Many people are confused with Koh Kong because they are unsure of whether it is an island, a town, or a province, but it is actually all three. Here’s a little information to help with the confusion: the province of Koh Kong, which means “Kong Island Province,” is one of Cambodia’s largest and more remote provinces, while Koh Kong Island is off the coast of the Koh Kong province (which contains the provincial town of Koh Kong).

Residents of the Koh Kong province mainly speak Khmer, and most also speak some Thai as well. Forest and wildlife is a large part of the province, even though it is known for illegal logging and poaching. The province is largely filled the natural beauty of mountains, beaches, and wildlife. The restaurants serve a lot of seafood, the nightlife is most popular along the river, and the border shared with Thailand includes casinos.

Lay of the land

Koh Kong is the most Southwestern province in Cambodia. The Cardamom Mountains run through most of the province, while the Damrei Mountains run along the eastern part, and remote beaches are speckled along the south and western edges. The west side of the province is also bordered by the Gulf of Thailand.

What to see and do

This province is jam-packed with natural beauty and the most popular things to see and do reflect that. If waterfalls peak your interest then you have hit the jackpot with Koh Kong. Check out these famous waterfalls: Tatay Waterfall, Kbal Chhay E91 Waterfall, Kbal Chhay Prek Koh Waterfall, and the Veal Achaut Waterfall (all ranging from fifteen minutes to three hours from the provincial town of Koh Kong).

The Koh Kong Island (known to the Cambodians as Koh Kong Grao or Outer Koh Kong Island) is another popular attraction for visitors. White sand beaches, coconut trees, and a translucent sea populated by a community of dolphins are the draw to the island. Boats can be rented to get to the island, and the first beach is approximately a 45-minute boat ride.

Getting around

The main part of Koh Kong is accessible by foot. To cross the Koh Kong Bridge is free for someone traveling by bicycle or foot, but there is a toll for motorcycles and cars (currently 1,200 riel for a motorcycle, 5,000 riel for a car). You can rent a moto-taxi for a daily rate of US$6-$8, there is an extra charge for more distant destinations. A patient attitude is recommended you can try negotiating if you think the price is too high. Even Cambodians do this often by walking away--it makes the driver rethink his price. The average rental rate for a car is about US$25 a day.