Green Cathedral Kayaking Journey and Reflection River View

About This Crawl

The Green Cathedral is a stretch of the Kampot River where mangrove trees arch completely over the water, creating a natural tunnel. This kayaking tour takes you through it and along the quieter stretches of river where the only sound is your paddle. At $26 with transport, kayak, guide, and a drink included, it is well priced for three hours on the water.

What to Expect

Transport from your hotel to the launch point takes about 20 minutes. From there you kayak downstream through the mangrove tunnel. The Green Cathedral section is the highlight. The water is calm (this is river kayaking, not sea) and the overhanging trees block most of the sun. Your guide paddles alongside and points out wildlife. After the cathedral section you continue along the river with stops for photographs. The return journey is upstream but the current is gentle enough that it does not feel like hard work. Total water time is about two hours. A fresh coconut or beer is included at the end.

Who It's For

Anyone who wants a morning or afternoon on the water without the intensity of rapids or open sea. No kayaking experience needed.

Tips

• Morning trips have calmer water and better light for photographs.
• Waterproof your phone. You will want photographs but the kayak can rock.
• Wear quick-dry clothing. You will get splashed.
• Life jackets are provided and worn throughout.

Verdict

The best activity in Kampot after the pepper farms. The 4.8 from 147 reviews reflects a consistent, well-run operation.