Stay in the Chi Phat Ecotourism Village: All activities

Located in the Cardamom Mountain Range, amidst forests and rivers, Chi Phat is a community-based ecotourism village. Working towards the protection of Cambodia's forests and wildlife, it is the ideal destination to discover an authentic Cambodia, off the beaten path. Here is a list of all the activities to do and see when staying in Chi Phat.

Chi Phat in a few words…

Located in the southwest part of the Cardamom Mountain Range, the largest contiguous stretch of tropical rainforest in Southeast Asia, Chi Phat is a small, isolated Cambodian village that has managed to maintain its authenticity.

Once a victim of illegal logging and poaching, the village is now a CBET (Community-Based Ecotourism Center), meaning it has been adapted for responsible tourism. In 2007, the NGO Wildlife Alliance launched a program in the region to educate and help the community to live off tourism rather than wildlife trafficking and forest exploitation.

Previously poachers or employed in logging activities, the guides and rangers now have a single mission: to protect the forest. To achieve this, teams are set up to investigate and report illegal activities. Thanks to efforts in environmental conservation and community development, the village has transformed from a region of hunting and smuggling to a community-based ecotourism village working for the protection of Cambodia's forests and wildlife. 

What to do during a stay in Chi Phat?

Here are all the activities to do during a stay in Chi Phat:

Go trekking in the jungle on foot or by bike

Trekking and hiking are the region’s main activities. Over 200 km of hiking trails wind through the region’s jungle, offering the chance to discover all the natural wonders of the area, including swimming in waterfalls, crossing rivers, observing wildlife and flora, visiting a mountain community, and seeing a banana plantation.

Accompanied by local guides who know the area better than anyone, travelers can choose a one-day trek or a multi-day trek, sleeping in a hammock (with a mosquito net) deep in the forest. No equipment is necessary as everything, including traditional Khmer meals, is provided by the community.

For the more adventurous, a mountain biking trek is also an option. 

Navigate the river in a kayak or traditional boat

Chi Phat offers several excursions to explore the region’s rivers (including the Piphot River and the Steung Pratt tributary) by kayak or traditional boat. This activity can be combined with the next one. 

Observe birds and local wildlife

The forests around Chi Phat are home to a wide range of animals, including monkeys (gibbons, langurs, etc.), insects, reptiles, and numerous bird species (such as toucans). Walking, cycling, kayaking, or rowing excursions allow you to get closer to them for a chance to observe them. To increase your chances of spotting wild animals, it's recommended to go on an early morning tour or a night safari. 

Swim in the waterfalls

The Chi Phat region is home to several water sources and waterfalls where you can swim without the crowds, offering a refreshing break after a trek. 

Some of the notable water spots include: 

• O'Kroich River (Wild Orange),
• O'Da River (Flagstone),
• Dragon Fish River Waterfall,
• Holy River Waterfall,
• Betel Nut Waterfall,
• High Waterfall or Bodhi Tree Rapids.

Explore caves and burial sites

During a forest expedition in Chi Phat, you can explore caves, including a bat cave. History enthusiasts will also discover ancient burial sites. The jungle hides funeral jars that are 500 years old, dating back to a post-Angkorian civilization.

These visits can also be incorporated into a trek. 

Stay with the locals

Visiting Chi Phat is not only an opportunity to enjoy abundant nature, far from mass tourism, but also a chance to experience a unique immersion into local culture. Since Chi Phat is a community-based village, visitors can stay with local families, either in homestays or guesthouses.

Staying with the locals offers perfect cultural immersion. You’ll have the opportunity to live according to their rhythm, interact, learn about their way of life, assist in preparing meals, and even learn Khmer cuisine.

It’s worth noting that not all families speak English, but communication can always happen through drawings or gestures. These moments will surely make your stay even more unforgettable.

For more information, visit the official website of the Chi Phat Ecotourism Village.

Florine Dergelet