Things To Do
in Krong Kep

Krong Kep, Cambodia, is a charming coastal town known for its stunning beaches, fresh seafood, and laid-back atmosphere. Nestled at the foot of the Elephant Mountains, it offers picturesque views and a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The area is famous for its crab market and the nearby Kep National Park, which provides scenic hiking trails and diverse wildlife.

Visitors can enjoy both relaxation on the beach and exploration of local culture in this serene destination.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Coastal Charm
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local crab market, where you can see fishermen bringing in their fresh catch. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby café, featuring local delicacies.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at Kep National Park, hiking the trails and enjoying breathtaking views of the coastline. Take time to explore the park's diverse flora and fauna.

evening
:

Dine at one of the seaside restaurants, savoring fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the ocean.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the iconic Crab Statue and take a stroll along the waterfront promenade. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local eatery with views of the sea.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby town of Kampot, known for its colonial architecture and pepper plantations. Consider a tour to learn about the local pepper production.

evening
:

Return to Kep for dinner at a popular restaurant, followed by a visit to a local bar for drinks and live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$3-7
🛏️Budget Hotel per Night$15-25
🚕Taxi Ride within Town$2-5
🍺Local Beer$1-2
🛒Market Snack$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and beautiful beaches.
  • Delicious and fresh seafood.
  • Laid-back and peaceful atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Some areas may lack tourist infrastructure.
  • Language barrier with locals who speak little English.
  • "Suorsdey" - Hello
  • "Arkun" - Thank you
  • "Chhnang chhnang" - Excuse me
  • "Sok sabay?" - How are you?
  • "Knhom​ chhiv​... " - I would like...

Places to Visit in Krong Kep

Visit one of these nice places.

Kep Beach

A picturesque beach with stunning sunsets, perfect for capturing the serene coastal atmosphere.

Kep National Park

Offers panoramic views of the coastline and lush greenery, ideal for nature photography.

Crab Statue

A famous landmark in Kep, great for quirky travel photos and capturing the essence of the town.

Culinary Guide

Food in Krong Kep

Krong Kep is a haven for food lovers, particularly seafood enthusiasts, offering a delightful array of local dishes that reflect the region's rich culinary traditions.

Krong Kep Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kep Crab

Freshly caught crabs, often steamed and served with a famous Kampot pepper dipping sauce.

Must-Try!

Amok

A traditional Cambodian curry made with fish and coconut milk, steamed in banana leaves.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kep Crab Market

A bustling market where you can buy fresh seafood directly from local fishermen.

Kep Night Market

A lively market featuring various street food stalls serving local snacks and dishes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Krong Kep experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season (November to April) features warm temperatures averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F) and minimal rainfall. The rainy season (May to October) brings humidity and heavy rains, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F). The coolest months are December to February, making it pleasant for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Local Customs

Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and local communities.

Greetings

A traditional 'Sampeah' (a prayer-like gesture) is a common way to greet locals.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before eating, and use your right hand to eat.

Safety Guide

Safety

Krong Kep is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, keep your belongings secure, and be cautious in crowded areas. It's recommended to use registered taxis or reputable transportation services.

Tipping in Krong Kep

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; however, some restaurants and hotels may accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November to April)

The best time to visit with warm temperatures, minimal rainfall, and ideal beach conditions.

Rainy Season (May to October)

Expect heavy rainfall; however, the landscape is lush and vibrant during this time.

Cool Season (December to February)

Temperatures are cooler, making it pleasant for outdoor activities and hikes.

Hot Season (March to April)

Hot and humid conditions; stay hydrated and seek shade during midday.

Nightlife Guide

Krong Kep at Night

Krong Kep has a relaxed nightlife scene, with a few bars and restaurants offering live music and a laid-back atmosphere. Most venues close early, making it ideal for those seeking a quiet evening. Enjoy a drink while watching the stars on the beach or join locals at the night market for food and socializing.

Hiking in Krong Kep

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bokor Mountain Trail

A challenging hike offering stunning views and a chance to explore the remnants of a colonial-era resort.

Kep National Park Trails

Various trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, perfect for nature lovers and birdwatching.

Airports

How to reach Krong Kep by plane.

Phnom Penh International Airport

Located approximately 150 km from Krong Kep, it serves as the main international gateway to Cambodia, with regular flights to various destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Krong Kep is fairly walkable, especially around the main tourist areas such as the beach and crab market. Sidewalks are available but may vary in quality. Walking is a pleasant way to explore local attractions, but be cautious of traffic when crossing streets.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Khmer People

The majority ethnic group in Cambodia, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Expatriates

A growing community of foreigners living in Krong Kep, contributing to the local economy and cultural exchange.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A widely loved sport in Cambodia, often played in local parks and schools.

Sepak Takraw

A traditional sport similar to volleyball, played with feet and a rattan ball, popular among locals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Krong Kep is generally light, making it easy to navigate by foot or bicycle. The town has limited public transportation options, but tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis are available for hire. Roads are mostly well-maintained, but caution is advised when walking near busy areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Krong Kep.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to ask about specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited; inform the staff about your dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Krong Kep are limited; basic medical care is available at local clinics. For serious medical emergencies, it is advisable to travel to larger cities like Kampot or Phnom Penh, where better healthcare services are available. Travelers should consider having comprehensive travel insurance.

Discover Cambodia

Read more in our Cambodia 2025 Travel Guide.

Cambodia Travel Guide