Things to Do in Kampot

Kampot sits along the banks of the Kampot River in southern Cambodia, about three hours from Phnom Penh, and it's one of those places that gets under your skin without trying too hard. The town has this laid-back colonial charm - think French shophouses with peeling paint, riverside cafes where time moves differently, and locals who actually seem happy to chat with visitors. What really sets Kampot apart is its famous pepper plantations and the dramatic Bokor National Park looming nearby, but honestly, many people come for the pepper tours and end up staying for the general atmosphere of the place. The Kampot River winds through town and eventually meets the sea at Kep, creating this network of mangroves and fishing villages that feels genuinely untouched by mass tourism. You'll find a mix of backpackers, expats who never left, and Cambodian families going about their daily business, which creates this authentic small-town vibe that's increasingly rare in Southeast Asia. The food scene punches above its weight too - river prawns, crab curry with those famous green peppercorns, and some surprisingly good Western food thanks to the expat community.

Kampot's food scene is surprisingly diverse for such a small town, thanks to the mix of locals, expats, and travelers who've made it home. You'll find excellent Khmer food at local markets and family-run places, where river prawns with green pepper and fish amok are standouts. The expat community has created a solid Western food scene too - decent pizza, burgers, and even some upscale fusion restaurants. Riverside cafes are perfect for lazy afternoons, and many serve both Cambodian and international dishes. Don't miss trying dishes made with fresh Kampot pepper, which really does taste different from regular black pepper - it's more complex and aromatic.

November through March is ideal weather-wise - dry, sunny, and not too hot, with temperatures in the comfortable 25-30°C range. April and May get quite hot and humid before the rains arrive, though early mornings and evenings are still pleasant. The rainy season from June to October brings afternoon downpours and higher humidity, but also fewer crowds and lush green landscapes. That said, Kampot's laid-back pace works in any season, and accommodation prices drop significantly during the wet months if you don't mind occasional heavy rain.