An Unforgettable Eco-Friendly Trip
to Cambodia
Are you planning to travel to Cambodia? Cambodia is a small country full of history and culture. This Southeast Asian country offers everything from stunning landscapes, turquoise beaches, unique wildlife, tropical sunset adventures, and exotic temples that leave locals and travelers starstruck.
When visiting Cambodia, travelers enjoy and can marvel at this beautiful country. Cambodia is known for its rural landscape and the country a stage for many ecotourism activities. Travelers learn about the Khmer ethnic culture, history, food and study unique flora and faunas during their vacation in Cambodia.
About Ecotourism in Cambodia
With over 20% of Cambodia under government protection, Cambodia has 7 national parks. And has 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites ready to be explored during your fabulous vacation in Cambodia. The Ministry of Environment is working with the World Bank to prepare the Cambodia Sustainable Landscape and Ecotourism Project (CSLEP) to improve the effectiveness of protecting natural resources, develop more eco-tourism activities and promote non-timber forest products in several provinces.
Another project is the Wildlife Conservation Society in Cambodia (WCS Cambodia). This project is a cooperation between local villagers and Cambodia’s Ministry of Environment. The purpose of this project is to promote local jobs and strengthen the conservation of natural resources. Since July 2020, Cambodian villagers have been using bamboo to make everyday items and souvenirs such as water glasses, teapots, and tissue boxes to sell to travelers and local communities.
Cambodia Ecotourism Initiatives
The Trapeang Sangkae Community-Based Ecotourism initiative aims to save the mangroves from being torn from waterways. In 2009, Kampot villagers asked Cambodia’s government for support. And in 2011, there are 393 hectares to cultivate 1,200 mangrove trees and improve fishing communities in the area.
The ultimate goal for this initiative is to serve as a shelter for fish and squid. They have also developed a range of activities, such as kayaking, day trips for travelers and with local fishermen, and a homestay option for travelers during their Cambodia trip. All profits earned in the Trapeang Sangkae Community-Based Ecotourism are donated back into the community.
Another initiative is Chi Phat, located in the middle of Southeast Asia’s largest rainforest (The Cardamom Mountains). Chi Phat is one of Cambodia’s first community-based ecotourism initiatives. The NGO Wildlife Alliance and villagers from the Chi Phat community launched an authentic homestay initiative to offer culturally-based experiences for travelers and locals. Former poachers are trained as guides to instruct guests, taking them to local waterfalls and villages, Exploring exotic wildlife, getting close to animals, and directly supporting the re-wilding of Cambodia’s forests.
Travelers who join this initiative help financially through Wildlife Alliance. Or travelers can stay and volunteer long-term to learn the culture, contribute to community work (cook, design homes, build, garden, organize, etcetera), and homestay to experience life like a villager. Such a nice add on for travelers when visiting Cambodia!
Unique Ecotours in Cambodia
Located in the middle of Mondulkiri, a Northeastern province of Cambodia, The Elephant Valley Project of Cambodia (also referred to as: “Elephant Livelihood Initiative Environment) is a registered NGO and is perfect for travelers wanting to learn more about elephants. The Elephant Valley Project is an education eco-tour for travelers to see elephants up close in their natural habitat while being educated more about the effects of elephant abuse.
A sustainable trip to Cambodia improves livelihood, creates new occupations for the communities, and sever ties with traditional logging and animal hunting in Cambodia’s forests. And with no further ado, book an eco-friendly vacation in Cambodia!
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