A Complete Backpacker Guide to Kampot, Cambodia

Kampot is one of those towns that quietly pulls you in. You come for a couple of days, and before you know it, you’ve fallen into a rhythm of lazy mornings, river sunsets, and nights that end with “just one more beer.”

This backpacker guide covers everything you need to know — from where to stay and eat to the best adventures and local hangouts. It’s small, easygoing, and full of character — perfect for travelers looking to slow things down without getting bored.

Contents

Getting Around Kampot

Public transport? Not really a thing here. Most travelers get around on scooters, bicycles, or tuk-tuks.

Rent a Scooter – The easiest way to see everything from pepper farms to Bokor Mountain. It’ll cost about $4–7 USD per day. Don’t forget your helmet and international driving permit.

Bicycle – Great for shorter rides around town or to the salt fields. Rentals go for $2–3 USD a day. Slow pace, great views.

Tuk-Tuks – Cheap, reliable, and perfect if you don’t want to drive. Around $1–2 USD for short trips in town, or $15–25 USD for a full-day adventure. Always agree on the fare first.

Walking – Kampot’s compact center is easy to explore on foot. Most hostels, bars, and restaurants are within walking distance.

Need help picking your ride? Check out our full guide on how to get around Kampot for detailed routes and travel tips.

Cycle through Kampot’s scenic countryside, photo courtesy of Mad Monkey

Where to Stay in Kampot

Whether you’re looking for a social hostel or a riverside retreat, Kampot has plenty of backpacker-friendly spots.

Mad Monkey Kampot – A social hub with a pool, sunset deck, and nightly events. Great for solo travelers and anyone who loves meeting new people.

Karma Traders – Known for its rooftop views and live music. The perfect mix of chill and social.

Yellow Sun Hostel – Riverside hammocks, cheap beers, and the best sunset spot in town.

Kampot Cabana – Bamboo huts surrounded by greenery and water. Peaceful, cozy, and easy on the wallet.

Want more accommodation ideas? Browse our list of the best hostels and stays in Kampot — from budget beds to riverside bungalows.

Unwind by the riverside pool with a drink in hand, photo courtesy of Mad Monkey

Top Things to Do in Kampot

Kampot may be small, but there’s plenty to fill your days — whether you’re chasing views, paddling through mangroves, or just cruising the river with a cold drink in hand.

Kayak the Green Cathedral – A peaceful paddle through shaded waterways. Great for a slow morning adventure.

Ride up Bokor Mountain – Sweeping views, waterfalls, and eerie colonial ruins. Rent a scooter and make a day of it.

Visit a Pepper Farm – Kampot pepper is world-famous. Visit La Plantation or Sothy’s to learn how it’s grown and sample the goods.

Sunset River Cruise – Boats leave daily and are an easy way to meet other travelers. Sometimes you’ll spot fireflies after dark.

Day Trip to Kep – 30 minutes away and famous for pepper crab and beaches.

Craving more adventure? Read our guide to the top things to do in Kampot for day trips, hidden gems, and local tours worth booking.

Take in the timeless charm of the old church on Bokor Mountain, photo courtesy of Aritra Roy

Where to Eat in Kampot

Kampot’s food scene is small but mighty — cafes, Khmer dishes, and comfort food all within walking distance.

Epic Arts Cafe – A community cafe serving hearty breakfasts and desserts with a cause.

Ecran Noodles & Dumplings – Fresh, hand-pulled noodles that never miss.

Simple Things – Vegan-friendly cafe with healthy meals and smoothies. The yoga space upstairs is a bonus.

Rikitikitavi – Riverside dining with Khmer classics and Western comfort food.

Want to dig deeper? Check out our full food guide to Kampot for where to eat (and drink) your way through town.

Enjoy good food, fresh drinks, and a feel-good cause, photo courtesy of Epic Arts Cafe

Where to Drink in Kampot

Kampot’s nightlife isn’t wild — it’s fun, friendly, and just the right kind of messy. You’ll find live music, strong cocktails, and easy conversation at almost every spot.

Mad Monkey Kampot – River views, DJs, and happy hours that always turn into something more.

Green Room – Leafy garden bar with live music and chill vibes.

Madi Bar & Music House – Where everyone ends up after midnight.

Players Billiards & Sky Bar – Pool tables, games, and great sunset views.

O’Neill’s Irish Bar – Cold Guinness and guaranteed banter.

Looking for more nightspots? Have a read of our best bars in Kampot list for everything from quiet riverside drinks to late-night hangouts.

Feel the vibe of Kampot’s nightlife with DJ beats and late-night drinks, photo courtesy of Madi House and Music Bar

How to Get to Kampot

Reaching Kampot is easy from most parts of Cambodia.

From Phnom Penh – Buses and vans take around 4–5 hours. Giant Ibis and Virak Buntham are popular. The train from Royal Railway Station leaves at 7 AM and arrives just before noon.

From Sihanoukville – About 3–4 hours by bus or taxi.

From Kep – Only 30 minutes away — perfect for a quick hop or day trip.

From Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City) – Cross the border at Ha Tien, then continue by bus to Kampot. The whole trip takes roughly 6–7 hours.

Need more details? Check our transport guide from Phnom Penh to Kampot for schedules, travel times, and local tips.

Soak up scenic views of the Cambodian countryside aboard the Royal Railway, photo courtesy of Royal Railway

When to Visit Kampot

Best time: November to February — cool and dry.

Green season: May to October — lush landscapes, fewer tourists, occasional rain.

Hot season: March to May — warm but manageable if you plan mornings and evenings well.

Quick Tips for Backpackers

Budget: $25–40 USD a day gets you a dorm bed, scooter rental, local meals, and a few drinks.

ATMs: Easy to find, but small shops often prefer cash.

Wi-Fi: Reliable across most hostels and cafés.

Safety: Kampot’s laid-back, but still wear helmets and keep an eye on your stuff late at night.

Final Thoughts

Kampot is the kind of place that doesn’t try too hard — and that’s what makes it special. Between the river, the pepper farms, and the easygoing people, it’s a perfect breather on any Southeast Asia route.

Stay a few days, catch the sunset, and see how long you can stretch “just one more night.