Cardamom Tented Camp: A Revolution in Responsible Tourism at the Heart of Cambodian Nature

On the fringes of the Cardamom Mountains, nestled deep within preserved nature, the Cardamom Tented Camp now stands as a global emblem of responsible tourism. This pioneering eco-lodge was recently honored on the international stage, confirming that tourism can not only foster enjoyment and escape — but also become a powerful force for conservation and for local communities.

International Recognition for Exemplary Commitment

In early November 2025, Cardamom Tented Camp made waves at the prestigious International Centre for Responsible Tourism (ICRT) Global Responsible Tourism Awards in London — where it was named among the top thirty projects worldwide committed to sustainability and positive environmental impact.

Competing in the “Nature Positive” category, the Cambodian camp stood shoulder to shoulder with major conservation initiatives from around the world — from safari camps in Kenya to rainforest lodges in Peru, and luxury eco-resorts in Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Although the ultimate award went to Indonesia’s Astungkara Way, the nomination itself is a major victory for a tourism model that transcends borders and sets a new standard for sustainable travel.

A Global Forum for a Greener Future

Founded in 2002 in the UK, the ICRT brings together, through its annual awards, projects capable of delivering tangible benefits for nature, culture and local communities. In 2025, the event gathered sustainable-tourism pioneers from five continents, recognized across six major categories: Nature Positive; Peace, Understanding & Inclusion; Responsible Waste Management; Local Procurement & Shared Value; Climate Adaptation & Resilience; and Inclusive Responsible Tourism.

The ICRT jury awards those initiatives whose impact is measurable — turning “responsible tourism” from an ideal into concrete reality. In this regard, Cardamom Tented Camp embodies that philosophy brilliantly: more than a place of escape, it is living proof that conservation, economic development and community can be intertwined to build a harmonious future.

Protecting with Pride

Allan Michaud, a renowned wildlife photographer, passionate defender of biodiversity, and long-time manager of the camp, expressed with emotion the importance of this recognition:

“We are immensely grateful to the jury for having recognized the collective commitment of all the teams. We strive to offer our visitors an authentic ecotourism experience, in a natural setting that we are deeply committed to protecting.”

Since its opening in 2017, this luxury tented camp has established itself as a true conservation actor. Visitors become more than mere observers — they transform into allies of nature, taking part in guided treks with rangers who tirelessly patrol to protect the forest from poaching, helping restore habitats, or exploring by kayak the wetlands inhabited by rare hornbills or otters.

The Green Heart of Cambodia

Lost deep within the Cambodian jungle, accessible only by boat along the Preak Tachan River or via winding forest paths, the lodge — with its 12 tents — offers a retreat far from the bustle of the modern world. Silently powered by solar panels, the camp operates without noisy generators, using a closed-loop natural wastewater filtration system.

Every detail is designed to reduce the ecological footprint, while allowing visitors full sensory immersion in the wild. The 18,000-hectare concession occupied by the camp borders the Botum Sakor National Park — one of the last great intact forest reserves in Southeast Asia. This natural mosaic of mangroves, wetlands, and tropical forests links lowlands to the peaks of the Cardamom Mountains, creating a vital corridor for emblematic species — from clouded leopards to Asian elephants — many of which are today threatened.

Conservation and Community

This exceptional environment has not always enjoyed such protection. In the past, the forest suffered from intensive logging, rampant poaching and illegal land grabs. Cardamom Tented Camp was born out of a will to break those destructive cycles.

The project is the fruit of a strong partnership between Minor Group, YAANA Ventures, and the NGO Wildlife Alliance — known for its effective anti-poaching patrols and continuous efforts to protect habitats. This alliance ensures that revenues generated by tourism feed directly into conservation operations, turning each stay into a concrete contribution to preserving wildlife and flora.

Their evocative slogan captures the spirit of the endeavor: “Your stay keeps the forest standing.” Beyond funding patrols, the funds also support local communities — offering sustainable jobs, training, and educational opportunities, thereby reducing dependence on destructive activities.

Not long before its London triumph, Cardamom Tented Camp had already won the title of Best Tent Camp in Cambodia at the World Luxury Travel Awards in Singapore. These two consecutive prestigious distinctions underscore its unique positioning: a place that blends princely comfort, authenticity, and ecological imperatives.intien de la faune et de la flore.

An Invitation to Responsible Travel

For travelers seeking deep experiences, a stay at Cardamom Tented Camp is an invitation to disconnect from the frantic pace of modern life — to slow down, reconnect with what matters. Each morning begins with a misty boat ride along the river, before exploring the forest on hikes where human traces quickly fade, reminding how fragile and precious this ecosystem is.

Afternoons often stretch into silent kayak rides through winding mangrove channels, accompanied by the calls of distant woodpeckers. At night, under a sky full of stars, the forest reveals its nocturnal symphony — and the feeling of belonging to the living world becomes palpable.

A Model for the Future of Sustainable Tourism

In an era when tourism is often criticized for its devastating effects on the environment, Cardamom Tented Camp emerges as a beacon of hope — a roadmap for a more respectful future. It shows that responsible tourism does not mean sacrificing wonder — quite the opposite. It enriches every experience with meaning and commitment.

Every traveler who sets foot here becomes part of something greater than themselves — a conservator of nature and local cultures, an ambassador for a planet we choose to protect.

The next time you consider a nature getaway, imagine more than just luxury under canvas. Think of the gibbons’ melodious calls at dawn, the discreet trails of rangers guarding the forest, and your own role — the one that helps keep the forest standing.

https://cardamomtentedcamp.com/