How to Spend 48 Hours in Kampot, Cambodia
The laid-back riverside town of Kampot boasts heaps of charm, an abundance of Insta-worthy landscapes, sprawling countryside and the world’s best pepper. While time seems to slow in the southern town, there is still plenty to pack into 48 hours. Here’s what we recommend.
Day 1: Morning
Set your watch to Kampot time with a lazy breakfast at Espresso, which perfectly captures the town’s under-stated hip essence. The quirky café comes with heaps of heart – and the best coffee around, roasted daily in-house. Aussie-style breakfasts are served, with food running throughout the day until 5pm.
Day 1: Mid-morning to late-afternoon
Day 1: Evening
Take a short stroll at dusk along the promenade that flanks Kampot River. Stop for sundowners at Rikitikitavi, boasting views of the water with Bokor as the backdrop. The food here is excellent, so stay for dinner before heading to Karma Traders’ rooftop bar, which frequently has live music. Mad Monkey Hostels Kampot is another popular spot and often hosts events. If you have the energy to head a bit further out of town, then Naga House on the river attracts a hearty crowd at weekends, with DJs and live music.
Day 2: Morning
Start the day with breakfast at Elle’s Café Kampot, a chilled diner that serves great food. Next, head into the countryside to find out more about Cambodia’s most famous ingredient: Kampot Pepper. Used by top chefs in kitchens across the globe, the sharp pepper comes in four forms – black, green, red and white – and adds a real kick to dishes. There are a range of farms offering half-day visits to see the pepper process first hand. Sothy’s Pepper Farm, La Plantation and Starling Farm are good options.
Day 2: Afternoon
Take a tuk tuk about 15 minutes out of town and along the Kampot River to GreenHouse. Kick back, relax and refuel with lunch. Spend time soaking up some rays on the deck that juts into the water; dive straight in or hang out on one of the giant inflatable rings. Kayaks and paddleboards are also available for hire, or you can spend the afternoon exploring the river and surrounding tributaries on a three-hour boat tour with Bjorn.
Day 2: Evening
Kick off the evening with a relaxing foot massage at Banteay Srey Women’s Spa, which provides underprivileged women with training and employment. Men aren’t allowed here, but they can head to Jolie Jolie Beauty Salon.
If you want to appease the appetite by tucking into the best ribs in town – or even the country – book a table in advance, because the Rusty Keyhole usually sells out by about 8pm. Round off the evening with a drink at Le Comptoir de Kampot, situated among the town’s smattering of colonial buildings.
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