You’ve landed in Kampot, Cambodia and are wondering what to see and do during your visit to this riverside town. Well get ready for a local’s guide to the area’s top attractions, best restaurants, and most scenic spots. This travel guide ” Kampot Travel Guide” packs in recommendations for where to stay, what adventurous activities to try, the tastiest pepper crab shacks to hit up, and insider tips on exploring Kampot’s relaxed vibe. Whether planning a quick weekend getaway or week-long vacay, discover the ultimate to-do list for making the most of your time in this laidback southeast Asian destination.
Introducing Kampot, Cambodia
Nestled between the Gulf of Thailand and the Elephant Mountains, Kampot is a picturesque riverside town in southern Cambodia known for its colonial architecture, secluded beaches, and pepper plantations. Once an important port city, today Kampot has a relaxed vibe that attracts outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Natural Wonders
The Kampot River winds through the town, with red dirt roads leading to secluded beaches, limestone caves, and waterfalls. Head to Bokor National Park to see Kampot’s tallest waterfall, Popokvil Falls, cascading over 100 feet high. You can also explore the abandoned Bokor Palace, an old French hill station reachable by a winding mountain road.
Beaches and Islands
Just south of Kampot are quiet beaches and islands with resorts for every budget. Kep Beach and Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island) are popular spots to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy fresh seafood. You can rent bikes to explore the coastal roads or book boat tours to more remote islands.
Farm Tours
Kampot is known for its pepper, grown on vineyards set against a backdrop of mountains and rice paddies. Take a farm tour to learn about the different types of pepper, how they’re grown and harvested. You can buy pepper and other local products like palm sugar, coconut oil, and rice wine.
Nightlife
As the sun sets over the river, Kampot comes alive. Grab dinner at one of the charming restaurants along the river promenade, then go bar hopping to catch live music, play pool, or just chat with the friendly locals and expats. The vibe is laid-back, so you can easily walk between the bars and restaurants in town.
Kampot’s natural scenery, colonial architecture, and agricultural roots give it a unique charm. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore the countryside, or experience the local nightlife, Kampot has something for everyone. Spend a few days here to soak in the peaceful atmosphere and discover all this riverside town has to offer.
Top Attractions and Activities in Kampot
Kampot is a charming riverside town in southern Cambodia, surrounded by mountains and rice paddies. Some of the top things to see and do here include:
Bokor Hill Station
Bokor Hill Station is an abandoned French hill station about 30km from Kampot. The crumbling Catholic church and colonial buildings are an eerie reminder of its history. The area is also part of Bokor National Park, with scenic mountain vistas and waterfalls. Arrange a motorbike or tuk-tuk tour to explore the hill station.
Kampot River
The Kampot River winds through town and is lined with small shops, cafes and guesthouses. Rent a bike to cycle along the riverfront, or book a sunset river cruise to see the countryside scenery. You can also go kayaking, boat ride or stand-up paddle boarding on the river.
Salt Fields
Just outside Kampot are the famous salt fields, where sea salt has been harvested for over a century. The salt fields produce flaky sea salt used in kitchens around the world. Take a tour to learn about how people make salt and buy some salt to take home.
Caves
There are numerous caves around Kampot to explore, like Phnom Chhngok Cave or Phnom Sampeau. Most caves contain Buddhist shrines and the limestone rock formations are a sight to behold. The best way to visit the caves is on a motorbike or tuk-tuk tour.
Kampot Night Market
For some evening exploring, head to the Night Market along the riverfront. You’ll find lots of food stalls selling Khmer cuisine, fresh seafood and tropical fruit shakes. There are also stalls selling clothes, souvenirs and more. Pull up a plastic stool, enjoy some street food and soak in the lively atmosphere.
Kampot has a perfect blend of natural attractions, history and relaxation. Spend a few days exploring all it has to offer, from the countryside to the riverfront. The laid-back vibe and stunning scenery will leave you wanting to stay longer. Have a great trip!
Where to Stay in Kampot – Accommodation Guide
Kampot offers a variety of budget-friendly accommodation options for any travel style. Here are some of the top recommendations for where to stay in Kampot:
Budget Guesthouses
If you’re traveling on a budget, Kampot has many affordable guesthouses. Check out places like:
- Bodhi Villa – Clean rooms with aircon, starting at $6/night. Located in a quiet area but only a 10 minute walk to the river.
- Monkey Republic – Dorm beds for $3 and private rooms with shared bathrooms from $6. Lively bar, restaurant and hangout spot.
- Rainbow Lodge – Simple fan and aircon rooms from $5, overlooking the river. Welcoming staff and homey vibe.
Mid-Range Boutique Hotels
For a step up, Kampot’s boutique hotels offer stylish rooms, excellent service and resort amenities at reasonable prices. Some highly rated options include:
- Les Manguiers – Eco-friendly boutique hotel set on 2 acres of mango orchards. Bungalows from $30 with balconies, rain showers and scenic views. Gorgeous pool and massage treatments available.
- The Columns – Stylish suites from $40 in a renovated colonial building. Chic bar, infinity pool and spa. One of Kampot’s most luxurious stays.
- Teuk Chhou Rapids Resort – Polished wood bungalows from $35, each with a terrace overlooking the Teuk Chhou river. Kayaking, boat tours and other activities offered onsite.
Luxury Resorts
If you want to indulge, Kampot’s luxury resorts provide a tropical oasis with upscale amenities and pampering services. For a splurge, check out:
- La Plantation – Lavish stilted bungalows from $100 in a lush garden setting. Large infinity pool, spa, tennis courts and golf putting range. Gourmet Cambodian-Western fusion restaurant.
- Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort – Elegant rooms from $150. 18-hole golf course, multiple pools, upscale spa and 8 dining options. 30 minutes from Kampot but a perfect secluded getaway.
Whether you’re on a budget, want a boutique escape or luxury resort, Kampot has an array of excellent accommodation options in scenic surroundings. Have a great trip!
Kampot’s Best Restaurants and Cafes
Once you’ve explored Kampot’s scenic surroundings, it’s time for the town’s other main attraction—the food. Kampot offers some fantastic dining options to satisfy any craving. Here are a few of the best:
- Epic Arts Cafe – This popular cafe employs deaf and disabled staff and uses profits to fund community programs. They serve up delicious homemade cakes, pastries, and light meals along with great coffee. It’s a feel-good place that gives back to the community.
- Rusty Keyhole – For Western comfort food in a casual setting, head to the Rusty Keyhole. They have generous portions of pizza, pasta, burgers, and salads. Their signature ‘fat boy’ burger comes highly recommended. Enjoy your meal on their outdoor patio looking out at the river.
- Thai Fire – If you’re craving some spice, Thai Fire is the place to go. They serve up authentic Thai cuisine like green curries, pad thai, and tom yum soup. The setting is simple but cozy, and the flavors are bold and fragrant. For a true taste of Thailand in Kampot, you can’t beat Thai Fire.
- Epic Arts Cafe – For a charming brunch spot, look no further than Epic Arts Cafe. They have both Western and Khmer breakfast options like omelets, pancakes, fresh tropical fruit plates, and Khmer noodles. Have a cup of coffee or a fresh juice and soak in the ambiance. Brunch at Epic Arts Cafe is the perfect way to start your day in Kampot.
- La Plantation – If you want to splurge on an upscale meal, La Plantation is a must. Set in an old colonial building surrounded by lush gardens, the setting is stunning. They serve gourmet Khmer and Western cuisine with local ingredients. For a memorable dining experience, make a reservation at La Plantation. The food, service and ambiance combine to make it one of Kampot’s finest restaurants.
Kampot has an exciting food scene with options for all tastes and budgets. Supporting local businesses by dining at Kampot’s independent restaurants and cafes is a delicious way to experience the town’s charm and community spirit. Treat your taste buds—you won’t be disappointed!
Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Kampot
Do I need a visa to visit Kampot?
For most nationalities, you can enter Cambodia for up to 30 days without a visa. This includes citizens of the US, Canada, UK, Australia, and most EU countries. Upon arrival, you will receive a visa exemption stamp in your passport. If you want to stay longer, you can apply for a tourist visa on arrival for $30 USD.
When is the best time to visit Kampot?
The dry season from December to February is an ideal time to visit Kampot. The weather is pleasant, with little chance of rain and cooler temperatures. During the wet season from May to October, you can expect frequent afternoon downpours and increased humidity. The shoulder months of March to April and September to November can also be a lovely time to visit, with smaller crowds and lower hotel rates.
How do I get to Kampot?
The easiest way to get to Kampot is to fly into Phnom Penh International Airport and then take a bus from there. The bus ride takes about 2 to 4 hours depend traffic. There are frequent buses from Phnom Penh’s Central Market bus station to Kampot that cost around $6 to $8 USD. When you arrive at Kampot bus station, you can take a tuk-tuk, motodop or taxi to your hotel for a couple of dollars.
Driving to Kampot from Phnom Penh takes about 2 to 3 hours. Renting a car and driver or driving yourself is a convenient option if you want flexibility exploring the countryside.
Where should I stay in Kampot?
There are many budget-friendly guesthouses, boutique hotels, and resorts along the riverfront and nearby streets in the town center of Kampot. Some highly-rated options include:
- The Columns, a colonial-style hotel with an infinity pool overlooking the river.
- Magic Sponge, a popular backpacker hostel located just off the river.
- Les Manguiers, an eco-friendly resort surrounded by mango groves a 10-minute drive from town.
For a relaxing countryside escape, you can also stay at one of the beach resorts about 30 minutes west of Kampot along the Gulf of Thailand.
You might also want to read:
Top Places to Visit in Kampot: The complete guide
Jobs in Kampot for Expats: A Guide to Opportunities