Koh Kong – Cambodia’s Outdoor Destination
The sleepy riverside town of Koh Kong is becoming a popular outdoor destination amongst travellers to Cambodia. With easy access to the pristine Cardamom Mountains, the town makes a good base for exploring the area. There’s something for everyone, even if you’re not feeling too energetic. Fat Sam’s, a Cambodian/Western run restaurant and bar is an excellent source of information on the ground, and can help you organise trips, or a driver.
Water, water, everywhere
A recommended day trip from Koh Kong is Tatai Waterfall. Just 18 kilometres from Koh Kong, a tuk tuk driver can take you to the village for $15 return, including waiting time. From the small village of Tatai, a short walk will see you at the well known Tatai Waterfall, particularly impressive during the rainy season. It’s also possible to get a boatman to take you to the base of the waterfall.
Nearby is a smaller waterfall, which really resembles some rapids, which is safe for swimming. Even during the rainy season, the heat and humidity can mean you’re ready to splash about in some refreshingly cool water.
If you’re after beaches, then Koh Kong Island is just a short boat ride away. Bear in mind that the island is often inaccessible during the wet season due to rougher than normal seas so you might be better off sticking to the mainland.
If you’d rather be on the water, the peace and quiet of a kayak is an excellent way to travel along Tatai River and its tributaries, passing thick mangrove and jungle along the way.
Run through the Jungle
Koh Kong is also a great place to organise trekking into the heart of the Cardamom Mountains. You can try out two day/one night trips or get further into the wilderness on a week long trek. Remember that in rainy season the jungle will be full of leeches so plan your trip accordingly or get some very stylish ‘leech socks’!
Overnight jungle trips are likely to involve a night in a hammock. It’s a good experience but for a more comfortable stay close to nature, check out our review of 4 Rivers Floating Lodge here, part of the Secret Retreats Group. 4 Rivers can also organise kayaking, waterfall and jungle trips in and around the Cardamom Mountains.
Blog and pictures by Simone