Things To Do
in Kampot
Kampot is a laid-back riverside town in southern Cambodia known for its pepper agriculture and colonial charm. It sits along the Kampot River with views of limestone hills and nearby Bokor National Park. The town blends Khmer culture with French-era architecture, waterfalls, and a growing food and craft scene.
Highlights include pepper farm tours, sunset river cruises, and easy access to nature and nearby Kep.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day exploring the picturesque streets of Kampot, where colonial architecture meets vibrant local culture. Visit the iconic Bokor Palace and take a stroll along the riverside, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. Coffee at a local café will provide the perfect start to your adventure.
After lunch, visit the Kampot Pepper Farm to learn about the region's famous pepper cultivation. Participate in a tasting session to discover the unique flavors and history behind this prized spice. The afternoon continues with a leisurely bike ride through the lush countryside.
As the sun sets, find a riverside restaurant for dinner, enjoying fresh seafood with stunning views of the river. After your meal, explore the night market, where you can shop for handicrafts and sample local street food. The evening ends with a nightcap at a bar with live music, embracing the local nightlife.
Embark on a day trip to the breathtaking Bokor National Park, where misty mountains and stunning landscapes await. Start with a hearty breakfast, then take a guided hike through the park’s diverse flora and fauna, keeping an eye out for wildlife. The cool, fresh air invigorates your spirits as you ascend the hills.
At lunchtime, enjoy a picnic with a view at one of the scenic lookouts. Visit the famous old Bokor Hill Station and the dramatic Kbal Tnal Waterfall, taking plenty of photos along the way. Spend the afternoon savoring the beauty of nature and embracing the essence of adventure.
Return to Kampot in the evening, ready to relax after your day of exploration. Treat yourself to a traditional Khmer dinner at a local eatery, where the flavors tell stories of Cambodian culture. Wind down with a quiet evening by the river, reflecting on the day’s amazing experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or guesthouse (per night) | $15-25 |
| 🫖Street food snack or bottle water | $0.5-2 |
| 🚲Bike rental (per day) | $2-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed, scenic riverside setting with easy access to nature
- Rich pepper culture and flavorful local cuisine
- Compact town with walkable streets and inexpensive options
- Friendly locals and a growing expat/creative scene
- Limited large-scale nightlife and entertainment
- Occasional road conditions in the rainy season
- Smaller healthcare facilities; may require travel for complex care
- Seasonal crowds around major pepper harvest periods
- "Chomreabsuor" - Hello/Goodbye
- "Orkun" - Thank you
- "Som toh" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "Knyom sok sabai" - I am well / I am fine
- "Daoy" - Yes (informal) / Please
Places to Visit in Kampot
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour light over the river with silhouettes of boats and colonial buildings—classic Kampot photography.
A limestone cave near town with a small temple; dramatic interior lighting and a sense of history.
Weathered facades and shuttered windows that tell the story of Kampot’s colonial era.
Neat rows of pepper vines and green hillsides, especially photogenic at dawn or dusk.
Highland vantage points with forested slopes and distant coastlines—great for wide landscape shots.
Food in Kampot
Kampot Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sweet crab meat infused with local Kampot pepper, often served with a garlic-lime sauce and steamed rice.
Must-Try!
Coconut milk curry steamed in banana leaves, a Cambodian staple with fragrant kroeung herbs.
A fragrant noodle soup with pork or beef, herbs, and lime—great for a light breakfast or lunch.
Marinated beef served with rice, peppery sauce, and vegetables for a hearty meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market with fresh produce, fish, herbs, and casual stalls offering snacks and light meals.
Evening stalls along the river featuring grilled skewers, snacks, and sweet treats—great for grazing.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove hats and shoes when entering temples, and speak softly in sacred spaces.
Greet with a smile, use both hands when giving/receiving something, and avoid pointing feet at people or objects.
Ask before photographing people, especially children; donations or small tips are sometimes welcomed.
Safety
Tipping in Kampot
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5–10% for good service at nicer places. For casual cafes, rounding up is common.
Cash (USD and Cambodian riel) is widely accepted. ATMs are available in town; many restaurants and hotels also accept cards, especially in tourist-focused spots.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant, cooler mornings and little rain; ideal for outdoor walks, markets, and river trips with clear skies.
Warm to very hot days with high humidity; plan early starts and shade breaks; plenty of riverside activities provide relief.
Frequent afternoon showers and lush greenery; bring a lightweight rain jacket and waterproof bag; trails can be slippery but scenery is vibrant.
Shoulder months offer fewer crowds and evolving weather; flexible plans work well for pepper harvests and cultural activities.
Kampot at Night
Hiking in Kampot
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails and viewpoints on the Bokor Plateau; cooler climate and panoramic views of the coast and countryside.
Short hike to a limestone cave temple with interesting rock formations and a serene setting.
Hiking options through jungle, cliffs, and coastal scenery not far from Kampot; day trips can combine with Kep's beaches.
Airports
How to reach Kampot by plane.
Main international gateway; about 140 km from Kampot by road; connections to many regional and global destinations.
Closer option to Kampot (roughly 85–100 km away); domestic and limited international services with road transfer available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Khmer-speaking communities forming the core of Kampot’s culture.
Communities such as Chinese-Cambodian, Vietnamese-Cambodian, and Cham residents contribute to the town’s diversity.
A growing presence around the riverside and market areas, contributing to the local cafe and arts scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common recreational sport in towns and villages; local games and casual leagues are popular among residents.
Played in schools and community centers; occasional local tournaments draw spectators.
Popular along the Kampot River and nearby waterways for scenic trips and short excursions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kampot.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many cafes and restaurants offer vegetarian options; ask for kroeung-free dishes and fresh vegetable platters. Veggie-friendly spots like Epic Arts Café are good starting points.