Best Ways to Reach Koh Rong & Koh Rong Samloem from Kampot

Discovering Koh Rong, Cambodia

Koh Rong is one of Cambodia’s most popular island destinations, located just off the coast near Sihanoukville. With regular ferry connections from the mainland, getting to the island is simple and convenient for all types of travellers.

Most boats arrive at Koh Toch Village, the central hub of Koh Rong. This lively area is where you’ll find the majority of restaurants, bars, cafés, travel agencies, convenience shops, and tour services. It’s also the main transit point for smaller boats heading to different beaches and resorts around the island. If you’re travelling on a budget, Koh Toch offers several locally owned guesthouses and simple accommodations. However, for luxury stays, beachfront bungalows, or peaceful hostels, you’ll need to venture out to other parts of the island.

Keep in mind that Koh Rong’s infrastructure is still very basic. Many of the island’s roads are unpaved and can be rough, with potholes and sandy paths. Motorbikes are the primary mode of transport for locals, and you’ll rarely see cars.

For most visitors, the most common way to reach accommodations outside Koh Toch is by boat transfer rather than by land. This is often the easiest and most scenic way to travel between different beaches and resorts.Discovering Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia

Just next door to Koh Rong lies its sister island, Koh Rong Samloem. Smaller in size but equally stunning, this island offers a more relaxed and scenic alternative to its bustling neighbour.

Flashback about ten years, and Koh Rong Samloem was a quiet, almost untouched paradise. Over time, as tourism grew, this once-secret retreat became more accessible, but it still retains its charm and natural beauty.

Today, the island features a variety of accommodations, from resorts and budget hostels to affordable guesthouses. Most visitors arrive at Saracen Bay, the main landing point. If your hotel or guesthouse is elsewhere on the island, keep in mind there are no roads connecting most areas, so you’ll likely need a taxi-boat transfer. Because of this, the majority of travellers choose to stay in Saracen Bay. Luckily, it’s a spacious beach, so even during peak times it rarely feels crowded. The walk from the wharf to your hotel is easy, though expect plenty of sand underfoot.

For those seeking a more secluded island experience, off-the-beaten-path guesthouses and smaller hotels are scattered around the island. Reaching these spots usually requires either another boat ride or a jungle trek, but the effort is worth it for the peace and isolation. One quirky fact about Koh Rong Samloem is the spelling inconsistency. Variations have existed since the 19th century due to differences in maps, and even today, Google and Google Maps sometimes differ. Regardless, all spellings are generally accepted and used interchangeably.

Koh Rong Samloem remains a must-visit for travellers looking for turquoise waters, quiet beaches, and a more tranquil side of Cambodia’s islands.

The Best Ways to Get from Kampot to Koh Rong by Bus

Kampot Province, located in southern Cambodia, is famous for its scenic riverside views, colonial architecture, pepper plantations, and proximity to the coast. While many travellers come to Kampot to relax along the river or explore the countryside, its location also makes it an ideal starting point for trips to Cambodia’s stunning islands, Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem. Thanks to improved transportation options, travelling from Kampot to these islands has become easier, faster, and more convenient than ever before.

Why Kampot is a Great Starting Point:

Kampot’s charm lies in its relaxed riverside vibe, friendly locals, and easy access to nearby beaches. The province is just a short drive away from Sihanoukville, the main gateway to the islands. For travellers who prefer to avoid the busy Sihanoukville town centre, starting from Kampot offers a quieter, more scenic route. Additionally, the roads connecting Kampot to the coastal ferry piers are well-maintained, making bus travel a comfortable option.

Travelling from Kampot to Koh Rong & Koh Rong Samloem:

In the past, travelling to Cambodia’s islands required multiple transfers, including private taxis, long motorbike rides, and separate ferry tickets. Nowadays, this journey has been greatly simplified with reliable bus services. Travellers can now book direct bus transfers from Kampot to the ferry terminals, reducing stress and travel time.

Among the available bus operators, Ekareach Express is widely considered the best choice for this route. The company is known for its reliability, safety, and comfort, making it a favourite among both locals and tourists. With professional drivers and well-maintained vehicles, Ekareach Express ensures a smooth ride from Kampot to the pier, allowing travellers to start their island adventure relaxed and worry-free.

All-in-One Bus & Ferry Service:

One of the biggest advantages of Ekareach Express is that their tickets include both bus and ferry transfers. This makes planning your trip incredibly simple; there’s no need to buy separate ferry tickets or figure out schedules independently. You can purchase tickets in several convenient ways:

• Online: via the Ekareach Express website
• Mobile App: book easily from your smartphone
• Phone: contact the office to reserve in advance
• Bus Station: buy directly before departure

This flexibility is especially helpful for last-minute travellers or those who prefer to secure their tickets ahead of time.

Pricing and Value:

Ekareach Express provides competitive pricing for the bus and ferry combined, offering great value for money. While exact rates may vary depending on the season, travellers can expect affordable fares that include comfortable seating, safety measures, and timely departures. This all-in-one pricing structure ensures you don’t have to worry about hidden costs or complicated booking processes.

Tips for the Journey:

• Arrive Early: Even though tickets can be booked online or at the station, arriving 30–45 minutes early ensures smooth boarding.
• Pack Light: Space on the bus is limited, so pack only what you need for your island trip.
• Bring Snacks & Water: The bus ride can take a few hours, so it’s always good to have refreshments.
• Stay Informed: Keep your phone charged and check ferry departure times to avoid missing connections.

Best Time to Go to Koh Rong

Koh Rong is a tropical paradise, and the timing of your visit can greatly affect your experience. The high season on the island generally runs from mid-November to early May, when the weather is consistently sunny, and the sea is calm. During this period, you can expect the most reliable beach days, ideal conditions for swimming, snorkelling, diving, and island-hopping adventures.

The absolute best time to visit Koh Rong is typically between December and February. These months represent the peak of the dry season, offering the most pleasant weather with warm, comfortable temperatures averaging around 25°C. Rainfall is minimal, usually with fewer than five wet days in a month, which means you can plan outdoor activities with confidence. Clear skies, gentle breezes, and calm waters make this period perfect for sunbathing on the pristine beaches, exploring the island’s hidden coves, or enjoying a boat tour around Koh Rong and its sister island, Koh Rong Samloem.

It’s important to note that this is also the busiest time on the island. Hotels, guesthouses, and resorts fill up quickly, and popular beaches can feel livelier than during quieter months. If you’re planning to visit during this peak season, it’s a good idea to book your accommodation and ferry tickets well in advance to secure the best options.

For travellers seeking a quieter, more relaxed experience, the shoulder months just before or after the peak season, late November or March to early May, can also be a great choice. The weather is still generally good, with warm temperatures and relatively low rainfall, but there are fewer crowds, giving you more space to enjoy the beaches, trails, and local dining spots.

Meanwhile, the low season (roughly May to October) coincides with Cambodia’s rainy season. While the island is less crowded and accommodation prices are lower, you should be prepared for heavier rainfall, occasional storms, and rougher seas, which can affect ferry schedules and limit some water-based activities. On the upside, the island is incredibly lush and green during this time, offering a different kind of tropical beauty for those who don’t mind the rain.

In summary, for most travellers looking for perfect weather, clear skies, and calm seas, December to February is the ideal time to visit Koh Rong. Planning your trip during this window ensures you experience the island at its most vibrant and enjoyable, with ample opportunities to explore beaches, enjoy water sports, and soak in the relaxed island atmosphere.

Conclusion

For anyone planning a trip from Kampot to Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem, taking the bus with Ekareach Express is undoubtedly one of the best options available. The service combines safety, reliability, and convenience, ensuring that your journey from the town centre to the ferry pier, and ultimately to the islands, is completely seamless. With their all-in-one ticket system, which includes both bus and ferry transfers, travellers no longer have to worry about coordinating separate transportation or missing connections.

Beyond convenience, Ekareach Express offers competitive pricing and professional service, making it a great choice for all types of travellers, from budget-conscious backpackers to families and luxury-seekers alike. The company’s modern, well-maintained vehicles and experienced drivers ensure comfort and peace of mind throughout the trip, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic journey to the islands.

Whether you are visiting Cambodia’s islands for the first time or returning to explore new beaches, staying with friends, or experiencing adventure activities, starting your trip from Kampot with Ekareach Express sets the tone for a stress-free and enjoyable journey. By choosing this service, you can focus on what truly matters—soaking in the stunning coastal views, feeling the ocean breeze, and immersing yourself in the unique charm of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem.

With its combination of efficiency, comfort, and reliability, Ekareach Express is more than just a transportation option; it’s the gateway to making your Cambodian island adventure memorable from the very first mile.