How to Trek the Cardamom Mountains
The Cardamom Mountains are one of Southeast Asia's last great wilderness areas — over 20,000 km² of pristine rainforest, home to elephants, sun bears, clouded leopards, and over 60 threatened species. Trekking here is a genuine adventure.
How do I Trek the Cardamom Mountains?
Base yourself in Chi Phat (community ecotourism hub). 2-day treks from $45/day including guide, meals, and hammock camping. Book through Chi Phat CBET center. Best season: November–April (dry). Moderate fitness required — jungle terrain, river crossings, heat.
Get to Chi Phat
Chi Phat is the main gateway. From Phnom Penh: bus to Andoung Tuek (4 hours, $7), then boat up the Preak Piphot river (1.5 hours, $8). From Sihanoukville: bus to Andoung Tuek (2 hours, $5).
💡 The river boat ride to Chi Phat is an adventure in itself — beautiful and remote.
Book at the CBET office
The Community-Based Ecotourism center in Chi Phat village arranges all treks. Choose 1-day ($25), 2-day ($45/day), or multi-day options. All include guide, meals, and equipment.
Choose your route
Waterfall trek (1 day, easy): jungle hike to a beautiful cascade. Mountain trek (2 days, moderate): overnight camping at a ranger station. Multi-day expedition (3–5 days, challenging): deep jungle with wildlife spotting.
Prepare physically and mentally
Even short treks involve heat, humidity, river crossings, and uneven terrain. Leeches are common in wet season. Bring hiking boots, long pants, insect repellent with DEET, and a positive attitude.
Trek with former poachers
Your guides are former poachers who now protect the forest. Their knowledge of the jungle is extraordinary. They spot wildlife, identify medicinal plants, and cook wild Cambodian meals over campfires.
💡 Tip your guide generously ($5–$10/day) — this income is what makes conservation economically viable for the community.
💰 Costs
| River boat to Chi Phat | $8 |
| 1-day waterfall trek | $25 |
| 2-day mountain trek (per day) | $45 |
| Hammock rental | $3 |
| Mountain bike rental | $7/day |
💡 Tips
- • Leech socks or tucking pants into socks prevents bites in wet season.
- • Waterproof bags are essential — river crossings are waist-deep.
- • Pack a headlamp — jungle camps have no electricity.
- • The community homestay in Chi Phat ($5/night) is a great pre-trek experience.
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