Getting Around Kampot. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Tuk-tuks are the most common and convenient way to travel short distances and for day tours in Kampot. Ride-sharing apps offer transparency for pricing.

Moto-taxis (Motodups) are a cheaper option for solo travelers and very short distances. They are faster through traffic but offer less protection. Conventional taxis are less common for local travel within Kampot itself.

Tuk-tuk & Moto Fares

Short ride within town: USD $1 - $3.
To train station (a few km outside town): USD $2 - $4.
Half-day tour (pepper farm, caves, Secret Lake): USD $15 - $25.
Full-day tour (Bokor Mountain): USD $25 - USD $40.

PassApp

The most prevalent ride-hailing app for booking tuk-tuks and moto-taxis in Kampot. It provides fixed, upfront pricing.

Negotiate Fares

Always negotiate your fare before starting your journey, or use a ride-hailing app for fixed pricing. Cash is the standard payment method.

Safety Tips

Confirm your destination and agreed price. Keep belongings secure in open-sided tuk-tuks. Helmets are legally required for motorbike riders and passengers.

Arrival Arrangements

From Stations

Upon arrival at Kampot train or bus station, tuk-tuk drivers await.
Agree on a price to your accommodation before starting the journey.
Drivers often call out to tourists, asking if you need a ride.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Use PassApp to get fixed, upfront pricing.
This helps avoid negotiation hassles.
Download the app before arriving for convenience.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Not common for self-drive tourists; hiring a car with driver is safer.

Motorbikes

Widely available from guesthouses (USD $5-8/day), but IDP needed.

Bicycles

Easily rented (USD $1-3/day), ideal for town and nearby attractions.

Road Rules

Drive on the right; helmets are mandatory for motorbikes.

Walking & Cycling

Kampot's compact size and flat terrain make walking and cycling enjoyable options for getting around.

Pedestrian-Friendly Zones

Riverfront: Excellent for walking, especially at sunset, with a paved promenade.
Kampot Town: The compact center is easily walkable, explore colonial architecture and shops.
Old Market Area: Best explored on foot to experience local life and street food.
Self-guided walks using maps or apps like Google Maps are common.

Cycling & Safety

Bicycle Infrastructure: No dedicated lanes; cyclists share roads with motorbikes and cars.
Traffic: Generally slower than in larger cities. Be mindful of traffic and ride defensively.
No-Go Areas: No specific "no-go" areas, but exercise caution on busy main roads (National Road 3).
Rural roads can be isolated; be aware of surroundings if cycling alone.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses: No hop-on-hop-off services. Local operators offer organized day tours in vans or minivans.
Boat Taxis: River cruises (sunset, firefly, scenic) are for leisure, not point-to-point transport.
Accessibility: Infrastructure for mobility needs is limited. Sidewalks are uneven; transport is not wheelchair accessible.

Private Transport: Travelers with mobility needs should plan carefully and consider arranging private transport that can accommodate their requirements.
No cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems exist in Kampot.
Tour operators can provide customized arrangements for groups or specific interests.

Public Transportation in Kampot N/A

No Metro System

Kampot does not have an underground metro system.

No City Buses

There are no formal city bus routes operating within Kampot.

No Trams

Trams are not a mode of transport in Kampot.

Tuk-Tuk & Moto Safety Tips

When using tuk-tuks or moto-taxis, awareness helps ensure a secure journey.

Before You Ride

Negotiate fare: Always agree on the price before beginning your trip.
Payment: Cash (USD or KHR) is the standard method of payment.
Use PassApp: For fixed pricing and transparency, download and use PassApp.
Confirm destination: Clearly state and confirm your destination with the driver.

During Your Ride

Driver honesty: Most drivers are honest and helpful.
Situational awareness: Remain aware of your surroundings throughout the journey.
Secure belongings: Keep your bags and valuables close and secure.
Helmets: Are legally required for motorbike riders and passengers.

Local Transport Snapshot

Tuk-Tuk

Common, motorized, open-air, good for short rides and tours.

Negotiate or use app.

Moto-Taxi

Motorbike rides, cheaper for solo, faster through traffic.

Wear a helmet.

Bicycle

Ideal for flat town, affordable daily rentals.

Share roads carefully.

Specialized Tour Options

Organized Tours

Local tour operators offer day tours to Bokor Mountain, Kep, pepper farms, and caves.
These tours typically use comfortable vans or minivans.
Pre-booking these can streamline your sightseeing experience.

River Cruises

Sunset cruises, firefly tours, and general scenic river tours are popular.
Operators are found along the riverfront; compare options.
These cruises are for leisure and sightseeing, not transportation.

Road Conditions & Considerations

Roads within Kampot town are generally paved and in good condition.
Rural roads vary significantly; some are unpaved, dusty, or muddy, especially in the wet season.
Always assess road conditions before venturing into remote areas.

Traffic rules are often loosely observed; drive defensively.
Parking for motorbikes and bicycles is generally easy to find in town.
For non-fixed price services, polite bargaining is common and expected.
Start by offering 20-30% below the initial asking price with a friendly demeanor.

Navigating Kampot

For short distances, walking or cycling is often most efficient within Kampot's compact and flat town center.

For longer distances or trips outside town to attractions like pepper farms or Bokor Mountain, tuk-tuks or motorbikes are commonly used.

Getting Around Kampot