The quaint fishers’ village of Koh Kapi resides on the edge of the delectable Peam Krasaop Wildlife Sanctuary in southern Koh Kong Province, and is a nice place to stop before or after exploring this wonderful, protected area.
The village straddles one of the many channels in this sanctuary, which contains thousands of alluvial islands and a great many mangroves. Koh Kapi is almost Venice-like with waterways serving as roads and houses on stilts with seemingly obligatory boats parked beside each.
Although there is no actual accommodation here for tourists, you may be able to chat up a friendly local family and convince them to feed you and put you up. Most visitors come in for the day from nearby Koh Kong, the capital of Koh Kong Province, just to the northwest.
Apart from the village, the highlight of Koh Kapi is a fishing expedition aboard a long-tail boat. You can also go trekking in the sanctuary and try to catch a glimpse of some of the diverse wildlife, including monkeys, lizards and deer.
A longer trip to Koh Kapi include a visit toBotum Sakor National Park, which is farther south and feature excellent hiking, beaches, and even some tourist facilities.
Getting There
Boats take about 30 minutes to get to Koh Kapi from Koh Kong. You can also come in from Sihanoukville but it is a lot further. By bus from Phnom Penh takes 2 to 3 hours.
Need to Know
- What is It: A picturesque water village in Peam Krasaop Wildlife Sanctuary.
- When to Go: Year round, but preferably the dry season.
- Nearest Town: Koh Kapi is about 10 miles south of Koh Kong town.
- Opening hours: 24 hours daily
- Entrance fees: There is a charge for the sanctuary.