Trekking in the Cardamom Forest: What to see and do?

The Cardamom region is an isolated area dotted with small fishing villages and eco-lodges, making it ideal for trekking enthusiasts and adventurers in search of authenticity. Between hiking and discovering local life, join us at the heart of this beautiful mountain range in Cambodia!

Where is the Cardamom mountain range located?

The Cardamom Mountain Range (also known as the Krâvanh Mountains) stretches over 20,000 km², from Cambodia to southern Thailand. With an elevation of over 1,800 meters, the Cardamom range is the highest point of the massif.

This mountainous region is renowned for its vast mangrove forests, which cover over 800,000 hectares! The presence of these mangroves is due to the monsoon forest of the range: a stunning tropical rainforest, known as the second largest rainforest in Southeast Asia.

The Cardamom Mountains are not easy to include in a typical trip to Cambodia, as they are located in a remote and wild area. To explore them, you will need to dedicate several days. Expect a 6-hour drive from Phnom Penh or Sihanoukville to reach the area.

Far from typical tourist destinations, the Cardamom Mountains offer a chance to discover an authentic Cambodia, preserved from mass tourism. In fact, the only urban area in the region is the province of Koh Kong.

What to do in the Cardamom region?

Discover Chi Phat

Located in the heart of lush and preserved nature, Chi Phat is an essential stop in the Cardamom range. It is a village focused on eco-tourism, offering the opportunity to explore the region while respecting nature. However, this was not always the case…

Chi Phat was once a territory plagued by poaching and deforestation. Thanks to Wildlife Alliance, a non-governmental organization dedicated to the region's future, a large-scale education program was conducted for the local population, aiming to highlight the fragility of their natural environment.

Today, Chi Phat village offers numerous activities, all carried out with respect for natural resources and wildlife. These include:

• Hiking in the jungle (on foot or by bike): While it is possible to hike alone in the jungle, having a guide is recommended. Many of these guides are local villagers who know the forest intimately! Some excursions also offer swimming stops at small waterfalls.
• Wildlife observation: The Cardamom Mountains are home to many animal species, some of which are endangered. While trekking through the jungle, you may have the chance to spot pangolins, wild boars, gibbons (monkeys), or the Cambodian Tailorbird – an endemic bird species.
• Kayaking: Canoe and kayak excursions are organized on the Steung Pratt and Piphot rivers, offering a chance to view nature from a different perspective and possibly spot reptiles like the Siamese crocodile.
• Homestay experiences: Many families in the village are eager to welcome visitors (from one to four people per household). This provides an opportunity to taste Khmer cuisine. Part of the accommodation costs (around €5) is donated back to the community.
• Swimming in waterfalls: Chi Phat village boasts many water sources and waterfalls where visitors can swim – a refreshing treat after several hours of trekking through the jungle! Notable among them is Ou Mlou Waterfall.

How to reach Chi Phat?

Chi Phat village can be reached from Kampot, Phnom Penh, Koh Kong, and Kep via Highway 48. Bus services are available for the journey.

Discover the fishing villages of Koh Andet and Koh Sralao

Located on the banks of the Tatai River, the villages of Koh Andet and Koh Sralao are two authentic destinations where you can live in harmony with the local population.

• Koh Sralao: The community is actively involved in preserving forests and coastal areas. It is a small village (around 300 households), where the main sources of income are marine resources from fishing and mussel farming.
• Koh Andet: This village, situated about 4 hours from Phnom Penh, is a gateway to the Peam Krasop Wildlife Sanctuary. It is also located on the Tatai River, offering opportunities for canoeing and admiring the stunning Tatai waterfall. Set in an idyllic environment, this waterfall is perfect for swimming due to its gentle flow.

Trekking in Botum Sakor National Park

Cambodia is a perfect destination for hiking enthusiasts… but in a unique way. Unlike other mountainous countries, Cambodia is home to thick, lush jungles!

The Cardamom range is no exception, with its magnificent Botum Sakor National Park, featuring waterfalls, rivers, and bamboo plantations. Once difficult to access, the park is now reachable via Route 48, connecting Koh Kong to Phnom Penh.

Located in the heights of the Cardamom Mountains, the park is a vast wilderness covering over 1,710 km² (spanning three districts). Near the Gulf of Thailand, it features numerous mangroves and wetlands. The main hiking trail starts from the Cardamom Tented Camp eco-lodge.

Best time for trekking

If you're planning to explore the Cardamom Mountains, it's essential to schedule your trip outside the rainy season (from June to October). During this time, the region experiences heavy downpours and strong winds, which can cause landslides and make trekking impossible. The best time for trekking is during the dry season, from November to March.

Where to stay in the Cardamom region?

Several lodges offer accommodations in the Cardamom Mountains. Most of these are luxury tents, though all are designed with eco-tourism principles, respecting the environment.

Located in the heart of nature, these lodges offer unexpected comfort, with well-equipped bathrooms, good bedding, mosquito nets, and sometimes even private terraces for enjoying the surrounding landscapes. Some floating hotels (on stilts) are only accessible by boat!

Among the most renowned lodges in the Cardamoms:

• Koh Andet eco resort: Located in the northern part of the national park, this lodge is ideal for those planning to visit the Peam Krasop Sanctuary.
• Cardamom Tented Camp: Situated deep in the jungle, this camp is perfect for trekking in the national park. For safety reasons (related to wildlife), stays are not allowed for children under seven.

What to pack?

Whether you plan on trekking or simply taking walks in the Cardamom jungle, your bag should include some essential items:

·         A first aid kit

·         Mosquito repellent

·         Sunscreen with SPF 50 (recommended for mountainous regions)

Frequently asked questions

What is the extension of the Cardamom range called?

The Cardamom Mountains stretch from southern Thailand into Cambodia. They are extended by the Elephant Mountain Range (Phnom Damrei), which is part of the vast Cardamom region.

Where is Cardamom located?

Cardamom is a spice native to India and Sri Lanka. Contrary to what one might think, it does not come from the Cardamom Mountains in Cambodia!

Audrey Denjean