Sihanoukville might be best known for its beaches and lively nightlife, but it’s also a surprisingly good base for exploring the surrounding countryside and discovering authentic Cambodian life. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures like mountain biking and caving, or you prefer cultural and culinary experiences, there’s plenty to keep you busy. We especially like the Discovery Tour: Caving, Climbing, Via Ferrata and Abseiling in Kampot—a perfect mix of adrenaline and awe-inspiring scenery that doesn’t require prior experience [].
If you’re short on time but want a taste of Cambodia’s rural charm, the Sihanoukville Highlights Day Tour for Cruise Passengers offers a quick but rundown of markets, fishing villages, and temples. For those with a bit more time, options like the Full day Tour, Countryside, Pepper farm & Kep, crab market—which combines cultural sights with delicious local seafood—are highly recommended. No matter your interests, this list covers a variety of experiences, each with its own flavor and appeal.
- 1. Discovery Tour: Caving, Climbing, Via Ferrata and Abseiling in Kampot
- 2. Kampot Tour Pepper Plantation, Salt Field, Cave, Secret Lake
- 3. Kampot Travel – Pepper Farm, Cave, Secret Lake, Salt
- 4. Kampot Day Tour “Bokor National Park”
- 5. Bike to the Backroads of Kampot
- 6. Kampot Countryside Tour – Pepper Farm, Salt Lake, Caves, and more
- 7. Kampot Countryside including Pepper Farm, Salt Field, and Secret Lake
- 8. Bokor Mountain Adventure – History, Sights, and Waterfalls
- 9. Full Day Tour from Sihanoukville to Kep + Crab Market
- 10. Explore Sihanoukville Dirt Bike Tour
- 11. Cooking Class in Kampot
- 12. La Plantation Tour + Lunch
- 13. Sihanoukville Highlights Day Tour for Cruise Passengers
- 14. Day Trip from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh
- 15. Private Kampot Countryside Tour & Pepper Farm, Kep/Crab Market
- How to Choose
1. Discovery Tour: Caving, Climbing, Via Ferrata and Abseiling in Kampot

At number 1, this adventure-packed tour is perfect if you want to see Cambodia’s dramatic landscape in an active way. It includes easy rock climbing, via ferrata, abseiling, and cave exploration—all within Kampot’s impressive limestone karsts. The guides emphasize safety but keep it fun, even for those with no experience.
What makes this tour stand out is the variety of activities packed into just four hours, plus the stunning scenery of Cambodia’s largest cave complex. Reviewers love how the guides make everything accessible and exciting, with one describing it as “the best part of their 4 days in Kampot.” The $53 fee includes all gear, instruction, and a memorable way to connect with Cambodia’s natural beauty. This tour is ideal for active travelers, curious explorers, and those looking for a thrill.
Bottom line: If you’re after an adrenaline rush in stunning surroundings, this tour offers a safe, well-reviewed experience that’s hard to beat.
2. Kampot Tour Pepper Plantation, Salt Field, Cave, Secret Lake

Coming in at number 2, this half-day tour blends culture with scenic drives. You’ll travel comfortably in a tuk-tuk while your guide shares local insights. Highlights include visiting the Salt Fields, Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple, and the impressive Brateak Krola Lake, a dam built during the Khmer Rouge era.
This tour is praised for its friendly guides—one reviewer mentions Wandon, who “had a great sense of humor and spoke fluent English”—and the chance to see Kampot’s rural life firsthand. It’s perfect if you want a relaxed, informative experience that covers a lot in just a few hours. The $20 cost makes it an affordable option for travelers wanting to tick off several sights without rushing.
Bottom line: A solid choice for those interested in local culture, scenic countryside, and a taste of Cambodia’s history.
3. Kampot Travel – Pepper Farm, Cave, Secret Lake, Salt

Number 3 offers a full-day private tour exploring Kampot’s natural beauty and local industries. With a personalized approach, you’ll visit Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple, Brateak Krola Lake, and the Kampot Salt Fields. The highlight for many is the opportunity to meet local farmers and see traditional methods up close.
This tour’s value lies in its flexibility and in-depth exploration. The private guide, Roy, is mentioned frequently for his knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer says, “He had a great sense of humor and knew the sites perfectly.” For $23, it’s an affordable way to learn about Kampot’s pepper, salt, and history, making it ideal for curious travelers seeking a customized experience.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, private day trip perfect for those who want to learn and explore at their own pace.
4. Kampot Day Tour “Bokor National Park”

Number 4 takes you up into the cooler air of Bokor Mountain. The tour includes a visit to the Lok Yeay Mao Monument, the Popokvil Waterfall, and the Wat Sampov Pram temple. The 29-meter-high statue and the historic colonial buildings offer a mix of natural beauty and history.
Guests praise the breathtaking views and knowledgeable guides—one notes that the mountain and abandoned buildings are “incredible.” The tour is suitable for nature lovers and history buffs alike, with a $29 price for about 4-5 hours of exploring. The highlight is the panoramic vistas, which make it a memorable day.
Bottom line: A great option for those wanting a combination of scenery, history, and a cooler climate.
5. Bike to the Backroads of Kampot

Number 5 is a four-hour guided bike tour that whisks you through Kandpot’s rice paddies, lotus farms, and rural villages. Led by a local student guide, it’s ideal if you want to slow down and see everyday Cambodian life.
Reviewers love the authentic interactions with local farmers and the chance to try homemade noodles and rice cakes. Snacks and water are included, making it easy to pedal longer. For $29, this tour offers a quiet, immersive experience that’s perfect for active travelers eager to get off the tourist trail.
Bottom line: A rewarding choice for cycling enthusiasts and those interested in local food and rural scenery.
6. Kampot Countryside Tour – Pepper Farm, Salt Lake, Caves, and more

Number 6 is a full-day small-group tour designed for intimate exploration. You’ll see traditional salt production, visit Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple, and meet pepper farmers. The tour emphasizes local craftsmanship and rural life, with bottled water and transport included.
The reviews highlight the small group size and the variety of sights—one caller it “an interesting and well-organized trip,” perfect for those who appreciate localized insights. At $24, this is a good balance of value and depth, suitable for travelers who enjoy a more personal touch.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking a detailed, small-group experience of Kampot’s countryside.
7. Kampot Countryside including Pepper Farm, Salt Field, and Secret Lake

Number 7 offers a half-day tour for just $18. It covers salt fields, a dam built during Khmer Rouge, and La Plantation’s pepper farm. The tour’s simplicity and affordability make it appealing for travelers with limited time.
Reviewers confirm the friendly guide and the interesting sights, though some note the salt fields weren’t visible during their trip. Still, it provides a concise, authentic look at Kampot’s key industries.
Bottom line: A budget-friendly, quick introduction to Kampot’s rural industries.
8. Bokor Mountain Adventure – History, Sights, and Waterfalls

Number 8 combines mountain scenery, historic sites, and waterfalls. It features visits to Black Palace, Wat Sampov Pram, the abandoned Catholic church, and the Bokor Palace Hotel. The $35 price covers roughly 5-6 hours of exploring.
Reviews mention the “entertaining monkeys and breathtaking views,” with a guide described as “friendly and informative.” The tour is suitable for history buffs and outdoor lovers who want to see the highlights of Bokor without a strenuous hike.
Bottom line: A balanced mix of history, nature, and eerie abandoned buildings—great for a full day out.
9. Full Day Tour from Sihanoukville to Kep + Crab Market

Number 9 is a full-day private tour that takes you to Kep’s crab market, pepper farms, salt fields, and Phnom Chhngok Cave. The $24 fee covers multiple sights, perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive snapshot of the region.
Reviewers love how flexible and informative it is, with one saying “you see many sights and learn a lot about Cambodian culture.” It’s ideal for those with a full day to spare who want to combine scenery, food, and cultural sights.
Bottom line: A full-value, flexible day trip for curious travelers.
10. Explore Sihanoukville Dirt Bike Tour

Number 10 is a 4-6 hour dirt bike adventure costing around $140. It’s suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced riders. You’ll explore waterfalls, beaches, and even cross a river by longtail boat.
Guests mention the “authentic Cambodian cuisine” during a mid-ride break, and the adrenaline of off-road riding. Very practical, the tour includes bikes, gear, and park fees. This is perfect for thrill-seekers who want an active, immersive experience.
Bottom line: For those comfortable on a bike and craving off-road adventure, this is a day packed with action.
11. Cooking Class in Kampot

Number 11 lets you learn to cook authentic Khmer dishes in a traditional colonial house. With all ingredients included, the class lasts around four hours and ends with a shared meal.
Travelers love the professional chef, who shares tips and insights. The class is private for your group, making it intimate and fun. For $33, you get hands-on instruction and a taste of local flavors, perfect for food lovers.
Bottom line: An engaging, delicious way to dive into Khmer cuisine—great for small groups or couples.
12. La Plantation Tour + Lunch

Number 12 focuses on Kampot pepper’s heritage. The tour includes a walk through the pepper farm, a spice tasting, and a two-course lunch. It’s a brief, well-reviewed experience costing around $21.
Reviewers praise the picturesque location and the quality of the food, with one saying it’s “very interesting learning about crops and farming.” It’s perfect if you’re interested in the agricultural side of Cambodia.
Bottom line: A short but sweet introduction to Kampot’s famous peppers and spices.
13. Sihanoukville Highlights Day Tour for Cruise Passengers

Number 13 offers a 5-6 hour overview of Sihanoukville. You’ll see markets, fishing villages, temples, and Kbal Chhay Waterfall. It’s a convenient, guided way to experience the city in a day, priced at $62.10.
Reviewers mention the engaging guide and the well-paced itinerary, making it a popular choice for cruise visitors. It’s suited for first-time visitors who want a broad impression of the city.
Bottom line: An efficient, guided introduction to Sihanoukville’s highlights for cruise travelers.
14. Day Trip from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh

Number 14 is a full-day private tour costing $189, ideal for travelers who want to see Cambodia’s capital during a cruise stop. It includes Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and Wat Phnom.
Guests appreciate the seamless transportation and the expert guide, making a long day manageable. It’s perfect if you want to make the most of your time and see the top sights of Phnom Penh.
Bottom line: A premium experience for those wanting a comprehensive day trip to Phnom Penh.
15. Private Kampot Countryside Tour & Pepper Farm, Kep/Crab Market

Number 15 is a luxury private tour for up to two people, costing $55. It includes visits to salt fields, a Hindu cave temple, secret lake, and pepper farms, all customized.
Reviewers highlight the attentive guide and the flexibility of the itinerary. It’s suited for travelers who want a tailored experience away from large groups and prefer privacy.
Bottom line: For romantic or intimate trips, this private experience offers personalized exploration at a fair price.
How to Choose
When deciding among these diverse tours, think about your budget, interests, and physical fitness. If you crave adventure, the caving and via ferrata tour is a must. For a cultural deep dive, the full-day countryside tours or pepper farm visits are excellent. Looking for a quick overview? The Sihanoukville city highlights tour provides a good snapshot. Planning to indulge your culinary side? The cooking class is a standout.
Remember to check tour durations and reviews—some tours are half-day, others full-day or multi-day. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular experiences like the dirt bike adventure or private tours, as they tend to fill quickly.
Sihanoukville and its surrounds offer more than just beaches. From caving adventures and mountain hikes to culinary classes and cultural explorations, every traveler can find something fitting. For family-friendly fun, the Bokor Mountain Tour or small-group countryside excursions work well. For adrenaline junkies, the dirt bike tour guarantees a day packed with action.
Ultimately, your best choice depends on what excites you: history and scenery, active pursuits, or local food and crafts. No matter what, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences.
