Kampot

The smell of rich mangrove mud and brackish river salt hits the back of my throat the moment I step onto the wooden docks of Kampot. The water here moves with a slow, thick current, stained the color of steeped black tea by the surrounding mountains and forests. When you dip a paddle into the river, the surface ripples outward in heavy, syrupy folds that reflect the fading pinks of the Cambodian sky. If you are planning a trip to this part of Southeast Asia and want to know how to get on the water, this guide covers everything you need to know about navigating the local river networks, choosing the right excursions, and making the most of your time on the coast.