Trekking in Koh Kong & Beach
From the Cardamom Mountains to the beaches of Koh Rong, between pristine forest and turquoise waters.
Duration
14 days
From
€1,220/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jan, Feb, Mar, Nov, Dec
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
The trails wind through the primary forest of Koh Kong, where the cries of gibbons resound beneath the canopy of the Cardamomes. In this remote province of Cambodge, the calm waters of Tatai reflect forgotten waterfalls while kayaks glide between giant roots.
The circuit first unveils Phnom Penh and its golden palaces, then ventures into wild massifs for a nine-kilometer trek into the heart of the mountains. At Chambok, peasant families welcome hikers before the ascent to Kirirom Falls. Further south, Kampot reveals its black pepper plantations where fragrant clusters dry, while the caves of Phnom Kampong Trach shelter stone Buddhas in their limestone cavities.
This region bears witness to the heritage of the Khmers, a people of builders and navigators who shaped these lands between river and mountain. A journey that leads from intact forests to the shores of Koh Rong, where white sand meets the China Sea.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh Airport → Phnom Penh
Welcome from our driver upon arrival at the airport. Transfer and check-in at your hotel. The rest of the day is free. Rooms available from 2:00 PM. If you arrive a little early and your room is not yet ready, you can leave your luggage at reception before going for a walk around town or resting by the pool. Day without an English-speaking tour guide
Phnom Penh, vibrant capital
Let's discover the famous Wat Phnom which gave its name to the capital. The "temple of the hill" is the highest point in Phnom Penh.
We then visit the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda, true gems of Khmer architecture built in the mid-19th century.
The Royal Palace dress code is quite strict: shoulders and knees must be covered.
We then visit the National Museum and discover one of the most important collections of Khmer art: 14,000 sculptures and ethnographic objects, mostly coming from the temples of Angkor. This jewel of Khmer architecture was built between 1917 and 1920, and features a magnificent interior courtyard, a truly lush garden surrounded by the museum's unique pieces.
Visit of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21), a former Phnom Penh high school that the Khmer Rouge transformed into an interrogation, torture and death center. It is the largest detention and torture center under Pol Pot's regime that will reveal to us a very painful chapter in Cambodia's history.
Today converted into a museum, the former S21 Prison reminds each visitor of the atrocities committed in Cambodia during the terrible years of communist dictatorship. No fewer than 17,000 people were prisoners of Tuol Sleng prison, and only 7 survived and can today recount the abuses they suffered. The visit to S21 can be a disturbing and poignant experience that some may not be able to endure. However, it is one of the keys to understanding the hell and madness in which Cambodia locked itself during these years of terror.
Depending on the remaining time, we can visit the central market and/or the Russian market
On the way to Koh Kong via Tatai Falls
After breakfast, we depart by road towards Koh Kong province, in the west of the country. The region is still very wild and underdeveloped. Perfect for getting off the beaten path! Along the way, we make a small detour to the Tatai Falls. By car, we have to take a rather rough track for about 2km but the beautiful waterfall and the possibility of swimming are well worth this sacrifice of comfort!
From Koh Kong
We then resume our journey. Once we arrive safely, you board a small boat to reach the Cardomom Tented Camp located about ten kilometers from the boarding point.
Free time and rest after your check-in.
Day without English-speaking guide
Trek and kayaking in the primary forest
After breakfast, head out for a full-day excursion combining hiking and kayaking. On the agenda, 9km of trails (50% walking, 50% kayaking) through the primary forest of Koh Kong, at the foot of the Cardamom Mountains. With very little elevation change, the hike is accessible to all. With a bit of luck, you may spot long-tailed macaques, kingfishers, toucans and water dragons. The luckiest will observe passing gibbons or the family of otters that lives in the area.
Back at camp, you can extend your exploration by kayak, try your hand at zip-lining or continue hiking on the small trail near camp. Day without English-speaking guide
Stop in the Chambok community
Around 9:30 AM, the resort team takes us back by boat to the starting point where our driver is waiting for us. We head towards Chambok, a rural community located on the outskirts of Kirirom National Park.
Once we arrive at our destination, we settle in with a local family; the rest of the day is free except for meals which we will have at the community restaurant. It is a 10-15 minute walk to get there from the homestay, or you can ask our driver to take us there.
Day without an English-speaking guide
To Koh Kong
Around 9:30 a.m., the resort team brings us back by boat to the starting point where our driver is waiting for us.
We take the road to the rural community of Chambok located on the outskirts of Kirirom National Park.
Once we arrive at our destination, we settle in with a local family; the rest of the day is free except for meals which we will take at the community restaurant. You need to walk 10-15 minutes to get there from the homestay, or ask our driver to take you there.
Day without English-speaking guide
Kirirom National Park
After breakfast, we meet our local English-speaking guide who will give us a brief overview of the history and activities of this small rural community. We then begin the trek inside Kirirom National Park towards the waterfall. Swimming and rest at the waterfall, then descent to the community center for lunch. Plan for about an hour of walking with continuous uphill elevation gain. Total duration: approximately 3 hours.
Kampot Pepper
From Kampot
Meet with your driver for hotel departure at 8am. The Kampot region is internationally recognized for its exceptional pepper. It is therefore impossible to visit Kampot without taking a tour of one of the many pepper plantations in the region! We visit the family-run pepper production farm, La Ferme de Sothy with a plantation guide who will explain the origins and reasons for the fame of this spice. You will learn more about cultivation methods and how to cook this famous pepper. Lunch will be at the plantation.
To Kampong Trach
In the afternoon, near Kep, exploring the caves of Phnom Kampong Trach holds some lovely surprises for us. Considered as natural temples by local Buddhists, they hide numerous statues and altars. As the highlight of this "speleological" excursion, a beautiful representation of a reclining Buddha awaits us in an open-air clearing created by the collapse of the rock.
Kampong Trach → Kampot
Return to Kampot and the rest of the day is free.
Day without English-speaking tour guide
Relaxation Day in the Kep Archipelago
After breakfast, we head to the nearby town of Kep where we board for a full-day eco-tour around the islands of Kep Bay. Aboard the Nāga, a traditional Khmer fishing boat, we will navigate through the Kep archipelago, at the mercy of the waves and currents, away from any other tourist circuit. Armed with masks and snorkels, let's discover the seabed and reefs of the Kep archipelago where many species of colorful fish, sea urchins, starfish and corals thrive. Let's relax in the warm and swimming-friendly waters of Snake Island Bay for a fish and seafood barbecue on the boat.
We then visit a traditional fishing village where we can soak up the atmosphere and observe the preparation of nets, crab traps and bait while sipping an iced coffee. Finally, we set off to explore a charming little lost and atypical islet. We may have the rare chance to observe Irrawaddy dolphins in this corner… Keep your eyes open!
The boat tour is private and starts around 9am with a return around 4pm. Vegetarian menu available upon request. Day without English-speaking guide
After breakfast, we head to the neighboring town of Kep where we embark on a full-day eco-tour around the islands of Kep Bay. Aboard the Nāga, a traditional Khmer fishing boat, we will navigate through the Kep archipelago, at the mercy of waves and currents, away from any other tourist circuits. Armed with masks and snorkels, let's discover the seabeds and reefs of the Kep archipelago where many species of colorful fish, sea urchins, starfish and corals thrive. Let's relax in the warm and swimming-friendly waters of Serpent Island Bay for a fish and seafood barbecue on the boat.
We then visit a traditional fishing village where we can soak up the atmosphere and observe the preparation of nets, crab traps and bait while sipping an iced coffee. Finally, we set out to explore a charming little lost and atypical islet. We may have the rare chance to spot Irrawaddy dolphins in this corner… Keep your eyes peeled!
The boat tour is private and begins around 9am with a return around 4pm. Vegetarian menu available upon request. Day without English-speaking guide
Extension to Koh Rong
Meeting with your tuk-tuk at 8:45 AM for a transfer to Kampot station. You will take the train to Sihanoukville. Upon arrival, a tuk-tuk will be waiting for you to take you to the pier.
Not all boats depart from the same pier. It is important to let us know quickly the name of your hotel on the island so we can give instructions to the tuk-tuk.
Boat transfer to Koh Rong from the Sihanoukville pier. Our team on site will wait for you at the pier to give you your boat tickets. The boat staff will take half of your ticket. Keep the other half carefully for your return!
Upon your return to Sihanouk, your driver will pick you up at the Buva Sea office. Vehicles cannot access the pier exit directly.
Day without an English-speaking guide
From Kampot
Meeting with your tuk-tuk at 8:45 AM for a transfer to Kampot train station. You take the train towards Sihanoukville
Driving
A tuk tuk will wait for you to take you to the pier.
The boats do not all leave from the same pier. It is important that you quickly tell us the name of your hotel on the island so we can give directions to the tuk tuk.
Boat transfer to Koh Rong from Sihanoukville pier. Our English-speaking team on site will be waiting for you at the pier to give you your boat tickets. Boat staff will take half of your ticket. Keep the other half carefully for the return journey!
Return to Phnom Penh
After breakfast and checking out of our room, we return by boat to Sihanoukville. The boat departure is scheduled for 9:30 AM
Sihanoukville Port → Phnom Penh
Upon our arrival in Sihanoukville, a driver will be waiting for us at the pier for a final transfer to Phnom Penh via the country's only highway.
Good flight and safe return!
Phnom Penh → Phnom Penh Airport
Free time before our transfer to Phnom Penh international airport. We must check out of our room before noon. If our flight is in the evening, we can leave our suitcases at the hotel reception for one last stroll around the city.
Optional: if the flight is after 4:30 PM-5:00 PM, it is possible to save an extra night in the capital by going directly to Phnom Penh international airport from Sihanoukville.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International Transport
- Tips
- Travel insurance/cancellation/repatriation
- Visa Fees
- Extra beverages / alcohols
- Hotel Consumption
- Meals not mentioned
- Phone calls
- Any excursion not mentioned in the program
- Late room release (standard check-out to be completed before noon)
- Some occasional hotel supplements (e.g. Christmas meals, Chinese/Khmer New Year/etc.)
Included
- Transfers to and from the airport
- Transports to activities and program stages
- Land transfers as indicated in the itinerary
- Hotels and accommodations
- Breakfasts at the hotel
- Meals mentioned
- English-speaking guide for activities when indicated
- Entrance fees for activities
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- More than 60 days before departure: 40% of the total price (deposit retained)
- Between 60 and 30 days before departure: 50% of the total price
- Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of the total price
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travellers entering Cambodia for a tourist stay. Entry requirements may change, and we recommend that you verify the information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter Cambodia, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months after your date of entry into the country and must contain at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Tourist visa
Entry requirements for Cambodia depend on your nationality. A visa may be required. You should verify the specific conditions with the embassy or consulate of Cambodia in your country of residence, as well as with the authorities of your own country.
The following options are generally available for obtaining a visa:
an electronic visa (e-Visa), which can be requested online before departure through the official Cambodian government portal, valid for 30 days from your date of entry;
a visa on arrival, available at major entry points (international airports in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, as well as certain land border crossings), also valid for 30 days;
a visa obtained from the Cambodian embassy or consulate in your country of residence before departure.
An extension of an additional 30 days can generally be requested on site with the Cambodian Immigration Department.
The authorities may also request:
an outbound travel ticket (return flight or onward journey),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay.
Arrival form
Travellers may be asked to complete an arrival form provided by the Cambodian authorities, either online before departure or upon arrival depending on the entry point. This form collects information such as:
passport details,
flight or transport details,
the address of your first accommodation in Cambodia.
It is advisable to keep a digital confirmation or printed copy of any document submitted online, which may be requested when passing through immigration.
Health and vaccinations
No vaccinations are officially required to enter Cambodia. However, certain vaccinations are recommended by health authorities:
hepatitis A and hepatitis B,
typhoid,
rabies (in case of prolonged stay or travel to rural areas),
update of routine vaccinations (diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis, measles).
Antimalarial preventive treatment may be advised depending on the regions you plan to visit and the length of your stay. It is recommended that you consult a doctor or international vaccination centre before departure.
Travel with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay, as well as an individual visa.
Depending on your country of residence, a parental authorization for exit from the territory may be required when a minor travels without one of their parents.
Other nationalities
Entry requirements may vary depending on your nationality. You should verify the specific conditions with the embassy or consulate of Cambodia in your country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended that you have travel assistance and medical expense coverage abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to familiarize yourself with the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To purchase insurance, find out about coverage and rates, please follow the link below.
Choose the plan that best suits you:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and claim procedures is available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of this, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the claim declaration procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
A tourist visa is required. You can obtain it online (e-visa, approximately 36 USD) before departure or upon arrival at the airport (Visa on Arrival, approximately 30 USD). Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry. The conditions for length of stay and visa extension vary depending on your nationality: we recommend that you check with the consular authorities of your destination for the specific rules that apply to you before booking.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a quality tailor-made trip, budget between 120 and 200 euros per day per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transportation and activities. International flights (700-1000 euros return) are additional. Cambodia offers excellent value for money, often combined with Vietnam or Thailand.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to match your travel profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed pacing, family-friendly accommodations, engaging and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until it's perfect. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — South Phnom Penh
Travel Advisor and Cambodia Enthusiast, based in Phnom Penh
The most beautiful journeys are those that resemble the people living them. My role is simply to open the right doors of Cambodia for them.
— Cyrille
