Kep
Kep, Cambodia’s smallest province, is also one of its most appealing. For those craving more solitude than its boisterous coastal cousin, Sihanoukville, Kep’s laidback waterfront is a much calmer jumping-off point to reach tropical beach bliss. Upon first sight, it may seem like there’s not all that much to do in Kep. But stick around longer, stay in a bungalow with amazing views of the water, forests and hills…and soak up the natural beauty, the unique history, of this small and special city.
Why visit Kep?
Aside from the natural and undisturbed beauty of the jungle and hills around Kep, it’s an ideal spot to visit for a deeper understanding of Pol Pot’s brutal Khmer Rouge regime, and its lasting effects on Cambodia.
Once a popular seaside destination for French authorities and Cambodian elite, Kep is now home to many abandoned villas from the 1970s; other beautiful buildings within the town were destroyed. And even though locals are returning to the area, Kep maintains an air of nostalgia, with the jungle still a key character of the setting.
To visit Kep is to be a part of recent history and to witness the important lessons it has to teach us. Aside from its cultural and historical significance, tourists also visit the impressive Kep National Park, and day tours to Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island) – an island paradise of pure white sands, palm trees and seafood cooked for you right on the beach.
Best things to do in Kep
- Veranda Natural Resort: Perched high on a hilltop, with views over the sea and the jungle, this special resort of raised bamboo walkways and bungalows on stilts brings you back to nature…in style and comfort.
- Kep National Park: Covering 50 square kilometres of jungle and forests, this national treasure is one of the best parks in Cambodia. Including trails around the hillside for panoramas of the jungle, the sea and Cambodia’s salt fields, plus opportunities to spot various species of wildlife as part of a guided walking tour, it’s the perfect chance to reconnect with nature.
- Boat trip: Take a local boat out to Rabbit Island for a day of lounging and sun-worshipping. When you get thirsty, a cooler of beverages will magically appear and when you get hungry, there’ll be freshly grilled seafood for you to enjoy before you reluctantly get the boat back. Ah, bliss…
Ready to discover Kep?
Great food, gorgeous scenery and the chance to slow down awaits. However, Kep mightn’t be the easiest place to navigate and get around by yourself – which is where our local travel team comes in!
From booking private transfers and accommodation to advising you on the best seafood shacks and hiking trails, we’re here to make your Kep trip even more special. Remember, all our tours are customisable – so whether you want to get active or be a beach bum, that’s your call.
Let us know and we can build the kind of Kep vacation that’ll fill you with sunshine whenever you think of it!
Travel Tips
- Pack your hiking boots – as treks and guided walking tours of Kep National Park aren’t to be missed.
- Pack your sunscreen, too – as a boat trip to idyllic Rabbit Island is the perfect way to relax after your hike.
- Track down local seafood (fear not, it’s everywhere!) and enjoy it with one of the best sunsets you’ll ever witness.
Highlights
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Read MoreWhy choose Wide Eyed Tours & Travel?
Expert Local Knowledge
Ditch the stress, with a trip that’s been crafted by locals. Our team is built of on-the-ground travel experts who can’t wait to share their country’s spoils – from their hometowns, beyond.
Customisable Experiences
We’ve offered custom-made tours to Southeast Asia for over 20 years, with every ‘type’ of traveller. We know how their tastes and needs change – so our flexible tours can change with them.
More Freedom
We don’t believe in rigid itineraries. Our customers can set the scene to go at their own pace, and choose the activities that interest them – with the chance to mix things up as they go.
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