Community Eco-Tourism in Cambodia: 8 Villages Where Tourism Saves Forests

Cambodia's community-based ecotourism (CBET) movement is one of Southeast Asia's most inspiring conservation success stories. Across the country, villages that once relied on logging and poaching have transformed into thriving eco-tourism destinations where visitors' dollars directly protect forests and wildlife.

1. Chi Phat — The Model That Works

Tucked deep in the Cardamom Mountains of Koh Kong province, Chi Phat was once Cambodia's most notorious poaching village. Logging and wildlife trafficking funded the community until Wildlife Alliance helped establish a CBET project that transformed the local economy.

Today, former hunters lead multi-day treks through pristine rainforest, spotting hornbills and hearing gibbons at dawn. Activities include mountain biking along jungle trails, kayaking the Preak Piphot River, and overnight camping at remote waterfalls. Homestays provide authentic immersion in rural Khmer life.

The numbers tell the story: poaching incidents dropped 75% after tourism revenue exceeded income from wildlife trafficking. The community now protects 700 square kilometers of critical Cardamom habitat.

2. Tmatboey — Birdwatching for Conservation

In the dry forests of Preah Vihear province, the small community of Tmatboey protects habitat for the giant ibis and white-shouldered ibis — two of the world's rarest birds. The village receives conservation payments only when birds are spotted, creating powerful incentives to protect habitat.

Birders pay $30–50 per night for basic accommodation and expert local guides who know every nesting site. The thrill of spotting a giant ibis — a species with fewer than 300 individuals remaining — is unforgettable for birders. Non-birders enjoy the pristine landscape and genuine hospitality.

3. Chambok — Accessible Eco-Tourism

Just two hours from Phnom Penh in Kampong Speu province, Chambok offers the most accessible CBET experience. A beautiful waterfall cascading through community-protected forest is the centerpiece, with ox-cart rides, traditional cooking classes, and easy forest walks rounding out the experience.

Chambok is ideal for families or travelers with limited time who want a taste of community tourism without multi-day jungle treks. Day trips from Phnom Penh cost around $15–25 per person.

4. Jahoo Gibbon Camp — Ratanakiri

Deep in the northeastern highlands, Jahoo offers overnight stays in a jungle camp run by the indigenous Kreung community. The primary draw is dawn treks to hear and spot yellow-cheeked crested gibbons — one of the world's most endangered primates.

The experience goes beyond wildlife: Kreung guides share traditional knowledge about medicinal plants, forest foods, and their spiritual connection to the land. The remoteness is part of the appeal — reaching Jahoo requires a full day's travel from Siem Reap or Phnom Penh.

5. Osoam — Cardamom Community

A small community in the northern Cardamom Mountains offering boat trips to spot Siamese crocodiles — a critically endangered species with fewer than 250 adults remaining in the wild. The community patrols crocodile nesting sites and receives conservation payments for protecting them.

6. Stung Treng Ramsar Wetlands

The Mekong River near Stung Treng hosts flooded forest ecosystems classified as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. Community boat tours navigate through inundated forests during wet season, with Irrawaddy dolphin sightings possible in the dry season confluence area.

7. Prey Lang Community Forest

Prey Lang is Cambodia's largest lowland evergreen forest — and one of the most threatened. Community patrols (the Prey Lang Community Network) protect 500,000 hectares of forest through active monitoring. Visitors can join patrol treks, learning about both the ecosystem and the challenges of grassroots conservation.

8. Koh Phdao — Mekong Island Life

A tranquil island in the Mekong near Stung Treng, Koh Phdao offers homestays with fishing families. Activities include dolphin spotting, weaving demonstrations, and cycling through rural villages untouched by mass tourism. The island embodies the gentle pace of Mekong life.

How to Choose a CBET Experience

• Adventure seekers: Chi Phat (multi-day treks, kayaking, mountain biking)
• Birders: Tmatboey (giant ibis), Prek Toal (waterbird colonies)
• Families/short trips: Chambok (easy access, gentle activities)
• Wildlife enthusiasts: Jahoo (gibbons), Osoam (crocodiles)
• Cultural immersion: Koh Phdao (Mekong island homestay)

Practical Tips for CBET Visits

• Bring cash — no CBET sites have ATMs or accept cards
• Pack a headlamp, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes
• Dress modestly and ask before photographing people
• Try the home-cooked meals — they're often the highlight
• Be patient with basic facilities — you're funding conservation, not luxury
• Leave positive reviews online — they help attract future visitors