A First-Timer’s Guide to Exploring Kampot Like a Local

La Plantation was founded in 2013 by a French-Cambodian couple, Nathalie and Guy Porré, who were deeply inspired by Cambodia’s cultural richness and agricultural potential. After discovering the deep heritage of Kampot Pepper once prized by chefs around the world — they made it their mission to revive and protect this iconic spice through ethical and sustainable farming.

What began as a small project turned into a flourishing agro-tourism destination, one of the most respected pepper farms in Cambodia and across Southeast Asia.

🌿 Discover La Plantation: The Heart of Kampot Pepper Culture

When visiting Kampot, one experience that truly captures the soul of the region is a visit to La Plantation — a world-renowned pepper farm and agro-tourism destination. Nestled among the lush green hills just outside Kampot city, La Plantation isn’t just a pepper farm — it’s a living story of tradition, sustainability, and the unforgettable taste of Kampot Pepper, Cambodia’s culinary treasure.

🫚 What Makes La Plantation Special?

La Plantation is one of the leading producers of certified organic Kampot pepper — a product recognized globally with a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), much like Champagne in France or Parma ham in Italy. But beyond growing premium pepper, La Plantation offers visitors an immersive experience into Cambodia’s spice culture.

🌱 Guided Tours: From Farm to Flavor

Whether you’re a foodie, a nature lover, or simply curious, La Plantation welcomes you with free guided tours in English, Khmer, or French. During the tour, you’ll learn:

• How Kampot pepper is planted, harvested, and sun-dried by hand
• The differences between black, red, white, and green pepper
• Sustainable farming practices that protect the local ecosystem

You’ll walk through the vibrant pepper gardens, see local workers in action, and gain a deep appreciation for the hard work behind each tiny peppercorn.

🧂 Taste the Difference: Kampot Pepper Tasting

One of the highlights of any visit is the pepper tasting session. Here, you’ll get to:

• Sample the various types of Kampot pepper each with its unique aroma and flavor
• Try their famous fresh salted green pepper crunchy, mildly spicy, and incredibly addictive
• Discover other exotic spices grown on-site like turmeric, long pepper, and galangal

Many visitors are surprised to learn how nuanced pepper can be it’s not just “hot”; it’s floral, fruity, herbal, and earthy all at once.

🍽️ Khmer Cuisine Meets French Flair

La Plantation also features a charming on-site restaurant and spice bar, where you can taste local Cambodian dishes with a gourmet twist all enhanced with their freshly harvested spices. Popular menu items include:

• Beef Lok Lak with Kampot black pepper sauce
• Pepper ice cream (yes, it’s delicious!)
• Fresh tropical fruit juices and cocktails infused with local herbs

Cooking classes are also available for those who want to take a deeper dive into Khmer cuisine.

❤️ A Commitment to Community & Sustainability

La Plantation is more than a tourist destination. it’s a community-driven project. Founded by a French Cambodian couple, the farm:

• Provides stable employment to over 100 local workers
• Supports a local primary school and offers scholarships
• Rescues and restores traditional Khmer wooden houses for use on-site
• Is certified organic and actively promotes sustainable farming

By visiting, you’re directly supporting local farmers and helping preserve Kampot’s cultural and agricultural heritage.

🧭 How to Get There from Sokchea Kampot Hotel

La Plantation is about 25–30 minutes from Kampot town. Here are your options:

• Tuk-tuk: A scenic countryside ride
• Shuttle or private car: We can help arrange transport for you — just ask at our front desk!
• Motorbike: For the adventurous traveler

Make sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and a camera the views over the rice fields and mountains are stunning.

🌟 Don’t Miss This Unique Kampot Experience

A visit to La Plantation is more than a farm tour . it’s a journey into Cambodia’s rich agricultural tradition, local flavors, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re staying a few days or a week in Kampot, this is one of the must-do experiences we highly recommend.

Kampot, a charming riverside town in southern Cambodia, offers a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural experiences. Here are some things to do in Kampot:

1. Explore Bokor National Park: Take a trip to Bokor Mountain, where you can explore the national park’s lush rainforest, visit the old French hill station, and see the abandoned buildings, including the Bokor Palace Hotel.
2. Cruise along the Kampot River: Enjoy a leisurely boat cruise along the scenic Kampot River. You can take a sunset cruise or opt for a daytime excursion, which often includes stops at riverside villages and opportunities for swimming or kayaking.
3. Visit Kampot Pepper Farms: Kampot is renowned for its high-quality pepper. Visit one of the local pepper farms to learn about the cultivation process and sample some of the world-famous Kampot pepper.
4. Explore Kampot Town: Wander around Kampot’s picturesque streets lined with colonial-era buildings, boutique shops, and art galleries. Don’t miss the Old Market, where you can sample local snacks and shop for souvenirs.
5. Take a Kampot Pepper Farm Tour: Go on a guided tour of one of the pepper farms in the area to learn about the cultivation process of Kampot pepper, which is renowned for its unique flavor and aroma.
6. Visit Salt Fields: Take a trip to the nearby salt fields, where you can observe the traditional method of salt production and learn about the importance of salt in Cambodian cuisine and culture.
7. Explore Kep: Kep, famous for its seafood and relaxed atmosphere, is just a short drive away from Kampot. Visit the Kep Crab Market, relax on the beach, or hike up to Kep National Park for panoramic views of the coastline.
8. Try Water Sports: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the serene waters of the Kampot River. You can also try your hand at windsurfing or kiteboarding if you’re feeling adventurous.
9. Visit Phnom Chhnork Cave: Explore the ancient Phnom Chhnork Cave, which features a Hindu temple dating back to the 7th century. The cave is located a short drive from Kampot and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
10. Sample Local Cuisine: Don’t leave Kampot without trying some of the local delicacies, such as fish amok, crab with Kampot pepper, or grilled squid. There are plenty of restaurants and street food stalls where you can taste authentic Cambodian dishes.

🌿 Discover Prek Thnout Community-Based Ecotourism
An authentic eco-adventure near Bokor National Park, Kampot Province

Prek Thnout Overview

Nestled between lush evergreen forests and the mangrove-lined coast of southern Cambodia, Prek Thnout Community-Based Ecotourism Site is a peaceful haven for nature lovers, cultural travelers, and anyone seeking a responsible travel experience.

🌱 About the Community
Established in 2007 with support from the NGO Save Cambodia’s Wildlife (SCW), Prek Thnout is one of Cambodia’s most respected community-run ecotourism projects. Located at the foothills of the Bokor Mountain range, the site offers refreshing nature, rich biodiversity, and a chance to support local livelihoods.

🐾 Things to Do
🌳 Nature & Wildlife
Walk along wooden boardwalks through mangroves to scenic waterfalls.
Spot local wildlife including monkeys, fireflies, forest birds, dolphins, and even dugongs.
Take a night boat ride to witness glowing fireflies lighting up the trees.

🧗 Adventure & Relaxation
Go on a guided hike to a secluded Blue Water Pool and swim in its clear stream.
Explore forest trails dotted with orchids, bamboo, and passionfruit plants.
Chill in a hammock while enjoying peaceful village life.
Forest walk

🍽 Culture & Local Crafts
Join locals in cooking traditional Khmer meals like BBQ chicken and fresh seafood.
Visit the rattan weaving center, and shop for handmade products such as bamboo tools, herbal goods, and natural crafts.

💰 Pricing & Amenities
Entrance fee: $3 per person – this helps support the local community.
Boat rental: $30 per boat (can accommodate up to 15 people).
Local guide: 3pergroupofupto10people.Ifyourtriplastslonger, it’s $1 for each additional hour.
Traditional meal: $3 per person – enjoy local dishes like BBQ chicken and fresh seafood.
Facilities include basic toilets, electricity, and a simple guesthouse where you can stay overnight. There is no Wi-Fi, which makes it the perfect place to unplug and enjoy nature.

🚗 Getting There – From Sokchea Kampot Hotel
Map sign

Distance: About 28 km
Travel Time: Around 32 minutes by car or tuk-tuk
Directions:

Start from Sokchea Kampot Hotel in Kampot.
Drive west on National Road No. 3 toward Sihanoukville.
After passing the KM 174 marker (174 km from Phnom Penh), cross a small bridge.
Look for the Prek Thnout Ecotourism sign and turn right onto a dirt road.
Continue about 5 more minutes to reach the community center.
🛵 Tip: Private tuk-tuk or car is best. Motorbike is possible in dry season. No direct public transport is available.

📆 Best Time to Visit
Dry Season (November to May) is the best time to visit. Waterfalls are flowing, trails are dry, and wildlife activity is high.
Rainy Season brings lush greenery but some areas can be muddy or harder to reach.
🌟 Why Visit Prek Thnout?
It’s 100% community-operated.
Your visit directly supports conservation, education, and local livelihoods.
A genuine, responsible travel experience — far from the crowds and mass tourism.
🗓 Suggested Half-Day Itinerary
Lunch and waterfall

Arrive in the morning and meet your local host.
Enjoy a delicious BBQ chicken lunch prepared by the villagers.
Hike to the Blue Water Pool and take a refreshing swim.
Explore the mangrove boardwalk and look for birds and monkeys.
Visit the local weaving center and support handmade crafts.
Relax in a hammock before heading back to Kampot in the afternoon.

The installation of the new seahorse statue in Kampot province is indeed a wonderful addition to the beauty and charm of Kampot City. Not only does it enhance the aesthetic appeal of the area, but it also serves as a symbol of the region’s rich marine biodiversity and cultural heritage.

For tourists, the seahorse statue offers a unique photo opportunity and a memorable landmark to visit during their exploration of Kampot. Its presence highlights the importance of marine conservation and serves as a reminder of the need to protect and preserve the natural environment, including the fascinating sea creatures that inhabit it.

Moreover, the seahorse statue can play a role in raising awareness about the conservation of seahorses and other marine species among locals and visitors alike. By drawing attention to these captivating animals, it encourages people to learn more about them and to contribute to efforts aimed at their protection.

Overall, the new seahorse statue adds to the allure of Kampot City while promoting environmental stewardship and appreciation for the wonders of marine life. It serves as a beacon of conservation and a testament to the beauty and importance of our oceans and seas.