Kampi Village

Kampi is a small village located on the eastern bank of the Mekong River, approximately 15 km north of Kratie Town, Cambodia. It is filled with rich biodiversity and is famously known as the home of the Irrawaddy freshwater dolphin, a rare species included on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List of Threatened Species. When exploring the village, you’ll get the chance to experience the river's natural wonders.

Kampi Village (Cre: Cambodia Travel)

History of Kampi Village

The village of Kampi has a rich history and has recently become popular as the best place in Cambodia to witness the elusive Mekong River Dolphin. Established in 1999, the Kampi Dolphin Site welcomes both foreign and local tourists, as well as scientists conducting studies on the Mekong River Dolphin. The pool at Kampi is home to around 20 dolphins, making it the most densely populated dolphin pool along the entire river.

Mekong River Dolphin, Kampi Village (Cre: wwf.org.uk)

Things to do when visiting Kampi

Kampi is renowned for its abundant aquatic life, particularly the Mekong River Dolphin at the Kampi Dolphin Site. Beyond its rich aquatic biodiversity, however, this peaceful countryside is also known for its ancient temples, traditional stilt houses,  and abundant rice fields shining under the gentle golden sunset. The village also offers an inspiring glimpse into unspoiled nature, giving visitors a profound sense of Cambodian rural life, closely tied to the Mekong River.

Dolphin Watching at Kampi Dolphin Site

As we have teased, you can take a boat tour along the Mekong River to catch sight of the elusive Irrawaddy dolphins at the Kampi Dolphin Site. With its serene beauty and abundant wildlife, the Kampi Dolphin Site offers a unique and unforgettable experience for all who visit.

To visit the Kampi Dolphin Site, motor boats are available to take you out onto the Mekong River, offering the chance to observe these magnificent dolphins up close. To book a motor boat, you’ll just have to find a large gate with the words "Mekong Dolphin Pleasance" written in Khmer, and then walk along rows of small shops selling drinks and wooden crafts made in the area. You’ll then reach the ticket booth for the boat trip.

Dolphin Watching at Kampi Dolphin Site (Cre: vietnam.vn)

Once departing from the pier, it may take as little as 10 minutes to spot the dolphins as they surface the water to breathe. However, they don’t stay above the water for too long. Generally, they only leap out of the water for only a few seconds, with their bodies only partially visible above the surface. They will only jump fully out of the water, revealing their slender and shiny figures in the air occasionally, and this is a very rare occurrence, so be sure to prepare your camera and take pictures of the beautiful dolphins quickly before they submerge.

You can visit the families of dolphins living in the Mekong off the shore of Kampi village in either the dry or the rainy season. However, we strongly advise going in the dry season, as the weather will have lower levels of water, allowing you to spot the dolphins more frequently.

• Boat tour fare: US $10 per person for one or two adults, US $8 per person for three or more adults, US $5 for each child under 12 years old.
• Duration: 60 minutes (November to May), 90 minutes (June to October).

Mekong River Cruises

Besides observing dolphins, you can enjoy a leisurely Mekong River cruise to fully grasp the region's natural beauty. The lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere along the riverbanks add to the journey's charm. Mekong River cruises in Kampi village provide an unforgettable experience, combining natural wonders with cultural exploration.

Breathtaking View Of The Mekong River in Kampi (Cre: Cambodia Tours)

Kampi Rapids

Just a few kilometers north of the dolphin-watching spot lies Kampi Rapids, a delightful cluster of streams favored by locals for weekend picnics. 

During the dry season, from January to May, visitors can swim in the clear waters, savor local snacks, and relax with cold drinks. However, the site is closed in the wet season due to high water levels, which makes swimming unsafe.

Have A Relaxing Moment In Kampi Rapids (Cre: cambodiabeginsat40)

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Best time to visit Kampi Village

As we have mentioned, the optimal time to visit Kampi Village is during the dry season, typically from December to April. During this period, lower water levels increase the chances of spotting dolphins. It's advisable to avoid the rainy season when heavy rainfall can disrupt boat trips and wildlife viewing, and the Kampi Rapids may be closed.

How to get to Kampi Village

To reach the village, visitors must first get to Kratie city, the province’s capital, and then travel about 15 kilometers on Provincial Road 377 to reach Kampi village located in Sambok commune in Chit Borei district.

How to get to Kampi Village (Cre: english.cambodiadaily)

Tips when visiting Kampi Village

Here are some tips on visiting Kampi Village, to ensure a memorable experience:

• Sun Protection and Insect Repellent: You should shield yourself from the sun's rays by using sunscreen with a high SPF, while also applying mosquito repellent to avoid discomfort from insect bites.
• Wildlife Etiquette: While observing dolphins, you should maintain a respectful distance and avoid loud noises to ensure they can behave naturally without disturbance.

In conclusion, the Kampi Village in Kratie Province is an exotic destination, offering a remarkable experience for nature enthusiasts. You can immerse yourselves in the beauty of the Mekong River with dolphin-watching cruises or kayaking adventures. Plan your trip with Asia King Travel today for an extraordinary encounter with these magnificent dolphins, creating ever-lasting memories and an appreciation for the natural beauty.

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