Cambodia & Tourism: Stung Treng invites tourists to its first Mekong Dolphins and Kayak Festival

For the first time, the picturesque province of Stung Treng, located along the majestic Mekong River in northeast Cambodia, will host the Mekong Dolphin and Kayak Festival from May 30 to June 1, 2025.

This historic event promises to be a vibrant celebration of nature, culture and community, highlighting the province's rich tourism potential while championing the urgent cause of conserving the endangered Irrawaddy dolphin.

The festival comes at a pivotal time, as Cambodia enters the “green season”, the long-awaited rainy period that brings the landscape back to life, transforming the region into a lush, vibrant haven for flora and fauna. The Ministry of Tourism recently underscored the importance of this moment, insisting that the festival not only marks seasonal renewal, but also serves as a platform for raising public awareness of environmental management and sustainable tourism.

Jointly organized by the Ministry of Tourism and the provincial authorities of Stung Treng, the three-day festival will take place in the picturesque eco-tourism community of Preah Rumkel, located in the Chheuteal Dolphin Protection Area, Preah Rumkel commune, Borei O' Svay Sen Chey district. This carefully chosen location offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience up close the natural beauty of the Mekong and its rare aquatic inhabitants.

The festival's varied program is designed to attract visitors of all ages and interests. Highlights include a traditional blessing ceremony dedicated to the Irrawaddy dolphins, symbolizing respect and protection for these rare creatures. Kayak boat competitions will invite amateurs and seasoned paddlers to navigate the gentle currents of the river, encouraging a spirit of adventure and camaraderie.

In addition to water-based activities, participants will be able to explore a range of local eco-tourism products and savor authentic Cambodian cuisine, highlighting the region's cultural heritage and culinary delights. Sports enthusiasts will be drawn to mass-participation events such as marathons and charity boat races, which promote health, community spirit and charitable causes.

For those seeking a deeper immersion in nature, the festival offers camping trips and guided tours of the ecotourism community of Borei O' Svay and the breathtaking Sopheakmit waterfall, a hidden gem renowned for its serene beauty and tranquil surroundings.

The Ministry of Tourism warmly invites national and international visitors to take part in this inaugural celebration, adopting the festival's mottos: “Tourism for all, all for tourism”, “Tourism thrives in peace” and “Every person is an ambassador for Cambodian tourism”. Through these ideals, the event aims to encourage a collective commitment to sustainable tourism, cultural pride and environmental preservation.

As Stung Treng opens its arms to the world for this first-ever Mekong Dolphin and Kayak Festival, it offers a rare blend of adventure, education and celebration - a true testament to Cambodia's growing reputation as a dynamic and responsible travel destination. Don't miss your chance to witness the magic of the Mekong and help preserve its irreplaceable natural heritage.