Kampot River Sunset & Firefly Cruise

What to See on the Kampot River

Sunset Over Bokor Mountain

The river runs roughly toward Bokor’s silhouette, so the evening cruise times itself perfectly with the sky turning pink and orange behind the mountain — Kampot’s best-known view, seen from the water rather than the shore.

The Old Train Bridge

Boats head upriver past Kampot’s disused colonial-era railway bridge, one of the trip’s most photographed landmarks, before continuing on to the firefly-watching stretch.

Fireflies on the Riverbank

After dark, boats idle for around 10 minutes by trees along the bank where fireflies cluster — a quietly magical, low-key spectacle that’s become Kampot’s signature evening activity.

How to Get to the Kampot River

Boats depart from piers along the riverfront in central Kampot town, an easy walk from most guesthouses. Group tours (run by operators like Naga House and Captain Chim’s) leave most evenings around 5:30–6pm; just turn up at the pier or ask your guesthouse to book a spot.

Practical Tips

• Group cruises cost around $5–8 per person, often including one drink; private charters run $20–70 depending on group size and boat
• Bring a light layer — it cools down on the water after sunset
• Book through your guesthouse or simply show up at one of the riverfront operators in the late afternoon
• Combine with a day trip to Bokor National Park or the Kampot pepper farms earlier in the day

Nearby Attractions

• Bokor National Park — the misty hill station visible from the river at sunset
• Kep Crab Market — 25km away, an easy half-day trip