This southern route moves from Cambodia’s capital to Kampot’s river and countryside, then gives the coast at Kep enough time to feel distinct rather than becoming a hurried day-trip photograph. It combines history, food, pepper farms, a mountain and the sea in about a week.
Days 1–2: Phnom Penh
Begin with the riverfront, Khmer art, food and the historical context that gives the rest of the trip more meaning. Do not leave the capital immediately after landing.
Heritage
Palace and museum
The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, then the National Museum’s collection of Khmer sculpture next door.
History
Tuol Sleng and Choeung Ek
The genocide museum and memorial are essential for understanding modern Cambodia. Allow a quiet afternoon; see history.
Evening
River and markets
The riverside promenade, the Central Market and Chaktomuk Walk Street at weekends.
Days 3–5: Kampot
Use one day for the town and river, one for Bokor and one for pepper farms or countryside. Mountain weather and rural roads reward a flexible schedule.
Town and river
A slower rhythm
Old shophouses, riverside cafés and a sunset boat on the Praek Tuek Chhu river. Rent a bicycle or scooter only if you are confident on local roads.
Mountain
Bokor
A winding road climbs into Preah Monivong (Bokor) National Park, past the old French hill station, a pagoda and viewpoints. Cloud can roll in quickly, so go early.
Countryside
Pepper, salt and caves
Visit a Kampot pepper farm, the salt fields near town, and the cave temple at Phnom Chhngok.
Days 6–7: Kep
Slow down for seafood, the coastal landscape and, when conditions suit, a carefully planned island outing. Confirm the boat and return arrangement close to travel.
Food
The crab market
Choose crab and seafood at the market and have it cooked with fresh green pepper nearby. See dishes to try.
Walking
Kep National Park
A marked trail loops around the forested hill above town, with sea views. Start early to avoid the heat.
Island
Koh Tonsay
Often called Rabbit Island: a short boat ride to simple beaches and hammocks. Check the weather and return time before you go.
Return and onward travel
Protect the transfer back to Phnom Penh or Techo International Airport with a buffer. Do not place a long road journey immediately before an international departure.
Getting between stops
| Leg | Approximate time | Usual options |
|---|---|---|
| Phnom Penh – Kampot | 3–4 hours | Minivan, bus, private car; train on some days |
| Kampot – Kep | 30–45 minutes | Tuk-tuk, taxi, minivan |
| Kep – Phnom Penh | 3–4 hours | Minivan, bus, private car |
Journey times are approximate and change with traffic, roadworks, stops and weather. Fares are not listed because operators change them often; see travel costs for indicative ranges and how to book transport for booking options. Last checked 21 September 2026.
When to go
November to April is drier and best for the coast and island trips. From about June to October, Bokor is often misty, seas are rougher and boats may be canceled, but the countryside is green and quiet.
Ways to adapt the route
- Base in Kampot only: Kep works as a day trip from Kampot if you prefer one hotel.
- Add the islands: continue to Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem via Sihanoukville; see the Koh Rong guide.
- Combine with Angkor: fly or bus from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap first; see the 7–10 day itinerary.
Frequently asked questions
Should I stay in Kampot or Kep?
Both if you can: Kampot for town life, Bokor and the countryside, Kep for seafood and the coast. If you pick one, Kampot has more choice.
How many days do I need in Kampot?
Three nights covers the town, Bokor and the pepper countryside without rushing.
Can I take the train?
Trains run from Phnom Penh towards Kampot on some days. Check the current timetable before planning around it.
Provinces along the way
Easy detours from the road south to the coast. See all 25 on our provinces of Cambodia page.
Route decision brief
Phnom Penh → Kampot → Kep
City energy, riverside countryside and a quiet coast
Give Phnom Penh and Kampot their own unhurried days. Treat compact Kep as a coastal pause rather than another city to complete.
- Works especially well for
- Best for food, architecture, countryside and sea air
- The choice that improves it
- Keep Kampot as the main southern base if you want fewer hotel changes