Cambodia

Sothy’s pepper farm is one of the organic farms producing some of the finest Kampot pepper. Located 20 kilometers from the town of Kep, the farm offers free guided tours through its many plantations. A spicy adventure awaits at Sothy’s farm, where you can taste Kampot pepper specialties.

History

Sothy’s pepper farm began its activities on March 11, 2013. From that date, Sorn Sothy has managed the farm and continues to do so today. In 2011, another field was added to the farm, and a third was created in September 2013.

Visiting the farm

The Kampot region includes a pepper production zone covering its six districts, including Kep. Thanks to its geographic location, Kampot enjoys the best climate to produce high-quality pepper. With good weather year-round, sea breezes, and fertile soil—especially in the rainy season—pepper production improves and increases every year.

Kampot will surprise you with the stunning beauty of its agricultural landscapes, with palm trees reflected in the rice fields at sunset, fruit trees, and majestic pepper vines. Sothy’s farm is a must-see destination, offering walks through the pepper fields and helping each visitor learn to appreciate the delicacy of this famous spice while also promoting environmental preservation.

Description

Sothy, of Khmer origin, is the owner of the farm that bears her name. She will prepare her best dishes for you during your visit. Sothy’s farm spans 3 hectares and has four pepper fields. Dozens of fruit trees—mango, durian, rambutan, jackfruit—enhance the scenery of this beautiful farm. During your visit, you may get the chance to taste these tropical fruits.

The name Kampot Pepper is also the first Cambodian product to receive a protected geographical indication (PGI) recognized by the World Trade Organization. In total, the main field contains around 200 pepper vines; the other fields do not yet have the same number. The farm produces an average of 250 kg of red, black, and white pepper.

How does pepper grow?

During your visit, guides will give you some lessons on how to plant this famous spice and everything there is to know about its care. At Sothy’s farm, you’ll learn that a pepper field is made up of several aligned plants, each supported by a wooden post. The post supports the pepper vine, which climbs upward. Right next to the fields, you’ll see palm trees that protect the pepper plants from the scorching sun.

It takes five years for a pepper vine to produce. After the rainy season, starting in August, the stems appear, and between September and October, the vine will flower and the grains will follow, continuing to develop until December. The grains start to swell in January and February, and harvesting begins in March and continues until May. Sothy’s farm produces three types of pepper: black (the strongest), red (the fruitiest), and white (with a subtle aroma). To learn more about these different flavors, the farm restaurant will warmly welcome you to taste delicious pepper dishes.

A walk through the fields

As the farm welcomes many visitors each year, it offers guided tours with experienced and multilingual guides. With their warm smiles, they will provide you with all the necessary information about pepper production and the farm’s activities. The visit lasts about 45 minutes, and visitors will get to taste Khmer specialties made with pepper. A delightful tasting experience! You’ll then visit the small shop located just behind the restaurant.

Contribution to environmental preservation

Sothy’s farm is an active member of the “Kampot Pepper Promotion Association.” This producers’ association follows EcoCert guidelines. As a result, the farm produces strictly organic pepper. To obtain organic products, workers use a mixture made from strongly scented leaves and seeds to eliminate insects. The farm also uses no chemical fertilizers—bat droppings serve as fertilizer for the pepper plants. Continuing its environmental and ecological approach, the farm uses renewable energy sources through solar panels and a wind turbine.

How to get there?

To reach Sothy’s farm, you must first go to Kep by tuk-tuk. The ride takes only 20 minutes and costs $15. You’ll take National Road 33 heading east. When you reach Kampot, large signs will indicate the entrance to a cluster of pepper plantations. About three and a half kilometers farther, you’ll arrive at Sothy’s farm.

Opening hours

If you visit the farm early in the morning, you’ll have the chance to watch the workers harvesting. The harvest takes place between 7 :00 and 9 :00 a.m.