Hotels in Kampot

Kampot: Riverside Town and Pepper Country

Kampot, a small provincial capital in southern Cambodia, sits on the Preaek Tuek Chhu River about 148 km south of Phnom Penh and 25 km east of Kep. The town is the global benchmark for Kampot pepper, a geographically indicated spice prized by chefs since the colonial era and harvested on farms along the river valley. A grid of French colonial shophouses lines the Old Town riverfront — many now converted into guesthouses, wine bars, and cafés without losing their original facades.

Where to Stay and Getting Around

Most hotels and guesthouses cluster in the Old Town riverside district and along the Pepper Road heading north. Budget travelers fill riverside bungalows; mid-range properties occupy restored colonial buildings near the central roundabout. Day trips run to Bokor National Park, whose 1,075 m plateau holds a 1920s French hill station, accessible by road in about 45 minutes. The Phnom Penh–Kampot bus takes roughly 3 hours; motorbike taxis and rented bicycles handle local movement.

Practical Tips

• Best season: November to February brings dry weather and cooler evenings; avoid May–October for heavy rain.
• Pepper farms: Several farms offer free tours — book directly at the farm gate.
• Currency: Riel and US dollars both accepted; ATMs are limited to the town center.
• Transport: Renting a bicycle (around $2–3/day) covers the Old Town and river road comfortably.