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Central Cardamom Protected Forest
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The Central Cardamom Protected Forest is one of Southeast Asia's most significant conservation areas, spanning approximately 400,000 hectares in southwestern Cambodia. Located at the core of the Cardamom Mountains, it serves as a critical ecological corridor connecting several major wildlife sanctuaries across the landscape. This vast expanse of dense tropical rainforest is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, providing a sanctuary for endangered species such as the Asian elephant, clouded leopard, and sun bear. As one of the wettest regions in the country, the forest is the source of numerous rivers and waterfalls that are essential for Cambodia's overall water management and hydroelectric potential. Historically, the rugged terrain and isolation helped preserve its pristine flora and fauna from large-scale human interference. Today, international conservation groups work alongside the government to combat threats from illegal logging and poaching. The protection of this central forest is vital for carbon sequestration and the long-term sustainability of the regional ecosystem.
- Location: Cambodia
- Nearby: Chi Phat (22 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 25 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 29 | 39 | 84 | 122 | 252 | 407 | 486 | 430 | 424 | 225 | 74 | 23 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
This vast forest corridor in Cambodia is primarily accessed via rugged, unpaved roads leading from remote provincial towns, often requiring specialized off-road vehicles or local motorbike taxis.
Best season
Visiting during the dry season is highly recommended, as the monsoon rains transform the dense jungle routes into deep mud, making river crossings dangerous and widespread flooding a real threat.
Terrain & paths
The environment consists of dense, seemingly impenetrable tropical rainforests, winding river valleys, and steep hillsides with overgrown trails that are often obscured by the thick vegetation.
What to bring
Tropical trekking gear, long-sleeved clothing to protect against leeches and thorny plants, heavy-duty insect repellent, water purification tablets, and a reliable compass or GPS are essential.
Parking
Formal parking is nonexistent; vehicles are typically left securely at a local ranger station, a designated eco-tourism community hub, or in the last accessible village before the jungle begins.
Safety
Never venture into the deep forest without an experienced local guide due to the risk of getting lost, encountering dangerous wildlife, and the potential presence of unexploded ordnance in some regions.
Time needed
While fringe areas can be seen in a day, fully experiencing the scale of this protected corridor usually involves multi-day guided jungle trekking and camping expeditions deep into the wild.
Geography
Facts
- The protected forest covers an area of approximately 400,000 hectares.
- The area was officially placed under state protection in the year 2002.
- It is home to one of the largest remaining populations of Asian elephants.
- The region records some of the highest annual rainfall in Southeast Asia.
- The forest connects the Phnom Samkos and Phnom Aural sanctuaries together.
- Rare predators such as the clouded leopard and Indochinese tiger reside here.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What can you do in the Central Cardamom Forest?
Trekking, jungle camping, and observing rare wildlife are the main activities.
Is the forest safe from poaching?
There are ranger patrols, but tourists should only use marked trails with authorized guides.
What is the climate like in the forest?
It is humid tropical with frequent rainfall, especially between May and October.
What equipment is necessary?
Hiking boots, insect repellent, waterproof clothing, and a good sleeping bag for overnight stays.
Is there internet reception there?
In most parts of the forest, there is no mobile phone signal or internet reception.
Central Cardamom Protected Forest: where is it located?
Central Cardamom Protected Forest is located in Cambodia.
Central Cardamom Protected Forest: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Central Cardamom Protected Forest: why is it worth visiting?
The Central Cardamom Protected Forest is one of Southeast Asia's most significant conservation areas, spanning approximately 400,000 hectares in southwestern Cambodia.
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Nearby cities
Koh Kong
Located near the Thai border, Koh Kong is the gateway to vast mangrove forests and the pristine Cardamom Mountains.
Chi Phat
Chi Phat is a flagship ecotourism project in the Cardamom Mountains.
Tatai
Tatai is located in Koh Kong province and is famous for its wide waterfall.
Kaev Phos
A quiet coastal town in Cambodia, ideal for travelers seeking undiscovered beaches and local peace.
Pursat
Nestled between the Tonle Sap lake and the Cardamom Mountains, Pursat is a quiet agricultural center renowned for its marble carvings.
Sihanoukville
This coastal city on the Gulf of Thailand is Cambodia's only deep-water port and a rapidly growing economic center.
Otres Beach
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Daeum Tkov Village
An authentic fishing village in the north of Koh Rong with pristine beaches and local flair.
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Koh Thmei
An unspoiled island located within Ream National Park, known for its wildlife and mangrove forests.
Long Set
Long Set Beach on Koh Rong is a 4-kilometer stretch of white sand.
Battambang
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Koh Rong Sanloem
A peaceful and relaxed alternative to its larger sister island, known for tranquil bays and unspoiled natural beauty.
Koh Rong
Cambodia's largest island, famous for its sparkling white sandy beaches, bioluminescent plankton, and vibrant nightlife.
Kampong Phluk
An authentic fishing village on the Tonle Sap lake, famous for its towering seven-meter stilted houses and the surrounding flooded mangro…
History & landmarks
Phnom Bakheng
A temple mountain in Angkor, famous for its breathtaking sunset views over Angkor Wat.
Ta Keo
An unfinished, massive sandstone temple mountain that stands out due to its simplicity and lack of external carvings.
Banteay Kdei
A fascinating Buddhist monastic complex in Angkor, whose ruins are peacefully shaded by tall trees today.
Pre Rup
Pre Rup is a brick and laterite temple mountain in the Angkor area.
Wat Banan
An ancient Khmer temple atop a steep hill near Battambang, often referred to as a miniature version of Angkor Wat.
Preah Ko
The first temple built in the ancient capital of Hariharalaya, known for its surviving stucco decorations.
Nature
Areng Valley
A remote and natural river valley in the heart of the Cardamom Mountains that has fought for its cultural and biological uniqueness.
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Botum Sakor Peninsula
A large peninsula projecting into the Gulf of Thailand, covered by dense forests.
Tatai River
A picturesque, tranquil river in the Cardamom Mountains, flowing through dense jungle and mangrove forests to the Gulf of Thailand.
Koh Kong Coast
A rugged and remote coastal stretch in the west, rich in mangroves and islands.
Ream Coast
A coastline characterized by mangrove forests and quiet beaches in the south.
Koh Rong Coast
The beaches and coasts of Koh Rong island offer white sand and crystal-clear waters.
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One of the last untouched jungle regions in Southeast Asia, protecting an immense variety of endangered plants and animals.
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Kirirom 1 Hydropower Plant
A smaller but historically important hydropower plant in the Cardamom Mountains, supplying power to Phnom Penh.
Tatay Hydropower Plant
A modern hydropower project on the Tatay River in Koh Kong Province, contributing to national energy security.
Koh Kong Reptile Conservation Center
A specialized facility dedicated to the protection of highly endangered crocodile species and turtles in Cambodia.
Koh Kong Special Economic Zone
An emerging industrial area on the Thai border, promoting cross-border trade.
Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary
An essential wetland on the Tonle Sap that serves as a nesting site for many endangered waterbirds.
Sihanoukville Coal Power Plant
A large coastal thermal power plant ensuring a constant energy supply for the growing industry.
Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone
A strategically important industrial zone that benefits heavily from Chinese Belt and Road initiative investments.