Kampot to Koh Kong Road Trip Guide: Drives, Stops

Route 48 links Kampot and Koh Kong, a 140 km stretch that traverses the Cardamom Mountains' southern flank. Unlike the older coastal road, this route cuts inland, offering a quieter, more forested drive.

Driving time typically ranges from 2.5 to 4 hours, depending on roadworks and truck traffic. The road's condition varies from smooth asphalt to rough patches, especially after rainfall.

Infrastructure safety is moderate: there are guardrails on some curves, but many sections lack shoulders. Speeds are generally low due to road conditions, which reduces risk, but watch out for overtaking trucks on blind corners.

For families, the drive is okay if you plan breaks. There are several picnic spots and river beaches, especially near Turn 44 and 68. The main hazards are the lack of restrooms and the heat.

Pet-friendly framework is limited: some guesthouses in Koh Kong allow pets, but overnight ruins are not marked. Always carry water and a leash for roadside stops.

To manage fatigue, stop every 90 minutes at the small settlements of Thma Bang and Bak Khlang. These villages have basic cafes and hammock spots.

Local commerce thrives on the road selling fruit, fish, and charcoal. You'll also see coconut and palm sugar stalls.

To plan your adventure, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

National Road 48 (NR48) begins at the intersection with NR3 in Veal Renh, a small town about 25 km east of Kampot. You'll head west on NR48 through Phnom Penh's water catchment area, then climb into the Cardamom foothills.

• Fuel: Gas stations are present in Kampot and in Koh Kong, but sparse between. The longest stretch without fuel is about 80 km through the protected forest. Fill up before leaving.
• Tolls: No tolls on this route, but expect occasional police checkpoints.
• Road quality: The first 20 km after Veal Renh are wide and well-maintained. Beyond that, potholes and unpaved sections appear, especially after Turn 68.

Weather patterns dictate your driving speed. The rainy season (May–October) brings torrential downpours and mudslides. Dry season offers better road conditions but heavier truck traffic.

If you're wondering if it's worth driving Kampot to Koh Kong, the answer is yes, for the scenery and solitude, but only if you're comfortable with variable road conditions.

The road skirts the southern edge of the Cardamom Mountains, a biodiversity hotspot with dense rainforest and cascading waterfalls. Notable natural attractions near the route include the Koh Kapik Ramsar site and the Tatai River, where you can take a boat tour.

Cultural stops include the village of Chi Phat, a community-based eco-tourism hub, and the town of Srae Ambel, where you'll find the famous grilled meat skewers (sach ko ang) at roadside stalls.

But the true hidden gem is a short detour to the Stung Chhay waterfall, about 10 km north of Veal Renh. It's a refreshing swim spot, but the trail is rough and not for large vehicles.

As for UNESCO sites, none lie directly on this route; the nearest is the temple complex of Angkor, over 300 km away. So this drive isn't about world heritage lists.