Cardamom Mountains
Nestled within Cambodia’s largest protected rainforest in Botum Sakor National Park, the Cardamom Mountains stand as a biodiverse sanctuary and haven of tranquility. Just 4–5 hours southwest of Phnom Penh or around 7–8 hours south of Siem Reap, this remote region offers immersive forest experiences, wildlife encounters, and community-rooted tourism—all set against lush landscapes that few travelers have the privilege to explore.
(The Cardamom Mountains are located in southwestern Cambodia, extending from Koh Kong Province to Pursat Province).
Must-See Highlights of Cardamom
The Cardamom Mountains offer a rare chance to explore one of Southeast Asia’s last great rainforests, with experiences that range from immersive eco-adventures to wildlife encounters. At Chi Phat Eco-Village, visitors can trek through jungle trails, kayak along pristine waterways, bike through forest paths, and enjoy birdwatching – all while supporting community-led conservation efforts. Nearby, the Tatai River winds through mangrove-lined landscapes, leading to the twin-tier Tatai Waterfall, perfect for cooling off during a scenic river cruise. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled by the region’s rich biodiversity, with rare species such as Asian elephants, clouded leopards, pileated gibbons, and pangolins. For intrepid trekkers, Phnom Samkos and Phnom Aural offer challenging climbs amid protected highland forests, while the Tatai Wildlife Sanctuary, currently part of Cambodia’s tiger rewilding initiative, highlights ongoing efforts to restore the natural predator-prey balance in this remarkable wilderness.
Cardamom Tented Camp – Signature Wilderness Retreat
Nestled deep in Botum Sakor, Cardamom Tented Camp is a luxe, eco-conscious glamping retreat that combines comfort, conservation, and immersive jungle experiences. Guests stay in nine spacious safari-style tents, each with en-suite bathrooms, cooling fans, and wooden patios overlooking the serene river. Guided treks, kayaking excursions, and wildlife spotting alongside forest rangers allow visitors to connect closely with the rainforest, while tree planting, camera trap setup, and other conservation activities support local ecology. Built around rigorous eco-principles, the camp relies on solar power, filtered drinking water, composting systems, and organic gardens, earning accolades such as the PATA Grand & Gold Environmental Award. With riverside dining, cooking classes, birdwatching from your tent, and remote access by boat or foot, Cardamom Tented Camp offers the ultimate “wilderness luxe” experience in Cambodia’s last great rainforest.