Kampot is Cambodia’s center of riverfront relaxation, located midway between Phnom Penh and the southern coast. Plan your trip with our comprehensive list of things to do in Kampot.
Kampot is clean, green, and full of stunning French architecture. The city center runs along a lazy river, creating the tone for a relaxed way of life.
But it’s not just about relaxing in your bungalow and sipping Kampot cider – there’s plenty to keep you active in Kampot. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities or want to dine and drink your way through one of Cambodia’s greatest gastronomic destinations, Kampot has something for you.
Welcome to Kampot
Kampot is constructed around the life-giving Praek Tuek Chhu river, which serves as the town’s focal point. It’s a pretty clean stream that’s safe to swim in when compared to the Mekong or Tonle Sap (the further out of town you go, the better the water quality).
A broad, flower-lined promenade hugs the river’s east bank around the outskirts of town, framing scenic views of the distant Bokor National Park and flanking Kampot’s crop of riverfront bars, hotels, and boutiques.
Crowded with beautiful facades and leafy nooks, Kampot is best explored on foot or by bicycle – but if you’re staying at one of the popular resorts nestled in the jungle north of town, you will need to hire a scooter or find a tuk-tuk to take you around.
As well as the best things to do in Kampot, this Kampot guide covers all the practical information you’ll need to plan the perfect trip.
When to visit Kampot
Kampot’s high season is during the winter months (November-January). This is a pleasant time temperature wise, but it’s busier and more expensive than usual. We visited during May, that’s the low season and also the temperature can go very high (coming from the Middle East were summer temperatures are very high it wasn’t too bad for us). One of the good things with low season is that prices are lower and places are less crowded. Make sure you stay in a place that has Air Conditioner or Fan if you come during the summer months.
How to get to Kampot
- From Phnom Penh: Giant Ibis bus (4 hrs; $10); Kampot Express van (3 hrs; $8) or train (5 hrs; $7; Friday-Sunday only).
- From Sihanoukville: Champa Tourist bus (3 hrs; $10).
- From Siem Reap: Giant Ibis bus via Phnom Penh (15 hrs; $20)
Things to Do in Kampot
Kayak Kampot River “The Green Loop”
The most idyllic stretch of the Praek Tuek Chhu river lies 5km north of Kampot city, where the waterway naturally curves to accommodate thickets of jungle foliage and mangrove swamps. The Green Loop is a lush still-water loop where you can gently paddle a kayak.
Most lodges on the river hire out kayaks and life jackets to non-guests for a small fee. It’s a good idea to call in advance if you’re travelling during high season. We used the gear at Champa Lodge, where prices start from $5 for 2 people.
Before you set out, ask staff to point you towards the river loop. It’s an easy paddle down gentle currents that takes about 1.5 hours to complete. The corridor of palm trees that lines the riverbank widens and contracts with each bend, and shallow rivulets trail off in every direction, leading to crab pots, lone fishermen, and sinking shacks. The backwaters are mostly shaded, but remember to dress sensibly if you’re out during the day.
Join a Kampot Pepper Tour
Kampot peppercorns are known the world over for their superior taste. It’s thought that pepper trees were first introduced to the area by the Sultan of Aceh, who sought to protect his precious crops from the Dutch when they colonised Indonesia.
Pepper has been commercially cultivated here as far back as the 13th century. By the 1920s, almost all pepper consumed in France – an estimated 2,600 tonnes – came from this part of Cambodia!
Almost all of the country’s pepper trees (and cacao trees) were destroyed in the 1970s to make way for cooperative rice farms. In recent decades, the industry has experienced a resurgence, and now pepper farming is once again a profitable business.
Green, black, and red pepper is grown and milled in plantations around the city. Popular farms including La Plantation and Khmer-French Farmlink offer free guided tours, where you can see the pepper trees and learn all about the harvesting process.
Join a Cooking Class at La Plantation
The only thing better than seeing how pepper is harvested is learning how to use it to make a stir fry – or better yet, Kampot pepper crab. La Plantation Pepper Farm hosts 3-hour cooking masterclasses. Starting from $20 per person including lunch, it’s incredibly good value. Make sure you book this in advance of your visit.
Day Trip to Kep Beach
Kep is a small beachside town on the coast about 25km (or 40 minutes drive) southeast of Kampot. A tuk-tuk ride to Kep will cost you between 7 and 10 USD one-way.
Round the peninsular to Kep beach, passing the town’s famous crab statue on the way. Here you’ll find hammocks and beach chairs for hire, coconut vendors, and a stretch of beautiful white sand.
Kep’s fish market is the city’s main draw. The best way to experience it is by first walking through the line of restaurants that crowd the road. When you hit the low-strung tarpaulins, you’ve entered the market. Head to the back of the market where you can see the crab traps being hauled and set.
You can either eat at the market or head to one of the nearby restaurants. We went to a place called Kimly, which had an extensive menu of all kinds of fish, shark, stingray, prawns, and of course, the famous Kep crab with Kampot pepper. It was wow!
Where to Stay in Kampot
Kampot Cabana
Location: Along the banks of the tranquil Teuk Chhou River (5 minutes in tuk-tuk from the bus station).
Price: $18 for a private bungalow with a private bathroom.
This hotel’s ommitment to sustainability extends beyond its accommodations. The resort implements eco-friendly practices, such as water conservation measures, to minimize its environmental impact.
With its serene riverside location and focus on sustainable living, this hotel offers a unique and memorable experience for travelers seeking tranquility and a connection with nature. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to explore the charms of the city while enjoying a peaceful retreat along the river’s edge.
The French couple that run the place were very friendly and helped us book tours and transportations.
Champa Lodge
Location: Along the back of the Teuk Chhou River (10 min in tuk-tuk from the bus station).
Price: $20 for a private room (Including breakfast).
As you arrive, you’ll be captivated by the serene ambiance and breathtaking views of the surrounding nature and distant mountains. The sound of gently flowing water sets the stage for a truly immersive nature experience.
Champa Lodge’s commitment to sustainability is at the core of its operations. The resort employs eco-friendly practices, such as solar power usage, rainwater harvesting, and waste management initiatives. By choosing Champa Lodge, you become part of their sustainable journey, supporting responsible tourism and the preservation of the surrounding environment.
The team working at Champa Lodge were very nice and accommodating, they helped us book transportation to our next destination.
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Conclusion
Kampot is a hidden gem that’s just waiting to be explored! Picture yourself surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes, from the winding Preaek Tuek Chhu River to the majestic mountains. It’s a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
But Kampot isn’t just about beautiful scenery. It’s a place where history comes alive through the vibrant local culture by exploring bustling markets, savoring mouthwatering cuisine, and connecting with the warm-hearted locals who will make you feel right at home.
Make sure to indulge in the famous Kampot pepper that adds a kick to every dish. Take a tour of a pepper plantation, learn about the traditional cultivation methods, and taste the unique flavours that make it world-renowned. Finally, as you will be near water and the river, don’t forget to bring mosquito spray.
Watch our video about Kampot
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