Kep is a small coastal town in Cambodia. It is known for its seafood and tropical beaches. It is a beach getaway for foreigners living in Cambodia, although mostly for locals, as one could eat fresh seafood, laze on the beach and enjoy sundowners.
Kep National Park
Kep National Park
Kep National Park
Kep is more than just a beach, though! Behind the beaches are a range of small mountains/ big hills where Kep National Park, a jungle preserve, is located. It boasts beautiful views of the surrounding islands, tranquil scenery and a galore of local wildlife.
Kep National Park
Kep National Park
So, on the second day, we decided to go trekking in an 8km trail in Kep National Park that makes a loop around the mountain. It was actually our first time in the Cambodian jungle. The main trail was quite steep, well-prepared, well-maintained and well-marked.
Kep National Park
Kep National Park
Kep National Park
We took a few minutes rest where the Sunset Rock is, which had a lovely view over the coast. After a rest there, we continued our journey in the remaining loop of the trail. In total, we spent about 2.5 hours in the park. We got to see interesting exotic plants and animals, breathtaking panoramic views of the dense vegetation, nearby islands, and the thick canopy kept us shaded most of the time. At some stage, worried monkeys started to growl and one even threw a stone at us while we were taking a short break on a bench. We got the feeling that they meant no harm and just wanted to protect their habitat.
Kep National Park
Kep National Park
Kep National Park
Kep National Park
Kep National Park
As we hiked up the mountain, our conversations with our 10 year old lil explorer ran from different types of insects, reptiles, arthropods to the possibility of multiverse to American-Vietnam War to politics and to I-pad games.
Kep National Park
Kep National Park
Kep National Park
Kep National Park
We are certainly impressed and proud with our son as he finished his 1st long hike in the steaming jungle – even though he suffered he was brave. The temperature was about 35-40 degree Celsius, with this ever present pre-storm electrical heat one can only find in Cambodia during the rainy season.
Kep National Park
After the hike, our clothes were totally soaked in sweat; we had to take a shower as soon as we got back to our Bungalow.
Kep National Park is beautiful! It was well worth the effort – enjoyable good walk and challenging in a pleasant way, plus we got a tan! While trekking, we met quite a few other enthusiasts who were equally proud to endure the heat in order to enjoy the local wildlife.
Kep National Park
Kep National Park
Kep National Park
Little Lilly travel tip:
- The entire trip will take about 2-3 hours.
- The entrance fee s USD1.50 per person at the start of the trek just above the parking area of Veranda Natural Resort.
- Start early because it is steaming hot in there and if you’re lucky you could see wildlife including birds, snakes, squirrels, monkeys, butterflies and many more.
- Be guided by the maps and information on the trails as you walk up the mountain.
- Bring water.
- Wear mosquito repellent because mosquitoes are everywhere.
- Wear decent walking shoes.
Little Lilly Meets the World 