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Bokor National Park Private Day Tour from Phnom Penh

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Choose your own kampot tour package now. top rated kampot tours packages for the best holidays in cambodia. budget friendly yet luxurious. experienced, and english speaking guides. trust-worthy, reliable & dedicated to the best experience possible., tourist attractions in kampot, discover with us all the highlights of this charming province​, kampot never gets old.

Naturally, lovely, and effortlessly captivating, you’ll slip right into a balance of easygoing days on the river and beautiful drives over red dirt roads.

Its natural beauty, relatively unspoiled by tourism, puts you on the fast track to reconnect with Mother Earth through rock climbing, river trips, and jungle expeditions.

Today, tourists can hop on a motorcycle and check out handfuls of deserted French colonial estates and churches similar to Indiana Jones-style trips.

Kampot differs from any other Cambodian city you’ll find. Do not skip this hidden gem of Cambodia city if you like natural adventure and historic discoveries.

Let's explore Kampot tourist destination sites together!

Delight in the architecture clashes.

Many are in peeling, cracked elegance, whilst a number of riverfront exteriors have actually gone through substantial regeneration (make sure to look at The National Bank, The Kampot Provincial Museum, and the Red Cross have been tastefully restored to their previous glory).

The Wes Anderson mood board-worthy Hotel Old Cinema, which was designed in the 1930s as the “Maison de théâtre le Grandeur” before being converted into a cinema in the 1950s, is one such example.

Unmissable with its pale-yellow art-deco exterior, today, it stands completely and consistently refurbished as a cool little boutique hotel for tourists. It’s even got a swimming pool that non-guests can spend the day for a flat fee of $6 (which can go towards the food or drink bill).

Top Attractive Places to Visit in Kampot

Kampot sits near the base of the plentiful green Elephant Mountains and the famous Bokor Hill Station. 

Numerous attractive sites have been noted for tourists to take their opportunity to experience their journey in this calm city.

Bokor Hill Station –  Popokvil Waterfall – Bat Cave – Salt Fields – Kampot Markets – The Secret Lake – Pepper Plantations – Phnom Seda Orn – Kampong Trach – Durian Plantations – Tekchhou Resort – Phnom Daung – Kampot Handicrafts – Phnom Chhnok Cave Temple – Prek Ampil – Prek Thnout – Tek Chhu Zoo – Kep Thmey

Tip: Some Additional Wonderful Activities You Will Enjoy Kampot Even More

• A Sunset Cruise on the Teuk Chhou River
• Explore the Countryside
• Have an ATV or Dirt Bike Adventure
• KiteBoarding
• Jungle Jet on Kampot River
• Go Paddle Boarding
• Take A Scenic Drive to Kep
• Kayak on the River
• Rock Climbing at Climbodia

15 Things to Do and see in Kampot!

Things to do and see in kampot in details.

1. Have an ATV or Dirt Bike Adventure

In the forests of Kampot, a network of red dirt paths leads to a series of caves that beg to be discovered. The most effective method of accomplishing this is with some real off-road vehicles.

Take a ride through the rice fields in Land Rovers that are built for muck, motorcycle up steep mountain inclines to obtain panoramic views of the city, or thrash around in the jungle on ATVs that will get your pulse racing.

Throughout all of Off-Road Kampot’s trips, you will be accompanied by an experienced local tour guide who is concerned about your safety. You may customize a tour with the professionals at Adventure Rider Asia, where you can go on day trips or go crazy with 1-2 week expeditions.

Link: https://www.facebook.com/kampotquadbike/  

2. Kiteboarding

Right here in the town of Kampot is the world’s first and only kiteboarding school that has been certified by the IKO (International Kiteboarding Organization). If you want to enjoy some serious fresh air while floating along the Kampot River, Villa Vedici is the place to go.

Kiteboarding lessons for novices are available at Villa Vedici, as are excursions for more adventurous kiteboarders, as well as equipment rentals for more experienced boarders who want to get out and explore on their own.

Come alone, bring a group of friends, or enroll your children in professional kite boarding instruction with a reputable company.

Link: http://www.villavedici.com/  

3. La Plantation Pepper Farm

Fun fact: Black pepper is Kampot’s most important export. Foodies will appreciate the option to visit black pepper farms, where guides will take you on a tour of the many phases of black pepper forests while also allowing you to try the spicy items made from the peppers they grow. The best part is that the tours are completely free of charge, and there are no aggressive salespeople on hand to try to make a sale!

Once you’ve finished your short tour, have a seat in the on-site restaurant, where you’ll be served some exceptionally fresh meals made with black pepper that has been picked straight off the vine. Of course, bags of black pepper may be purchased as mementoes at a reasonable price at the local market.

Bring your camera with you since the farms are breathtakingly beautiful.

Link: https://kampotpepper.com/en/

4. Kampot River

With its twisting bends through thick forest and mangroves, the Kampot River is a thing of beauty. It is clean enough to swim in and provides breathtaking views of the sunset.

What is the most exciting approach to discover something new? Strap yourself into a high-speed water jet tour boat that races around the river at rates of up to 80 kilometers per hour, doing 360-degree donuts, and making you scream like a young girl as it reaches speeds of up to 80 kilometers per hour, catching some fresh air.

Tours begin as little as $15 per person. Aside from the adrenaline-pumping speed session, you’ll get the opportunity to immerse yourself in the environment of the Kampot river and get an insight into the lives of local fisherman, who will no doubt flash a wide toothless smile as you whiz by.

5.Bokor National Park

There’s more to Bokor National Park than simply dense forest, chirping birds, and trickling brooks; the park also has abandoned French Colonial mansions and curiously abandoned churches, giving this jungle a spooky, ghost town feel.

Bring your camera because you’ll want to capture the towering Buddha statue and the unbelievably gorgeous vistas of Cambodia’s twisting valleys.

The trip into Bokor National Park is worth going in and of itself, with well-maintained roads and vistas that will have you stopping every 10 minutes to take photographs.

The trip into Bokor National Park is rewarding in and of itself, with well-maintained roads and breathtaking views that will have you stopping every ten minutes to snap shots of the surroundings.

If you’re comfortable riding a motorcycle, this is the best mode of transportation; otherwise, hire a tuk-tuk or inquire at your hotel about renting a minivan.

6. Go Paddle Boarding

The Kampot River’s gentle surface is suitable for a day of paddleboarding. If you have no prior experience, don’t worry since SUP Asia provides paddleboarding training in the most conducive learning atmosphere.

Take the board out for an hour or two and paddle along the river, surrounded by birds and nature, before jumping off the board for a refreshing dip. SUP Asia provides 2-3 day tours where you may paddle through small fishing villages and get a true flavor of Cambodian culture if you’re looking for a real adventure.

Link: http://www.supasia.org/  

7. Taco Tuesday at Karma Traders Kampot

Taco Tuesday at Karma Traders Kampot is the place to be for serene sunsets from the rooftop bar, live music by musicians from across the world, and excellent tacos to hit the spot. On-site amenities include a swimming pool, guest rooms for rent, and a menagerie of cuddly animals. How can you pass this up?

What if you’re not available on Tuesdays? No need to be concerned. Every day from 5-7 p.m., enjoy happy hour on the rooftop bar with a view of Bokor Mountain. The friendly expat bartenders are fantastic sources of information if you’re wanting to hire motorbikes or want to know where to go after Kampot.

Link: http://www.karmatraderskampot.com/  

8. Take a Scenic Drive to Kep

A leisurely trip down a paved roadway by the coast is a pleasant way to spend the day. The voyage to Kep is a pleasant one, especially for inexperienced drivers, because the traffic isn’t too congested and the directions are very basic.

When you get in Kep, park your bike and relax in one of the many hammock-filled gazebos. Food hawkers will approach you, offering the famed Kampot Pepper Crab as well as cool drinks. You and your friends may have a local picnic on a straw mat beneath your hammocks, while enjoying the soothing ocean air and some much-needed shade.

Take a stroll around the modest beach market, where fresh fish is being grilled and dried squid is being sold on a stick. Sink your toes into the man-made beach and relax.

9. Kayak on the River

It is possible to become a pioneer of the 30-kilometer-long Kampot River in your very own kayak for as little as $2 an hour, depending on where you rent your kayak from. Many guesthouses and stores in and around Kampot provide kayak trips as well as kayaks for individuals to explore the area on their own.

Visit Greenhouse Guest House, where they will assist you in mapping out the optimal kayaking route, which will take you through mangroves, rapids, bird viewing, and quiet landscapes. Samon Village Kampot offers competitive half-day and full-day pricing for kayak rentals, and is conveniently located near the town center and various guesthouses.

The decision between the two will be based on which is most convenient.

10. Arcadia Water Park Guest House

If you want to stay in your bathing suit all day, drink ice cold beers, jump directly from the deck into fresh water, participate in beer pong competitions, and interact with a diverse group of travelers from all over the globe, this is the place for you. What more could you ask for?

That’s a good point. A floating pontoon with a 3-meter diving off point, an inflatable blob that propels you into the air, a giant waterslide, rope swings, inner tubes, and other attractions are all on the menu here. Arcadia is always a chaotic and crazy place to be. Join in on the water park fun for $7 a day if you want to stay the night or just drop by.

https://www.facebook.com/arcadiabackpackers/

11. Rock Climbing at Climbodia

If you enjoy extreme activities that defy gravity, you should consider trying your hand at rock climbing in Cambodia. You will be guided by the climbing professionals at Climbodia as you go on a 35-meter top rope climb to the top of a cliff side peak with spectacular views of salt flats, the Bokor Mountain range, and, on a clear day, as far as the Vietnamese island of Phu Quoc.

Not crazy enough for you? Climbodia also provides abseiling excursions, in which participants descend 30 meters into a hole in the ground with just a head torch to guide them.

Tours are accessible all year long, last roughly 4 hours, and are reasonably priced at around $40 per person.

12. Ride The Crab Shuttle

Riding the Crab Shuttle, which sails between Kampot and Kep on a regular basis, is a fantastic opportunity to take in the stunning landscape of Cambodia’s pristine coastline, and it is also a terrific way to save money.

After boarding the boat in the wee hours of the morning, guests may bask in the warmth of the sun and take pleasure in the gentle sea breezes of the Thai Gulf.

They may even come across schools of flying fish as they skim across the water’s surface on occasion. A diverse selection of genuine Cambodian lunch alternatives is offered to fulfill the appetites of cuisine enthusiasts. Meanwhile, a few hours on a nearby beach is a pleasant way to round up the journey.

13. Eat at the Night Market

Proceed to “The Big Durian” circular crossroads, where you’ll discover booth after stall of street cuisine to satisfy your hunger. You may sample grilled Khmer specialties on a stick, comfort cuisine like noodle soup and beef sandwiches, and sweet sweets like mango sticky rice.

You are welcome to use the plastic tables and chairs. There are also several vendors selling apparel, shoes, hammocks, souvenirs, and other items. You could easily spend a couple of hours wandering around and honing your bargaining abilities.

14. Getting Some Local Handicrafts

The majority of the items are handcrafted from natural materials such as seashells and coral that are collected from the shore. Also available are containers made of bamboo, which is prevalent in Cambodian families and is available for purchase by tourists.

It is possible to find a large number of stores selling a diverse assortment of local handicrafts along the streets that flank the canals of Kampot. Each hawk’s unique trinkets and unusual jewellery entice customers.

15. A value tip? Relax and unwind in a spa

Tourists who have spent the previous days seeing the city and trekking the nearby mountains should make a point of visiting a traditional Cambodian spa to relax and unwind. Pedicures, steam facials, back massages, hand and foot massages, and manicures are just a few of the services available around the city. Cambodian therapists are well-known for their capacity to alleviate muscle aches and pains, as well as other ailments.

Lodging in Kampot

There are a couple of outstanding backpacker hostels in the center of Kampot and choices in more secluded areas by the riverside.

All of them have dormitories along with privates – expect to pay $15 – $20 for a private double and $5-10 for a dormitory bed.

For couples, there are also some truly cool boutique guesthouses in the city center!

Monkey Republic

It is the home of the best dorm beds in Kampot, with privacy drapes, security lockers, power outlets, checking out lights, and air-con.

Kool Kampot

This place is the home of the best dormitory beds in Kampot, with privacy curtains, security lockers, power outlets, checking out lights, and air-con.

Hotel Old Cinema

This restort art-deco building is the best choice for tourist couples aiming to loosen up the bag strings a wee bit, relax for a day or 2, and stay someplace unforgettable.

How to Get to Kampot

When designing your own Cambodia itinerary, we would advise that you visit Kampot either on your way to the beautiful Koh Rong islands off the southwest coast of Cambodia or back from them and onward Phnom Penh.

Here is the choice …

Take a Bus or Shared Taxi

• You can take a bus/taxi from Phnom Penh to Kampot.
• Or, You can take a bus/taxi from Sihanoukville to Kampot.

Trains from Phnom Penh to Kampot take approximately 2.5 hours to reach the train station.

Boat from Kep

The Crab Shuttle leaves for Kep at 09:30 each early morning, visiting Rabbit Island before reaching Kep at 12:00. The return boat leaves Kep at 15:30, showing up back in Kampot at 18:00. Prices are $9.50 for a one-way ticket to Kep and $13.50 return.

Kampot Key Takeaways

Many visitors come here to look at the old French colonial architecture, which is still in captivating condition, to check out the near beaches or the small islands of Kep.

Kampot province is likewise renowned for the quality of its fruits (durian, coconut, mango, and so on), its sea salt, and obviously the well-known Kampot Pepper.

The rare fresh climate and soil type of Kampot, as well as the experience of many generations of pepper farmers, make this pepper one of a kind and in high demand by gourmets all over the world.

Fun Facts of Kampot

The greatest things to do in Siem Reap reveal that there’s more to this charming town besides visiting the renowned Angkor Wat temple ruins.

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Featured siem reap tour packages, holiday of love tour package, eat pray love holiday tour package, honeymoon vacation, frequently asked questions about kampot cambodia, what is kampot known for.

The province of Kampot is renowned for producing some of the world’s best black, red, and white pepper, and being able to witness the production process up close is an incredible experience. In the surrounding area, there are numerous large pepper farms, so take a motorcycle and ride through salt fields and caverns on your route to these massive pepper plantations.

How do I get to Kampot by train?

The most cost-effective method of getting to Kampot Rail Station is to take advantage of the efficient and safe train services provided by the Royal Railways of Cambodia. Take the train from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville Line, which will stop at Takeo railway station from Phnom Penh station and will take around 2 hours to reach Sihanoukville.

Is Kampot worth checking out?

Kampot is an easy, liveable town that’s fantastic for digital wanderers. It seems like a genuine Cambodian city that doesn’t exist for tourism. However, there are a number of expats – many of them are working for the NGOs that are so common in Cambodia – so you can find good dining establishments, cool cafes, and some comforts of home to stay.

How many days do you need in Kampot?

We recommend a 3 days break in Kampot. It is the best place to enjoy your short break from a stressful and busy life.

Is Kampot safe?

Kampot is typically an extremely safe town for visitors.

Kampot is laid-back riverfront village is an excellent choice for female solo travelers looking to kick back and unwind. The town center of Kampot is densely packed with coffee shops, boutique bars, and guesthouses, many of which are visited by other ladies who are traveling alone across the world.

Is Kampot expensive?

Generally, the cost of lodging in Kampot ranges from 6.90 US dollars for a hostel to 32 US dollars for a three star hotel. The cost of a night’s stay in a premium hotel in Kampot is around 97 USD.

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Located in the South of Cambodia, Kampot is an attractive destination a few hours outside of Phnom Penh. Untouched nature, unique cuisine, enchanting history, and authentic local ambiance are all captured in this peaceful province. If you’re looking for a laid back vibe with off the beaten paths, Kampot is a must-have stop in your voyage to exotic Cambodia.

It is undoubted that Bokor Hill is a must in your bucket list once heading to Kampot. Famous to both locals and foreigners, Bokor Hill still remains abandoned structures from the French Colonial period, sacred Wat Sampov PramTemple as well as breathtaking surrounding landscapes that are intriguing to tourists. Nowadays, tourism development here has been offering better conditions to explore this beautiful place.

Kampot Provincial Town

Kampot is a small and sleepy riverside town which owns its exotic charm through slow-paced daily life, peaceful and rustic ambiance, and many interesting places to stop by as: durian statue on the roundabout, fish market on the riverside, old structures of side-by-side shophouses along the streets, art gallery or history museum, etc.

Kampot’s Pepper Plantations

It would be a huge miss if you don’t visit farms in this pepper land. Famous for high-quality pepper, there are many farms here providing a large offer of pepper to the marker. Two of the most recommended pepper plantations in Kampot for visiting and buying local pepper products are La Plantation and Bo Tree Organic Farm and Pepper Plantations.

Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple

This is the only Buddhist Cave Temple in Cambodia. Besides distinctive features hidden in a cave, PhnomChhngok also is a historical remnant of Cambodian Buddhist’s development. Dropping by this spot in Kampot, tourists will also have a chance to admire the stalactites as well as amazing views of the hills around.

The Best Kampot Private Tours For You

Get inspired with our Best Tailor-Made Private Kampot Tours below All Kampot Tours can be easily customized for free to your personal wishes & needs within 24h

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Cycling from Phnom Penh to Kep & Kampot

Get out of the hustle and bustle of the Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh and enjoy the laid back ambiance of seaside towns in Kep and Kampot on this cycling tour. During 2 days, you will not only bike through fabulous views of Cambodian countryside, but also have great time enjoying fresh seafood as...

Biking from Phnom Penh to Kampot

With a great combination of sightseeing at ancient relics and beach relaxation in Takeo, Kep and Kampot, this 3-day biking tour is not only a perfect trip for cyclists but also an amazing excursion for history buffs to explore outstanding structures in the south of Cambodia. This tour will...

Phnom Penh - Takeo - Sihanouk Ville Excursion

Phnom Penh - Takeo - Sihanouk Ville Excursion is a harmonious combination between sightseeing at relics and the beach relaxation in the southern coastal region of Cambodia. Within 3 days of the tour, you will visit the ancient temples and local houses in Takeo, spend your time at Rabbit Island with...

Cycling from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville

This 4-day biking adventure tour starts from the bustling capital city Phnom Penh and ends in the laid back seaside city Sihanoukville. Along the way, you will visit ancient Angkorian temples in Takeo, stop by Borei Museum before enjoying fresh seafood in the Crab Market as well as swimming in...

Phnom Bokor Trekking

Well designed for nature and trek lovers, this “Phnom Bokor Trekking 4 days” tour is a great chance to explore the beauty of the laid-back seaside town Kampot and the Phnom Bokor mountain. During the 4-day package, you will spend most of the time hiking through Kampot’s famous salt fields and...

Phnom Penh & Kep Holidays

There’s so much more to Cambodia than the beauty and splendor of ancient Angkorian temples. If you are the one who really enjoys the great vibe from the beach, this Phnom Penh & Kep Holiday tour is the best way for you to feel another side of this Khmer Kingdom. Within the 5-day period, you will...

Cambodia Land & Beach Getaway

Experience the rich culture, history, architecture and local life of Cambodia during this fascinating 10-day land tour and beach vacation as you explore some of the most interesting sites that the Kingdom of Wonder has to offer. You are to discover the world-famous Siem Reap city with UNESCO World...

Siem Reap To Sihanoukville Biking Tour

This 12-day tour is an unforgettable adventure that allows you to explore the charming country Cambodia in the best way - by bike. From the heart of UNESCO listed World Heritage Site, Angkor complex in Siem Reap, throug the vibrant capital Phnom Penh, to the sleepy seaside towns of Kep and Kampot,...

The authentic & unique experiences in Kampot you can expect

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Beauty of Bokor Mountain and National Park

Only 8 kilometres from the quiet Cambodian town of Kampot lies the entrance to Bokor Mountain in Bokor National Park. Reputedly home to wild elephants and tigers it boasts a beautiful landscape most...

Kampot travel guide information

Kampot Quick Facts

Kampot overlooks the Gulf of Thailand to the South and owns borders with Koh Kong and Kampong Speu to the North; Takeo, Kep, and Vietnam to the East; and Sihanoukville to the West

Its total area is 4,873 km2 with the population calculated to 2019 is 592, 845 people

The annual temperature here is around 27 Degree Celcius, with the average annual rainfall is 2360 mm

The most famous place in Kampot is mystical Bokor Hill, where is well-known for pilgrimages, sightseeings, and recreations in Cambodia

The most well-known specialities in Kampot are high-quality pepper, fish sauce, and durian

There is a huge durian statue on the roundabout in Kampot’s provincial town, which is named Kampot as well, which proves the popularity of this special kind of fruit here

Best time to visit Kampot, cambodia

The wet season here, which starts in late April and lasts until November, could prevent your travel schedule in Kampot by rainfalls or foggy and cloudy dates. Thus the best time to visit Kampot is in the dry season, which lasts from December to March in the next year, with sunny weather and clear sky almost the day.

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If you’re travelling in search of temples, Cambodia is the destination for you. A tour of Angkor Wat , a sprawling temple complex in Siem Reap from the Khmer Empire, should be at the very top of your bucket list! Phnom Penh is also worth a trip - though a busy capital city, it is full of cultural, religious and historic sites to explore.

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Cambodia - Tour Highlights and Travel Tips

Grandeur and colonial charm await you in Cambodia. With jaw-dropping architectural gems, including the intricately detailed Angkor temples, floating villages, and laid-back island beaches, Cambodia’s tourism industry has grown significantly over the past 10 years. All the same, many parts of Cambodia remain relatively unexplored by tourists. This small country has an incredibly complex history to discover, along with wonderfully welcoming people to meet. What's holding you back from taking a trip to Cambodia? 

Tour Highlights

• Explore Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument
• Visit Battambang, a preserved colonial-era town
• See the richly decorated carvings of Bayon temple
• Spot a rare Irrawaddy dolphin in Kratie
• Stare in awe at the Silver Pagoda at the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh
• Experience the nightlife of Pub Street in Siem Reap
• Learn about the history of Khmer Rouge at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

Travel Tips

• Despite terrible periods in Cambodia’s history, the country today is a safe place to visit. Stick to the tourist areas as much as possible. When travelling to remote areas, stick to the marked paths to avoid any undiscovered landmines.
• November to March is the most popular time to visit Cambodia when the weather is not-too-hot and not-too-wet. July to August is shoulder season, and a great time to visit for lush scenery and fewer crowds - if you don’t mind wet weather.
• While Cambodia’s currency is the Riel, it is far more common for tourists to pay in US dollars. In fact, most prices in shops and restaurants will be quoted in US dollars. However, most hotels and restaurants also accept credit cards.
• Never touch somebody on the head in Cambodia, as this is considered to be the most sacred part of the body.
• Do as the locals do and smile! Cambodians are known for always having a smile on their face - reciprocate!

Cambodia has seasonal weather so please do check up on the best time to visit Cambodia before planning your tour to the country . 

Cambodia Tour Reviews

• Mr. Graeme Sommerville Mrs. Maree Sommerville
• Sophie Fewkes

The Ultimate Kampot Travel Guide 2023

Kampot (pronounced Cam-Pot) is a city in southern Cambodia that is hugely popular for foreign ex-pats. Known for its high-quality pepper and durian, this beautiful city is overshadowed by the neighbouring Preah Monivong Bokor National Park. We found this city had a really nice relaxing atmosphere, similar to that of Battambang . This made our visit here very enjoyable and we wish we stayed longer! This Ultimate Kampot Travel Guide 2022 will provide you with everything you need to know and how to get the most out of your visit to Kampot. 

Is Cambodia Open For Travel? 

Short answer = Yes. 

At the time of writing (April 2022), Cambodia is open for tourism and is likely to remain so for the foreseeable future. 

If you’re fully vaccinated, you only need to present your proof of vaccination to enter Cambodia. If you’re not fully vaccinated, however, you must quarantine at a hotel arranged by the Cambodian government OR at a pre-booked hotel. 

We’d recommend checking out Cambodia’s Official Covid-19 Entry Requirements for more information.

Getting a Cambodian visa 

There are two ways of getting a Cambodia visa; before entry or on arrival.

You can apply for a Cambodian visa via the Cambodian government’s website . A visa costs $30 plus a $6 processing fee per visa; it takes between three and seven days for your application to be processed.

The Cambodian government has also reinstalled the Visa On Arrival service for all international travellers. However, foreign nationals are not guaranteed a visa on arrival as the government reserves the right to deny entry to individuals that do not meet all the Cambodian visa requirements .

Check out our 13 Top Tips for Travelling Cambodia in 2022 for more information on getting a Cambodian visa in both instances.

How to get to Kampot 

Kampot is both really hard yet also really easy to get to. 

If you’re travelling from Phnom Penh, going by bus is BY FAR the easiest and cheapest way to travel. These buses run daily and prices range from $6-$8 per person and the journey takes roughly three and a half hours. Departure times are normally every half an hour.

On the other hand, if you’re attempting to travel from Sihanoukville, the journey will be a lot harder. As we’ve explained in The Perfect Month Itinerary for Cambodia in 2022 , the road between the two cities is of such poor quality (even bad for Cambodia and that’s saying something) that bus companies are not currently operating this route. Unfortunately, this means that the only direct route is via a private taxi. You can choose to get a bus from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh and then another to Kampot but the journey time will be roughly 10 hours. On top of this, the price will almost certainly be at least $20pp so it’s probably not feasible.

Therefore, factoring in time and cost, our personal opinion on the best method of transport is to hire a private taxi. The fare is around $50 so the more people you have, the cheaper the journey will be per person. A simple google search will give you the contact information of taxi drivers or companies that are willing to take you. If this option doesn’t bear fruit, we know people who’ve asked at the ferry companies on Sihanoukville Port who were able to assist. They ended up getting a taxi at $10pp. 

Having coordinated travel plans with our friends, we ended up getting a taxi number from another friend and paid $50 for the trip. The journey took us roughly three hours and we can vouch that the roads were very bad in places! 

12Go Asia was our go-to company for booking buses, coaches and transfers around Cambodia, so do check out their website for booking your journey.

If you’ve read our Perfect Two Week Itinerary for Cambodia and are looking to visit the islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem either before or after Kampot, we’d recommend checking out our guide on How to Visit Koh Rong & Koh Rong Sanloem in 2022! 

Best time to visit:

January/February

When we visited in February, we found it to be the ideal time as the temperature was bearable (around 30C) and no way near as hot as it could get up to 40C (or more in April and May). 

We didn’t visit in the rainy season so it (obviously) rarely rained and if it did, it was only for 5 minutes. It is worth noting that mosquitos are notoriously bad during the rainy season so visiting at this time will mean you escape the worst; however, they’re still incredibly annoying. But we know that anytime between November and April will absolutely suffice and you’ll have an amazing time! 

Recommended stay:

We visited Kampot on our way back from the Koh Rong islands to Phnom Penh. Unfortunately, we didn’t give ourselves enough time to see as much as we wanted to. This meant we ended up staying for just one day and only visiting the Preah Monivong Bokor National Park; whilst we really enjoyed this, we wished we stayed longer as (again) we loved the city’s atmosphere. Therefore, we’d definitely recommend staying in Kampot for at least three days and then any additional days depending on how much spare time you have; how much you like the city; and how much relaxing you’d like to do. 

Where to stay in Kampot:

Karma traders kampot hostel.

Red Rd, Krong Kampot, Cambodia

Having bumped into many people who had already stayed in Kampot, the overwhelming majority recommended staying at Karma Traders . Admittedly, whilst the hostel is outside of the city centre, the walk is only 15 minutes so it’s easily walkable; alternatively, you can always grab a tuk-tuk which is only $1-$2. However, we didn’t find this a problem at all and quite enjoyed the walk. 

The hostel itself was great and we had no problems with anything during our stay; even the showers had hot water and good pressure. The main building houses the dorm rooms, which all had working aircon, whilst the outside houses were for all the private rooms. If you can afford to stay in the private rooms then we’d definitely recommend doing so as they looked amazing. 

The hostel has a restaurant/bar on the top floor and serves very affordable drinks late into the night; we were particularly impressed with the quality of the western breakfasts they serve so definitely give this a try. On top of that, the hostel also gives you free towels for your stay (absolute luxury) and you have access to a really nice pool out back should you get hot from the Cambodian sun. The middle floor even has a ping pong table so Alex spent a good few hours here playing against anyone who was up for a game. 

The hostel also has a plethora of motorbikes available for you to rent at $5 per day which is very handy. Moreover, the hotel has a board of suggestions of places to eat in Kampot and they didn’t disappoint (see below for more info).

Ultimately, we’re biassed as we really enjoyed our stay here but Karma Traders was faultless; we’d highly recommend staying here!

Arcadia Backpackers Hostel

Tuek Chhu Road, Krong Kampot, Cambodia

Arcadia Backpackers was the other hostel recommended to us and we strongly considered staying here. One of the main reasons for this was the Waterpark which the hostel also encompasses. 

Regarding the experience itself, our friends said that Jeff and his staff were very friendly and helpful. Moreover, they said that the highlight was definitely the waterpark as it was so much fun. The only piece of advice they gave for staying here is to make sure you have enough money to pay for your accommodation as the hostel is a 15-minute tuk-tuk outside of town; as you can imagine the location is quite a downside for this hostel. 

It is worth noting that you can still visit the waterpark even if you do not stay at Arcadia; everyone we spoke to said to stay at Karma Traders and then visit Arcadia for half a day if you wanted to use the waterpark.

Ultimately, we’d recommend staying at Karma Traders and having Arcadia as a backup if there isn’t any available space at Karma. 

If you’re looking for a hostel that’s more centrally located in Kampot, we’ve also heard really good reviews about The Billabong Guesthouse and Onederz Kampot ! 

Alternatively, if hostels aren’t your thing, we’d recommend staying in hotels, especially if you’re travelling as/in a couple. Sometimes staying in a hotel can be just as cheap as staying in a hostel; plus, you can have your own space which is always a bonus! 

Rikitikitavi

Riverside Road, Kampot, Cambodia

Rikitikitavi is a highly-rated hotel and restaurant right in the centre of Kampot. It’s reasonably priced and extremely well located; if we were after a hotel for our stay in Kampot, we’d have 100% stayed here.

What to do in Kampot:

Preah monivong bokor national park.

If there is one thing you do whilst, in Kampot, you HAVE to visit the National Park. 

We’d recommend writing off most of your day for this trip; we ended up leaving our hostel at 10am and getting back at roughly 4pm. This was perfect timing as it allowed us to rest a little before going back into the city centre for food and cocktails.

We hired a tuk-tuk driver (Kep), who worked at Karma Traders, for $30 ($15pp) to take us around for the day. Whilst the price can seem steep for Cambodia, it really is worth it. 

On the climb up to your first stop, you’ll go past loads of monkeys just relaxing in the middle and on the side of the road; we also saw many baby monkeys which were very cute! 

On our trip, we ended up seeing a huge Buddha on the cliffside; an old church and a viewpoint; the casino; the Popokvil waterfall and multiple temples!

We ended up visiting on a very foggy day which was very cool to experience, even if it shrouded many viewpoints. 

For the Popokvil waterfall, make sure you have the exact change for the 50-cent entry fee per person. Whilst the fee is obligatory, you do get given a paper token that you can redeem inside for a bottle of water. 

Even if the price can be considered steep, I can guarantee a visit to the National Park is 100% worth it; there is literally another whole community that lives within the national park! 

If you are a bit braver than us, this route is totally doable on a motorbike! Be careful though as the roads can be quite steep and windy.

Arcadia Backpackers Waterpark

As we alluded to above, we didn’t stay long enough to experience this fun activity; a massive regret of ours!

Whilst we didn’t do it, we’d strongly recommend going as we’ve heard nothing but good things.

It’s an ideal location to chill, sip a cocktail and cool down from the hot Cambodian heat.

Let us know what you think of the place and we’ll be sure to add your review to our post.

Kampot Pepper Tour @ La Plantation Farm

Kampot Pepper is renowned for having some of the best quality pepper available in the world.

Whilst there are a variety of tours available at numerous plantations, the La Plantation Tour was recommended to us the most by other travellers.

The tour costs $30 and lasts for around six hours.

You’ll learn all about the La Plantation project from the experienced guides and enjoy a pepper and spice tasting session.

One of the highlights people found was the Water Buffalo tour which takes you on an eco-friendly tour of the countryside and the opportunity to learn more about the community.

Sunset River Cruise

Recommended by our friends, they had nothing but good things to say about their experience.

The cruise costs roughly $5pp and can (depending on your chosen company) include a free drink or two. However, we’d recommend sneaking some of your own alcohol into your bag just in case.

Most leave at around 5pm every evening from an in-town location and you’ll be transported to the boat, just in time to see the sun setting in the distance; we’ve seen our friend’s pictures and it was so pretty!

You can essentially treat this trip one of two ways; a fun booze cruise along the river with your friends or an opportunity to relax and take in the beautiful scenery; all of this whilst getting to see some cool fireflies and Cambodian bridges.

Bokor Night Market

• As you’ve probably been in Cambodia a while, you’ll know what to expect from markets and night markets in general. If you haven’t, just imagine stalls and stalls of clothes, shoes and more clothes. They’re a great place to pick up a bargain or two (make sure to haggle a little) or cop some fake designer gear.
• The food section of the market is particularly interesting and definitely worth visiting if you haven’t visited one before.
• The smell and sight of some food can be particularly interesting but if you want to try some proper Khmer food, this is the place to be. We especially liked the vegetable spring rolls!

Hopefully, you’ll visit and experience the same kind of atmosphere Kampot gave us; one that is perfect for just relaxing in.

If we had the time, we could honestly spend a week in Kampot visiting the numerous cafes and doing a whole lot of nothing.

Whilst we appreciate no one will have this amount of time available to do this, even taking a day or two to just chill and catch up on some Netflix will be perfect here!

Where to eat & drink in Kampot:

Cafe espresso roastery.

33, Krong Kampot, Cambodia

Despite visiting only a few hours before leaving Kampot, this was arguably our favourite place to eat in the whole city; we would’ve enjoyed it even more at the time if there wasn’t a ceremony blasting music right outside the gates!

It is absolutely the best place to visit for breakfast, brunch or lunch; there is so much on offer and great if you’re craving some well-cooked western food.

As the name would suggest, this place also brews its own coffee and the quality of the coffee definitely reflected this.

We ended up having bacon and egg on toast and an omelette; the chilli jam was to die for so have whatever includes this.

We do wish we came for lunch rather than specifically breakfast; the food sounded/looked very very appealing!

Chilli House

Situated opposite the Bokor Night Market, this same cafe is a great place if you want a place to sit, relax and get out of the heat.

The drinks are also really well priced and the family that runs the cafe are super friendly; we were allowed to sit here for a couple of hours to use some wifi.

Ecran Noodles & Dumplings

Street 735, Krong Kampot, Cambodia

Our biggest regret about not staying longer in Kampot was the fact we couldn’t try other places to eat; Ecran was definitely one of them. 

Whilst it was also on Karma’s board, it had also been visited by some of our friends and they gave raving reviews about the food here. Their favourite was the Peking-style duck noodles and the shrimp dumplings; really really upset we couldn’t go here! 

Epic Arts Cafe

67 Oosaupia Muoy Sovann Sakor, Kompong Kanda, Kampot

Firstly, it’s a really cute cafe (with air-con) that serves very tasty food.

It even has coffee and cake deals which are really affordable; we had the cookie and it was really worth it!

Secondly, the cafe’s focus is on increasing work opportunities for people with disabilities in Kampot and generating funds for their Inclusive Arts projects.

As such, the majority of staff are deaf so you’re provided with a tick sheet to inform them what you’d like off the menu; complete with English, Khmer and icons. There is even a selection of Cambodian Deaf Language signals to help you interact with staff.

Definitely, a place to relax, do some work or kill a few hours if you’re in town and want to escape the heat.

Rusty Keyhole 2 

2000 Monument, Krong Kampot, Cambodia

We came here in order to fill our desire for a traditional English jacket potato (which didn’t disappoint) but stumbled on absolute gold.

Turns out it was a sports bar filled with a lot of Australian ex-pats which was right up our street. 

Great place to play pool, drink cheap alcohol and relax in a fun environment. 

Out of all the places we’d eaten in Cambodia, this was by far the best in terms of price and quality. 

It offers both Western and Khmer cuisine and everything we tried was super tasty. If we were staying longer we definitely would’ve come back again.

Simons Tandoor Indian Restaurant 

Old Market, St.724, A8 & A9 The, Krong Kampot 07000, Cambodia

This was on Karma’s board and had come up in our research of the best places to eat in Kampot. 

We love our Indian food and this was an amazing place to eat with really quality food and it left us feeling very VERY full. 

If you’re able to eat it, we’d definitely recommend the garlic naan and butter chicken. The curry comes with rice so your meal will be very affordable. 

The other great thing about this place is the location. It’s on a very lively street and littered with numerous bars; a great place to be if you want to have a few more drinks. We ended up opposite Uptown Bar playing pool for hours which was great fun. 

Green House

St. Toek Chhu, Krong Kampot, Cambodia

Whilst it is some way out of the city, it has been recommended to us by numerous people so we couldn’t not pass it on.

One of the best ways of getting here is to rent a motorbike and explore the Cambodian countryside; the views are spectacular!

The food at the GreenHouse looks really appetising AND you can go swimming here so bring your budgies!!

To conclude, Kampot is an absolutely beautiful city with a relaxing atmosphere. There are lots of activities and great eateries to check out as well so you won’t be short of things to do or eat. It is also not the most typical backpacker destination which means you’ll be able to see more of Cambodia’s amazing culture. 

There you have it; our Kampot Travel Guide, giving you all the best places to stay, eat and see BEFORE you visit so you won’t be left disappointed. Feel free to add any of your own recommendations in the comments!

Did you enjoy this article? Why not check out some of our other south-east Asia posts !

• 16 Things to Know Before Visiting Angkor Wat for Sunrise 
• The Best Backpacker Hostels in Cambodia! 
• Must-Have Apps for Visiting Bali 
• The 12 Best Brunch and Breakfast Spots in Siem Reap
• A Complete Guide to Pai Canyon 

• 11 of the Best Restaurants in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica! 
• The Ultimate Madrid Bucket List – 26 Things to do in Madrid 

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17 comments.

I think this is the most informative travel guide I have ever read! Really good one and found out so many new things!

Thank you so much for your kind words; so glad it was helpful.

I’ve just decided to add Kampot to my Cambodian itinerary for next month. So excited…. thanks so much for all this helpful information

You’re going next month?! You’ll have such a good time and feel free to message us with any questions!

All of the food sounds amazing, I think I would have to stay for as long as it took to appreciate and try out all different kinds of food. Also, the national park looks stunning.

Absolutely; the food was amazing! It is a really beautiful place.

The National Park and sunset cruise would definitely be added to my itinerary as those are always two activities I love to do when traveling.

You absolutely won’t regret it!

Wow! What a great guide. So much to do, see and eat.

Thanks so much Kelly!

Oh I remember the pain of bus travel in Cambodia 🙂 Thing is, the beautiful scenery and durian are worth every rickety road and “the-bus-will-come-later”.

Absolutely, couldn’t agree more!

I love that all of the world is anxious to get back to travel. We have missed it! Great travel guide of Cambodia.

Thank you so much Jolayne.

I have never been to Cambodia but you have inspired me to add it to my travel bucket list! The sunset river cruise sounds absolutely perfect. And all the noodles, yum!

Thank you so much Erin; it’s definitely worth visiting if you get the chance!

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Wander-Lush

41 Wonderful Things to Do in Kampot, Cambodia

Located halfway between Phnom Penh and the southern coast, Kampot is Cambodia’s capital of riverside relaxation. Use my bumper list of things to do in Kampot to plan your trip.

I’ve been to Kampot more times than I can count. When I lived in Phnom Penh , it was my regular long-weekend retreat. Whenever I go back to Cambodia , it’s always at the top of my list of places to revisit, right alongside Kampong Cham .

Kampot is clean, green, and brimming with beautiful French architecture. The city centre runs along a languid river, setting the tone for a laid-back pace of life.

But it’s not all about lounging and sipping Kampot cider in your bungalow – there are lots of things to do in Kampot to keep you busy. Whether you’re into outdoor adventure, art, or you like the sound of eating and drinking your way around one of Cambodia’s best destinations for foodies, Kampot has something for you.

Welcome to Kampot

Need a place to stay? Check out my comprehensive Kampot accommodation guide for all budgets.

Kampot is built up around the life-giving Praek Tuek Chhu river, which is the centrepiece of Kampot town. Compared with the Mekong or Tonle Sap, it’s a relatively clean waterway that’s safe to swim in (the further you go out of town, the better the water quality).

A wide, flower-lined promenade traces the river’s east bank along the edge of town, framing picturesque vistas of a distant Bokor National Park and flanking Kampot’s crop of riverside bars, hotels and boutiques.

Push just a few streets deeper from the riverfront and you’ll discover Kampot town proper, with its charming shop houses, old colonial villas and open boulevards.

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.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Planning your trip to Kampot

First things first, here are a few essential things to know when planning a trip to Kampot.

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. March-May is the hottest time of the year and should be avoided. The monsoon season hits mid-year and brings heavy rain and afternoon storms.

The best time to visit Kampot is during shoulder season after the monsoon (September-October), when the rice fields are green, temperatures are cool, and it’s less crowded.

Where to stay in Kampot

• Budget: Mad Monkey Hostel offers mixed and single-sex dorms, outdoor common spaces, and a revolving program of tours and activities.
• Mid-range: MAKK Hotel is conveniently located in town. The upstairs rooms open onto a breezy balcony where breakfast is served each morning. Staff here are delightful. There are free bicycles for guests.
• Boutique: Set in a restored heritage movie house, Hotel Old Cinema is one of Cambodia’s coolest boutique hotels. Read my full write-up here.
• Luxury: Kampot River Residence features well-appointed bungalows decorated in traditional Khmer style.
• Riverside bungalows: Samon Village is a family owned homestay -style accommodation on the opposite side of the river. Bungalows look out on the water, and there’s a large garden. Perfect for families.

Check out my comprehensive Kampot hotel guide for more inspiration, or browse all Kampot accommodation options on Agoda.

How to get to Kampot

• From Phnom Penh: Giant Ibis bus (4 hrs; $10; online tickets here ); Kampot Express van (3 hrs; $8; online tickets here ) or train (5 hrs; $7; Friday-Sunday only; tickets here ).
• From Sihanoukville: Champa Tourist bus (2 hrs; $6; online tickets here ).
• From Siem Reap: Giant Ibis bus via Phnom Penh (15 hrs; $20; online tickets here ).

Do you need a visa for Cambodia?

Most nationalities require a tourist visa to visit Cambodia for 30 days. Use the iVisa website to see if you need a visa, and to apply and pay for an expedited visa online.

41 Wonderful Things to Do in Kampot

Here are my absolute favourite things to do in Kampot, organised by genre and location.

Things to do in Kampot town

Take a spin around the Durian Roundabout

This may seem like a funny place to start, but the Durian Roundabout is Kampot’s most recognisable landmark. As the name suggests, it features a prominent sculpture of an oversized durian in the centre. Durian is a wildly popular fruit in Southeast and East Asia – if you’ve never tasted it (or at least smelt it), it’s a bit like overripe, stinky mango. The quirky traffic circle pays homage to Kampot’s days as a centre of durian production in the 1940s.

If you’re arriving in Kampot by bus or van, you’ll likely get dropped off near the roundabout. You can use it to get your bearings. Kampot Night Market branches off from the northern side. Take any of the streets south to reach the Old Market and main part of town. Walk east from the roundabout and you’ll soon get a glimpse of the Praek Tuek Chhu and Kampot’s beautiful riverside district.

Explore Old Market Street

Old Market Street bisects downtown Kampot into two halves, with the famous Durian Roundabout to the north, and the slightly-less-naff Saltworkers Roundabout to the south. Although the Old Market building itself is derelict, the street serves as Kampot’s main drag and is home to a handful of popular cafes and gift shops .

Chinese shophouses (with a spattering of 19th-century French architecture thrown in) dominate the skyline in Kampot, once a regional administrative capital and formerly Cambodia’s most important sea port. Many original buildings still line the streets – made all the more interesting by decades of ad-hoc additions and half-finished renovations.

A few buildings have been resurrected with a lick of brightly coloured paint, while other street-facing facades sit in various states of disrepair and decay.

Visit the Kampot Fish Market

Built in 1934, Kampot Fish Market once served as an open-air marketplace for the area’s fishermen to sell their catch of the day. (A similar market, the Crab Market, still exists in nearby Kep.) It later became a discotheque. When an Australian restaurateur bought the property in 2013, he went about restoring the building to its former Art Deco glory.

The result is stunning. The open facade has been preserved and painted a striking shade of Indochina yellow. Under vaulted ceilings, an upmarket restaurant serves locally caught seafood. The dining room backs directly onto the river, and there is a large outdoor terrace to sit and watch the sun go down. Some of the interior walls are decorated with murals by the same local artists who illustrated The Balé hotel in Phnom Penh and created many of the capital’s street murals.

Even if you don’t want to eat here, it’s worth dropping by for a look – and perhaps even an aperitif on the deck.

Swim inside an old movie theatre

Another heritage building to be given a second chance at life, the old 7 Makara Cinema recently re-opened as a 12-room boutique hotel. Hotel Old Cinema harks back to Kampot’s Golden Era, channeling dancehall vibes and French colonial decor.

Non-guests are welcome to use the hotel pool, located on the ground floor. Set beneath an open lightwell and surrounded by leafy palms, it’s a very relaxing spot. There is also a restaurant/bar that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, plus cocktails around the clock. There is a minimum spend of $6 if you want to go for a swim.

Cross the old French Bridge

Also known as Entanou Bridge, Kampot’s old French Bridge was built during the colonial period in the 1920s. Its grand steel arches were sadly destroyed by the Khmer Rouge – but the bridge was later rebuilt, and some of its original framework reconstructed.

A steady stream of pedestrians, motos and bicycles flows back and forth over the bridge that connects Kampot riverside with Thvi, a residential area on the opposite bank. For a good view of the action, duck behind the Kampot Tourist Office. Pylons at either end of the bridge prevent tuk tuks or cars from entering – instead, they must use the new bridge, located another 500m up the road.

Admire Kampot’s colonial architecture

As in Battambang and Phnom Penh, Kampot’s French government poured squillions into bestowing their regional capital with exquisite architectural landmarks. Kampot’s most impressive colonial buildings are located along the river south of the Old Market area. The National Bank of Cambodia, the Kampot Provincial Museum, and the brick-coloured Red Cross Kampot Branch have all been authentically restored.

During the Pol Pot era, the Khmer Rouge abolished currency and blew up the National Bank in Phnom Penh. Luckily, the Kampot branch didn’t meet a similar fate. The bank building has been completely rehabilitated, manicured hedges and all. It’s still used as a government building so you can’t go inside, but security guards stationed out front are happy for you to take photos through the fence or the open gate. Come after 5pm when the bank closes to get a snap without cars parked out front.

Learn about local history at the Kampot Provincial Museum

I must admit I was very skeptical of visiting the Kampot Provincial Museum. It took me four trips to Kampot before I decided to give it a go – but I’m so glad I did! Displays are a bit dated and the museum is pretty sparse overall, but it’s worth the cheap ticket price (adults pay $2) just to see the interior of the building.

Located south of the Old Market on the edge of the river, the museum is set inside the Old Governor’s Mansion. Like the National Bank next door, it has been beautifully restored, its plasterwork, heritage floor tiles and wooden shutters all brought back from the brink. Downstairs, anyway. Upstairs, the house is completely deserted – just a set of dusty old rooms. Staff don’t seem to mind if you wander around.

There is a fair amount of information in English. The most interesting exhibits detail Kampot’s colonial history and former residents. If you’re serious about your architecture, this is the place to learn more about civic projects including the Old Bridge and the Fish Market.

Walk a lap around the Lotus Pond

Behind the Museum you’ll find an almost perfectly round lake with a shrine in the middle and a pagoda set on its edge. The Lotus Pond is a popular spot among locals for a dusk-time stroll. When I last visited, the poor lotuses that blanket the water had all but dried up as a result of the unseasonably hot weather.

Even if the flowers aren’t in bloom, there’s still a feeling of tranquility and reverence about the place.

Photograph the Chinese School

Kampot is best-known for its French colonial buildings. In reality, there are lots of different architectural styles that combine to give the city its unique character. Jue Ming Chinese School is probably my favourite building in town. Kampot has long been home to a prominent Chinese community, and the School speaks to their place in society. It’s still in use today – although I didn’t go inside the last time I was there.

Painted pink and with an ornate coin roof, it’s impossible to miss as you walk inland from the Lotus Pond towards the Saltworkers Roundabout.

Discover contemporary artists at the Kampot Art Gallery

Update: As of December 2020, Kampot Art Gallery has relocated to Phnom Penh and is now known as PiPetPi Gallery 282.

Managed by Australian collector Liz, Kampot Art Gallery is devoted to showcasing local Khmer artists. Contemporary photography, canvases and sculptures by creatives from Kampot, Battambang and other parts of the country are displayed in two breezy upstairs galleries. There’s also a rotating program of special exhibitions.

Downstairs, you’ll find a gift shop selling papergoods and upcycled jewellery.

Pick up a novel from Bookish Bazaar

If you need to replenish your holiday reading materials, Bookish Bazaar just off the Old Market sells a great selection of novels, non-fiction volumes and guide books. Most offerings are pre-loved and go for very reasonable prices. If you have a book you want to offload, you can bring it in to swap or sell.

Upstairs reading nooks and the downstairs cafe are perfect places to curl up with a book on a rainy Kampot day.

Shop for ethical fashion at Dorsu

Lightweight fabrics and relaxed fits – Dorsu has found a way to encapsulate Kampot’s laid-back attitude in fashion form. The ethical women’s and menswear label was founded by Australian Hanna Guy and local entrepreneurs Pharith Yin and Kunthear Mov back in 2008.

It started as a project to raise funds for the nearby Chumkriel Language School, and has since grown into a successful sewing workshop that offers fair wages and up-skilling opportunities to Cambodian women and men. All the materials used in Dorsu’s collections are fabric remnants sourced from the big garment factories outside of Phnom Penh.

Dorsu has two stores in Kampot, one on Old Market Street and another shop/workshop next door to Cafe Espresso. They also have a new shop in Phnom Penh’s Russian Market.

Update 2020: Sadly, Dorsu has closed the doors of its brick-and-mortar shop in Kampot. Shop online instead or visit their branch in Phnom Penh.

Rummage through Khmer collectables at Kampothead

Set in Kampot’s Old Royal Cinema , complete with original floor tiles and imposing concrete facade, Kampothead is a window onto Cambodia’s past.

The petite knickknack shop peddles an oddball edit of vintage and antique wares sourced from the Kingdom and all over Asia. In a backpacker and expat-heavy town where a strong ‘hippy’ aesthetic has taken root – set in a country where there’s seemingly little regard for anything that’s not new and shiny – Khmer-owned Kampothead couldn’t be more perfect.

Twirling around the shop floor in a 1960s sundress, owner Sutee curates Kampothead’s crowded shelves, but it was her husband – an artist and designer – who first sourced the knickknacks. Overwhelmed by the collection he had accrued through years of travel, the couple opened Kampothead to try and lighten their load.

The store’s centrepiece, an ancient electrical switchboard from Hong Kong, frames the front counter, where relics of Cambodia’s dancehall days intermingle with other Asian curiosities. Some items are decaying and in need of repair – just like Kampot itself – while other collectables are in remarkably good shape.

Among them are dainty Japanese ceramics, winged creatures set in resin, Indian woodblocks, balm tins etched with curvy Khmer script, family photographs from old Saigon, French linen shirts, cigar boxes, old hand-painted shop signage… The list goes on. Items are well priced and Sutee will always cut you a good deal.

Outdoor activities & adventurous things to do in Kampot

Kayak the ‘Green Cathedral’

The most idyllic stretch of 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 Cathedral 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 usually use the gear at Champa Lodge, where prices start from $3/hour.

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.

Motorbike in Bokor National Park

Preah Monivong Bokor National Park lies 37km west of Kampot Old Market. At an elevation of 1km, it was originally established as a French hill station where people could go to relax and escape the heat (similar to Dalat in Vietnam ).

Bokor is the perfect place for a DIY motorbike adventure. If you don’t ride, you can hire a taxi or tuk tuk for the day to take you up and around. This post provides detailed information about visiting Bokor National Park.

Go urbexing

Bokor boasts magnificent flora and fauna (including an elusive population of wild gibbons and sunbears ), but it’s the park’s man-made structures that are most iconic. Hotels, private villas, Catholic churches and a grand casino built by the French and long abandoned dot the landscape. The ridge is perpetually shrouded in mist, adding to the ghostly feel.

Some of the buildings have been repurposed, but it’s possible to go inside many of the abandoned, derelict structures.

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 in Kampot 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 yellow 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.

Visit the Kampot salt fields

Along with pepper, Kampot is also known as a producer of fine sea salt. Vast salt pans line the lip of the river on the outskirts of town, edged with huge warehouses used for storing equipment and keeping harvested salt away from the elements. At the right time of year, you can watch salt workers raking the fields for crystals. Note that the fields are usually empty on Sundays.

The easiest way to explore the salt fields is by bicycle. From the Old Market, take the river road south until you see Kampong Treak Mosque. The salt flats are located inland from there.

Cycle through the rice fields

Any piece of empty land that’s not being used for salt or pepper is planted out with rice. Kampot’s rice fields are particularly pretty because they’re ringed with towering palm trees. The best time to see the rice fields is at the end of the wet season or at harvest time.

The photo above was taken during ‘transplant’ season, when farmers take last year’s clippings and re-plant them in the ankle-deep, shimmering water.

Explore Kampot’s cave temples

Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple is a 7th Century Hindu shrine set in a limestone cave on the outskirts of Kampot. When you arrive at the site via a bumpy rode, you need to continue walking or cycling through farmland to reach the cliffs where the caves are hidden. There’s no official entry fee, but you might be charged a few dollars to enter. The cave is well lit.

Get high with Climbodia

If tight spaces are your thing, Climbodia offers caving and climbing guided tours for all levels, from beginner to advanced. The four-hour Discovery Tour combines easy rock climbing, abseiling and caving to introduce you to the area’s curious rock formations.

Tours depart daily from the Climbodia office in town. Safety gear is provided, but advanced bookings – and sturdy shoes – are essential.

Track down Kampot’s secret lake & waterfall

Brateak Krola Lake, AKA Kampot’s ‘secret lake’, might not be such a secret now that it’s pinned on Google Maps. It’s still a lovely place to chill out in the afternoon, especially if you hit up one of cafes on the edge of the water. Khmer Root Cafe, open daily from 11am-5pm, serves wholesome veg-based cuisine in a rustic bungalow overlooking the lake.

The exact location of Kampot’s secret waterfall still remains something of a mystery. If you have your own motorbike and you’re up for a bit of adventure, ask around and try to track it down.

Go SUP or kite boarding

If kayaking is too milquetoast, SUP Asia offers stand up paddleboarding tours and equipment hire in Kampot and on the Mekong in Kratie . Group tours that take you through Kampot and Kep depart twice daily from their office in town. If you opt for a customised tour, you can SUP at sunset – or even try your hand at SUP yoga.

Relaxing things to do in Kampot

Kick back on the Kampot riverside

You don’t need to be out on the water to enjoy Kampot’s river vibes. Champa Lodge, Greenhouse and most other resorts on the northern part of riverside welcome drop-ins to have a drink or just chill in their gardens. It’s safe to swim in the water, although I personally choose not to. Currents can get very strong in the wet season, so take extra care and avoid swimming at night or if you’ve had a few too many drinks.

Banteay Srey Project on the oppsite side of the Old Bridge has a lovely lounging area where you can enjoy vegan food and fresh juices. They even provide Khmer-style swimmers for free if you forgot yours. Note that Banteay Srey is a women’s only space (more in the next section).

Have a massage at Banteay Srey Spa

Banteay Srey Project was founded as a vocational training center for disadvantaged Cambodian women. The Project runs three social enterprises in Kampot – a women’s spa, a yoga studio, and a vegan cafe.

The setting – a traditional wooden house up river from the Old Bridge, right on the river – is really stunning. Massages and beauty treatments are performed en plein air on the house’s veranda. Although I personally didn’t love the back and neck massage I ordered, I really enjoyed relaxing in the bungalow.

Go cruising with Love the River

If laying down the paddles and lying back under the shade of a parasol sounds more like your thing, Love the River offers private trips through the Green Cathedral and beyond in a traditional wooden longtail boat. Tours last 3 hours, and include time to disembark for a swim and a short walk around a fruit plantation.

Boats leave in the early morning (from 6am) and again after 5pm for sunset from the jetty at Greenhouse. Advance bookings by phone are required.

Foodie things to do in Kampot

Join a cooking class at la plantation.

The only thing better than seeing how Kampot 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 with resident kitchen whizz, Chef Wantho. Starting from $20 per person including lunch, it’s incredibly good value.

Eat Authentic Italian at Ciao

It’s an unlikely contender, but Ciao might just be my favourite restaurant in Cambodia. Chef Diego, an expatriate from Pescara, runs the kitchen with his partner and sometimes his mum when she’s over from Italy. Paper-thin pizzas (fired in a tiny wood oven), tagliatelle (made from scratch using a WWII-era pasta machine) and gnocchi all come sparingly dressed with fresh, local ingredients. The homemade meatballs are the best I’ve ever tasted, and the two-cheese pasta with Kampot pepper is otherworldly.

Ciao used to occupy a tarpaulin-covered stall on Street 277 near the Old Market, but it’s since relocated to the balcony of Diego’s house on Newport Street (roughly a 15-minute drive from town). If you take a tuk tuk over, ask the driver to come back for you – otherwise Diego can help to order you a ride back on PassApp . He serves lunch daily and dinner every night except Thursday. If it’s quiet, they might even invite you to eat with them – which is what happened to me last time I visited!

Diego often runs out of pizza dough or pasta (or both) mid-service, so plan to arrive early. Ciao is both tiny and very popular with expats (especially on Saturdays), so expect to wait a while for your meal. Cash only.

Sip Kampot’s best coffee at Cafe Espresso Roastery

Australian-owned Cafe Espresso is Kampot’s trendiest eatery. Bright, airy and filled with gorgeous artwork, it’s all about the coffee: espresso, pour-overs, Aeropress, siphons and for simpletons like me, on-point flat whites. Locally grown coffee beans are roasted in-house daily (under the label Rumble Fish), and if you love it as much as I did, you can take a packet home with you.

Come hungry, because the food is exceptional. Cafe Espresso does a great job of highlighting local ingredients, including Kampot sea salt which is added to their house-made caramel. Try it stirred through an old-fashioned milkshake or doused liberally over fluffy pancakes. Cafe-style savory meals – I love the Kampot eggs benny – also come with Kampot salt and pepper on the side.

Related: Where to find the best cup of coffee in Phnom Penh .

Brunch for a cause at Epic Arts

Epic Arts is a Kampot mainstay and one of the most popular cafes in the Old Market area. A social enterprise, the eatery generates funds for arts-based therapy programs for Cambodian adults and kids. Staff employed at the cafe are hearing impaired – they’ve come up with some inventive ways to ensure smooth communication. The food and coffee are great, and service is always with a smile. Eating here is a really special experience.

Satisfy your sweet tooth at Nom Tom Bakery

New on the Kampot food scene, Nom Tom is a roving bakery run by Belgian expats. The bakery truck parks on the riverside opposite Vanna’s Restaurant from Tuesday to Saturday, selling artisanal bread, sweet pastries and buttery croissants from 7am until they run out (which doesn’t take very long).

Related: The best bakeries & brunch cafes for breakfast in Phnom Penh .

Quench your thirst at Kampot Juice Box

This side-of-the-road juice shack at the top of the Old Market boasts an inventive menu of fresh fruit juices and smoothies (mango and turmeric is my personal favourite). I love that everything is blended fresh to order, and if you drink in, served in a glass with a bamboo straw to cut back on plastic waste.

Taste Kampot’s international flavour

Along with Chef Diego at Ciao, dozens of other expats have set up restaurants and cafes in Kampot over the years. Portuguese, Mexican, Israeli, British and French are just some of the international cuisines on offer. The food scene in Kampot is really outstanding – you can’t really go wrong whatever you choose.

My favourite restaurant in town is Twenty Three, which specialises in modern European made with seasonal ingredients.

Try a Kampot Cider

Kampot’s own brand of cider is fizzy and mellow, and it’s best served over ice. The Rusty Keyhole is one of the more popular drinking holes in town, with good views over the river and a pleasant afternoon breeze.

Drink beer & eat sushi at Kampot’s first nanobrewery

Beer and sushi might seem like a strange combination, but at Japanese-run Flowers Nanobrewery , it’s all the rave. Pair a house-brewed lemongrass pale ale with a freshly rolled salmon and cream cheese or a plate of steaming pork dumplings.

Flowers is only open on weekends from 3.30pm and has a limited number of tables, so it’s recommended to arrive early. If you’re visiting during the week, you can still try Flowers beer at Twenty Three and a handful of other venues around town.

Things to do in Kampot at night

Soak up an unmissable Kampot sunset

As the gently serrated horizon swallows up the afternoon sun, distant palm trees turn into shards of shadow and the rippling river carries glittering rays across its surface. Yes, Kampot at dusk really is that good.

The jungle-clad part of the river north of Kampot town is by far the best place to watch the sun go down, and this is where most tourists flock come 6pm. Kayaking from Champa Lodge, an ideal sunset vantage point can easily be reached by following the river to the right. (This is the same spot where one of the sunset cruise boats stops.)

Plan to hit the water at around 5pm – if you don’t have a watch, you can tell the time by the fishing trawlers that set off every evening at dusk like clockwork. Once you’ve paddled the river loop, you should be perfectly timed to float back into the main lagoon for a textbook sunset.

Cocktails on the balcony at Rikitikitavi

The high-set timber balcony at boutique hotel Rikitikitavi is a pleasant place to watch the sun go down on another perfect Kampot day. Set yourself up at the front bar for the best views. Kampot Fish Market, down on the water below, also has a great vantage point from the back deck.

Grab a cheap bite at the Kampot Night Market

Kampot Night Market is open daily from mid-morning, but it really kicks off at about 5pm. Local families and couples flock here to shop, ride the slightly bizaare amusement park rides, and eat street-style Khmer food. If you’re travelling on a budget, this is the best place to pick up a cheap, quick meal.

The best day trips from Kampot

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 from Kampot to Kep will cost you between 7 and 10 USD one-way. If you want to take the scenic route, board the Crab Shuttle , a wooden boat that leaves Kampot at 9am daily and arrives in Kep at 11.20am. Tickets cost $10 one-way or $13.50 return (the boat leaves Kep at 3pm).

Start your day in at Kep Coffee, an unassuming little cafe hidden in the brush near Koh Tonsay jetty on the eastern side of town. The omelettes, sandwiches and homemade cakes are all delicious.

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 crab 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 right to the back and the market backs onto the sea and a working jetty, where you can see the crab traps being hauled and set.

Kep Sailing Club is a beautiful spot for lunch. It’s pricey (and definitely more expensive than eating at one of the crab shacks), but its worth it for the beautiful decor and ocean views.

Day trip to Rabbit Island

Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island) sits just off the coast of Kep. It boasts a beautiful stretch of beach and a few rustic bungalows.

If you’re taking the Crab Shuttle from Kampot, the captain can make arrangements for you to transfer straight to another boat bound for the island. If not, make your own way to the pier and take one of the local boats that depart at 9am and 1pm ($8 return) or charter a private boat (approx. $25 return).

Day trip to Bokor National Park

Here’s everything you need to know about organising a DIY trip to Bokor, or joining a Bokor National Park tour.

Map of things to do in Kampot

Click to open the interactive map in Google Maps.

6 things to pack for Kampot

• Swimming kit. Pack togs and a quick-dry towel if you plan on swimming in the river or partaking in any river sports. A long-sleeved rashie (sun shirt) is also a good idea if you have sensitive skin.
• A reusable water bottle. Absolutely essential in Cambodia for minimising plastic waste and staying hydrated. I love my S’Well water bottle – it’s vacuum insulated to keep water icy cold for the whole day, and it doesn’t sweat. If you like your mango smoothies, pack a reusable smoothie cup as well.
• Rehydration tablets or sachets. At the end of a long day bike riding or exploring temples, your body will be crying out for electrolytes (believe me!). I prefer Hydralyte tablets because they come in a handy tube. If you forget to bring some from home, the Double D brand is sold at most pharmacies and grocery stores in Cambodia.
• Rain jacket and travel umbrella for the wet season. Wet season is my favourite time to travel in Cambodia because the countryside is so verdant. Downpours come out of nowhere, so it’s essential to have a rain jacket with you at all times (I love the packable rain jackets by Lomon for women and EZRUN for men ). I also carry a travel umbrella in case it’s too hot and steamy to wear a jacket. This one is UPF 50+, making it great for sun cover as well.
• A sturdy day pack. An anti-theft backpack is particularly good for using in Cambodian cities. Opt for a minimalist backpack that doesn’t stand out.
• Cambodia guide book. I prefer Lonely Planet’s dedicated Cambodia guidebook or regional guidebook that also covers Laos, Vietnam and Northern Thailand.

More Cambodia travel resources

• Where to stay in Kampot – Complete Kampot accommodation guide
• Getting around in Cambodia – How to use PassApp to book a tuk tuk
• 51 Free things to do in Phnom Penh
• Phnom Penh accommodation guide – The best Phnom Penh hotels
• Resort style swimming pools in Phnom Penh
• The best restaurants in Phnom Penh
• My guide to Kampong Cham, Cambodia’s most charming town
• Where to stay in Siem Reap
• The best tours in Siem Reap – A comprehensive guide

What are your favourite things to do in Kampot? Have a question about Kampot travel or another destination in Cambodia? Leave your comments below.

Things to do in Kampot: Pin it!

15 Comments

Dear Emily, thank you soooo very much for website/suggestions we always consult it wherever possible (so far for Georgia, Armenia, Oman and Cambodia). We just returned from Cambodia (PP, Siem Reap and Kampot). Kampot is cute, and the highlight was to stay at the Old Cinema Hotel, thank you, its such a gem!!! extra bonus Le Cafe Kampot, 1min down the road from the hotel does good coffee and frappès.

Wanted to share some info too, re pepper plantations we went to “Sindora, Garden of Pepper” and had a delicious lunch there with 100% their produce. The owners are lovely and apart from selling pepper/various ayuvedic spice combos, they are involved in a reforestation project of their land. A very nobile cause indeed. On the way back into Kampot we popped into La Plantation, beautiful property but to be honest it is too much of a large scale “factory” business / too touristy and impersonal for my liking. Would have loved to pop by BoTree plantation too (unfortunately didn’t have enough time), their peppers have won several awards, and it is a family run farm. Next time.

Also : -the former fish market is now a Starbucks but the building is still very beautiful. – the Kampot Provincial Museum is permanently closed – KHMER COLLECTABLES AT KAMPOTHEAD in the Old Royal Cinema also closed. (I mentioned it to the lady at the Old Cinema Hotel and she said that perhaps it could become the next/2nd project – fingers crossed, as its currently all boarded up, so sad) – we did a fun cooking course with Sophia at “Lucky Kitchen Cooking Class” (on TripAdvisor) on her rooftop a short distance from the center. She used to have a restaurant in Sihanoukville until it become super touristy/expensive. – the lady with the croissants/various pastries truck is still around and going strong, in front of Vanna’s restaurant (also worth popping in for some Khmer dishes) beside the river.

Thanks so much Nancy for the updates, this is extremely helpful. So glad you got to stay at Old Cinema! I will be returning there when I visit Cambodia at the end of this year!

That’s great compilation! You can also go to stay at Pippali Hotel in Kampot, one of greatest escape for your stay.

Emily nice fantasy article about Kampot. Maybe a while since you’ve been. Not painting a true picture for people. Kampot is nice enough. A bit dirty, smelly, lot of poor looking old guys plus young girl couples, dregs of western society living here. Old dilapidated building have some charm sure, river brown water n trashy, no way clean to swim in. Need to update your blog.

Hi Ewan – I was last in Kampot at the end of 2019. I can’t imagine it’s changed that much – I hope not!

The river is much cleaner upstream around the Green Cathedral and this is where I suggest swimming.

Kampot has won awards for being one of the cleanest cities in Cambodia. My experience living/travelling in the country for more than 12 months confirms that. Yes there is a seedy side of course, but it’s nothing compared to Sihanoukville or Koh Kong. Each to their own, but I love Kampot and everything I’ve written here is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge.

Kudos to a really informative post with great photos. Especially love the photo of the Fish Market. May we use it with a teaser and link to this article?

Please email me for image requests, thanks!

I loved my time in Kampot. There were so many eco-projects and vegetarian and vegan food options. Beautiful small town.

Absolutely! Glad you enjoyed your visit to Kampot as much as I did.

What a great list.. well done!!

Don’t forget the wonderful Live Music scene in Kampot too: Karma Traders rooftop bar hosts live music events every single Tuesday since 2016 and is popular amongst expats and tourists. Infamata Bar have weekly gigs and the Rhymes on the River boat operates every Thursday during high season too. Other venues include The Plantation, Samurai Saloon, Levels and Banyan Tree. Great music scene!

Thanks Matt, great tips!

Alll perfect recs! Update: Dorsu moved next door to espresso cafe and ciao moved out of the city center. It’s a bit difficult to get to, but still delicious!

Thanks so much for the update, Joanne! A friend just ate at Ciao and mentioned it had moved. I’ll be updating this post soon so I’ll be sure to include those details.

Glad to hear it’s still delish! I think of my dinners there often!!

So great – love your posts!

Thanks so much, Ashley! You have a beautiful website and I so admire your work! Hope you can partner with artisans in Cambodia one day.

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My Five Acres

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Best 11 Things To Do in Kampot for a Perfect Visit

Kampot is a quiet riverside town near the south coast of Cambodia – and it’s also one of our favourite places in the world. Here’s your guide to the best things to do in Kampot , Cambodia, from tours, to yoga, to water sports.

What’s in our Kampot travel guide?

1. Adventurous Things To Do in Kampot 2. Where to Chill Out 3. Best Kampot Tours 4. Places to Eat 5. Where to Stay 6. How to Get to Kampot

Kampot is quickly climbing the list of must-visit destinations in Cambodia but it’s not yet as overrun as Angkor Wat or Sihanoukville. This little town has managed to retain its cool, laid-back atmosphere while still growing enough to provide plenty of restaurants, hotels, and amazing things to do for travellers.

In fact, Kampot is so appealing, that it would be our number one choice for expat living in Southeast Asia – if only they could get the WiFi going a little faster!

Without further delay, here is your guide to…

11 of the Best Things to do in Kampot

You’ll also want to read:.

This Kampot resort will make you feel like Tarzan → How to choose the best elephant sanctuary in Cambodia → Discover where, how to go jungle trekking in Cambodia →

If you’re heading to Cambodia, don’t miss a trip to Kampot, which is a key part of our 2-Week Cambodia Beaches and Islands Itinerary .

(Don’t miss: Our complete guide to jungle trekking in Cambodia . You’ve gotta go!) →

Read on for our recommendations of what to do in Kampot.

Adventurous Things To Do in Kampot

Bust out of your comfort zone.

The Climbodia Discovery Tour qualifies as one of my favourite tours ever, so naturally it’s my number one recommendation! The tour is a great way for beginners to become comfortable rock climbing. It’s challenging enough to slide you out of your comfort zone, while being safe enough to guarantee you’ll have a great time.

(Don’t miss: Read my full review of the Climbodia Discovery Tour ) →

Pedal to the Pepper

One of my favourite things to do anywhere is to get out on a bicycle and see the countryside . In Kampot, you can usually rent or borrow a bike from your hotel or hostel. Or if you prefer not just to ride randomly, join a full-day bike tour which will will take you to the Kampot pepper farm and Kampot salt fields, as well as the secret lake.

Fly on the Waves

If you’re in town between May and October, it’s the perfect time to learn kiteboarding. Cambodia Kiteboarding holds lessons on the Kampong Estuary at the mouth of the Kampot river. Their instructors are all certified and they follow the standards and guidelines set by the International Kiteboarding Organisation. This is number one on my list of what to do in Kampot next time we go back.

Where to Chill Out

Chill time at riverside resort.

The lazy Kampot River is one of the city’s great attractions. When you visit, you must leave at least one day just to lie around at a riverside resort, enjoying the view and jumping in for the occasional cooling swim.

While there is no real Kampot beach, we highly recommend Sabay Beach Resort as the perfect place to tick “chillin’ by the river” off your list.

Splash Down in the Waterpark

What?!? There’s a waterpark in Kampot? Before you start picturing a Six Flags Hurricane Harbor style experience, let me stop you right there. The Arcadia waterpark is a little more humble, but they do offer a rickety slide, a rock climbing wall, a zipline, a rope swing and more.

Best Kampot Tours

Sup on the river.

I didn’t spend enough time in Kampot on my recent trip to fit in a SUP tour — and I totally regret missing out. You shouldn’t make the same mistake.

Try their 2.5 hour SUP lesson and tour, or take a half-day tour through the mangroves, hidden coves, and a local fishing village. They also have several multi-day tours which sound like an amazing way to see a different side of Cambodia.

Take a Lazy River Tour

If you want to get out on the water but just can’t muster the energy for kiteboards or SUPs, book a private boat tour. LoveTheRiver provides tours on a traditional wooden long-tail boat, letting you sit back and relax while enjoying views of the Bokor Mountains, mangrove forests, birds and other animals along the shore.

(Related: If you want to visit Bokor National Park, check out this post by A Travel Diary ) →

You can also book a big group boat tour by the riverside but you won’t get the quiet, personal experience you get on this small tour.

Feel the Wind in Your Hair

Two of the major attractions in Kampot are the pepper plantation and the salt fields. A motorbike tour is great way to visit both, while also seeing a bit of the extraordinary Cambodian countryside.

You can choose a tour where you get to drive the bike or take the “easy rider” option, where you ride behind an experienced local driver. If you’re feeling adventurous, just rent a motorbike and lead your own tour!

Best Places to Eat

Enjoy the best restaurants in town.

If you’ve been travelling off the beaten path in Southeast Asia for a while, Kampot’s excellent selection of restaurants will definitely be a highlight! I loved my vegetarian Cambodia curry at Rikitikitavi, one of the town’s most popular restaurants .

For delicious vegetarian fare, head over to Simple Things where I ate three meals in two days! My best budget meal in town was a $2.50 plate of Chinese vegetarian dumplings at Ecran Noodles. Finally, Epic Arts Cafe has fabulous food and a great social program supporting people with disabilities.

(Don’t miss: Our review of Epic Arts Cafe in Kampot by NOMADasaurus) →

Go Om: Yoga in Kampot

There’s nothing like attending a yoga class to feel a part of a community when you’re travelling. Upstairs at Simple Things, they offer hatha yoga at 9am and 5pm every day , except Wednesdays. If you want to try something a little different, get in on their hula hoop class every Monday at 4pm.

Get Crabby in Kep

There’s no need to choose between Kep or Kampot. Kep is just 25km down a well-paved road, which makes it an excellent day trip destination. Of course, there are so many fun things to do in Kep, like visiting the crab market and hanging out on the beach, that you might just want to stay for a few days.

(Don’t miss: Our review of the fab Samanea Beach Resort in Kep ) →

Where to Stay in Kampot

If you’re looking for a hotel in the city centre with a pool, Hotel Five.S is a modern and clean property around the corner from the Durian Roundabout and the night market.

(Don’t miss: Our review of Hotel Five.S ) →

For a sweet riverside Kampot resort, our pick is Sabay Beach Resort, which is a great place to escape for a few days of peace (and amazing cocktails).

(Don’t miss our review of Sabay Beach Resort ) →

Check out prices and pictures for other hotels in Kampot →

How to Get to Kampot

How to get from kep to kampot.

Getting between Kampot and Kep is easy. Rent a motorbike or hire a moto driver to feel the wind in your hair. If you prefer more shelter, hire a tuk tuk or a private taxi. Ask around at your hotel or hostel to find people to share with and reduce the cost.

For the most scenic option to go between Kampot and Kep, try the Crab Shuttle , a small boat that runs you down the river to Kep.

How to Get from Phnom Penh to Kampot

There are lots of ways to go from Phnom Penh to Kampot but I highly recommend taking a minibus , which hits the sweet spot between comfort, speed, and convenience. It takes about three hours.

I did the Kampot to Phnom Penh route with Giant Ibis and was very impressed with their service. Unlike most of the busses and mini busses I took in Cambodia, it was on time, very comfortable, and clean! The Giant Ibis service from Phnom Penh to Kampot runs at 8am and 2:45pm daily while the Kampot to Phnom Penh bus leaves at 8:30am and 2:45pm daily.

You can take a larger bus from Phnom Penh to Kampot but many stop in Kep first, extending the trip to five hours.

If you have a lot more money than time, hop into a private taxi which will make the trip more quickly but cost you around $50.

Use the tool below to check bus times and tickets on 12go.asia.

Kampot isn’t just a quiet riverside town near the south coast of Cambodia – and it’s also one of our favourite places in the world. We hope our guide helps you figure out what to do in Kampot so that you have a great visit.

♥    Happy mindful adventures, Jane & Stephen

It’s easy to help us keep this blog going! Some of the links in this post are our personal affiliate links. If you book or buy something using one of the links in this post we’ll earn a small fee at no extra cost to you. Of course we would never recommend anything we didn’t 100% believe in! Huge thanks in advance! –S&J

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Kep and Kampot Cambodia are two delightful towns on Cambodia’s southern coast. Both Kampot and Kep exude a relaxed atmosphere, making them perfect retreats for those seeking a blend of cultural exploration, seafood delights, and coastal tranquility in Cambodia.

In this guide , I’ll go over how to spend 2 days in Kampot and Kep Cambodia, fill you in on any tips you would need to know before you visit and add some Cambodia travel guides at the end of the post to help you plan your travels.

For full transparency,  I have sprinkled some affiliate links in this post which gives me a small commission at no extra cost to you if you decided to make a purchase. As always, I would never recommend a product or service that I didn't truely believe in. If you find this post useful, you can also treat Jess to a cup coffee by clicking the icon on the bottom of the page. This will allow me to continue to create more content for you to enjoy ☕️. 

Table of Contents

2 Day Kampot Itinerary

Kampot, nestled along the banks of the Tuek Chhou River, captivates with its colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and a laid-back ambiance. The town is known for its pepper plantations, and a visit to a pepper farm is a sensory experience.

Just a short drive away, Kep beckons with its tranquil beaches and charming seaside promenade. Famous for its fresh seafood, Kep’s crab market is a must-visit.

• Explore Kampot
• Pepper Plantation Tour 
•  Salt Lake Tour
• Explore Kep
• Kep Crab Market

Additional Days:

Bokor National Park

☕️ Read Next: The Ultimate 2 Week Cambodia Itinerary

Day 1: Kampot Cambodia 

Kampot pepper plantation .

Kampot Cambodia is a delightful riverside town, has scenic riverside views and is surrounded by lush landscapes. Kampot boasts well-preserved French colonial architecture and has a lot of charm.

The town’s historic center features colorful shophouses, atmospheric cafes, and markets where locals engage in daily life. Renowned for its world-class pepper, a trip to Kampot is incomplete without exploring the nearby pepper plantations.

Book a Pepper Tour →

Sunset on the River

As the day unwinds, don’t miss out on sunset on the river. There are many boats that are docked along the riverside that have been converted into restaurants and bars.

Any of the rooftops are the perfect place to watch the sun set over the Praek Tuek Chhu River. We had drinks at the Rusty Keyhole , I had a nice big, glass of wine complete in a Bordeaux glass for only $3 USD.

Once you’ve watched the sun sink down over the river, walk into town and have dinner. There are plenty of restaurants in Kampot to choose from depending on what you’re craving from Italian to Mexican to classic Khmer cuisine.

Things to do in Kampot Cambodia

If you are looking for other things to do in Kampot, you can check out the Salt Lake of Kep and Kampot. You can watch the locals harvesting the salt fields where water is let in from the ocean to the fields.

The fields are then blocked from the ocean, and the water is allowed to evaporate, leaving salt crystals. This process is repeated many times and is only harvesting from December to April.

Book a Salt Lake Tour →

Where to Stay in Kampot Cambodia

There are plenty of places to stay in Kampot and Kep which will be the bookends to a perfect Kampot itinerary. Here are the top picks on where to stay in Kampot.

• Castle Bayview Resort & Spa is the best luxury hotel in Kampot.
• Hotel Old Cinema is a stylish and comfortable hotel located close to the waters edge in Kampot.
• Ecran Riverfront Guesthouse is a peaceful retreat with a front-row seat to the town’s picturesque landscapes.
• Pippali Boutique Hotel has a large pool perfect after a day of exploring. The bar and restaurant on site are as cute as can be.
• Le Bokor Palace the most unique place to stay in Kampot.

☕️ Read Full Post:   Best Places to Stay in Kampot

Cambodia Travel Tips 

• USD is the currency used in Cambodia.
• ATMS are widely available in Kampot.
• You legally need an international drivers license to rent a moped but its not enforced.
• English is widely spoken.
• Bring a scarf or sarong to wrap around your nose, eyes, and mouth if you’re on a moped as it’s very dusty.

📍 Read Now: The Ultimate Guide to Cambodia 

Final Thoughts on Kampot Itinerary 

If you have the gift of time, spending a few days soaking up the charm of Kampot and Kep will never be a bad idea. Savor local seafood, engage with friendly locals, and take life in the slow lane. If you found this article useful, let fellow travelers know in the comments below 👇.

Cambodia Travel Guides ↓

Planning to travel to Cambodia? Check out the guides below for more information and inspiration to plan your trip to Cambodia.

Where to Stay in Phnom Penh 

3 Day Siem Reap Itinerary 

A Guide to Koh Rong Island 

1 Day Angkor Wat Itinerary 

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Explore the Kampot and Kep countryside with me!

Kampot Pepper Farm Tour: History, Growing Process, and Tasting

Visit Kampot’s famous pepper farms with me and see why Kampot pepper is known worldwide. On this tour, you will learn about the history of Kampot pepper, how it’s grown, and why chefs love it. You’ll get to taste the pepper, too! We can do this as a standalone trip ($25 total), or as part of a longer trip around the countryside ($35 total).

Here’s a breakdown of the tour to Kampot pepper farms:

Ride from Kampot to the farm

I will pick you up anywhere in Kampot. Then the ride takes about 45 minutes from the city. You’ll see the beatiful countryside on the way and we will pass near the Secret Lake (can stop there for lunch or a break if you wish).

Tour at the Kampot pepper farm

Once we get to the farm, you will join a tour group (no extra cost). The farm’s guides will tell you about the history of pepper farming in Kampot, which dates back to the French colonial rule. You will walk through the green fields, see the pepper plants, and understand the natural processes and hard work that go into growing Kampot pepper.

After the tour, you will try the different varieties of the pepper:  black, red, and white pepper. Each has a unique taste and use in cooking. You will have a chance now to buy some pepper to take home.

After the pepper farm tour

We return to Kampot (or Kep if you want), but can stop at either the Sercet Lake or the Phnom Chhngouk temples on the way and do a longer countryside tour.

Tour times and cost

We can make this a single, half-day tour, which costs $25 (total for up to 5 passengers). Or, we can extend to a full-day trip to include the Kampot pepper farm, Phnom Chhnguk, Secret Lake, and the countryside — this will cost $35. You can see all the tours I offer on my homepage here .

Ready to book a tour or want to learn more? Call or message me on WhatsApp below (green button) or at +855-96-490-4117!