My Tho to Koh Kong Road Trip Guide: Routes & Stops

Begin your journey in the heart of the Mekong Delta, known for its intricate river networks and floating markets. The drive to Koh Kong, a coastal province in Cambodia, covers about 280 kilometers and typically takes 6-7 hours depending on border procedures. This route is a blend of Vietnamese delta scenery and Cambodian coastal plains, historically linked by trade and migration.

Road conditions are generally good on main highways, but NH48 has narrow sections and potholes; drive cautiously, especially at night. Traffic in Phnom Penh is chaotic; plan to avoid peak hours (7-9am, 5-7pm).

For families, rest stops with playgrounds are rare; the roadside restaurants often have open spaces. Pet owners: many hotels in Koh Kong accept pets, but check in advance. Pace yourself with stops every 2-3 hours; good options are at Sre Ambel (½ way point) and a large rest area just before the border.

A hidden gem: the kiryom rice wine village near Sre Ambel, where you can sample local spirits. Another off-route spot is the beach at Otres, near Sihanoukville, if you have time.

For fatigue, caffeine is available at most fuel stations, but beware of 'coffee' that is mostly chicory; opt for branded shops like Amazon Cafe in Phnom Penh.

The fastest way is via National Road 1 (QL1) from My Tho to the Moc Bai border crossing, then continue on Cambodian National Road 1 to Phnom Penh. From there, take National Road 4 (NH4) towards Sihanoukville, branching onto National Road 48 (NH48) that leads directly to Koh Kong.

• Road signs are bilingual (Vietnamese/Cambodian) near the border.
• Fuel stations are plentiful on QL1 and NH4, but sparse on NH48—fill up in Sre Ambel.
• Tolls on Vietnamese highways apply; carry cash (VND) for smaller tolls.
• Border crossing formalities: prepare your passport, vehicle registration, and insurance (green card) for both countries.

Vehicle insurance is mandatory in Cambodia; buy at the border a one-month policy for around $15. Exchange some US dollars (widely used) and Riel at the border, but small vendors accept either. Restrooms at rest stops along NH4 are basic; use major petrol stations for better facilities.

Leaving My Tho, you traverse the rice paddies and orchards of the delta. As you cross into Cambodia, the flat terrain continues, dotted with palm trees and small villages. The stretch from Phnom Penh to Sre Ambel offers views of the Cardamom Mountains, a major natural attraction, and a detour to the Bokor National Park is possible.

Local commerce along the route includes roadside fruit stalls in Vietnam and grilled meat and noodle shops in Cambodia. Sre Ambel is known for its seafood, particularly grilled squid and prawns.