Cambodia: Chambok Community Ecotourism Site, a model of sustainable tourism and conservation
- Voyageuse Passion
- Jun 30
- 4 min read
Located in Kirirom National Park in Kampong Speu Province, just a two-hour drive from Phnom Penh, the Chambok Community Ecotourism Site is a model of sustainable tourism and local conservation in Cambodia.
Far off the beaten track, Chambok offers an immersive journey into the heart of rural Cambodian life, where beautiful landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage blend harmoniously. Created in the early 2000s by the local community to combat rampant deforestation and provide alternative livelihoods, Chambok has become a model of success in ecotourism.
Community spirit
The fundamental philosophy of ecotourism in Chambok is that all tourism revenue stays in the community, providing villagers with essential additional income. This financial incentive encourages residents to protect and preserve the surrounding 1,260 hectares of forest rather than engaging in destructive practices such as logging, firewood collection, and hunting, which were common before the ecotourism project was launched. One resident recounts how he stopped cutting trees and hunting when he realized he could earn a living from tourism while preserving the forest, highlighting the shift from exploitation to conservation.
A sustainable alternative
Ms. Huot Khem, who has been offering homestays for many years, recalls that before the site was launched in 2003, many local families depended on hunting and illegal logging to make a living. Today, the ecotourism project offers an alternative that preserves the forest and natural resources while generating sustainable income for the community. Another homestay operator, Ms. Hang Phoeun, explains that an overnight stay costs only US$4, with additional charges for meals depending on guests' preferences. Some foreign visitors stay for several months to relax or conduct research, and some participate in the daily life of the community, including farming, baking, etc., which helps to forge lasting friendships and create unforgettable memories.
At the heart of Chambok's appeal lies its spectacular natural landscape. Visitors can embark on scenic hikes along forest trails leading to a magnificent 40-meter-high waterfall, one of three rivers that beautify the region. The journey through dense forests rich in wildlife offers encounters with monkeys, exotic birds, and butterflies, all narrated by experienced local guides who share their knowledge of the flora, fauna, and traditional uses of plants for medicinal and food purposes. The more adventurous can go on ox cart rides, rock climbing, and camping, while nature lovers can enjoy bird watching or explore a fascinating cave inhabited by hundreds of bats.
Beyond nature, Chambok invites visitors to discover the authentic life of a Cambodian village through homestay experiences. Visitors are welcomed into local homes where they can learn traditional crafts such as making sticky rice in bamboo, participate in folk dance performances, and savor Khmer cuisine prepared with fresh, local ingredients. These cultural exchanges foster meaningful connections between travelers and their hosts, enriching the visitor experience.
Chambok's commitment to environmental education is another pillar of its mission. The community offers programs that emphasize the importance of forest conservation and sustainable living. Visitors can participate in tree planting and other hands-on activities that highlight the delicate balance between human well-being and ecosystem health.
The impact of Chambok's community-based ecotourism model has been widely recognized. The site has received awards from the Royal Government of Cambodia and the ASEAN Homestay Award, confirming its role as a model for tourism that empowers local communities while preserving natural resources.
Chambok offers a rare opportunity to see how community management and sustainable tourism can work together to create lasting benefits for people, culture, and the environment. It is a testament to the power of local action in preserving Cambodia's natural heritage, while paving the way for authentic and transformative travel experiences.
Visiting Chambok: practical information
Location: Kampong Speu province, about 110 km from Phnom Penh, on the edge of Kirirom National Park
Highlights: 40-meter waterfall, forest hiking, bat cave, bird watching, homestays
Activities: guided nature walks, traditional craft workshops, folk performances, camping
Benefits for the community: tourism income supports local development and forest conservation
Best time to visit: plan a 2-3 day stay to fully enjoy the natural and cultural attractions
Chambok is a successful example of sustainable development that balances economic benefits with environmental preservation. By keeping tourism revenues local and involving the community in all aspects of the project, Chambok has created a model that supports livelihoods, protects forests, and offers visitors an enriching cultural and ecological experience.
According to figures provided by Mr. Khin Mengkheang, Director of the Ecotourism Department at the Ministry of Environment and head of the “Sustainable Landscapes and Ecotourism in Cambodia” (CSLEP) project, Cambodia currently has 194 community-protected areas, 53 of which offer ecotourism services. In addition, the Ministry of Environment has also supported certain ecotourism sites by investing in improvements to drinking water and sanitation facilities, campsites, and other amenities designed to attract and accommodate visitors.
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