Top 10 things to do in Kampot

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.

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As of May 2025, conservation efforts in Cambodia’s Kampot province continue to focus on the protection and study of the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, commonly known as pink dolphins. These dolphins are primarily found in the coastal waters of Kampot and Koh Kong provinces.

Population Monitoring and Conservation Efforts

Marine Conservation Cambodia (MCC), in collaboration with the Fisheries Administration (FiA) and local communities, has been actively monitoring the dolphin populations. Recent surveys have estimated the presence of approximately 40 to 46 pink dolphins and 20 to 30 Irrawaddy dolphins in the areas of Prek Tnaot, Trapeang Ropov, and Chhanghon within Kampot province . These efforts include the installation of sonar sensors to accurately track dolphin pods and the use of artificial habitats to support their growth .

Community Involvement and Ecotourism

Local communities have been instrumental in conservation activities. Fishermen are encouraged to report and release any accidentally captured dolphins. Additionally, community-led ecotourism initiatives offer boat tours for visitors to observe dolphins, seagrass beds, and other marine life, providing both educational experiences and alternative income sources for locals .

Challenges and Ongoing Research

Despite these positive developments, challenges remain. In April 2025, a pink dolphin was found dead off the coast of Kampot. While the cause of death remains undetermined, such incidents highlight the need for continued vigilance and research to ensure the protection of these endangered species .

Overall, the collaborative efforts between conservation organizations, government agencies, and local communities have contributed to the ongoing protection and study of pink dolphins in Cambodia’s coastal regions.

Kampot is one of Cambodia’s most charming and laid-back destinations, known for its peaceful riverside setting, French colonial architecture, and stunning natural attractions. Whether you’re here to explore the famous pepper plantations, cruise along the Kampot River, or take a trip up Bokor Mountain, Sokchea Kampot Hotel offers the perfect base for your stay. Ideally located just minutes from the town center, our hotel provides easy access to popular restaurants, cafés, and local markets, while still offering a quiet, relaxing atmosphere away from the noise. Our spacious, clean, and modern rooms are designed with your comfort in mind, featuring air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and comfortable bedding to ensure a restful night’s sleep. What truly sets Sokchea Kampot Hotel apart is our commitment to personalized service. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff are always ready to help—from recommending the best spots to visit, to assisting with motorbike rentals or arranging local tours. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, you’ll find a welcoming and peaceful environment that feels like a home away from home. If you’re looking for quality, value, and a convenient location during your Kampot visit, Sokchea Kampot Hotel is the ideal choice.

 

 

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!

Travelers Review Award

Sunset at Kep Beach

Nestled along Cambodia’s southern coast, Kep Beach is a hidden gem that offers an unparalleled experience for sunset enthusiasts. As the day begins to wane, Kep Beach transforms into a serene haven where the vibrant hues of the setting sun paint the sky and sea in a mesmerizing display.

Imagine strolling along the soft sandy shore, the gentle waves lapping at your feet as the sky transitions from the warm glow of daylight to a palette of oranges, pinks, and purples. The calm waters of the Gulf of Thailand mirror the kaleidoscope of colors, creating a breathtaking vista that feels almost surreal.

As you find your perfect spot on the beach, the sun slowly descends towards the horizon, casting a golden path across the water. The silhouette of the distant islands adds to the enchanting scene, providing a picturesque backdrop for this natural spectacle. The tranquil atmosphere is occasionally punctuated by the laughter of children playing in the distance and the soft murmur of conversations from nearby beachgoers, all captivated by the beauty unfolding before them.

Whether you’re a photographer looking to capture the perfect shot, a couple seeking a romantic moment, or a solo traveler in search of peace and reflection, the sunset at Kep Beach offers something for everyone. The experience is enhanced by the simplicity of the surroundings—no towering buildings or bustling crowds, just the pure, unspoiled beauty of nature.

As the sun finally dips below the horizon, the sky’s colors deepen and the first stars begin to twinkle, marking the end of another beautiful day in Kep. The gentle transition from day to night leaves a lingering sense of tranquility and a lasting impression, making sunset at Kep Beach an unforgettable highlight of any visit to this charming coastal town.

Kampot Pepper is a highly regarded pepper variety grown in the Kampot Province of Cambodia. The region’s unique climate, soil, and traditional cultivation methods contribute to the exceptional quality of Kampot Pepper. Kampot Pepper farms can be found throughout the province, particularly in the foothills of the nearby Elephant Mountains.

The pepper plants thrive in Kampot’s tropical climate, characterized by a distinct rainy season and dry season. The soil in this region is rich in minerals and well-drained, providing optimal conditions for pepper cultivation.

Kampot Pepper farms typically cultivate the pepper vines using traditional methods, with careful attention paid to every stage of the growing process. Farmers often train the pepper vines to climb up wooden poles or trellises, allowing for proper air circulation and sunlight exposure.

Harvesting usually takes place during the dry season when the pepper berries are fully ripe. Workers handpick the ripe pepper berries, which are then sorted and processed. The berries are typically sun-dried to preserve their flavor and aroma before being packed for sale.

Visitors to Kampot Province can explore Kampot Pepper farms to learn about the cultivation techniques and the unique characteristics of this renowned pepper variety. Many farms offer guided tours where visitors can see the pepper vines, learn about the harvesting process, and even participate in pepper-picking activities. These tours often include tasting sessions where visitors can sample different varieties of Kampot Pepper and purchase freshly harvested pepper products to take home.

Traveling from Kampot to Koh Rong in Cambodia offers a scenic mix of land and sea transport, and you have several good options to choose from. Here’s a breakdown of how to get there, how long it’ll take, and what it will cost.

Traveling from Kampot to Koh Rong is a memorable journey that connects Cambodia’s peaceful riverside town with one of its most beautiful islands. The trip usually involves two stages — traveling from Kampot to Sihanoukville by land, then continuing by ferry to Koh Rong. Travelers can choose from several options depending on their budget, time, and comfort preference.

The most common way is by bus or minivan. Shared transportation departs daily from Kampot to Sihanoukville, taking about 2.5 to 3 hours. The ticket price usually ranges from US $10 to $12 per person. Once in Sihanoukville, passengers can catch a ferry to Koh Rong at the main pier. Several ferry companies operate daily services to the island, with a travel time of around 45 minutes to 1 hour. Ferry tickets cost between US $15 to $20 each way, depending on the operator and boat type.

For more comfort and flexibility, travelers may hire a private taxi or car transfer from Kampot directly to Sihanoukville or even to the ferry pier. This convenient option takes about 2 hours and costs between US $45 and $80, ideal for families or groups who prefer privacy and a smoother ride. Some travel agencies in Kampot also offer combined packages (land + ferry) starting from US $35 to $40 per person, saving time and effort when planning connections.

During high season, a direct ferry from Kampot to Koh Rong is occasionally available, operated from Kampot International Tourism Port. The boat ride takes around 2 hours and costs approximately US $25 per person — the most scenic and relaxing route, as you’ll cruise directly to the island without needing a land transfer.

Whichever option you choose, the journey from Kampot to Koh Rong promises a mix of adventure, comfort, and breathtaking scenery — leading you from tranquil riverside charm to the tropical paradise of Cambodia’s coastline.

Please feel free to contact our Team for more information. E-mail: reservation.kampot@sokcheahotel.com, Tel: +85561763456, WhatApps: +85592801179