Overview
Cambodia is a hidden gem for birdwatchers, hosting over 600 species across diverse habitats from the vast Tonle Sap floodplains to remote highland forests. The country is home to critically endangered species found nowhere else, including the Giant Ibis—Cambodia's national bird.
Conservation efforts through community-based ecotourism have made Cambodia one of the best places in Southeast Asia to observe rare waterbirds, grassland specialists, and forest species. The dry season concentrates birds at reliable sites, making sightings highly predictable.
600+
Species recorded
10+
Key birding sites
$60-200
Per day (with guide)
Nov - May
Best season
Best Birdwatching Sites
From flooded forest sanctuaries to remote northern grasslands, Cambodia's birdwatching sites offer unique experiences and species assemblages.
| Location | Region | Highlights | Best Time | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary | Tonle Sap | Largest waterbird colony in Southeast Asia, rare storks | Dec - May | |
| Tmatboey | Preah Vihear | Giant Ibis, White-shouldered Ibis | Nov - Apr | |
| Ang Trapeang Thmor | Banteay Meanchey | Sarus Crane, Bengal Florican | Dec - Mar | |
| Mondulkiri | Eastern Highlands | Forest birds, hornbills, vultures | Nov - Mar | |
| Bokor National Park | Kampot | Highland species, rare endemics | Oct - Apr |
Top Pick: Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary
Species to Spot
Cambodia hosts several globally threatened species that attract birders from around the world. Here are the most sought-after species and where to find them.
| Species | Conservation Status | Best Site | Rarity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Giant Ibis | Critically Endangered | Tmatboey | Very Rare |
| White-shouldered Ibis | Critically Endangered | Tmatboey | Rare |
| Sarus Crane | Vulnerable | Ang Trapeang Thmor | Uncommon |
| Painted Stork | Near Threatened | Prek Toal | Common |
| Greater Adjutant | Endangered | Prek Toal | Uncommon |
| Bengal Florican | Critically Endangered | Ang Trapeang Thmor | Very Rare |
| Oriental Darter | Near Threatened | Prek Toal | Common |
| Black-necked Stork | Near Threatened | Tonle Sap | Uncommon |
Conservation Note
Tours & Guides
Expert guides are essential for finding rare species and accessing protected sites. These operators specialize in birdwatching tourism.
| Operator | Specialty | Tours | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sam Veasna Center | Premium birding tours | Multi-day expeditions to all major sites | From $150/day |
| Cambodia Bird Guide Association | Community-based tourism | Tmatboey, Prek Toal, local sites | From $80/day |
| Osmose | Prek Toal specialists | Tonle Sap boat tours | From $60/person |
| Wild Cambodia | Wildlife photography | Custom birding itineraries | From $200/day |
What to Bring
Essential Equipment
- • Binoculars (8x42 or 10x42)
- • Field guide to SE Asian birds
- • Hat and sun protection
- • Insect repellent
- • Water and snacks
- • Neutral-colored clothing
For Photography
- • Telephoto lens (400mm+)
- • Tripod or monopod
- • Extra batteries and cards
- • Camera rain cover
- • Camouflage or neutral clothing
- • Patience and silence!
Frequently Asked Questions
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