Things To Do
in Kampot
Kampot, Cambodia, is a charming riverside town known for its relaxed atmosphere and scenic landscapes. Nestled near the Bokor Mountain, it offers a unique blend of colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and stunning natural beauty. The region is famous for its pepper plantations and salt fields, contributing to its agricultural heritage.
Kampot serves as a gateway to nearby attractions, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Kampot Pepper Farm to learn about the cultivation of the famous Kampot pepper. Enjoy a guided tour and tasting session.
After lunch, visit the historic Bokor Hill Station, exploring the old French colonial buildings and enjoying panoramic views over the town and the coast.
Dine at a riverside restaurant, such as The Rusty Keyhole, known for its fresh seafood and local dishes. End the night with a stroll along the riverside promenade.
Take a boat trip on the Kampot River, enjoying the serene views and possibly spotting some local wildlife.
Visit the Salt Fields of Kampot and learn about salt production while capturing beautiful photographs of the landscape.
Explore the local night market for dinner, sampling various street food options, and enjoy a relaxed drink at one of the local bars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at a local restaurant | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $1 |
| 🏨Hotel night (budget) | $10-20 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery and landscapes
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Relaxed atmosphere with friendly locals
- Limited nightlife options
- Some areas can be touristy
- Public transport can be sporadic
- "Chum reap suor" - Hello
- "Aw koun" - Thank you
- "Som toak" - Excuse me
- "Chhnang" - How much?
- "Sok sabay" - Are you well?
Places to Visit in Kampot
Visit one of these nice places.
An abandoned French colonial resort with stunning views and atmospheric ruins, perfect for capturing the beauty of the landscape.
The river offers picturesque views, especially during sunset, with the backdrop of palm trees and the distant mountains.
The expansive salt flats create unique patterns and textures, especially at sunrise and sunset, making for striking photography opportunities.
Food in Kampot
Kampot Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A signature dish featuring fresh crab cooked with Kampot's world-famous pepper, offering a spicy and aromatic flavor.
Must-Try!
A traditional Cambodian curry made with fish, coconut milk, and spices, usually served in a banana leaf.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market with various food stalls offering local delicacies, snacks, and fresh produce.
A vibrant market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and street food, perfect for a casual meal.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting temples or rural areas, wearing modest clothing is important to show respect.
Showing respect to older individuals is a significant part of Cambodian culture, often expressed through greetings and gestures.
Always remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or a temple as a sign of respect.
Safety
Tipping in Kampot
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and for services, generally around 10% of the bill if service is not included.
US dollars are widely accepted, and ATMs are available in town. Credit cards are accepted in many places but may incur additional fees.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit, with warm temperatures and minimal rain, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring.
Expect heavy rain, especially in September and October. While the landscape is lush, some activities may be limited.
Expect larger crowds, especially during the holidays. Prices may be higher, but the weather is typically perfect for exploration.
A great time to visit with fewer tourists and still good weather, though temperatures can be quite hot.
Kampot at Night
Hiking in Kampot
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail leading up to Bokor Mountain, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the Gulf of Thailand.
Another beautiful hiking option that takes you through lush forests and unique rock formations, culminating at the Bokor Hill Station.
Airports
How to reach Kampot by plane.
The nearest major airport, located about 150 km from Kampot, offers international and domestic flights. A bus or taxi ride can take approximately 3 hours to reach Kampot.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Khmer people are the predominant ethnic group in Cambodia, making up about 90% of the population. They have a rich cultural heritage and are known for their hospitality.
Kampot has a growing expat community, primarily from Europe and Australia, who are drawn to the town's relaxed lifestyle and affordability.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a popular sport in Kampot, with many locals playing in parks and fields, and local teams compete in regional leagues.
A traditional sport similar to volleyball, played with a rattan ball, is popular among the youth and often seen in community gatherings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kampot.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to ask about meat stock in soups or sauces.
Gluten-free options may be limited; however, rice dishes and fresh vegetables are widely available.