Koh Rong to Stung Treng: Cambodia Road Trip Guide

The coastal town of Sihanoukville is the mainland gateway to Koh Rong, but the journey to Stung Treng begins with a ferry ride across the Gulf of Thailand. Once on land, you’ll follow National Highway 4 up to Phnom Penh, then switch to National Highway 6 towards the northeast, a route that traverses the heart of Cambodia’s agricultural and forested landscapes. This guide covers the entire drive, from pier to provincial capital, with practical details for a safe and memorable trip.

Total driving distance is approximately 565 km, not including the ferry, and the whole trip typically takes 9–11 hours of pure travel time. But the road is part of the adventure: you’ll pass through bustling cities, sleepy villages, and the edge of the Cardamom Mountains. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or simply need to cross the country, this guide helps you plan the journey.

Road safety is paramount. The Cambodian highway code requires seat belts for all passengers; child seats are not mandatory, but strongly recommended. In 2024, Cambodia’s road fatality rate is among the highest in Southeast Asia, so drive defensively. On NH6, watch for unofficial speed bumps and livestock crossings – particularly at dawn and dusk.

For families, plan a stop in Kampong Thom town: it has a large playground and clean cafés. Or take a break at the Prek Krieng viewpoint near the Mekong, with picnic tables and basic meals.

Fatigue management is crucial on this long drive. The recommended rest points are Skuon (halfway between Phnom Penh and Kampong Thom) and Kratie (between Kampong Thom and Stung Treng). Both have petrol stations, restaurants, and guesthouses if you need to stop overnight. To break up the drive, consider an intermediate overnight in Kampong Chan – this reduces daily driving to under 5 hours.

Pets are generally welcome in Cambodian guesthouses and restaurants, but always call ahead. Water and shade stops are frequent, but note that very few fuel stations have air-con lounges – pack a portable fan.

Just 50 km east of Sihanoukville, Kirirom National Park offers pine forests and a cool microclimate, a stark contrast to the coastal humidity. Further north, Kampong Thom province is flat farmland, but turnoff to Sambor Prei Kuk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 7th-century pre-Angkorian temple complex is well-signposted and worth a detour – entrance fees are $10 per person.

Between Kampong Thom and Stung Treng, the road hugs the Mekong’s floodplains – keep an eye out for storks and water buffalo. The town of Kratie is a hidden gem: even if you don’t stop, its riverside view is iconic. Here, you can spot the rare Irrawaddy dolphin at Dolphin Pool (tour boats cost $5 per person).

Locally, you’ll find roadside stands selling tropical fruit and fresh sugarcane juice for about $0.50. In Skuon, for instance, you can try deep-fried tarantulas – a local specialty.

Fuel stops are regular along NH4 and NH6; both highways have stations every 30–50 km. In 2024, gasoline costs about 4,200 riel per litre (roughly $1.05 USD). Expect to spend around $25–$30 on fuel for the entire one-way drive, depending on your vehicle. Tolls are minimal: only the new expressway south of Phnom Penh charges a small fee (about $2 for a car). The rest of the route is toll-free.

• NH4 is a multi-lane highway in good condition, but watch for trucks.
• NH6 becomes two lanes after Kampong Thom; passing requires patience.
• Road works are common – check local radio or Facebook groups for delays.

For those hauling extra gear, consider renting a 4WD or SUV in Sihanoukville; many agencies offer one-way rentals to Stung Treng. Alternatively, buses and shared taxis cover both corridors daily, but driving gives you flexibility. If you’re coming from Koh Rong, the earliest ferry leaves at 8:00 AM – catch it to maximize daylight driving.

Insurance is mandatory in Cambodia; ensure your policy covers you on rural roads. Also, keep a paper map as backup – mobile coverage is patchy between Kampong Thom and Stung Treng.