History & Information
Kep, the smallest province of Cambodia, spans across 336 km2 (130 sq mi) and is home to a population of 40,280. Situated in the midst of Kampot province, Kep is surrounded by its neighboring territory, except for a picturesque 16 km stretch of coastline along the Gulf of Thailand, facing the Vietnamese island of Phu Quoc. Located about 20 km away from the town of Kampot, the province of Kep was part of the Circonscription Résidentielle de Kampot during French rule and thrived as a prestigious beach town for the French and Cambodian elite until the early 1970s.
Kep’s modernist villas, constructed between 1953 and 1970 after the French occupation, hold a unique charm. Architects Vann Molyvann and Lu Ban Hap, influential figures in Cambodia’s golden age of architectural modernism, blended elements of the modern movement (inspired by Bauhaus, Richard Neutra, and Le Corbusier) with traditional Khmer architecture, a style promoted by King Sihanouk, known as New Khmer Architecture.
Contrary to popular belief, many of Kep’s French colonial era mansions and villas were not destroyed during the Khmer Rouge regime. Local residents, driven by the need for money and food, stripped down these structures, exchanging the valuable materials in Vietnam for rice and cash. While some of Kep’s villas remain abandoned, remnants of the town’s former splendor can still be observed
Along the ocean, you’ll find wide sidewalks and grand statues. Prince Norodom Sihanouk not only maintained his own villa in Kep but also had his own island. Ile des Ambassadeurs was a favored spot for Sihanouk to entertain guests.
Kep is connected to Kampot by a paved road, and its coastline is characterized by mangrove marshes and black rocks, offering a different aesthetic compared to the white sandy beaches of nearby Sihanoukville. However, efforts to enhance the beach have resulted in the nourishment of white sand from Sihanoukville, making it wider and cleaner
There are now a number of guesthouses, resorts, and hotels in Kep, as it continues to be one of Cambodia’s fastest-growing tourist destinations, catering to mid-range to high-end travelers.
Rabbit Island (Koh Tunsay) is one of the main tourist attractions in Kep. However, this small Cambodian province also offers other places of interest, promoted for their environmental
conservation efforts through ecotourism initiatives by both the local government and private enterprises, such as the Kep Tourist Association that represents local hotels and restaurants.
Kep's Excursions
Embark on a fascinating Cave Tour that takes you through the breathtaking landscape between Kep and Kampot. Lined with lush jungled limestone mountains, this region is home to hidden caves and serene Buddhist shrines. The tour begins with a visit to the caves of Phnom Chhnork, known for their pre-Angkorian carvings and a beautifully preserved 7th-century shrine dedicated to Shiva. Keep an eye out for intricate animal carvings and fascinating stalagmites and stalactites as you explore. For the more adventurous, there is an entrance to a deeper section of the cave, requiring some climbing and sturdy footwear.
The next stop on the tour is the enchanting “Secret Lake,” an irrigation dam created during the Khmer Rouge era. Nestled amidst mountains and rice paddies, this serene lake offers the perfect setting for a relaxing picnic or a refreshing swim.
Please note that while this excursion can be booked via tuk-tuk, it is recommended to experience it on a motorbike due to road conditions.
CODE: kep CAV
Immerse yourself in the picturesque countryside surrounding Kep on an unforgettable Kep Countryside Tour.
As you travel along the coastal roads by tuk-tuk or motorbike, your knowledgeable Knai Bang Chatt guide will lead you to Chamcar Bei village. This village is home to the Hand in Hand Cambodia project, a cause supported by Knai Bang Chatt since 2006.
Take the opportunity to visit the community school and engage with the students. Explore the Women’s Handicraft and Development Association where local artisans create traditional loom-woven kramas, coconut jewelry, and innovative Funky Junk products made from recycled plastic.
Your adventure continues with a visit to a local pepper farm, where you can sample and purchase the finest black, white, or red pepper from the region. Explore the salt fields and make a stop at the vibrant and colorful Keo Krosang Pagoda, immersing yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the area.
CODE: kep COU
Delight in a unique fishing experience in Kep, suitable for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Begin with a scenic drive to a Cham Fishing Village on the outskirts of Kampot, where you will board a local fishing boat.
As you cruise through the picturesque surroundings, passing small fishing villages and flourishing mangroves on both sides, you will eventually reach the open waters of the Gulf of Thailand, with the majestic Bokor Mountain in sight. In this idyllic setting, you will have the opportunity to learn traditional fishing techniques, relax and swim in the shallow waters, or try your hand at fishing. Afterward, gather up the nets and journey back to the Sailing Club by boat.
If luck is on your side, you may have caught a selection of fish, shrimp, and crab. Once back at the Sailing Club, the talented chef will gladly prepare your catch for a delicious, freshly prepared meal. Enjoy these captivating experiences that showcase the beauty, culture, and natural wonders surrounding Kep.
CODE: kep FIS
KEP DISCOVERY TOUR
Transport yourself back in time with the Kep Discovery Tour. From the early 1900s to the 1960s, Kep was Cambodia’s premier beach town, attracting holidaymakers to its breezy shores and enchanting Le Corbusier-inspired villas. Today, Kep retains its allure, inviting adventurous travelers who seek a rustic and laid-back tropical atmosphere.
One of the highlights of this tour is exploring the remnants of Kep’s glamourous past, including various abandoned colonial villas and the former residence of King Father Norodom Sihanouk. This blend of old-world charm and contemporary exploration continues as you journey along coastal roads, visit renowned crab shacks, discover a hillside temple, and admire the iconic siren of the sea statue, overlooking the scenic Kep Beach.
CODE: kep DIS
RABBIT ISLAND
Embark on a short Tuk Tuk ride, followed by a 25-30 minute journey on a private fisherman’s boat, and find yourself on the rustic shores of Koh Tonsay, also known as Rabbit Island.
Located just 4.5km off the south coast of Cambodia, this secluded island offers a truly tranquil and untouched escape.
Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere as you relax on sandy beaches and swim in the shallow waters (snorkeling gear included). Enjoy moments of pure bliss as you read a book in the shade or soak up the sun on a comfortable towel. Meanwhile, your Knai Bang Chatt guide will prepare a delightful BBQ feast of fresh seafood, allowing you to indulge in a delicious beach-side dining experience. This exclusive day trip is a wonderful addition for beach-seekers visiting Kep.
CODE: kep RAB
Gallery
Our Tour Gallery during the trip
- To enter the Angkor complex, visitors must have a passport-sized photo attached to any multiple-day entrance passes. While visitors can have their photo taken at the entrance checkpoint without an additional charge, it is recommended to bring a passport photo beforehand.
- While making air ticket reservations, guests must provide their full names as they appear in their passports. Keep in mind that airfares and reservations may change until they have been paid in full and ticketed.
- Airfares are subject to change without prior notice, and prices may be adjusted periodically in the event of supplier fuel price increases.
- The quote provided is for informational purposes only, and no reservations have been made yet.
- Visitors must have a valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond their intended stay in Cambodia and one passport photo for visa purposes.
- The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda are open daily from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM (closed to new visitors at 10:45 AM) and from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM (closed to new visitors at 4:45 PM), except during religious ceremonies or Royal rituals.
- The Toul Sleng Genocide Museum is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and the last admission is at 4:45 PM.
- The National Museum in Phnom Penh is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and visitors cannot enter after 4:45 PM
- For sightseeing tours, it is recommended that visitors wear light and comfortable clothing, walking shoes, and use sunscreen lotion and hats. While many tourists wear shorts and sleeveless shirts, it is essential to respect Cambodian culture and tradition by wearing suitable clothing. Knees and shoulders must be covered when visiting temples and pagodas, including the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda in Phnom Penh. Visitors who do not comply with these rules of conduct may be denied entry, and shoes (and hats) must be removed before entering pagodas.
- When buying jewelry in Cambodia, visitors should use caution as it is commonly below international standards for design and workmanship. It is prudent not to follow any recommendations, as many gems are counterfeit.
- Certain parts of the touring programs are outsourced to independent third parties such as airlines, hotels, local suppliers, and transport operators. The Tour Specialists of Cambodia is not liable for any loss, injury, or damage occurring outside of the normal touring programs, including those caused by delay, accident, natural disasters, and political unrest. Additionally, any expenses incurred by tourists due to these conditions should be borne by them.
- Due to frequent flight changes, delays, and cancellations by domestic airlines, it is not guaranteed that the proposed itinerary will be executed as planned. Experience has shown that departure times and cancellations may occur abruptly, even after confirmation of a flight. If such schedule changes or cancellations occur, we will try our best to arrange an alternate program within the original quoted costs. However, we reserve the right to charge additional costs exceeding the original budget to the tour operator/travel agent or the participant of a tour after consulting with the agent.
- Prices, programs, services, and conditions are subject to change without prior notice until all services are fully paid. The information provided in proposals is valid only at the time of submission.
- We strongly advise visitors to keep valuable items such as money, passports, credit cards, jewelry, sensitive documents, and laptop computers in hotel safes. During excursions and round-trips, personal belongings, especially money and valuables, must not be left in vehicles, even during short breaks, and should be carried at all times. Tour Specialist of Cambodia is not responsible for any loss or theft.
- Cambodia is a developing country undergoing significant infrastructure upgrades. As a result, overland travel can be challenging due to ongoing road construction.