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Lying in the heart of Southeast Asia, Cambodia is famous for its temples, history, and culture. Besides the magnificent Angkor Wat, it also has a domain of wilderness that echoes its call to both nature lovers and animal trekkers. National parks across Cambodia create lush landscapes together, along with thrilling flora and fauna, including outdoor escapades.
Cambodia wildlife (Source: Wikipedia)
More than 20 national parks, fauna and flora, wildlife sanctuaries, and protected areas dot Cambodia with unique ecosystems, home to numerous species of plants and animals, including rare or endemic species.
Ranging from tropical rainforests and wetlands to highland plateaus, Cambodia is a haven of biodiversity. For the visitor, this means unlimited opportunities to explore unspoiled environments, encounter rarely seen wildlife, and experience nature in its most serenely beautiful forms.
Nature in Cambodia (Soure: InAsiaTravel)
Measuring 1,700 square kilometers, southwestern Botum Sakor is Cambodia's largest national park, rich in diverse ecosystems. It is an ideal place for adventure and nature lovers, with its thick lowland forests, mangrove swamps, and expanses of grasslands. The Sunda pangolin, Asiatic black bear, and clouded leopard are some of the rare and endangered species found in Botum Sakor.
Guided treks and boating trips present the visitors with opportunities to behold its natural beauty and observe its wide range of wildlife. Its estuaries are ideal spots for birdwatching from white bellied sea eagles to kingfishers, among other species. Its relative remoteness adds to the park's allure, thus providing an off the beaten track experience.
Botum Sakor National Park (Source: InsideAsiaTour)
Virachey National Park, located in northeastern Cambodia, is the most remote and one of the least explored parks in the country, with over 3,300 square kilometers of rugged mountains, dense forests, and rivers wilderness almost frozen in time. It is a dream for trekkers, featuring multi day jungle treks that wind through cascading waterfalls, scenic vistas, and indigenous villages.
The park hosts rich biodiversity, with several species of sun bears, Malayan porcupines, and hornbills inhabiting its forests. Visitors have the opportunity to interact with local tribes, such as the Kavet and Kreung peoples, who are very receptive to sharing their unique cultural traditions with travelers. Virachey offers a true wilderness experience for those seeking solitude and adventure.
Tourist at Virachey National Park (Source: humanaturecambodia)
The culturally and naturally important site is renowned as a holy place of worship and a favorite weekend spot near Siem Reap. The park has historical significance as the birthplace of the Khmer Empire and boasts ancient ruins, like the "River of a Thousand Lingas," with its intricate carvings down the length of the riverbed.
At the heart of this park is the Kulen Waterfall, a striking two level cascade, surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for bathing and picnicking. Besides being a haven for wildlife, Phnom Kulen also has several bird species and small mammals. With such a combination of historical landmarks and natural beauty, the site is ideal for those who want to combine culture with outdoor exploration.
Phnom Kulen National Park (Source: JustSiemRiep)
Extending over an area of 210 square kilometers, the park boasts both terrestrial and marine ecosystems, just a drive away from the coastal city of Sihanoukville. It contains the finest mangrove swamps, sandy beaches, and coral reefs to harbor life in it. Included are boat rides into mangrove forests amidst probable sightings of monkeys, otters, and colorful kingfishers.
Its marine areas house dolphins, sea turtles, and several fish species, snorkeling and kayaking are very popular here. One of the highlights of Ream is the island of Koh Thmei, a home for more than 150 species of birds, one of which is the Brahminy kite, which is considered an endangered species.
Jungle tour in Ream National Park (Source: Angkor7thTravel)
Ream National Park is ideal for those travelers who look for the combination of coastal beauty and ecological discovery.
Smaller but no less magical is the Kep National Park, located along Cambodia's southern coast. It offers a number of tranquil trails, with breathtaking views that are great for easy walking and hiking. The trails are excellently maintained to take visitors through forests and hills, thereby affording glimpses of monkeys, butterflies, and a variety of birds.
The highlight of the park is the "Sunset Rock" viewpoint, which provides breathtaking vistas of the Gulf of Thailand and nearby islands. Kep National Park is close enough to the charming seaside town of Kep to allow visitors to combine a taste of nature with indulgence in fresh seafood-the perfect combination of relaxation and exploration.
Kep National Park (Source: HolidayArchitects)
Situated in the Cardamom Mountains, Kirirom National Park was Cambodia's first protected national park. With cooler temperatures and pine forests, Kirirom is a great respite from the tropical heat. Besides mountain biking and camping, there are numerous waterfalls, walking routes, and hiking opportunities through the park.
The fauna comprises barking deer, civets, and several birds. Because it is fairly close to Phnom Penh, Kirirom remains a favorite site for one day excursions, enabling locals and foreigners to leave the hustle and bustle behind and cool down.
Adventure hiking at Kirirom National Park (Source: Facebook)
The Chambok Ecotourism Site is a community based ecotourism site next to Kirirom National Park, offering eco-friendly experiences. Chambok is managed by the villagers themselves and offers guided tours through forests, waterfalls, and caves, supporting sustainable tourism. Visitors can go on a hike, take an ox-cart ride, and even receive traditional Khmer cooking lessons.
The highlight of this site includes a scenic waterfall reachable by the short hike around the tranquil surroundings of relaxing. This is one typical example that shows how community tourism can facilitate conservation and augment local livelihoods.
Chambok Ecotourism Site (Source: PassionIndochinaTravel)
The Cardamom Mountains are not a park themselves but a huge area of rainforest, home to several protected areas, including Botum Sakor and the Southern Cardamom National Park, this contains such species as the Asian elephant, the Indochinese tiger, and Siamese crocodile.
For real adventurers, there are a few ways to see the Cardamoms on treks, river kayaking, or on wildlife spotting missions. It also hosts a number of eco lodges and community-based tourism projects.
Beautiful Cardamom Mountains (Source: Wikipedia)
Bokor National Park is located in Kampot Province. It's famous for its cooler climate and historical sites. A French colonial hill station lies in ruins on the summit, including the eery Bokor Palace Hotel and Casino.
Besides its historic appeal, Bokor hosts leopards, gibbons, and hornbills in its midst. Visitors can take leisurely walks through the park's forests, see spectacular views of the coastline, and visit the beautiful Popokvil Waterfall. Bokor is about history, nature, and panorama.
Bokor National Park (Source: Pelago)
Not a national park, but another very important area for conservation is Ang Trapeang Thmor Sarus Crane Reserve. Located in northwestern Cambodia, this reserve is home to the endangered eastern sarus crane, one of the tallest flying birds in the world.
In this reserve, the visitor will have a chance to walk through wetlands, viewing various bird species, this makes it a haven for birdwatchers. This nature reserve assists the local community with sustainable ecotourism development.
Sarus Crane in conservation area (Source: coolwoodwildlifepark)
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While November to February is the best period overall, with its dry season, comfortable weather, and clear skies with passable trails, May and June in the early rainy season can be similarly spectacular in terms of verdant landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and fewer tourists. Whatever time of year you visit, the national parks of Cambodia are home to some truly spectacular landscapes and unforgettable animal encounters.
Best time to visit (Source: wnfdiary)
Choose the Right Season: The dry season (November to April) is ideal for outdoor activities, as trails are more accessible, and the weather is generally pleasant.
Respect Wildlife and Nature: Always adhere to park regulations, avoid feeding animals, and leave no trace to preserve the parks’ natural beauty.
Pack Essentials: Comfortable hiking shoes, insect repellent, water, and sun protection are essential for any nature excursion.
Cambodian national parks are a haven for natural wonders and adventure with wildlife. Be it the dense jungles of the Virachey, kayaking in the mangroves of Ream, or simply marveling at the waterfalls of Phnom Kulen, these parks have something for every nature enthusiast. Contact Asia King Travel today to begin planning your Cambodian nature and wildlife adventure.
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