If you’re looking for a peaceful, educational, and sensorial experience outside of Kep’s beach and crab market, a tour through the local plantations—especially the world-famous Kampot pepper farms—is one of the most rewarding things to do. These plantations not only showcase Cambodia’s agricultural heritage but also tell a story of tradition, sustainability, and community.
Historical and Cultural Significance: Pepper farming in Kep and Kampot is deeply rooted in local tradition. Kampot pepper is protected under a geographical indication, making it globally unique. (kep-cambodia.com)
Breathtaking Countryside: The plantations are nestled in rolling green hills, surrounded by fruit trees and spice gardens, offering a serene escape from urban life.
Sustainable Farming: Many farms, such as La Plantation, are organically managed and support local communities. (kampot-cambodia.com)
Tasting Experience: You can sample various types of Kampot pepper—black, white, red, and green—and learn how they differ in flavor. (kep-cambodia.com)
Local Economy Insight: Tours include interactions with farmers and a peek at how pepper is harvested, processed, and packaged.
You can reach farms like La Plantation or any other local plantation by tuk-tuk or motorbike. We have a service of motorbike rental at Surya Kep. Tours generally run from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Tours can be booked at Surya Kep.
Our local guide will lead you through pepper vines and spice gardens, explaining:
How pepper is planted and grown
The different varieties (green, black, red, white) and how they are processed (kep-cambodia.com)
Soil quality, climate, and why this region produces such high-quality pepper (kep-cambodia.com)
At the end of the walk, there’s often a tasting session. You’ll try different peppercorns and local spices, and sometimes learn recipe ideas.
After the tour and tasting, visit the farm shop to buy freshly harvested pepper, spice blends, and locally made souvenirs—the perfect gifts or culinary keepsakes.
La Plantation (Kampot)
One of the most well-known, this farm offers a free walking tour (though private tours are also available), pepper tasting, and even cooking classes. (kampot-cambodia.com)
PATIO Pepper Plantation (Kep)
Located just 15 minutes from Kep Beach, Patio is a calm, organic pepper garden where you can relax on their terrace and enjoy views over the vines. (patiokep.com)
Sothy’s Pepper Farm
Known for its demonstration of how Kampot pepper is processed and sorted. (kep-cambodia.com)
Morning Visits: Cooler and more peaceful; ideal if you want to walk through the fields comfortably.
Dry Season (Nov–May): More stable weather, especially good for combined tours with salt fields.
Harvest Season: Depending on the farm, you might catch harvesting or processing, which gives a more vivid insight.
What to Wear: Comfortable clothes, closed-toe shoes, sun protection (hat & sunscreen), and insect repellent.
Tours Booking: You can book your tour at Surya Kep.
A plantation tour in Kep is not just about seeing pepper vines—it’s a journey into Cambodia’s soul. You’ll learn about traditional farming practices, taste some of the finest pepper in the world, meet the people behind the produce, and walk through landscapes that feel timeless. Whether you're a foodie, a nature lover, or simply curious about how something as simple as a peppercorn is grown, this experience will stay with you long after you’ve left.