Protected AreaKoh Kong / Pursat

Cardamom Mountains

The Cardamom Mountains contain the largest intact rainforest in mainland Southeast Asia, stretching across Koh Kong, Pursat, and Battambang Provinces. This ancient mountain range is a biodiversity hotspot of global significance, harboring some of Asia's rarest wildlife including elephants, clouded leopards, and Siamese crocodiles. Community-based ecotourism projects allow visitors to experience this wilderness while directly supporting conservation.

4,400 km²200–1,813mEst. 2002Varies by area — Chi Phat treks from $15/day; other areas via conservation groups

Highlights

✦Largest intact rainforest in mainland Southeast Asia
✦Global biodiversity hotspot — IUCN priority area
✦Chi Phat community ecotourism — award-winning model
✦Tatai River — waterfall, floating lodges
✦Areng Valley — critical elephant corridor
✦Wildlife Alliance release station

Trails & Routes

Moderate1–3 days10–40 km

Chi Phat Jungle Trek

Community-guided treks from Chi Phat village into pristine jungle. Multiple route options with camping. Wildlife cameras along trails.

Easy1 hour2 km

Tatai Waterfall Trail

Short walk from the Tatai bridge to an impressive waterfall. Easy access, good for families.

Challenging2–3 days30 km

Areng Valley Trek

Multi-day trek through the critical Areng Valley elephant corridor. Arranged through conservation NGOs.

Wildlife

Species you may encounter in Cardamom Mountains:

Asian elephantClouded leopardSun bearSiamese crocodilePileated gibbonDholeAsian tapirPangolinGreat hornbillGreen peafowl

Best Time to Visit

Best months: November, December, January, February, March

Getting There

Nearest city: Koh Kong

Chi Phat: bus from Phnom Penh to Andoung Teuk, then boat up the river. Tatai: on Route 48 between Koh Kong and Phnom Penh. Areng Valley: arranged through conservation organizations.

Where to Stay

Chi Phat Community Homestays$8–15/night

Stay with local families who have transitioned from logging to ecotourism. Meals included.

Tatai River lodges$30–120/night

Floating bungalows on the Tatai River surrounded by jungle. Unique experience.

Jungle camp (trekking)Included in trek fee

Hammock camping during multi-day treks. Guides provide all equipment and food.

Safety Warnings

Multi-day treks require reasonable fitness

Leeches prevalent in wet season

Malaria risk — take precautions

Very remote areas — ensure guides know your health needs

River crossings can be dangerous after rain

Nearby Attractions

Koh Kong Province Botum Sakor National ParkTatai Waterfall

FAQ

How do I visit the Cardamom Mountains?

The most popular entry point is Chi Phat village, which offers community-run treks. You can also visit the Tatai area (more accessible) or arrange trips through Wildlife Alliance and other conservation groups.

Is the Cardamom Mountains visit ethical?

What wildlife will I see?

Explore Other Parks

Bokor National Park Kirirom National Park Virachey National Park Ream National Park Botum Sakor National Park Phnom Kulen National Park Kep National Park Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary Kulen Promtep Wildlife Sanctuary Prey Lang Wildlife Sanctuary Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve

Share this page

Get Cambodia Travel Updates

Visa changes, travel tips, and destination guides delivered to your inbox.

No spam, unsubscribe anytime. We respect your privacy.