Plizio Visual Lab
Kampi Dolphin Habitat
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
wildlife-area
Weather…
Water temperature…
Kampi Dolphin Habitat is one of the premier locations in the world to observe the rare Irrawaddy dolphins in their natural Mekong River environment. Located approximately 15 kilometers north of Kratie town, the sanctuary is famous for its deep pools where these mammals congregate, especially during the dry season when water levels are low. Irrawaddy dolphins are characterized by their rounded foreheads and lack of a prominent beak, giving them a distinct and gentle appearance. In Cambodia, the species is listed as critically endangered, with estimates suggesting fewer than 100 individuals remain in the Mekong. The Cambodian government and international organizations like the WWF work together to protect the habitat by banning gillnets and promoting sustainable ecotourism. Visitors can hire small boats piloted by local experts to quietly observe the dolphins surfacing for air. The site is particularly remarkable at sunset, offering a serene backdrop for wildlife viewing. Kampi serves as both a major tourist draw and a critical site for the ongoing battle to preserve the biodiversity of the Mekong river system.
- Location: Cambodia
- Top sights: River Dolphins Viewing Boats · Mekong Rapids · Wat Phnom Sambok
- Nearby: Stung Treng (29 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 29 | 31 | 32 | 30 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 5 | 3 | 12 | 35 | 112 | 173 | 177 | 177 | 148 | 132 | 62 | 16 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
The dry season, typically from December to May, is widely considered the best time to visit the Mekong River for dolphin watching. The lower water levels during these months tend to concentrate the dolphins in deeper river pools.
Best time of day
Early morning and late afternoon are generally the most rewarding times to search for the Irrawaddy dolphins. The light is less harsh, and the dolphins are often more active at the surface during these cooler parts of the day.
Etiquette
Visitors should always rely on responsible local boat operators who maintain a safe distance from the dolphins. It is strictly forbidden to feed or swim with these endangered animals to ensure their protection and minimize stress.
What to bring
Bring a good camera with a zoom lens and polarized sunglasses to cut through the water's glare. Sunscreen and a hat are also strongly recommended, as there is often very little shade on the traditional wooden boats.
Getting there
The dolphin habitat is usually accessed via the town of Kratie in northeastern Cambodia. From the town center, visitors can generally hire a tuk-tuk or motorbike to reach the Kampi boat docks along the riverbank.
What to expect
Irrawaddy dolphins do not perform acrobatics and typically only surface briefly to breathe. Patience and a sharp eye on the calm waters are essential, as sightings are brief glimpses of a smooth dorsal fin rather than spectacular leaps.
Geography
Facts
- Key habitat for the rare Irrawaddy dolphin
- Estimated fewer than 100 individuals left in Mekong
- Located 15 km north of Kratie town
- Species lacks a beak and has a blunt forehead
- Protected through efforts by WWF and the government
- Best viewing season is from January to May
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Kampi Dolphin Habitat (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where can the dolphins be seen?
In Kampi on the Mekong River, about 15 km north of Kratie town.
What species of dolphin lives in Kampi?
These are the rare Irrawaddy dolphins.
How much does a boat tour cost?
Prices range from 7 to 10 USD per person, depending on the group size.
When is the best time of day for dolphin watching?
Early morning or late afternoon when it is cooler.
Is a dolphin sighting guaranteed?
There is no 100% guarantee, but chances are very high in Kampi.
Kampi Dolphin Habitat: where is it located?
Kampi Dolphin Habitat is located in Cambodia.
Kampi Dolphin Habitat: what is there to see?
Highlights include River Dolphins Viewing Boats, Mekong Rapids, Wat Phnom Sambok.
Kampi Dolphin Habitat: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Kampi Dolphin Habitat: why is it worth visiting?
Kampi Dolphin Habitat is one of the premier locations in the world to observe the rare Irrawaddy dolphins in their natural Mekong River environment.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Cambodia →
Nearby cities
Kratie
This relaxed town on the banks of the Mekong is the best destination in Cambodia to observe the rare Irrawaddy dolphins in the wild.
Snuol
Snuol is a vital trading hub in eastern Cambodia and a historically significant site of the Cambodian resistance.
Stung Treng
Located near the border with Laos, this northern town is an important transport hub where the Sekong, Sesan, and Mekong rivers converge.
Tây Ninh
The center of the Cao Đài religion, home to the colorful and ornate Cao Đài Holy See.
Don Khon
The quieter sister island of Don Det, known for historic French ruins and impressive waterfalls.
Si Phan Don (4000 Islands)
An idyllic archipelago in the Mekong River, famous for its thundering waterfalls and an extremely laid-back lifestyle.
Bavet
Bavet is the largest border town with Vietnam on the direct route from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City, experiencing rapid growth due to s…
Muang Khong
Muang Khong is the main town on the island of Don Khong in the 4000 Islands region.
Svay Rieng
Located at the 'Parrot's Beak' border area with Vietnam, Svay Rieng is a peaceful town situated on the winding Waiko River.
Suong
As the capital of the relatively newly created Tboung Khmum province, Suong is growing rapidly and serves as a vital trading hub for agri…
Kampong Cham
This peaceful city is located on the banks of the Mekong River and still exudes the charm of the French colonial era in a rural setting.
Champasak
Champasak is a historic town in southern Laos.
Vĩnh Long
A city in the heart of the Mekong Delta, surrounded by rivers and orchards.
Cao Lãnh
The capital of Đồng Tháp province, known for its lotus fields and nearby Tràm Chim National Park.
My Tho
My Tho is the gateway to the Mekong Delta, famous for its floating markets, lush fruit orchards, and the beautiful Vinh Trang Pagoda.
History & landmarks
Nature
Mekong River in Cambodia
The lifeblood of the country traverses Cambodia for about 500 kilometers, providing a habitat for the rare Irrawaddy dolphins.
Tonle Srepok
A mighty river flowing through the remote Mondulkiri province, forming dramatic waterfalls and deep gorges.
Tonle San River
The Tonle San River flows through northeastern Cambodia and continues into Vietnam.
More places
Mekong Valley
The fertile river valley that runs through Cambodia and supports the country's agriculture.
🗺️
Lower Sesan 2 Dam
A massive hydropower project that meets a significant portion of Cambodia's electricity needs.
Bavet Border Trade Hub
A bustling trade hub on the Vietnamese border, famous for casinos and cross-border exchange of goods.
🗺️
Xe Pian National Park
An extensive protected area in the far south, encompassing vast wetlands and dense forests, bordering Cambodia.
Củ Chi Tunnels
An immense network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War.
🗺️
Xe Pian National Protected Area
An extensive protected area with wetlands and forests, housing an immense diversity of bird species.
Oum Muong Temple
A remote and atmospheric Khmer ruin hidden in a forested area near the Mekong River in southern Laos.
Vat Phou
An ancient Khmer temple complex at the base of Mount Phu Kao, older than Angkor Wat.