Kampot

Why visit Kampot?

If you’ve been hitting the cities of Siem Reap or Phnom Penh, you might fancy a change of scene – a chance to slow down. And the sleepy city of Kampot, nestled in southern Cambodia on the banks of the Praek Tuek Chhu river, offers just that.

Check out the French colonial buildings, with their faded elegance and historical significance, rising above leafy parks and playgrounds. Explore the timeless town centre before taking a boat ride or a walk along the Kampot River. Many picturesque guesthouses and bungalows line the riverside, too – and provide an idyllic setting for relaxation and reflection.

Although Kampot is known for its pepper plantations and salt fields, one of the most enjoyable activities to do in Kampot is to sit back, enjoy a coffee in the town or a beer from a riverside hammock, and watch the world go by.

Laidback Kampot is about stepping out of clock time; spending time in nature instead. About savouring the moment – while savouring some great food, too! And our local travel assistants in Kampot can help you to plan your trip, so you soak up every inch of this special place.

Best things to do in Kampot

Although Kampot is laidback, that doesn’t mean it’s boring! The town itself is a joy to wander around, with great cafes, restaurants and the small but interesting Kampot Provincial Museum.

Check out the Crab Market for fresh seafood before trying Kampot Pepper Crab, or whatever else appeals, in a restaurant by the water. You could also try your hand at cooking some authentic Khmer food, and join a cooking class after picking some fresh local ingredients yourself.

If you’re still looking for what to do in Kampot, and in the surrounding countryside, here are our top tips:

• Pepper plantations: Take a tour of local pepper farms to see how pepper is cultivated, and to taste freshly picked peppercorns. We recommend La Plantation, a social and sustainable family project that includes a mix of traditional farming and modern processing.
• Cave Temples: Phnom Chnouka cave offers a glimpse into Cambodia’s heritage – you can visit it as part of a day trip to the Secret Lake.
• Salt fields: Check out the natural salt fields near the ocean and watch how salt is produced there.
• Bokor National Park: Get active with forest hikes, waterfall swims, and a climb to the Bokor Hill Station.
• Riverside Cafes: You could easily spend an afternoon, or an entire day, at one of Kampot’s many riverside cafes. Savour the views, have a swim, and await a glorious sunset.