Wildlife SanctuaryPreah Vihear

Kulen Promtep Wildlife Sanctuary

Kulen Promtep is Cambodia's largest wildlife sanctuary and one of the most important habitats for the critically endangered giant ibis — Cambodia's national bird. The vast dry dipterocarp forests and seasonal wetlands of Preah Vihear Province support an extraordinary array of large waterbirds, vultures, and large mammals. This is frontier conservation tourism — facilities are minimal, but the birding is world-class.

4,025 km²50–500mEst. 1993$30–50 per person (includes guide, accommodation, meals)Permit required

Highlights

✦Cambodia's largest wildlife sanctuary
✦Primary habitat for the giant ibis (national bird)
✦White-shouldered ibis, vulture populations
✦Tmatboey community birdwatching program
✦Dry dipterocarp forest landscape

Trails & Routes

ModerateFull day10 km

Tmatboey Giant Ibis Trek

Community-guided walk through dry forest to known ibis feeding areas. Pre-dawn start required. One of the world's top birding experiences.

Easy3–4 hours2 km

Vulture Restaurant Visit

Visit a managed feeding station where vultures gather. Arranged through Sam Veasna Center.

Wildlife

Species you may encounter in Kulen Promtep Wildlife Sanctuary:

Giant ibisWhite-shouldered ibisRed-headed vultureSlender-billed vultureBantengEld's deerWild water buffaloLeopard

Best Time to Visit

Best months: December, January, February, March

Getting There

Nearest city: Tbeng Meanchey

From Siem Reap: 4–5 hours by car to Tmatboey village in Preah Vihear Province. The Sam Veasna Center arranges all transport and logistics.

Permit: All visits should be arranged through the Sam Veasna Center (SVC) in Siem Reap, Cambodia's premier birdwatching tour operator.

Where to Stay

Tmatboey community homestays$10–20/night

Simple but clean homestays in the village. All meals provided. Revenue directly supports conservation.

Safety Warnings

Very remote — limited medical facilities

Bring all personal medications

Basic conditions — manage expectations for homestays

Sun protection essential in dry season

Nearby Attractions

Preah Vihear Temple Preah Vihear Province

FAQ

How do I see the giant ibis?

Book through the Sam Veasna Center in Siem Reap. They arrange multi-day trips to Tmatboey with experienced guides. Sighting success rates are very high (90%+) during the dry season.

Is this suitable for non-birders?

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 Cardamom Mountains Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary Prey Lang Wildlife Sanctuary Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve

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