Koh Rong Samloem: Day Trip from Phnom Penh – Hike & Snorkel

Koh Rong Samloem: Day Trip from Phnom Penh – Hike & Snorkel offers a well-rounded glimpse into one of Cambodia’s most picturesque islands. If you’re craving a mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic island charm, this trip might be just the ticket.

What we love about this experience? First, the scenic jungle walk to Clearwater Bay promises lush greenery and tropical birdlife, making it perfect for nature lovers. Second, the crystal-clear waters at Coral Cave are a snorkeller’s paradise, boasting vibrant coral and plenty of fish. Third, the private transportation and guided tour create a smooth, hassle-free day, letting you focus on the beauty around you.

That said, a potential consideration is the moderate fitness level required—you’ll need to be comfortable walking for about 90 minutes and swimming, which isn’t ideal for everyone. Still, for those who love outdoor activities and island landscapes, this trip offers a balanced mix of adventure and downtime.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy active days, picturesque scenery, and memorable marine encounters. It’s also ideal for those seeking a full-day escape from Phnom Penh with a focus on nature and authentic island views.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery: Combines jungle, beach, and ocean views in one day.
• Active itinerary: Includes a jungle hike and snorkeling, perfect for energetic travelers.
• Comfortable logistics: Private transport and guided tours make the day stress-free.
• Authentic experience: Enjoy local touches like tea or coffee on the beach and a picnic lunch.
• Weather considerations: Activities may be affected by wind or rain, with options for cancellations or replacements.
• Value: For $215, the tour offers a full-day adventure with transportation, meals, and guided exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Koh Rong Samloem Day Trip

Starting the Day: From Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville

Your day begins early, around 7 am, with a private driver collecting you from your accommodation. The three-hour drive south takes you through Cambodia’s countryside, giving you a glimpse of local life and landscapes before reaching Sihanoukville. We found this part quite comfortable, and the private transfer means you can relax and enjoy the scenery without the chaos of public transport. You’ll stop for snacks en route, a small but appreciated touch that allows for some quick refueling before the island adventure.

The Ferry Journey: Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Samloem

Once in Sihanoukville, you’ll hop onto a speed ferry—an essential part of the experience. The ferry ride is about 45 minutes, offering stunning views of the coastline and surrounding islands. This quick boat trip is smooth, and the guide or crew typically provides soft drinks or beer, depending on your preference. Keep in mind, the ferry’s duration and comfort are key for a good start; most reviews mention it as a scenic, pleasant ride.

Arriving at M’Pai Bay: A Relaxed Beach Welcome

Landing at M’Pai Bay, your guide will be waiting to greet you. From here, the real fun begins with a fresh tea, coffee, or fruit shake on the beach. This laid-back start allows you to soak in the coastal atmosphere—an ideal way to ease into the day. The views here are stunning, with palm trees framing the bay and boats bobbing nearby. We appreciated the calm vibe, setting the tone for the day’s activities.

More Great Tours Nearby

Jungle Hike to Clearwater Bay

The highlight of many reviews is the 90-minute jungle walk from M’Pai Bay to Clearwater Bay. The trail winds through dense greenery, offering glimpses of monkey sightings and vibrant birdlife—if you’re lucky. The path can be uneven and requires moderate fitness, so comfortable shoes and insect repellent are a must. The walk’s reward is the stunning vista of Clearwater Bay, famed for its clear waters and tranquil ambiance. After the hike, many guests enjoy a swim straight away, relishing the chance to cool off in the pristine sea.

Lunch with a View: On the Beach at Clearwater Bay

Post-swim, a delicious packed lunch is delivered by longtail boat—most reviews mention a well-prepared meal that you can enjoy right on the sands. Lobster, chicken, or vegetarian options are provided, with enough variety to satisfy most tastes. Watching the waves lap at your feet while eating adds a memorable touch. The beach here is quiet, with soft sand and gentle waves, perfect for relaxing after your hike.

Snorkelling at Coral Cave

The afternoon kicks off with a short boat trip to Coral Cave, a snorkelling hotspot. The guide will equip you with a life jacket and point out the vibrant coral formations and schools of colorful fish. Many reviewers mention floating among the fish as a highlight, noting the abundance of soft and hard corals in shades of pink, purple, and green. For those new to snorkelling, the experience is accessible and safe, with guides eager to point out marine life or answer questions. The calm, clear waters mean visibility is excellent, making it easy to appreciate the underwater splendor.

Return Journey & Evening Transfer

After a few hours of snorkelling, you’ll head back to M’Pai Bay to freshen up and pack away your gear. The return ferry departs around 4:45 pm, arriving in Sihanoukville by 5:30 pm. Your driver will then take you back to Phnom Penh, completing the day on a comfortable note. The journey back is long but straightforward, with most travelers arriving around 8:30 pm, tired but enriched by the day’s experiences.

What’s Included & What to Consider

Included in the $215 price are private transport from Phnom Penh, ferry tickets, a guided tour in M’Pai Bay, a picnic lunch, and water refills. You’ll also get tea or coffee on arrival and drinks on the boat, which adds to the overall value.

What’s not included is extra food or snacks outside the scheduled meals, so bringing some snacks or extra drinks might be wise. The tour also emphasizes bringing essentials: sunglasses, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and suitable footwear.

The Real Value of This Tour

The comprehensive package provides a smooth, curated experience that balances outdoor activity with relaxed beach time. The guided jungle walk and snorkelling spots are well-chosen, ensuring you see the best of Koh Rong Samloem’s natural beauty without feeling rushed. The inclusion of private transfers and guided exploration means less stress and more time enjoying your surroundings.

Weather and Activity Flexibility

Reviewers note that the tour is subject to weather conditions. High winds or rain can cause cancellations or activity adjustments. If activities are canceled due to weather, the tour provider offers replacements or refunds if the entire day isn’t feasible. This flexibility ensures you won’t be left stranded, but it’s good to be aware that some parts of the trip depend heavily on good weather.

Travel Tips

• Wear comfortable hiking shoes for the jungle walk.
• Pack a waterproof bag or dry pouch for your valuables.
• Bring your own refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Be prepared for potential insect activity; insect repellent is recommended.
• A camera or phone with waterproof capabilities is handy, especially for snorkelling or scenic views.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Trip?

This tour is best suited for active travelers who want more than just a beach day. If you enjoy hiking, snorkelling, and exploring unspoiled landscapes, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also a good choice if you prefer guided tours that handle transportation and logistics, allowing you to focus on the experience.

Travelers who appreciate authentic, less commercialised islands will enjoy the relaxed vibe of M’Pai Bay and Clearwater Bay. It’s a full-day commitment, so those looking for a quick, casual outing might find it a bit long, but for those eager to explore the natural beauty of Koh Rong Samloem, it’s worth every effort.

Keep in mind, the tour requires moderate fitness and swimming ability, making it unsuitable for non-swimmers or people with mobility issues. The premium pricing reflects the convenience, guided experience, and inclusions, offering good value for a day packed with activities.

To sum it up, this trip offers a well-rounded, memorable adventure showcasing Cambodia’s stunning island scenery, vibrant marine life, and lush jungle. It’s a fantastic way to experience Koh Rong Samloem’s natural magic without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers? No, since swimming is part of the snorkelling activity, and participants should know how to swim. Life jackets are provided for safety.

What should I bring? Sunglasses, a camera, hiking shoes, sunscreen, beachwear, insect repellent, and a daypack are recommended. Bringing your own refillable water bottle is also advised.

Can activities be canceled due to weather? Yes, activities may be canceled if weather conditions are poor, such as high winds or rain. The tour provider offers replacements or full refunds if the entire day cannot proceed.

How long is the transfer from Phnom Penh? The private car from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville takes approximately 3 hours, offering a comfortable journey with stopping points for snacks.

What is included in the price? The cost covers private transport, ferry tickets, guided tour in M’Pai Bay, a packed lunch, tea or coffee on arrival, and drinks on the boat.

What is the snorkeling like? You’ll see a variety of soft and hard corals in colorful shades, with schools of pelagic fish. Guides are attentive and eager to point out marine life.

How fit do I need to be? The tour involves a moderate 90-minute jungle walk and swimming, so a reasonable level of fitness and comfort with water activities is necessary.

What is the timing of the tour? The trip starts early at 7 am, with the ferry returning around 4:45 pm, arriving back in Sihanoukville at 5:30 pm, and returning to Phnom Penh by approximately 8:30 pm.

Is the tour suitable for families? It depends on the children’s swimming ability and fitness level. Non-swimmers or very young children may find the activities challenging.

This adventure combines Cambodia’s natural beauty with convenient guided planning, perfect for active travelers or those eager for a scenic, marine-filled day away from the city.

You can check availability for your dates here: