Plizio Visual Lab
Sothy's Pepper Farm
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Agriculture
Weather…
Water temperature…
Sothy's Pepper Farm in Kampot Province is one of the most prestigious plantations producing the world-renowned Kampot pepper, which achieved Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status in 2010. Managed since 2013 by the Cambodian-German couple Sothy and Norbert, the farm adheres to strict organic agricultural principles without the use of chemical aids. The geographical conditions between the Elephant Mountains and the Gulf of Thailand provide convenient mineral-rich soil and a climate that grants the pepper its unique, aromatic flavor profile. The farm harvests and sun-dries the four primary varieties: black, red, white, and green pepper. Each variety originates from the same plant, Piper nigrum, and differs only in harvest timing and processing techniques. Beyond production, the plantation serves as an educational center, enlightening visitors on the intricate processes of pepper cultivation. Sothy's emphasizes sustainability by utilizing solar energy and fostering fair labor conditions for local employees from surrounding villages.
- Location: Cambodia
- Top sights: Salt workers statue · New White Horse · White Horse
- Nearby: Kampot (18 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 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 29 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 23 | 18 | 53 | 104 | 197 | 299 | 323 | 276 | 330 | 218 | 113 | 44 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
Sothy's Pepper Farm is an eco-friendly agricultural attraction in Kep that educates visitors about traditional pepper cultivation and organic farming. It plays a vital role in preserving local heritage and supporting sustainable tourism in the region.
Visiting
The farm is generally open to the public, offering guided tours through the pepper fields and processing areas. Visitors can walk among the vines and observe the drying racks from close proximity.
Where to view it
From the farm's raised terrace, guests enjoy a panoramic view of the entire plantation. The surrounding hills also provide a distant perspective of the lush green fields.
Local products
The primary product is Kampot pepper, available in black, white, and red varieties, often sold directly at the farm. Visitors can also purchase pepper-based condiments and fresh seasonal fruits.
Active season
The farm is most active during the pepper harvest season, typically from January to April, when processing is at its peak. During this period, guests can witness the entire harvest and drying process.
Nearby
Combine a visit to the farm with the Kep Crab Market and Kep National Park for a diverse coastal experience. The nearby Rabbit Island gives beaches and seafood, making a well-suited day trip.
Geography
Facts
- Kampot pepper was the first Cambodian product to receive PGI status in 2010.
- Sothy's Farm uses only natural fertilizers, such as locally sourced bat guano.
- Pepper plants require three years of growth before yielding their first harvest.
- Black pepper is harvested when the berries begin to turn from green to yellow.
- Red pepper is produced from fully ripened, bright red peppercorn berries.
- The entire farm operation is powered by a self-sufficient solar energy system.
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 Sothy's Pepper Farm (7)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is Sothy's Pepper Farm located?
In the Kep/Kampot region, about 20-30 minutes drive from Kep.
Is there a fee for visiting the farm?
Small groups can usually visit for free, with guided tours being donation-based.
What do you learn during a tour?
Everything about the cultivation, harvesting, and drying process of Kampot pepper.
Is there a shop on the farm?
Yes, you can buy certified Kampot pepper in various package sizes.
When is the pepper harvested?
The main harvest season is between February and May.
Sothy's Pepper Farm: where is it located?
Sothy's Pepper Farm is located in Cambodia.
Sothy's Pepper Farm: what is there to see?
Highlights include Salt workers statue, New White Horse, White Horse.
Sothy's Pepper Farm: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Sothy's Pepper Farm: why is it worth visiting?
Sothy's Pepper Farm in Kampot Province is one of the most prestigious plantations producing the world-renowned Kampot pepper, which achieved Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status in 2010.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Cambodia →
Nearby cities
Kep
Once Cambodia's most glamorous seaside resort for the elite, Kep is now famous for its relaxed atmosphere and legendary crab market.
Koh Tonsay
Better known as 'Rabbit Island', this is a small, tranquil island located just off the coast of Kep.
Hà Tiên
A scenic coastal and border town near Cambodia, known for its limestone caves and beaches.
Kampot
Picturesquely situated on a river near the coast, Kampot is world-renowned for its premium pepper and relaxed atmosphere.
Kampong Speu
Located west of the capital, this provincial city is famous for its production of palm sugar, a traditional Cambodian sweetener.
Phu Quoc
Vietnam's largest island, a tropical paradise featuring white sand beaches, luxury resorts, and a rich fishing heritage.
Phú Quốc
Vietnam's largest island, a tropical paradise in the Gulf of Thailand featuring white sand beaches and world-class resorts.
Takeo
Takeo is considered the cradle of Cambodian civilization, featuring ancient archaeological sites and a strong silk-weaving tradition.
Kampong Chhnang
Known as the 'Port of Pottery', this town on the Tonle Sap lake is famous for manufacturing traditional Cambodian clay pots.
🗺️
Koh Thmei
An unspoiled island located within Ream National Park, known for its wildlife and mangrove forests.
Kaev Phos
A quiet coastal town in Cambodia, ideal for travelers seeking undiscovered beaches and local peace.
Tonle Sap
Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake is famous for its floating villages and the unique annual reversal of its river flow.
Pursat
Nestled between the Tonle Sap lake and the Cardamom Mountains, Pursat is a quiet agricultural center renowned for its marble carvings.
Ta Khmau
The capital of Kandal province is located just south of Phnom Penh and is heavily integrated into the capital's metropolitan region.
History & landmarks
Nature
More places
Kep National Park
A forested hill park right on the coast offering fantastic panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand and neighboring Vietnam.
La Plantation Kampot Pepper Farm
An agricultural project dedicated to the sustainable cultivation of the world-famous Kampot pepper.
🗺️
Kampot Cement Plant
A large cement plant supplying the country's construction boom with locally produced building materials.
🗺️
Chakrey Ting Cement Factory
One of the oldest and largest cement factories in Cambodia, instrumental in infrastructure development.
Kampot Salt Fields
The expansive salt fields of Kampot are of great importance to Cambodian salt production.
Kampot Seaport
A newer seaport designed to support the growing maritime trade in the south of the country.
Kamchay Dam
The country's first major hydropower plant, financed by Chinese investments, in the Kampot area.
Dâmrei Mountains
A mountain range in southern Cambodia, historically known for its pepper cultivation.