Visit the Cardamomes region of Cambodia

Do you know the Cardamomes? This mountain range in south-eastern Cambodia extends over a length of about 300 kilometres.

Cambodia is a fascinating country in South-East Asia, especially known for its grandeur and beauty temples of Angkor . However, the country also offers other curiosities and will especially appeal to nature lovers! Today, head to the Cardamomes jungle, located in the south of the country.

The Forest of Cardamomes

This green lung spans about 300 kilometres and is located in southern Cambodia, on the border with Thailand. It is a little tourist area that is full of varied activities. The main city of the region is Koh Kong: it is the only urban part of the region. To reach Koh Kong, it takes about 5 hours' drive from the capital, Phnom Penh . Depending on the season, the road can be more or less in good condition however.

What to do in the Cardamomes region?

Among the many activities, trek is certainly the main reason that attracts visitors to the Cardamomes region. Indeed, it is possible to sleep in the middle of the jungle, especially thanks to the help of local travel agencies, organizing several-day treks in the heart of this tropical forest. On the programme, observation of gibbons, wild pigs or deer, all in a preserved environment.

Another attraction is the eco-tourism community Chi-phat , located near Tatai. The inhabitants of the region created this space to allow travellers to experience local life. It is possible to sleep at home, and to do original activities such as fishing, cycling, hiking. Revenues are used to improve the living conditions of the inhabitants.

Finally, the Cardamomes jungle also houses several rivers, so it is possible to organize, via your hotel or local agencies, boat trips, especially on the Ta Op or Tatai River, which will lead you to various waterfalls where swimming is possible.

Where to sleep in the Cardamomes chain?

The Cardamomes jungle contains a few secret addresses ideal to enjoy a stay in complete privacy. In particular, it is possible to sleep on floating hotels on the Tatai River: a preserved place where nature has all its place. Two accommodations allow this unusual experience: the Four River Floating Lodge for a luxury stay, or the Tatai River Lodge for a little more sumptuous but yet very comfortable accommodation. These two hotels are accessed by boat exclusively: no network, only the noise of the river and the surrounding nature.

For a more conventional hotel business, know that it is possible to sleep in the city of Koh Kong, which offers a handful of accommodations in the city centre. These hotels can be a good starting point for various day trips.

What to take in his backpack before visiting the Cardamomes

Before you go to the Cardamomes Mountains, you have to know what to embark on: the jungle. Here no luxury hotel, no wifi, no hot showers or hospital. There is the minimum electricity generated by generators, and your phone will not get a network. There are insects, malaria-contaminated mosquitoes in some areas, strange creeping beasts, spiders and other strange creatures.

Do not let anything of this discourage you, but prepare yourself to live elementaryly. Do your luggage accordingly. An anti-moustic aerosol is essential, just like sun cream, and a first aid kit . Take a torch and a fully loaded power supply, and make sure to take a light waterproof and something to keep you warm at night.

Make snacks and drop off your flip flops for stronger walking shoes. Take toilet paper – there is no toilet in the middle of the jungle and most host families only have cans – and wet wipes, and don’t forget to load your electrical appliances when you can take a photo or film the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you.

The Cardamomes are a preserved place in Cambodia, perfect to reconnect with nature and avoid mass tourism. Don't miss discovering this area if you are a hiker, or if you simply want to travel off the beaten paths!

Main photo credit: Flickr – Cardamom Tented Camp