In Cambodia, while Siem Reap immerses visitors in ancient culture and Phnom Penh dazzles with its modern skyline and royal palaces, Kampot offers something entirely different—a serene escape where life flows at a relaxed pace, accompanied by the warm hospitality of its locals.

 

 

1. Discover Kampot: Cambodia’s Charming Riverside Gem

Situated along a peaceful river in southern Cambodia near the border with Vietnam, Kampot Cambodia is a rising star among travelers who seek a laid-back yet enriching experience. Its rich history, breathtaking natural beauty, and tranquil atmosphere make it a destination that stands out from Cambodia’s busier cities.

Kampot is renowned for its lush pepper plantations, producing the world-famous Kampot pepper, and its role as one of Cambodia’s largest fruit-growing regions, particularly known for its durian—a signature treat of the Mekong region. Beyond its agricultural bounty, the town captivates with its colonial-era charm, scenic landscapes, and an authentic vibe that provides a refreshing break from the bustling tourist hubs.

 

 

Is Kampot worth visiting? For adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts alike, Kampot delivers a diverse array of attractions. Tour La Plantation to learn about Kampot pepper, hike through the misty trails of Bokor National Park, or enjoy a tranquil boat ride at sunset along the Kampot River. Culinary delights, such as the iconic Kampot pepper crab, add to the town’s allure.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation or exploration, Kampot’s simplicity and authenticity promise an unforgettable experience, making it a hidden gem worth discovering.

 

2. How to Get to Kampot, Cambodia

Getting to Kampot is easy with multiple routes available, whether traveling domestically within Cambodia or from international locations.

• Direct Flights to Cambodia:
  • Phnom Penh International Airport: Many airlines operate direct flights from major cities like Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh City, and Seoul to Phnom Penh. From the airport, Kampot is a 3-hour journey by bus, train, or private car.
  • Siem Reap International Airport: Flights connect Siem Reap to cities such as Bangkok, Singapore, and Hanoi. From Siem Reap, travellers can reach Kampot via a long-distance bus (10–12 hours) or a combination of flights and buses via Phnom Penh.
  • Sihanoukville International Airport: For those arriving via Sihanoukville, Kampot is just a 2-hour drive by bus, taxi, or private car. Sihanoukville has limited international flights but connects with key cities like Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok.
• From Phnom Penh:
  • Bus: Several operators, including Giant Ibis and Cambodia Post VIP Van, run 3–4 hour trips to Kampot. Prices range from $8–$12.
  • Train: The Royal Railway’s weekend service is slower (4.5–5 hours) but offers scenic views for around $7.
  • Private Car/Taxi: Ideal for groups or those seeking comfort, costing $50–$70 for a 3-hour trip.
• From Siem Reap:
  • Bus: Long-distance buses take 10–12 hours and cost $20–$25.
  • Private Car: Costs $200–$300 for the full journey with flexible stops.
• From Vietnam (via Border Crossing):
  • At the Ha Tien border crossing, tourists can enter Cambodia and take a bus or taxi to Kampot, about 1.5–2 hours away. Ensure travellers have a Cambodian visa before crossing.

 

3. Best Time to Visit Kampot

With the climate divided into two distinct seasons, the dry season and the rainy season with an average temperature of about 26 degrees Celsius, it is quite cool, but with its geographical location in the tropical monsoon climate, during the day, especially in the dry season, it will feel quite hot. 

Specifically, the dry season starts: from December and ends to May whileand the rainy season is from: June to- November. 

The most suitable time to travel to Kampot is also the peak season, from December to February, the climate is wonderfully warm in Kampot. This is also the season when Kampot is most beautiful, with little rain and extremely fresh air. Suitable for exploration and sightseeing activities. However, at other times of the year, Kampot’s nature has a different beauty, and there are many indoor activities so that tourists can still travel.

How long to spend in Kampot? Asia Viva Travel would suggest travellers to spend time in Kampot for about 3 days, this allows enough time to explore, for more information, travellers can contact our Travel experts. 

 

4. Top Things to Do in Kampot

4.1 Visit Durian statue 

As introduced above, Kampot is famous for its specialty – fruits, especially durian, so when travellers arrive in Kampot, don’t forget to check in at the roundabout with the durian statue. This is the symbolic image of Kampot city.

 

4.2 Visit La Plantation for Kampot pepper

Known as the best pepper in the world, although not the origin of pepper, Kampot pepper grown in the La Plantation region is very famous and a popular tourist destination. La Plantation is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

The climate of Kampot Province provides the perfect conditions for growing pepper and the quartz content in the soil at the foot of Elephant Mountain helps give Kampot pepper its unique soil characteristics. 

In addition to being blessed with abundant soil resources, Kampot pepper becomes delicious and famous because almost all the planting and watering steps are done by hand, showing the meticulousness of the farmers for each pepper plant here. 

 

 

When visiting La Plantation visitors will learn about this special Kampot pepper as well as interact with the farmers here, participating in planting, caring for and harvesting pepper plants. This is also one of Kampot’s specialties, so visitors should try it and bring it back as a gift.

How to Get to La Plantation Kampot

La Plantation is about 20 km north of Kampot town, it’s not too far and easy to travel by different mean of transports like: 

• Tuk-Tuk/Taxi: A 40–50 minute ride from Kampot costs around $15–$20 round trip.
• Motorbike: travellers can rent for $5–$7/day and follow National Road 3, then take the rural road to La Plantation.
• Bicycle: A scenic 1.5–2 hour ride; suitable for active travellers.
• Private cars: Available from Kampot with transport and a guided plantation visit.

 

4.3 Explore Bokor National Park

This vast national park in Kampot province covers an area of ​​1,400 km² and includes mountains, ruins and former French colonial settlements – making it an incredible place like no other in the world. The park is also known as Preah Monivog Bokor National Park and Phnom Bokor National Park. It is one of only two parks in Cambodia protected under the ASEAN Heritage Parks in Cambodia programme. Kampot National Park is a great place for visitors who want to immerse themselves and enjoy activities that connect with nature.

 

 

When visiting here, visitors will often conquer the top of Bokor Mountain, ‘Bokor’ itself is a Khmer word meaning ‘a cow’s hump’, which is what the mountains in this national park are said to resemble. Because it is also the second highest point in Cambodia, standing from the top of the mountain, visitors can get a panoramic view of Cambodia. The trekking route to the top of Bokor is quite easy and beautiful so visitors can admire nature along the way to the top of the mountain. 

In addition, visitors can visit wonderful temples and pagodas. The destination is also a sacred land with cool air all year round with mountains and forests covered in green everywhere, abundant water from scattered rains throughout the year, giving the mountain scenery here a wild and lush look. On the top of the mountain, white clouds cover the sky, creating a mysterious and sacred feeling.

 

4.4 Enjoy the view at Teuk Chhou Stream

One of the most peaceful and attractive tourist destinations in Kampot is Teuk Chhou Stream. Leaving behind the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh, coming to Teuk Chhou Stream, travellers will feel the peace and relaxation. Visitors can bathe in the cool, blue water of Teuk Chhou Stream, enjoy and listen to the sound of the stream flowing, the chirping of birds, the rustling of forest leaves, … all creating an unusually peaceful scene.

 

 

4.5 Discover local markets and traditional Cambodian cuisine

Kampot Market is a place where travellers can find countless beautiful souvenirs as gifts. Besides, Kampot Market is also an ideal place to stroll and enjoy local specialties.If visitors do not know where to buy durian, Kampot pepper or other specialties, they can shop at Kampot Market with affordable prices and easy bargaining.

 

 

4.6 Enjoy  Dishes in Kampot

Kampot is a paradise for food lovers, offering a delightful blend of local flavors and regional specialties. The town’s culinary scene is particularly renowned for its world-famous Kampot pepper, which adds a distinctive and aromatic touch to a variety of dishes.

 

• Kampot Pepper Crab: A signature dish combining freshly caught crab with the bold, aromatic flavors of Kampot pepper. This dish is a must for seafood lovers.
• Durian: Kampot’s rich agricultural heritage shines through its fresh and sweet durian, known as the “King of Fruits.” Don’t miss tasting this Mekong region delicacy.
• Tom Yum Soup: While a Thai dish, the version in Kampot often features local seafood and fresh herbs, adding a unique Cambodian twist.
• Amok Curry: A creamy and flavorful fish curry, cooked in coconut milk with local spices, wrapped in banana leaves.
• Lok Lak: A popular Cambodian stir-fried beef dish served with Kampot pepper sauce for dipping.

 

 

Conclusion

Kampot offers a unique escape that perfectly blends relaxation, rich history, and vibrant local culture. Whether you’re savoring the renowned Kampot pepper crab, exploring the serene riverside, or diving into the town’s fascinating past, Kampot has something for travellers. 

As travellers plan your Cambodia itinerary, don’t miss the chance to explore Kampot with Asia Viva Travel. Our expert guides will ensure travellers experience the best of this charming town, with an itinerary carefully crafted to highlight Kampot’s top attractions and hidden gems.

At Asia Viva Travel, we are committed to supporting society, especially in Vietnam’s remote regions. By traveling with us, you help support local tourism workers and contribute to building schools and providing free lunches for disadvantaged children in North Vietnam’s mountains. Join us to help build a better future for Vietnam’s children and vulnerable communities in the “Nuôi em” project .

Book your Kampot tour with Asia Viva Travel today and embark on a seamless, unforgettable journey.