Kratie's River Treasures: Seeing the Irrawaddy Dolphins

A rare Irrawaddy dolphin, known locally as "Ph'sout," surfacing in Kampi.

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Location

Kampi Dolphin Pool, Mekong River (15km north of Kratie town).

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Boat Price

$9 USD per person (Standard rate for foreigners, includes 1 hour boat).

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Best Time

Late afternoon (3:30 PM - 5:30 PM) for the best light and activity.

The sleepy riverside province of Kratie is the guardian of one of Cambodia's most precious treasures: the critically endangered Irrawaddy dolphin. Unlike their oceanic cousins, these freshwater dolphins have rounded heads and no beak. Seeing them break the surface of the mighty Mekong is a bucket-list experience for nature lovers.

The Boat Experience

Into the Kampi Pool

The viewing area is located at the Kampi Dolphin Pool, a naturally deep section of the river where the dolphins congregate during the dry season. You will board a small wooden motorboat driven by a local boatman.

Once you reach the middle of the river, the driver will cut the engine. Then, the waiting game begins. In the silence of the river, you listen for the "puff" of air as they surface. It is a peaceful, almost meditative experience.

Conservation is Key

The Irrawaddy dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris) is critically endangered, with less than 100 estimated to remain in this stretch of the Mekong. The ticket fee you pay directly supports the local community and river guards, giving them an incentive to protect the dolphins rather than fish in these protected zones.

Don't Forget the Snack!

Famous Kratie Kralan

You cannot visit Kratie without trying Kralan (Bamboo Sticky Rice). The village of Thma Kreae, right next to the dolphin site, is famous for making the best Kralan in Cambodia. It is sweet, salty, and rich with coconut milk—the perfect snack for your tuk-tuk ride back to town.