Popokvil Waterfall Bokor National Park
Cascading waterfall in Bokor National Park, offering scenic trails and panoramic views, especially vibrant after rain.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Waterfall flows powerfully
Popokvil Waterfall Bokor National Park
Best Time
Waterfall flows powerfully
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cascading waterfall in Bokor National Park, offering scenic trails and panoramic views, especially vibrant after rain.
"The waterfall views were truly spectacular, even if swimming wasn't possible. "
🥾 Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be slippery, especially after rain. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring.
💧 Bring your own water
While a water bottle is often included, having extra is wise for hikes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Popokvil Waterfall Cascade
Bokor National Park
Witness the impressive cascade, especially vibrant after rainfall. Swimming is prohibited due to strong currents.
Scenic Hiking Trails
Surrounding the waterfall
Explore various trails offering different perspectives of the falls and the lush national park.
Bokor National Park Views
Bokor National Park
Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the mountain's summit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Views
Entry Fees and What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be slippery, especially after rain. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring. +1
💧 Bring your own water
While a water bottle is often included, having extra is wise for hikes. +1
🚫 No swimming allowed
Strong currents make swimming dangerous. Respect the signs and safety warnings.
🧺 Pack a picnic
Enjoy a scenic meal with your own food, as restaurant options can vary.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be slippery, especially after rain. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring. +1
💧 Bring your own water
While a water bottle is often included, having extra is wise for hikes. +1
🚫 No swimming allowed
Strong currents make swimming dangerous. Respect the signs and safety warnings.
🧺 Pack a picnic
Enjoy a scenic meal with your own food, as restaurant options can vary.
🛵 Scooter adventure
Consider a scooter for exploring Bokor National Park and reaching the waterfall.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Popokvil Waterfall to be a scenic natural attraction, particularly impressive after rainfall. While the small entrance fee is generally accepted, the prohibition of swimming due to safety concerns is a common point of clarification. Some find the waterfall underwhelming in the dry season and suggest bringing your own food for a picnic.
"Upon checking the reviews on Google Maps, we initially thought we could swim here. We paid 2000 riel, or $0.50, but could only view the waterfall, as swimming was not possible due to the strong current. We asked the staff if swimming was ever allowed, and they informed us that it is prohibited in all seasons due to numerous deaths. They should have made this clear beforehand. Additionally, they shouldn’t charge for access, as it’s a natural site. If swimming were permitted, a fee would be justified for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene. Nevertheless, the waterfall views were truly spectacular."
Oscar Riley
"Visited after some heavy rain showers in the preceding days meaning that the waterfall was flowing well. No obvious ways to get to the bottom but from the top you can see the power of the river.
There is a small entrance fee of 2000 Riel but that includes a small bottle of water. There is also a restaurant on site"
Olly Standen
"I would recommend going there for a clean toilet
Entry was 2,000 rial/ 0.5 USD, with a complementary small bottle of water
For the waterfall itself we didn’t manage to climb down because of the bad weather so I can’t speak for all. The river is okay and has signs saying ‘don’t visit the waterfalls’ apparently 😂😂😂😂"
Julianne Chin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to reach Popokvil Waterfall is by scooter or car, which offers a scenic drive up Bokor Mountain. Many visitors take a day trip from Kampot, combining the waterfall with other attractions in Bokor National Park.
The roads leading up to Bokor National Park have been significantly improved, making them generally accessible for cars and scooters. However, always check local conditions, especially after heavy rain.
Yes, you can hire taxis or tuk-tuks from Kampot. Negotiate the price beforehand, and ensure they are comfortable with the mountain roads.
Many visitors rent scooters for flexibility, allowing them to stop at various points of interest, including the waterfall, abandoned buildings, and viewpoints. Guided tours are also available.
The drive from Kampot to Popokvil Waterfall can take approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your mode of transport and road conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically around 2,000 Riel (approximately $0.50 USD) per person. This fee often includes a small complimentary bottle of water.
While the main entrance fee is clearly stated, it's always good to confirm what is included. Some visitors have noted that the fee is for viewing only, not for swimming.
Popokvil Waterfall is located within Bokor National Park. While specific pass details can vary, it's advisable to check with park authorities or your tour operator if you have a national park pass.
The waterfall is generally accessible during daylight hours as part of Bokor National Park. It's best to visit during park operating hours.
The entrance fee is usually fixed, but it's always worth confirming. The fee is quite low, and it contributes to the upkeep of the park. +1
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
No, swimming is strictly prohibited at Popokvil Waterfall due to strong currents and safety concerns. Several incidents have occurred in the past.
Visiting after heavy rains will provide the most impressive flow. For a more relaxed experience and better hiking conditions, consider visiting in the morning during the dry season.
Yes, there are several trails of varying difficulty that allow you to explore the area around the waterfall and enjoy the natural scenery. +1
There is a restaurant on-site, and ample parking is available. Some visitors recommend bringing your own food for a picnic. +1
While the waterfall itself is beautiful, the prohibition of swimming and potentially slippery trails mean it's best for families with older children who can navigate the terrain safely.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Look for vantage points along the hiking trails that offer clear views of the cascade. Capturing the scale of the waterfall, especially after rain, is highly recommended. +1
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing your photographic opportunities. However, the dramatic flow after rain is often the main draw.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the grandeur of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape. Consider a polarizing filter to manage reflections on the water.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or park management before flying a drone in Bokor National Park.
Use a slower shutter speed to create a silky smooth effect on the water, conveying its power and movement. Ensure your camera is protected from any spray.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers & Hikers
Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as facilities can be limited outside the main waterfall area. 📸 Photographers
Early morning or late afternoon light can provide softer, more dramatic lighting conditions. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Bokor National Park
The drive up the mountain itself is an experience, with winding roads offering increasingly spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and the Gulf of Thailand. Many visitors combine a visit to the waterfall with exploring these historical sites, making it a comprehensive day trip. Key attractions within Bokor National Park include:
* Popokvil Waterfall: The main natural draw, especially after rainfall.
* Abandoned French Colonial Buildings: A hauntingly beautiful collection of structures from the colonial era.
* Lok Yeay Mao Statue: A significant religious site offering panoramic views.
* Scenic Viewpoints: Numerous spots along the road provide breathtaking vistas.
Exploring Bokor National Park is often done via scooter or car, allowing for flexibility in visiting multiple sites. The park's elevation means it's often cooler than the surrounding lowlands, providing a welcome respite.
Understanding Popokvil Waterfall's Flow
However, after periods of heavy rain, the waterfall transforms into a powerful cascade, showcasing the raw force of nature. It's crucial to understand that swimming is strictly prohibited at Popokvil Waterfall. This is not just a seasonal restriction but a permanent safety measure due to the strong and unpredictable currents, which have unfortunately led to fatalities in the past.
For those interested in photography, capturing the waterfall's power after rain can be incredibly rewarding. Using a tripod and a slower shutter speed can create a beautiful 'silky' effect on the water, emphasizing its flow.
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