes.
    What currency is used and can I use USD?
    The official currency in Cambodia is the Cambodian riel (KHR), but the US dollar (USD) is widely accepted and often preferred for most transactions. Prices are usually quoted in USD, and you will receive change in a mix of USD and riel. It is advisable to carry small denominations of USD.
    How do I get from the airport to Kep?
    The nearest major airport to Kep is Phnom Penh International Airport, about 150 km away. From the airport, you can take a taxi for approximately $50-$60 USD, which takes about 3 hours. Alternatively, buses run from Phnom Penh city center to Kep; you will need to get from the airport to the city first by taxi or shuttle.
    What is the best time of year to visit?
    The best time to visit Kep is during the dry season from November to April when the weather is cooler and rainfall is low. The rainy season from May to October brings heavy showers and humidity, which may affect outdoor activities and travel conditions.
    What about tipping customs?
    Tipping is not mandatory in Kep but is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, leaving a tip of 5-10% is common if service charge is not included. Tuk-tuk drivers and guides also appreciate small tips of $1-$2 USD depending on the length of the trip.

    Kep at a Glance

    Population
    approx. 35,000
    County
    Kep Province
    Elevation
    10m
    Best time to visit
    November to March
    Summer temp
    30°C
    Nearest airport
    Phnom Penh International Airport (150 km)
    Postcode
    23000
    Known for