Published on January 22, 2021
Cambodia has no shortage of fantastic views, lush national parks, and relaxing beaches for nature-lovers to traverse. National parks such as Kirirom, Virachey, and Bousra welcome visitors to their expansive lands and diverse landscapes. The latter boasts a waterfall of the same name, perfect for cooling off after a day in the sun. As for islands, Koh Tonsay, Koh Dach, and Koh Rong Samloem are both in the running for the must-visit choice in Cambodia. Koh Tonsay is translated to Rabbit Island, a nod to the landmass’s shape, while Koh Dach is known for its silk production. Koh Rong Samloem calls to anyone looking to disconnect from it all, thanks to its lack of easy access to the internet. As for Kbal Spean, 31 miles outside of Siem Reap is a riverbed with Hindu carvings along and under it. Here are the places to visit if you’re looking to explore the natural landscape of Cambodia.
Kirirom National Park
Across 80,000 plus acres of forest is the stunning Kirirom National Park. Meaning Mountain of Joy, Kirirom is known for its high elevation pine forest and glistening waterfalls. At the southernmost point of the Cardamon mountain range, the park is over 2,200 feet above sea level. The park is also home to endangered species such as the pileated gibbon and sun bear.
Koh Tonsay
Translated to “Rabbit Island,” Koh Tonsay gets its name from the furry animal that locals believe the island resembles. One of the least developed islands in Kep, Koh Tonsay has no motor vehicles or widespread electricity. If you’re looking to get off the grid and reconnect with yourself and nature, this oasis is calling.
Koh Dach
Just north of where the Tonle Sap and Mekong Rivers meet at Phnom Penh is the island of Koh Dach. Known as the Silk Island, Koh Dach is, unsurprisingly, famous for its silk production. Visitors can learn about the popularity of silk weaving in Cambodia and the process. This rural oasis is a short ferry ride from the capital city and can be explored by bike or foot.
Koh Rong Samloem
If you’re looking to connect with the serene nature of Cambodia sans technology, Koh Rong Samloem is the place to do it. Until a few years ago, electricity and WiFi were unavailable on the island. While some updates have been made in recent years, Koh Rong Samloem will quickly have you off your phone and kayaking, scuba diving, or lying on the white sand beaches in a state of total relaxation.
Virachey National Park
Virachey National Park is a stunning expanse stretching over 1200 square miles in the northeast of Cambodia. Partially unexplored, the area is home to animals such as elephants, sun bears, and clouded leopards, along with many rare birds. Feel like you’re in a movie as you stroll across the open fields and take in the panoramic beauty. Designated an ASEAN Heritage Park in 2003, Virachey is available to explore through organized trips.
Bousra Waterfall
Inside Bousra National Park is the impressive, three-drop Bousra Waterfall. Visitors can reach Bousra from Sen Monorom, the nearest town 23 miles away. Take in the waterfall from one of the viewing platforms or make your way to its base for a refreshing mist. While at the park, continue the fun by exploring some of its other attractions, such as ziplining.
Kbal Spean
Venture 31 miles outside of Siem Reap to discover a unique walk in the jungles of Angkor. One mile in, visitors can find a series of incredible stone carvings dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries. Small circle carvings can be found on the floor along a river bed while Hindu deities run along the walls. The area is often referred to as the “Valley of a 1000 Lingas,” as the carved circles used to be mound-shaped representations of the Hindu god Shiva, referred to as “lingas.”
From the magnificent islands to the expansive national parks, Cambodia is a natural paradise.
