Despite not having much of a town center, shopping outlets, and just a few western-style accommodations, Koh Kong is non-the-less, one of Cambodia‘s best-kept secrets. An eco-paradise, the isolated and unspoiled tropic southwest region of developing Cambodia is full of plush waterfalls, picturesque beaches and mountains, most of which are accessible via small touring companies or guides. With the added charm of being engrained in rural Cambodia, the sites and landscapes of stilted-homes along dirt roads and palm trees towering over gleaming rice field, Koh Kong may just be the getaway spot you were looking for.
1. Trekking the Cardamom Mountains
See the bright colors of the Cambodian countryside at the Cardamom Mountains - photo courtesy of Axel Drainville via Flickr
Considered one of the most beautiful rainforests in Southeast Asia, exploring the untouched biodiversity of the Cardamom Mountains will leave you feeling overwhelmed. Though Cambodia has been notorious in neglecting care of its natural landmarks, the mountain’s geographic isolation from the country’s settlements has left it well in tact. Grab a kayak and explore the jungle on either side of you, as you make your way to hidden waterfalls prime for swimming.
Hosting a handful of endangered animals, such as Eld’s deer, Siamese crocodiles, and Asian elephants, the Cardamom’s exotic wildlife is just as exotic as the highlands themselves–swirling with untapped fauna and undiscovered species–so make sure this is your first stop in Koh Kong.
2. Koh Kong Island
Located in Koh Kong’s conservation corridor, Koh Kong Island is one of nature’s brightest gems located along the Gulf of Siam. Free of many tourists or civilization for that matter, the island remains as it was first created with clean sandy beaches, clear, immaculate water, and the only sounds are the resonating of water crashing into the shores.
Though it comes without accommodations, and visitors may not go inland any further than the beaches, a moment in isolation at this tropical paradise is not something that should be overlooked. Then head down to the island’s only settlement at the fishing village of Alatan, just near another of Koh Kong’s natural wonders, Botum Sakor.
3. Botum Sakor National Park
After visiting Koh Kong Island, facing its southeast corner is your next logical destination, and also perhaps Koh Kong’s most beautiful, in Botum Sakor National Park. With over 180,000 hectares (almost 700 square miles) of natural park to explore, you will encounter a plethora of exotic wildlife, you may not get anywhere else. From elephants, tortoises, tiger and bears, Botum Sakor is also known for hosting quite a selection of rare birds. Accommodations are quite difficult to reach and underdeveloped, so camping is the preferable sleeping method.
Also, without many routes in and around the park, the best way to see it is by boat. However, as you may find yourself mostly alone on this adventure (aside from your guide, of course), the sheer sense of serenity provided here is a once in a lifetime experience.
Quiet Koh Kong Island - photo courtesy of Axel Drainville via Flickr
4. Peam Krasop Wildlife Sanctuary
Housing a network of channels, rivers and waterways, Peam Krasop Wildlife Sanctuary is a complicated yet unparalleled landscape known for its glorious mangroves, and protected coastal allure.
Like Botum Sakor, the best mode of transport is to hire a boat to guide you through this complicated yet majestic terrain. Peam Krasop is also home to an impressive list of wildlife, including dolphins and saltwater crocodiles, so be on the lookout for endangered birds such as the spotted greenshank.
Located just north of Botum Sakor and Koh Kong Island is Smach Meanchey district. Peam Krasop is in itself a coastal ecosystem, home to thousands of native Cambodians, who make a living through fishing off the wetlands. Don’t be surprised to see such inhabitants making their way upstream with the day’s catch, or to see families in their stilted wooden homes.
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