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Kampot, ព្រះរាជាណាចក្រ​កម្ពុជា - Things to Do in Kampot

Things to Do in Kampot

Kampot, ព្រះរាជាណាចក្រ​កម្ពុជា - Complete Travel Guide

Kampot is a charming riverside town in southern Cambodia, renowned for its colonial French architecture, world-famous pepper plantations, and laid-back atmosphere along the Praek Tuek Chhu River. This picturesque destination offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and culinary delights, making it an ideal stop for travelers seeking an authentic Cambodian experience away from the crowds. The town serves as a gateway to Bokor National Park and the nearby coastal town of Kep, while its historic center features beautifully preserved shophouses, art galleries, and riverside cafes. Kampot's reputation extends far beyond Cambodia's borders thanks to its exceptional black pepper, considered among the world's finest and protected by geographical indication status. The surrounding countryside is dotted with traditional pepper farms, salt fields, and limestone caves, offering visitors diverse experiences from agricultural tours to adventure activities. The town's growing expat community has contributed to a vibrant arts scene and international dining options, while traditional Khmer culture remains deeply rooted in daily life.

Top Things to Do in Kampot

Kampot Pepper Farm Tours

Visit traditional pepper plantations to learn about the cultivation of world-renowned Kampot pepper, recognized for its unique flavor and protected geographical status. These tours typically include tastings, explanations of the growing and processing methods, and opportunities to purchase authentic pepper directly from farmers.

Booking Tip: Tours cost $5-15 per person and can be arranged through guesthouses or directly with farms like Sothy's Pepper Farm or La Plantation. Best visited during dry season (November-April) when roads are accessible, and morning tours offer cooler temperatures.

Bokor National Park Exploration

Explore the misty mountains of Bokor National Park, featuring abandoned French colonial buildings, waterfalls, and panoramic views over the Gulf of Thailand. The park includes the famous Bokor Hill Station ruins, Wat Sampov Pram temple, and diverse wildlife viewing opportunities.

Booking Tip: Day trips cost $25-40 including transport and guide. Book through local tour operators or rent a motorbike ($5-8/day) for independent exploration. Early morning departures recommended to avoid afternoon mist and crowds.

Kampot River Sunset Cruises

Enjoy peaceful boat rides along the Praek Tuek Chhu River, offering stunning sunset views and glimpses of traditional riverside life. These relaxing cruises often include stops at local villages, fishing communities, and opportunities to spot local bird species.

Booking Tip: Sunset cruises cost $8-15 per person for 2-3 hours, available from multiple operators along the riverfront. Book same day at the pier or through accommodations. Bring insect repellent and camera for best experience.

Cave Exploration and Limestone Karst Adventures

Discover the region's impressive limestone caves including Phnom Chhnork Cave with its ancient temple, and Phnom Sorsia Cave known for its stalactite formations. These geological wonders offer insight into local religious practices and natural history.

Booking Tip: Cave visits cost $2-5 entrance plus transport ($15-25 for tuk-tuk). Combine multiple caves in one day trip for better value. Bring flashlight, comfortable shoes, and modest clothing for temple areas. Local guides available at cave entrances.

Traditional Salt Field Tours

Experience traditional salt farming methods at nearby salt fields, where families have harvested sea salt for generations using ancient techniques. Tours provide insight into this important local industry and the seasonal nature of salt production.

Booking Tip: Salt field tours cost $10-20 including transport, best visited during dry season (December-May) when production is active. Combine with pepper farm visits for full agricultural experience. Morning visits offer better lighting for photography.

Getting There

Kampot is easily accessible from major Cambodian destinations, located about 150km southwest of Phnom Penh and 25km from Kep. Regular bus services operate from Phnom Penh (3-4 hours, $4-6) with companies like Giant Ibis and Sorya Transport offering comfortable air-conditioned coaches. From Sihanoukville, buses take 2-3 hours ($3-5), while shared taxis and minivans provide faster but pricier alternatives. The nearest airport is in Sihanoukville, about 2 hours away, though most international travelers arrive via Phnom Penh's international airport.

Getting Around

Kampot's compact size makes it perfect for exploring on foot, bicycle, or motorbike, with most attractions within the town center easily walkable. Bicycle rentals cost $2-3 per day and are ideal for leisurely exploration of the riverside and nearby countryside. Motorbike rentals ($5-8/day) provide greater range for visiting pepper farms, caves, and Bokor National Park. Tuk-tuks are readily available for day trips and cost $15-25 for half-day excursions, while remork-motos (motorcycle taxis) offer quick, inexpensive transport around town for $1-2 per ride.

Where to Stay

Old Market Area
Riverside District
Kampot Town Center
Bokor Road
Tuek Chhou Road
Durian Roundabout Area

Food & Dining

Kampot's dining scene perfectly balances traditional Khmer cuisine with international flavors, thanks to its growing expat community and culinary tourism. Riverside restaurants serve fresh seafood, including the famous Kep crab, while local markets offer authentic street food like num banh chok (Khmer noodles) and fresh tropical fruits. The town is particularly known for dishes featuring its world-famous black pepper, with many restaurants offering pepper-crusted fish, beef, and creative fusion dishes. Western-style cafes, French bistros, and Italian restaurants cater to international tastes, while cooking classes provide hands-on experience with traditional Cambodian recipes using local ingredients.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Cambodia

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Trattoria Bello

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Fellini Siem Reap

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4.6 /5
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CUCINA - Pizza & Pasta - Italian Restaurant Siem Reap

4.8 /5
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Polo Food

4.9 /5
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Trattoria da Rasy

4.9 /5
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Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Kampot is during the dry season from November to April, when temperatures are comfortable (24-32°C), rainfall is minimal, and roads to attractions remain accessible. December to February offers the coolest and most pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing, though this is also peak tourist season. The wet season (May-October) brings heavy rains and flooding that can make some rural roads impassable, but also lush green landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower accommodation prices. Pepper harvest season (February-May) provides unique opportunities to witness traditional farming practices.

Insider Tips

Visit pepper farms in the morning when temperatures are cooler and farmers are most active in the fields
Try the local specialty of fresh crab with Kampot green pepper at riverside restaurants for an authentic culinary experience
Book Bokor National Park tours early in dry season as afternoon mist can obscure mountain views and make roads dangerous

Explore Activities in Kampot