Kampot - Discovering Cambodia

Travelling to Kampot

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kampot, a pretty good destination in Cambodia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kampot and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kampot, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Cambodia, here's everything to know about Kampot for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kampot

Kampot is a charming riverside town located in the south of Cambodia. It's famous for its well-preserved colonial architecture, scenic landscapes, and the production of high-quality Kampot pepper. Visitors can explore the nearby Bokor National Park, take a boat ride on the Kampot River, or visit local markets and temples. There are also plenty of opportunities to sample the town's delicious seafood and try the famous salt and pepper crab dish. Kampot is a popular destination for those looking to unwind and experience Cambodia's laid-back rural culture.

What to visit in Kampot

Here are some popular tourist attractions in Kampot, Cambodia: 1. Bokor Hill Station: This abandoned French colonial settlement is located on top of a mountain and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the ruins of the buildings and enjoy hiking trails through the surrounding jungle.
2. Kampot Pepper Plantations: Kampot pepper is world-renowned for its unique flavor, and visitors can tour the local pepper plantations to learn more about how it's grown and harvested. Some farms also offer cooking classes and tasting sessions.
3. Kep Beach: Just a short drive from Kampot, Kep Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying fresh seafood from the nearby fishing village.
4. Rabbit Island: This small island off the coast of Kep is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can relax on the beach, go snorkeling, or hike through the jungle.
5. The Kampot Provincial Museum: This small museum offers a fascinating look at the region's history, including exhibits on Khmer temples, French colonial architecture, and traditional crafts.
6. Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple: Located just outside of Kampot, this ancient temple is nestled inside a limestone cave and features intricate carvings and statues.
7. Salt Fields: Kampot's salt fields are another popular attraction, where visitors can see how locals harvest and process salt. It's also a great spot for birdwatching and photography.
8. Tek Chhou Rapids: This natural waterfall and rapids system is a great spot for swimming, picnicking, and relaxing in the shade of the surrounding jungle. This is just a selection of the many tourist attractions you can find in Kampot, Cambodia. I hope this helps!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Cambodia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Kampot.

When to go on holiday to Kampot

The best time to visit Kampot is from November to March. During this time, the weather is mild and dry which is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring the countryside. From April to June, the temperature starts to rise with high humidity, making it less comfortable for outdoor activities. July to October is the rainy season in Kampot, so you may experience frequent downpours and flooding. However, this season may offer a unique experience as the landscape is lush and green. Ultimately, it depends on your preference and what kind of experience you are looking for.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kampot

There are several ways to get to Kampot, Cambodia: 1. By bus: Take a bus from Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, or other cities in Cambodia to Kampot. There are many bus companies that operate on this route, such as Giant Ibis, Mekong Express, and Cambodia Post VIP Van. The trip can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours depending on the starting point.
2. By taxi: Taxis are available for hire from Phnom Penh or Sihanoukville to Kampot. This option is more expensive than taking the bus, but it's faster and more comfortable.
3. By train: The railway system in Cambodia is limited, but there is a train that runs between Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville, with a stop in Kampot. The train ride takes around 4 hours.
4. By private car: If you prefer more comfort and flexibility, you can also hire a private car or book a transfer service from a reliable travel agency. This option is more expensive, but it allows you to travel at your own pace and stop at any interesting spots along the way.
Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, always remember to book in advance during peak season to ensure availability and secure the best rates.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kampot, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kampot

Here are some typical foods of Kampot, Cambodia: 1. Kampot Pepper Crab - Fresh blue crabs are cooked in a sauce made with Kampot pepper, garlic, and other seasonings. The dish is best eaten with fingers.
2. Lok lak - Cubes of beef, stir-fried with onions and served with a rich gravy made from soy sauce and Kampot pepper. It's usually served with a side of fresh vegetables.
3. Fish Amok - A traditional Cambodian dish made with local fish cooked in a rich coconut milk and lemongrass curry. The curry is then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed to perfection.
4. Num Banh Chok - A popular Khmer breakfast dish, consisting of rice noodles topped with a fish-based curry made with lemongrass and turmeric, and served with fresh vegetables like basil and bean sprouts.
5. Beef skewers - Grilled beef skewers, locally known as "sach ko ang," are usually served as a starter. The meat is marinated in a blend of Kampot pepper, soy sauce, and lemongrass, giving it a flavorful taste.
6. Kdam Chaa - Another dish made with crab, Kdam Chaa is prepared by seasoning crab with Kampot pepper and frying it in a wok with garlic, onions and other spices.
7. Bai Sach Chrouk - A tasty breakfast dish consisting of grilled pork served on a bed of steamed rice, with a side of pickled vegetables and a dipping sauce made with lime, salt, and Kampot pepper.
You can find general info about typical foods in Cambodia here.

Is Kampot an expensive destination for tourists?

Kampot, Cambodia can vary in prices, depending on a variety of factors including the time of year and the type of accommodation you choose. Generally speaking, Kampot is slightly more expensive than other parts of Cambodia due to its popularity among tourists.
However, compared to Western standards, the cost of living in Kampot is still relatively low. You can enjoy delicious Cambodian food for as little as $1-$3 USD per meal, and there are plenty of affordable accommodation options available, ranging from budget hostels to mid-range hotels.
Attractions in Kampot are also affordable, with most costing no more than a few dollars. For example, visiting Bokor Mountain costs around $5 USD per person.
If you are on a tight budget, it is still possible to experience Kampot without breaking the bank. Opting for local street food vendors, sharing transportation, and staying in budget accommodations are great ways to save money during your trip.

Where to find accomodation in Kampot

The best areas to find accommodation in Kampot would be: 1. Riverside - this area is popular among tourists for its picturesque views of the Kampot River, and there are plenty of restaurants, bars, and guesthouses along the riverfront.
2. Old Market area - located in the heart of Kampot, this area is ideal for travelers who want to be close to the action. It's home to the popular Kampot Night Market, where you can find street food and local handicrafts.
3. Bokor Hill Station - if you're looking to stay outside of the city, Bokor Hill Station is a great option. It's located on a mountain about 37 km from Kampot and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
4. Kep - if you're interested in visiting Kep, a small coastal town known for its seafood and beaches, it's only a short drive from Kampot and might be a good option for a day trip or a longer stay.
You can check hotel prices at Kampot here:
Booking.com

Is Kampot a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Kampot is considered a safe place for tourists to visit. There may be some petty crimes, such as pickpocketing or bag-snatching, particularly in crowded areas or during busy tourist seasons, so it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to safeguard your belongings. But overall, incidents of violent crimes or serious threats to visitors in Kampot are relatively rare. As with any travel destination, it's always a good idea to exercise common sense and follow local customs and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Cambodia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kampot.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kampot the most?

Kampot, Cambodia offers something for everyone! Here are some types of travelers who will enjoy the most in Kampot: 1. Couples - Kampot is a great place for a peaceful getaway for couples. The town has a laid-back ambiance with several chic bars and restaurants that offer amazing sunset views over the river. They can also take a romantic river cruise or visit the pepper plantations.
2. Families - Kampot is a family-friendly destination with lots to offer for kids and adults alike. Families can visit the Bokor National Park, the Rabbit Island, go on a fruit-picking tour, and take a dip in the river.
3. Young People - Kampot has a growing nightlife scene with live music events, bars and riverside pubs that host a variety of events. The town also offers adventures such as cliff-jumping, kayaking, and crab-fishing tours.
In conclusion, Kampot is a great travel destination for couples, families and young people looking for fun and adventure.

How to get around Kampot

There are several options for transportation in Kampot: 1. Tuk-tuks: This is the most popular and convenient way to get around Kampot. Tuk-tuks are three-wheeled vehicles that can fit up to four people. They can be hired for short trips around town or for longer journeys to nearby destinations.
2. Motorbikes: For those who are comfortable riding a motorbike, this is a great way to explore Kampot and the surrounding countryside. Motorbikes can be rented from various rental shops in town.
3. Bicycles: Another popular option is to rent a bicycle and explore the town at a slower pace. There are several places in town where you can rent a bicycle.
4. Walking: Kampot is a relatively small town, and many of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to explore the town and get some exercise at the same time.

What to see around Kampot

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Kampot, Cambodia: 1. Bokor National Park: It's a beautiful and scenic place and home to a lot of wildlife. You can hike and explore waterfalls, mountains, and the old Bokor Hill Station.
2. Kep Beach: Kep beach is known for its calmness and freshness. You can go for sunbathing, swimming, and try fresh seafood.
3. Rabbit Island: The Rabbit Island is an ideal place to escape from the hustle-bustle of the city. You can relax and enjoy the calmness and beauty of the sea, go for snorkeling, and eat the delicious sea food.
4. Kampot Pepper Farm: If you love spices or have a keen interest in farming, then you could visit Kampot Pepper Farm. It's a place where you can taste and buy the exotic spices of Kampot.
5. Caves and caves temples: There is a wide range of caves temples near Kampot where you can experience the adventure, spirituality, and beauty all in one place.
6. Salt Fields: The tranquil and serene landscape of salt fields in Kampot is a must-visit place. You can witness how the salt is farmed, collected and cleansed before it can be used as a seasoning.
For every travel information about Cambodia you can click here.

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