Activities in Kratie — dolphins, Koh Trong and the Mekong
Activities in Kratie for expats — watching Irrawaddy dolphins at Kampi Pool, cycling on Koh Trong, Mekong sunsets and local excursions.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Reading
- 4 min
In 3 bullets
- Kampi Pool (15 km): the most accessible Irrawaddy dolphin watching site in the world — a rare and precious experience.
- Koh Trong (5 min by ferry): Mekong island to explore by bicycle, fishing villages, coconut plantations, timeless atmosphere.
- Mekong waterfront: exceptional sunsets from the Kratie promenade — one of the most beautiful river views in Cambodia.
Irrawaddy dolphins — Kampi Pool
15 km north of Kratie on the Mekong bank, Kampi Pool is the main site for observing Irrawaddy dolphins (Orcaella brevirostris) in the Cambodian Mekong.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Population | Fewer than 90 individuals — critically endangered species |
| Best period | Dry season (November–May) — low water, dolphins visible |
| Visit duration | 1–2h depending on sightings |
| Boat price | 10–20 USD/person (shared or private boat) |
| Access | Tuk-tuk from Kratie (8–12 USD return) or bicycle (45 min) |
Indicative 2025 rates — programme managed by local communities under WWF supervision.
Koh Trong — the Mekong island
5 min by ferry from the Kratie landing pier. Koh Trong is an alluvial Mekong island inhabited by fishermen and farmers. Best explored by bicycle in a full circuit of 1h30–2h.
Things to see and do on Koh Trong:
- Coconut plantations and fruit gardens.
- Traditional fishing village — ways of life little changed in decades.
- Local pagoda open to visitors.
- Sunset from the western bank of the island.
Mekong waterfront and local life
The Mekong promenade in Kratie is one of the most pleasant in Cambodia. Terrace cafés, golden sunsets over the river, evening market activity.
- Running: the promenade is ideal for morning runs (6–8am before the heat).
- Cycling: along the waterfront and towards villages to the north.
- Markets: the Kratie morning market (5am–8am) is authentic and barely touristy.
Colonial architecture
Kratie has several well-preserved French colonial buildings in the town centre, notably around the market and the Mekong waterfront. An architectural walk comparable to that of Battambang.
FAQ
Can you always see dolphins at Kampi?
Yes, but sightings are not guaranteed. The dry season (November–May) offers the best chances — low water concentrates the dolphins in the pools. During the rainy season, the river rises and the dolphins disperse, making sightings more difficult.
Is Koh Trong suitable for families with children?
Yes — the ferry crossing is a mini-adventure children enjoy, and the island is safe and flat, easy to explore by bicycle. Best visited in the morning before the heat.
Are there sporting activities in Kratie?
Options are limited. Swimming in the Mekong is not recommended (currents). Cycling, running on the promenade and light hikes towards the surrounding hills are the main sporting activities available.
Sources (2)
Every fact in this guide comes from official documents or government sites. An access date is recorded for each source.