Kampot: Hidden Omal Waterfalls Trek with Meal & Pickup

Kampot: Hidden Omal Waterfalls Trek with Meal & Pickup offers a chance to explore Cambodia’s lesser-known natural beauty. For $55 per person, you’ll spend around six hours experiencing mountain trails, waterfalls, local villages, and a refreshing swim. The tour is led by Pawel, a knowledgeable guide, who takes care of transportation and guides you through this authentic adventure.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to trek through untouched landscapes while discovering local life and enjoying a swim in pristine natural pools. The scenic mountain trails are a highlight, offering stunning views that make the effort worthwhile. Another plus is the intimate setting — with a maximum group size of just three people, it feels personalized and relaxed.

A potential consideration is the physical demand — be prepared for about two hours of walking and exploring, which might be too strenuous for some travelers, especially children under 8 or those with mobility issues. This experience is best suited for active travelers eager for off-the-beaten-path adventure and authentic encounters away from busy tourist spots.

This tour appeals especially to those who treasure natural scenery and local culture, and who want a more personal, in-depth experience of Cambodia’s countryside. If you’re looking for a genuine, small-group adventure with plenty of opportunity for photos and swimming, this trek fits the bill.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: Trek through scenic mountain trails and discover local village life.
• Natural beauty: Swim in natural pools at cascading waterfalls, each with its own charm.
• Guided insight: Led by a knowledgeable guide, Pawel, who helps you explore hidden spots.
• Customizable group size: Small groups (up to 3) for a personalized experience.
• Physical activity: About 2 hours of trekking, suitable for active travelers.
• Value for money: Includes pickup, meal, water, and guided exploration for $55.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Kampot’s Hidden Waterfalls: An In-Depth Review

When you think of Cambodia, images of Angkor Wat and bustling Phnom Penh might come to mind. But just outside Kampot, there’s a quieter side — the Omal Waterfalls, a set of three cascading levels deep in the jungle that are surprisingly untouched by mass tourism. This tour gives you a chance to see those waterfalls up close, combined with a walk through traditional villages and fruit plantations.

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transportation

One of the standout features of this tour is its flexibility in transportation. For solo travelers or small groups, the pickup is by motorbike, which offers a breezy, authentic Cambodian experience from the start, giving a glimpse of local life. For larger groups, a tuk-tuk takes over, making the ride more comfortable. The pickup from Krong Kampot usually takes around 25 minutes, setting the tone for a relaxed morning.

This initial ride through the countryside gives a sense of the rural landscape — lush, green, with glimpses of daily life away from tourist-heavy zones. It’s a reminder that this is more than just a trek; it’s a cultural encounter.

The Trek: Scenic Trails and Village Discoveries

Once the journey reaches the trailhead, the real fun begins. The walk through the mountain trails lasts about an hour, taking you through untouched scenery that’s hard to find elsewhere. Expect breathtaking views of rolling hills, dense forests, and the occasional glimpse of local fruit plantations, which Pawel, your guide, is eager to point out.

The discovery of local village life is a highlight. You’ll pass by small houses and farmers tending to their crops, giving you a genuine sense of how people live in this part of Cambodia. Pawel’s insights into their daily challenges add an educational layer to the experience, making it more than just a walk.

Reaching the Waterfalls: Three Levels of Natural Wonder

The waterfalls themselves are the core of this experience. Each of the three cascading levels is hidden deep in the jungle, accessible only via this trek. They’re not the big, commercialized falls you might see elsewhere; instead, they’re raw, natural, and tranquil. The first level is a series of gentle cascades perfect for a quick splash, while the second and third levels boast larger pools and more picturesque settings.

What makes these waterfalls special is their seclusion. We loved the way they are still relatively undiscovered. The natural pools invite you for a refreshing swim — we found the water surprisingly cool and invigorating. It’s a perfect spot to relax amid the lush sounds of the jungle.

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Lunch and Rest: Refueling in the Wild

After swimming and relaxing, the tour offers a meal — a simple yet satisfying Cambodian-style lunch that keeps you energized for the walk back. Pawel ensures plenty of drinking water is available, which is essential given the physical activity and humidity. Many reviewers mention that the meal and water add great value, turning a physically demanding trek into a comfortable adventure.

The Return: Scenic Stops and Wildlife Viewing

On the way back, there’s a photo stop to capture the stunning views and a chance to spot local wildlife — perhaps a bird or a monkey. Pawel’s guidance helps you spot details you might otherwise overlook, making the return leg equally engaging. The walk back takes about an hour, ending with a short tuk-tuk ride for about 30 minutes before returning to Kampot.

Authentic and Personal: Why It’s a Great Choice

What makes this tour stand out is its small group size. With only a few participants, you get a tailored experience. You’ll have plenty of time for questions, photos, and soaking in the scenery without feeling rushed. It’s clear Pawel is passionate about sharing his knowledge of the area, which adds depth to the journey.

Authenticity and Value

At $55, this tour delivers excellent value. It includes pickup, a guided trek, a meal, water, and plenty of opportunities for swimming and photography. Compared to typical day trips, it offers a more personal and unfiltered look at Cambodia’s rural life and untouched nature.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy hiking, nature, and off-the-beaten-path discoveries. It’s especially suited for those prepared for some physical activity, as the trek involves about two hours of walking. The small group setting is ideal for travelers who want a more intimate experience with a knowledgeable guide.

FAQs

• How long is the trek?
  About two hours of walking, including exploration of the waterfalls and village areas.

• What should I bring?
  Comfortable shoes, swimwear, plenty of water, and insect repellent are recommended.

• Is it suitable for children?
  Not for children under 8 years due to the physical demands and terrain.

• What is the group size?
  The maximum group size is three people, ensuring a personalized experience.

• How is transportation arranged?
  Solo travelers are picked up by motorbike; larger groups use a tuk-tuk.

• Can I cancel?
  Yes, with full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

• Is a guide provided?
  Yes, Pawel guides you in English and Polish, sharing local insights throughout the trip.

• What’s the best time to do this tour?
  The availability varies, so check the schedule. Typically, dry season months are preferable.

• Are meals included?
  Yes, a Cambodian-style meal is part of the package, along with drinking water.

• Is there wildlife viewing?
  Yes, during the return walk, you might spot local wildlife or birds.

Final Thoughts

For anyone craving a genuine escape from Cambodia’s busier tourist sites, this trek to the Omal Waterfalls offers an authentic look at lush scenery and local life. The combination of scenic hiking, refreshing swimming, and personal storytelling from Pawel makes it more than just a walk — it’s a memorable adventure.

While it demands a bit of physical effort, the payoff is a chance to see undiscovered waterfalls and learn about rural Cambodia firsthand. The small-group format means you won’t feel like just another face in a crowd, making for a more relaxed and enriching experience.

If you’re someone who loves natural beauty, authentic encounters, and a touch of adventure, this tour is likely to be right up your alley. It’s perfect for travelers who value quality over quantity and want a story to tell long after they leave Kampot.

In short, this journey to the Omal Waterfalls with Pawel offers a compelling blend of nature, culture, and adventure, suitable for those looking for a meaningful day outside the usual tourist trail.

You can check availability for your dates here: