2025 Koun Satv Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

#timetotravel Must do in Kampot! When we arrived we were greeted with smiles and after a brief chat we were told there is a free tour of the grounds available in Khmer, French and English. We waited for about 20 minutes until the tour began. We walked around the grounds with a guide who is very knowledgeable, we were able to stop for pictures, we were also allowed to sample 2 different types of peppercorn straight from the vines! What an experience. After that we went back to where we waited which had a selection of peppercorns waiting for us to sample with the help of another guide. There are tables that the peppercorn is on display for purchase and also a small bar to buy beverages and pepper ice cream! 10,000% recommend! If you have the time definitely have this on the top of your list. What a highlight for us.

In the 18th century, Kampot pepper was an indispensable delicacy on the tables of famous high-end restaurants in France. It was famous for its psychedelic aroma. In early 2016, the European Union officially awarded the "Protected Geographical Indication (PGI)" to Kampot pepper. Since then, only pepper grown in the natural environment of Kampot Province can enjoy this name, and its value has risen accordingly. It can be called "the world's best pepper". [La Plantation Kampot Pepper Plantation] is a free attraction, and it also provides free English and French guided tours to take you to the pepper garden. Generally, peppers need to be grown for three years before they can be harvested. White pepper is of the best quality but is the spiciest. It needs to be picked one by one by hand. The aroma is not as obvious as black pepper when eaten directly. It is suitable for stir-frying to bring out its spiciness and aroma. Red pepper is better than black pepper. Black pepper is picked last.

A fragrant journey through green vines, red berries, and stories rooted deep in Cambodian soil. This is a sensory half-day escape for anyone curious about spice, history, and the joy of slow discovery. ⸻ 🚩 Wandering Route Arrival • Greeted with a breeze, fields of pepper vines, and welcoming staff • Join the free guided tour through the plantation — wander among rows of green, black, red, and white peppercorns • Learn the differences in flavor, harvest times, and the deep cultural history of Kampot pepper, once the most sought-after spice in France Tasting & Exploration • Try the pepper straight from the plant — feel the warmth build slowly on your tongue • Sample everything: black pepper, red pepper, long pepper, smoked pepper • If you’re lucky, you’ll get stories about how the farm supports local families and sustainable farming Souvenir Stop • Wander into the airy boutique: find pepper blends, chutneys, teas, infused salts, jams • They make beautiful, gift-worthy packs — perfect for foodie friends or your own kitchen altar Final Pause • End at the pepper bar: • Try a pepper iced coffee – spicy-smooth surprise • Cool down with pepper ice cream — creamy with a twist • Or sip a pepper tea while overlooking the fields you just explored #aprilblooms #kampot

Kampot, this niche treasure tourist city 🥐This was once a French colony. Many French-style buildings are still preserved in the town center. You can feel the Khmer culture here Fusion with French style - ✅Some treasure spots suitable for visiting 😎 📍Bokor Mountain, Bokor National Park Bokor Mountain is over 1,000 meters above sea level. You can overlook Sihanoukville Port when you reach the top and the southern coastline of Cambodia Enjoy the magnificent scenery along the way The sense of prosperity and desolation is overwhelming 📍Abandoned church and unfinished hotel Visit an abandoned Catholic church Visit the unfinished hotel It is quiet here and there are traces of history everywhere - 📍Kampot Salt Fields Early morning or evening When the weather is good The vast salt pans and the sky are reflected It is a mirror of the sky that belongs only here. Salt farmers are busy working in the morning light - 📍Popokvil Waterfall 📍Bokor National Park 📍The palace of the former king Sihanouk 📍Pepper plantation

Kampot, Cambodia Travel Guide Kampot is a treasure trove of a town in southern Cambodia with a unique charm. We recommend spending 3–5 days here. 1. Arrival: From Phnom Penh, you can book an orange Vet (Virak Buntham Express) bus online. The buses are comfortable, the service is excellent, and tickets cost around USD 8.8. The journey takes 3–4 hrs. You can also take the train from Phnom Penh to Kampot, which takes about 6–6.5 hrs and costs USD 8. 2. Local transport: Renting a motorbike is the most convenient way to get around. It costs USD 5 per day and requires your passport as a deposit. Remember to check the vehicle's condition and take photos as a record. Some attractions are far from the city center, so renting a car or chartering a tuk-tuk is also a good option. 3. Accommodation recommendations: Onederz Hostel costs USD 5 per night and has a swimming pool, air conditioning, clean facilities, and comfortable bedding. If you prefer a hotel, you can choose Kampot Hotel, a 2-star hotel that offers traditional Kampot cuisine and free parking. 4. Must-see attractions - Bokor National Park: The graffiti-covered French ruins on the mountain are as unique as a postmodern art exhibition. There are also beautiful temples and panoramic views of the coastlines of Sihanoukville and Kep. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, and monkeys are a common sight. - Pepper Farm Plantation: Free to visit, you can learn about pepper cultivation and taste pepper-based dishes. The pepper ice cream is worth a try. - Kampot Salt Fields: At sunrise, the salt fields resemble a mirror reflecting the sky. The first half of the year is the harvest season for the salt fields, and you can see workers harvesting salt using traditional methods. - Kampot River Cruise: Take a double-decker wooden boat and admire the coconut groves and weathered French buildings along the riverbanks. As you pass under low bridges, the boat's horn blows, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. - Crab Market: Located in Kep, fishermen bring freshly caught crabs ashore, and visitors can choose their own, ensuring freshness and affordability. 5. Food recommendations: Kampot is famous for its durian and pepper. Local restaurants offer pepper-based dishes, fish curry, and fried noodles, all worth trying. Don't forget the sweet mango sticky rice. The blue crabs in Kep are also a must-try at USD 10/kg. 6. Itinerary - Day 1: Arrive in Kampot, take a break, and explore the city center, admiring French colonial architecture such as the Old French Bridge, the Old Cinema, and the Governor's Residence. - Day 2: Visit Bokor National Park and the Pepper Farm Plantation in the afternoon. - Day 3: Visit the Kampot Salt Fields in the morning, take a Kampot River Cruise in the afternoon, and head to Kep in the evening to enjoy seafood at the Crab Market. - Day 4: Relax on Kep Beach or take a boat trip to Rabbit Island. 7. 📝Tips: Most people in Kampot don't speak English, so have a translation app ready. The mountain roads in Bokor National Park have no streetlights, so it's advisable to descend before dark. Exchange currency for riel in the city center, although US dollars are also widely accepted.

Tired of the hustle and bustle of crowded tourist spots? Then follow me to southern Cambodia and discover a forgotten paradise—Kampot. It's a secret haven for those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, rarely visited by Chinese tourists, yet boasting unparalleled beauty and cuisine, waiting for the discerning traveler to unveil its mysteries. Unlocking the Secrets of Pepper at Kampot Pepper Plantation Your first stop in Kampot should be the Kampot Pepper Plantation. It's a treasure trove of knowledge and flavor, and best of all, it's completely free to visit! As you step into the plantation, the rich aroma of pepper fills the air, instantly awakening your senses. The staff are incredibly welcoming, like magicians of the pepper world, ready to guide you through the various pepper varieties. Stroll through the plantation and witness the transformation of black pepper from its green, unripe state to its mature form. Touch the delicate grains of white pepper. And the best part? You get to sample a wide array of pepper products. Take a bite of a black pepper-seasoned pastry, and the rich, spicy flavor will dance on your tongue. Then, try a white pepper-marinated snack for a refreshing, stimulating sensation. Each flavor offers a unique and wonderful experience for your taste buds, revealing the surprising diversity of the pepper world. Exploring Kampot Night Market: A Feast for the Senses After a fulfilling day at the pepper plantation, as night falls, head to the bustling night market in Kampot town. This vibrant, brightly lit market is the heart and soul of Kampot's culinary scene. As you enter, a dazzling array of food stalls will capture your attention. Sizzling skewers of grilled meat fill the air with their enticing aroma. There are also refreshing salads made with local vegetables and fruits tossed in unique sauces. Don't forget to grab a freshly squeezed fruit juice, bursting with the sweetness of tropical fruits and the taste of sunshine. Beyond the food, the handicrafts are equally captivating. Exquisite wood carvings, colorful textiles—each piece reflects the craftsmanship and wisdom of local artisans. Pick up a souvenir or two to commemorate your journey and create lasting memories. Kampot offers a respite from the noise and chaos of popular tourist destinations, providing pristine natural beauty and authentic cultural experiences. Here, you can unwind on tranquil beaches, letting the sea breeze wash away your fatigue, or explore the streets and alleys, discovering hidden culinary gems and local stories. Whether you seek a peaceful getaway or crave an exploration of unfamiliar cuisine and culture, Kampot has something for everyone. Pack your bags and embark on an extraordinary journey to Kampot! I'm confident that once you set foot on this land, you'll be captivated by its unique charm, creating unforgettable memories and discovering the true essence of travel.

Route: Kampot ➡️ Phnom Penh ➡️ Siem Reap ➡️ Battambang During my trip to Cambodia, I was deeply touched by the friendliness, simplicity, and warmth of the Cambodian people. Compared to the "Land of Smiles" 🌞 of Thailand, Cambodian friendliness is more reserved and shy. In the streets and alleys of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, you can see many simple but sincere smiles, far from the enthusiasm of commercialization, giving people a particularly warm feeling. 🏝 Kampot Kampot is a charming town with typical French colonial architecture and a laid-back atmosphere. You can enjoy fresh seafood here, and Kampot pepper is especially famous!🌶️ Tip: Visit a Kampot Pepper Plantation to learn about the process of growing and harvesting pepper. 🏙 Phnom Penh As the capital of Cambodia, Phnom Penh is a blend of history and modernity. You can visit the Royal Palace and the Independence Monument, as well as museums that reflect the country's history. Tip: Be sure to visit Central Market to buy some local handicrafts and souvenirs. Extra tip: Don't forget to try the street food! Especially the fried scorpions and fried insects 🦗, challenge your taste buds! 🏛 Siem Reap This city is the gateway to Angkor Wat, one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a truly amazing place. Standing in front of these ancient ruins, you will feel the passage of time and the weight of history. Tip: Get up early to watch the sunrise 🌅 at Angkor Wat, and remember to buy a three-day pass so you can take your time and enjoy the temples. Special recommendation: Don't miss Ta Prohm, where the intertwined roots and architecture create a surreal scene. 🚶‍♂️ Battambang Battambang is a small and quiet city full of traditional Cambodian charm. You can experience the bamboo train 🚂 here, a unique mode of transportation suitable for adventurous travelers! Tip: Watch the sunset at the mountaintop temple of Phnom Sampeau. Remember to wear comfortable shoes. Overall, Cambodia is a place full of warmth and sincerity. Although its service may seem more reserved compared to Thailand, it is this unassuming friendliness that makes the journey more enjoyable and peaceful.😊 I hope you find your own wonderful memories during your trip to Cambodia!✈️

One of the most memorable highlights of our itinerary is this La Plantation visit where a free guided tour is being offered for a limited time slot per day and you can choose in either English or French Speaking Guide. The whole tour is very informative and entertaining at the same time. We were escorted to the field where the peppers grow, and our guide explained a brief history of their farm, how they cultivate and harvet. we also managed to experience a free tasting session of their local produce here and a souvenir shop where you can buy their products.#newyearnewtrip #kampotpepper #familytrip #kampotprovince

Our tour guide suggested this place, locals often call this Secret Lake. The surrounding area is very peaceful and tranquil. We saw mini huts they used for relaxation and noontime siesta. It's hard to imagine that this lake is man-made because it's really huge! According to our guide,many people died here during it's construction so many believed that this serene lake is still haunted. #newyearnewtrip

Purest air, cutest organic farm and awesome pepper steak. If you’re visiting Kampot, don’t miss it. #foodie #summervacation #cambodia