Kampot: Countryside, Pepper Farm and Kayak Tour with Lunch

Kampot: Countryside, Pepper Farm and Kayak Tour with Lunch is a well-rounded day trip that offers a taste of Cambodia’s rural charm, combining nature, culture, and outdoor fun. With a solid rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 71 reviews, this experience mostly wins praise for its knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and good value. But, as with any guided tour, it’s worth considering how much time you want to spend on each activity and whether the day’s pace matches your style.

What we love about this tour is its authenticity—it’s not just about ticking off tourist spots but really engaging with local life, from salt workers to pepper farmers. Plus, the kayaking experience on Kampot River is a highlight, offering both adventure and relaxation. The only potential drawback might be the shorter time at some stops, especially the pepper farm, which leaves some travelers wishing they had more time to explore or enjoy the lunch view.

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a full, active day that covers a variety of sights without feeling rushed. It’s perfect if you’re after authentic experiences, scenic vistas, and good-value outdoor fun. Keep in mind, it’s not suitable for very young children, wheelchair users, or those with certain health issues, but most others will find it rewarding.

Key Points

• Authentic rural experience: Get a genuine feel for Kampot’s countryside, not just tourist spots.
• Variety of activities: From salt fields and caves to pepper farms and kayaking, it’s a well-rounded day.
• Knowledgeable guides: Multiple reviews praise the guides’ friendliness and local insights.
• Beautiful scenery: Expect tranquil lakes, lush rice fields, and sunset views.
• Great value: At $46, the price includes lunch, entrance fees, and activities.
• Limited time at some sites: Especially the pepper farm, which might leave some wishing for more.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with hotel pickup within 4 km of Kampot’s city center, making it straightforward for most travelers staying nearby. You’ll be greeted by a driver holding your last name, and the transfer is smooth and punctual. For those staying further out or in Kep, there’s an extra charge—$15 per person for pickups and drop-offs outside the main area—so plan accordingly.

After pickup, you’ll hop into a tuk-tuk for several short rides (ranging from 15 to 45 minutes) between stops, a fun way to soak up the local atmosphere and keep the day moving without long bus rides. This setup keeps the trip intimate, with most groups small enough to chat with the guides.

Stop 1: Salt Farm and Coffee

The first significant stop is the salt fields, where you’ll get a quick tour and some photos. The salt workers’ labor is a gritty glimpse into the local economy, and the guided walk helps you understand their daily life.

Next, a stop at Salt Farm Coffee combines a quick walk and photo opportunity, offering a chance to learn about the salt production process and see where some of Kampot’s famed salt is made. Travelers have commented positively on the guided tour here, noting how friendly and knowledgeable the guides are.

Stop 2: La Plantation

The highlight of the morning might be the two-hour visit to La Plantation, a plantation that’s also a scenic spot for photos, shopping, and walking. The guide’s storytelling about local cultivation and history adds depth—that’s where you’ll see the lush greenery and learn about the importance of pepper and other crops in the region.

Reviews praise the gorgeous view and the spaciousness of the restaurant, where you can enjoy a delicious lunch before heading to the kayaking part of the day. Many reviewers mention the friendly guides and their good English, which makes the experience more engaging.

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Lunch

A simple but tasty Cambodian lunch is included—fried rice with egg or vegetables for vegetarians. Travelers appreciate the gorgeous restaurant and viewing platform, especially as a relaxing break before more activity. Some reviews note that waiting for the pepper farm guide cut into their time, which might be worth considering if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

Afternoon Activities: Cave, Lake, and Kayaking

Post-lunch, the tour takes you to a limestone cave with bat colonies and a 6th-century Hindu temple inside. The exploration is manageable and adds a sense of adventure, and the bats are a fascinating sight for nature lovers.

Next, you visit the ‘secret lake’, an artificial water body where you can swim, relax, and enjoy drinks provided during a short break. This spot is a favorite among reviewers for its tranquility and sunset views.

Finally, it’s time for the kayaking experience on Kampot River. The kayaking loop is designed to be accessible and scenic, with some reviewers describing it as “fun,” “exhilarating,” and a perfect way to end the day. For those who wish, paddleboards are available, and swimming is also possible. The experience comes with a light sense of adventure, especially as some travelers get drenched—adding to the fun.

End of Day and Drop-Off

Most participants are dropped off at either Kampot or Kaeb, making logistics straightforward. The overall day lasts about 9 hours, so it’s a good full-day option—long enough to see a lot but not so packed that you leave exhausted.

What Do Travelers Say?

The reviews consistently highlight friendly, knowledgeable guides who add a lot of value with their local insights. Many call it one of their favorite days in Cambodia, citing the beautiful scenery, authentic stops, and the variety of activities.

One reviewer notes that the tour “felt almost three separate tours in one,” indicating how varied the day is. Others mention that the kayaking, in particular, is a highlight, with many describing it as “fun” and “a great way to see the river.”

A common praise is the value for money—for $46, you get a full day of guided sightseeing, a tasty lunch, and activities like kayaking and cave exploration. Some would have liked more time at the pepper farm, but overall, most feel they got their money’s worth.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring caves.
• Bring swimwear or a change of clothes if you want to swim during the lake stop.
• Pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for the outdoor activities.
• Keep your camera or phone handy for the photo stops—scenery is stunning.
• Be prepared for some short tuk-tuk rides and a busy schedule.
• If you’re vegetarian, the lunch options are suitable, but check if you want more variety.
• If you want more time at the pepper farm or Lake, consider discussing this with your guide beforehand.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of culture, nature, and outdoor activities. It’s perfect if you’re after an authentic look at rural Cambodia without the hassle of planning each stop yourself. The scenic kayaking is a standout for those who like a bit of adventure, and the local lunch is a bonus, offering a taste of Cambodian cuisine.

It’s less ideal for travelers with mobility restrictions or very young children, as some activities and walking involve stairs and uneven terrain. Also, if you’re looking for a very relaxed, slow-paced day, this might feel a bit full-on.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off within 4 km of Kampot’s center. If you’re further out or in Kep, an extra fee applies.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience runs around 9 hours, starting with pickup and ending with drop-off at your hotel.

What is the price?
It costs $46 per person, which includes activities, lunch, entrance fees, and guiding. It’s considered good value for the amount of diverse experiences packed into one day.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, the included lunch offers a vegetarian option (fried rice with vegetables).

What activities are included?
Guided tours of salt fields, pepper farm, caves, and a Hindu temple, plus kayaking or paddleboarding on Kampot River, with swimming opportunities.

Are drinks included?
Yes, soft drinks are offered during the Lake stop, and lunch includes drinks.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 3, and not suitable for people with certain health conditions or mobility issues.

What if I want to explore more at the pepper farm?
Most of the time, the tour spends about an hour there, but you might find the guided tour and tasting worthwhile. If you prefer more time, consider discussing it with your guide.

In essence, this Kampot tour offers a well-balanced day of exploring Cambodia’s rustic side, with enough variety and scenic beauty to keep most travelers engaged. It’s especially ideal for those who love outdoor activities, cultural insights, and authentic local flavors—all at a price that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small family, this tour is a fantastic way to see Kampot beyond the usual.

You can check availability for your dates here: