Musical water fountain show in Kampot

We are incredibly honored to receive the Travelers Review Award 2025 from Booking.com! This recognition is a true testament to the dedication of our team at Sokchea Kampot Hotel and, most importantly, to the trust and support of our wonderful guests. We sincerely thank each and every guest who took the time to share their experiences and reviews on Booking.com. Your kind words and valuable feedback inspire us to continuously improve and provide the best hospitality possible.

At Sokchea Kampot Hotel, we are committed to offering warm and welcoming stays, ensuring every guest enjoys a peaceful retreat by the beautiful riverside of Kampot. Whether you visit for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or simply a relaxing escape, we take great pride in delivering exceptional service and unforgettable moments.

This award motivates us to strive for even greater excellence in the years to come. Thank you again to Booking.com for this prestigious recognition and to all our guests for making this achievement possible. We look forward to welcoming you again soon and creating more memorable experiences together!

Kampot is a peaceful riverside town in southern Cambodia, known for its relaxed lifestyle, colonial architecture, and natural surroundings. For first-time visitors, a few essential tips can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

First, plan your visit during the dry season from November to March, when the weather is cooler and ideal for sightseeing. Second, choose accommodation near the riverside or town center to easily access cafés, markets, and transportation. Third, rent a bicycle or motorbike to explore Kampot at a comfortable pace, as the town is small and easy to navigate.

Fourth, make time to visit Bokor National Park, one of Kampot’s top attractions, featuring mountain views, waterfalls, historical buildings, and the well-known Wat Sampov Pram pagoda. Fifth, enjoy a sunset river cruise to experience Kampot’s calm atmosphere and local life along the river. Sixth, try Kampot’s famous pepper by visiting a pepper farm or tasting local dishes that highlight this world-renowned product.

Seventh, dress modestly when visiting pagodas or rural areas as a sign of respect for local culture. Eighth, carry small amounts of cash since many local businesses and tuk-tuks do not accept cards. Ninth, stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, especially during hotter months.

Finally, slow down and embrace Kampot’s relaxed rhythm. The town is best enjoyed without rushing. By following these tips, first-time visitors can experience Kampot’s charm, culture, and natural beauty with confidence and ease.

When planning a stay in Kampot, finding the right room is key to a comfortable and memorable trip. Sokchea Kampot Hotel offers a variety of room options to suit different types of travelers, whether you’re a solo explorer, a couple seeking a romantic getaway, or a family on vacation.

For solo travelers or couples, the Deluxe King or Deluxe Twin rooms are perfect choices. These rooms are spacious, well-furnished, and come with a private balcony or terrace. Each includes modern amenities like air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and a clean, stylish bathroom — everything you need for a relaxing stay.

If you’re looking for a bit more luxury, the Deluxe Premium King or Deluxe Premium Twin offers enhanced comfort. These rooms often include a bathtub, better views, and a more refined interior design — ideal for guests who appreciate a touch of elegance during their trip.

For families or groups, Sokchea Kampot Hotel provides two larger options: the Deluxe Family Suite and the Family Suite with Balcony. With two or three king-size beds and over 70 square meters of space, these suites are designed to accommodate multiple guests without compromising on comfort. They also include balconies or terraces with scenic views of the surrounding area.

Whether you’re looking for value, luxury, or space, Sokchea Kampot Hotel has a room that matches your needs. With thoughtful amenities and traditional Khmer charm, it’s a great choice for your next Kampot stay.

Boat trips on the Kampot River are one of Cambodia’s most memorable travel experiences, offering a peaceful escape into nature and a unique perspective on the region’s charm. The river winds gently past lush mangroves, small fishing villages, and the picturesque Bokor Mountain range, creating a breathtaking backdrop for any journey. Whether you choose a lively sunset cruise or a quiet morning ride, the Kampot River promises an atmosphere that is both serene and captivating.

Sunset cruises are especially popular, and for good reason. As the sun dips behind the mountains, the water glows with shades of gold, pink, and purple. Travelers often find themselves relaxing on deck, enjoying cool breezes and listening to the soft hum of the boat while watching fireflies twinkle along the riverbanks. Many tours offer local drinks or snacks, adding an extra layer of comfort and enjoyment to the experience.

Morning boat trips, on the other hand, highlight Kampot’s peaceful side. The stillness of the river at dawn, coupled with birdsong and the sight of fishermen beginning their day, creates a calming and authentic glimpse into rural Cambodian life. Some tours even allow for kayaking or swimming, giving visitors a more interactive way to enjoy the river.

Ultimately, a Kampot River boat trip is more than just a leisure activity—it is a chance to connect with the natural beauty and gentle rhythms of one of Cambodia’s most scenic regions. For any traveler, it is truly a must-do experience.

Kampot has a long and fascinating history, dating back to the Angkorian period when it was an important trading hub. Over time, it played a significant role in Cambodia’s maritime trade due to its strategic location near the coast.

During the French colonial era (1863–1953), Kampot became a key commercial center. The French built roads, bridges, and colonial-style buildings, many of which still stand today. The town was also famous for its high-quality Kampot pepper, which gained international recognition.

In the 1970s, during the Khmer Rouge era, Kampot, like much of Cambodia, suffered greatly. Many historical buildings were abandoned, and the region’s economy declined. However, in recent decades, Kampot has revived, becoming a top destination for travelers looking to experience its unique blend of history, nature, and culture.

Top Things to Do in Kampot
1. Explore Bokor National Park
Bokor Hill Station, built by the French in the 1920s as a hill retreat, features abandoned colonial buildings, including the old Catholic church and the Bokor Palace Hotel. The park offers stunning views, waterfalls, and rich wildlife.

2. Walk Through the Old Colonial Town
Take a leisurely stroll through the old town, where you can see well-preserved French colonial buildings, such as the Kampot Provincial Hall and the Old Market.

3. Visit a Kampot Pepper Farm
Kampot pepper, once prized by French chefs, remains a symbol of the town’s agricultural heritage. Farms like La Plantation and BoTree offer guided tours where you can see the traditional growing and harvesting process.

4. Take a Sunset Cruise on the Kampot River
Enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the river, where you can admire mangroves, mountains, and fireflies at night.

5. Discover the Salt Fields
Kampot’s salt fields are a reminder of Cambodia’s traditional salt production methods. The best time to visit is during the dry season when workers harvest salt by hand.

6. Take a Day Trip to Kep
A short drive from Kampot, Kep was a popular French seaside resort in the early 20th century. Today, it’s famous for the Kep Crab Market, where you can enjoy fresh seafood.

7. Visit Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple
A fascinating cave with a 7th-century brick temple inside, Phnom Chhngok offers history and adventure in one stop.

8. Try Outdoor Activities
Kayaking or paddleboarding on the river.
Cycling through the countryside to see traditional Cambodian villages.
Tubing along the river for a relaxing afternoon.

Where to Stay in Kampot
For Comfort and Relaxation: Sokchea Kampot Hotel
A peaceful hotel with modern amenities, ideal for honeymooners, families, or those looking for a quiet retreat.
Offers a range of accommodation from Single Rooms to Family Rooms.

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.