Chau Doc to Kampong Thom Drive: Best Stops & Tips

The border crossing from Vietnam to Cambodia at Vinh Xuong is a quiet alternative to the busy Moc Bai gate, and it sets the tone for a drive that quickly transitions from the flat Mekong Delta to the undulating landscapes of central Cambodia. You'll follow National Road 91 from Chau Doc to the border, then continue on Cambodian National Road 2 and 1, skirting the Tonle Sap basin before reaching Kampong Thom. The total distance is around 280 kilometers, and with border formalities and rest stops, expect a full day of driving.

Immediately after the border, the landscape changes: rice paddies give way to cashew and rubber plantations, and later, near Kampong Thom, you'll see the distinctive palm-dotted savannah of the central plains. The is it worth driving Chau Doc to Kampong Thom question hinges on these landscapes and the cultural stops along the way. One of the best stops Chau Doc to Kampong Thom is the ancient temple complex of Wat Nokor Bachey, located just outside Kampong Thom town. It's a working Buddhist pagoda that incorporates an 11th-century Angkorian temple, offering a glimpse into the region's pre-Angkorian past.

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site within reach is the Preah Vihear temple, but it's a significant detour north. If you have time, consider it for a separate trip. For a more immediate immersion, the town of Skun is known for its fried spiders, a local delicacy that adventurous eaters can sample. Local markets in Kampong Thom sell fresh produce and handmade textiles, perfect for picking up souvenirs.

Road safety is a priority: always wear seatbelts, avoid night driving (the roads have poor lighting), and be cautious of livestock crossing. The route is generally safe, but minor accidents are common due to speeding and overtaking. If you're traveling with family, consider breaks at the river ports of Neak Loeung and the floating village of Kampong Luong, where you can take a boat trip among the stilted houses. Child seats are not mandatory in Cambodia, but they are recommended; you can bring your own or rent from car rental companies in Chau Doc.

For fatigue management, plan a stop at the rest area near Skun, which has clean toilets and food stalls. Another option is the riverside town of Kampong Cham, which offers a peaceful riverwalk and the unique bamboo bridge that is rebuilt annually after the monsoon. If you have a pet, you'll find that most hotels in Kampong Thom are not pet-friendly, so check ahead. There are a few guesthouses that allow pets, but it's best to call in advance.

Hidden off-route spots include the Phnom Santuk mountain, with its reclining Buddha and stunning views, located about 20 kilometers west of Kampong Thom. The climatic conditions are hot and humid, with a wet season from May to October; the best time to drive is during the cool dry season from November to February, when the landscape is lush and the roads are drier. For maximizing your journey, use this how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities guide, and consider adding a detour to the Santuk Silk Farm, where you can see traditional silk weaving.

The journey is straightforward: leave Chau Doc on National Road 91, cross the border at Vinh Xuong (Vietnamese side) and Kaam Samnor (Cambodian side). After clearing customs, you'll join National Road 2 south of Phnom Penh, then take National Road 1 north towards Kampong Thom. The roads are mostly two-lane, with limited shoulders, and potholes are common, especially in rural stretches. Fuel stations are plentiful along the route, but they become sparser after Skun, so fill up before that point.

• Border crossing hours: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Vietnamese time)
• Cambodian visa on arrival available (USD 30, passport photo)
• Road tolls in Cambodia: none on these national highways
• Diesel price: ~1.10 USD/liter in Cambodia (October 2023)