Koh Kong, a region nestled between the Cardamom Mountains and the Gulf of Thailand, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and adventure, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to explore Cambodia off the beaten track. Whether you’re an eco-tourism enthusiast, a beach lover, or someone seeking tranquility away from the crowds, Koh Kong has something special to offer.
Koh Kong: A Gateway to Nature and Adventure
Koh Kong, often associated with its city, island, and province of the same name, is gradually shedding its past reputation and emerging as a hub for eco-tourism. Located near the Thai border, the city of Koh Kong may not be the most picturesque town in Cambodia, but it serves as the perfect base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders. The region’s appeal lies in its rugged landscapes, pristine beaches, dense mangroves, and untamed jungles that await exploration.
Discovering Koh Kong City
Koh Kong city itself might not boast the charm of Cambodia’s more famous tourist destinations, but it provides a unique opportunity to experience the authentic, less-commercialized side of the country. Begin your journey by wandering through the city’s streets to get a feel for the local life. The riverside promenade, though in need of some upkeep, offers a glimpse of daily life along the river, with views of the peninsula and the bridge linking Cambodia to Thailand. Nearby, you can explore the floating fishing village and local markets, where you can catch a glimpse of local commerce.
While the city’s aesthetic appeal may be limited, it’s the surrounding natural beauty that truly captures the heart. Just outside the city lies an array of activities that make Koh Kong a destination worth visiting.
Koh Kong Island: A Pristine Escape
One of the highlights of Koh Kong province is the stunning Koh Kong Island, Cambodia’s largest island. Located about 10 kilometers south of the city in the Gulf of Thailand, this island is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its golden sands, swaying palms, and crystal-clear waters, Koh Kong Island remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, offering visitors a rare chance to enjoy an idyllic beach experience without the crowds.
Reaching Koh Kong Island is part of the adventure. Local tour operators in the city offer all-inclusive day trips to the island. The journey begins with a scenic longtail boat ride from the riverside, passing by floating villages and mangroves before arriving at the deserted bay of Koh Kong Island. Here, you can spend your time swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the pristine beach. For those who love exploring, the island’s shore and jungle edges provide ample opportunity for a quiet wander. The island’s isolation and natural beauty create an atmosphere of tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere.
The island experience is further enhanced by a delicious barbequed lunch provided by the tour operators, with fresh fish, stir-fried vegetables, and rice, all enjoyed in the open air. Though the return journey can sometimes be choppy, the adventure is made memorable with the possibility of spotting dolphins, flying fish, and fish eagles along the way.
For those who crave even more immersion in nature, some tours offer the option to camp overnight on Koh Kong Island, though the presence of sandflies might make this an adventure best suited for the truly intrepid.
Exploring Peam Krasaop Mangroves
A visit to Koh Kong would not be complete without exploring the Peam Krasaop Mangroves, located about 8 kilometers outside the city. The Peam Krasaop Wildlife Sanctuary covers a vast 25,000 hectares and has been developed into an eco-tourism project aimed at preserving the unique mangrove ecosystem. For a small entrance fee, visitors can embark on an unguided walk along a 1-kilometer boardwalk that meanders through the dense mangrove forest. The eerie, otherworldly atmosphere of the mangroves is heightened by the sounds of snapping and popping, as if the forest itself is alive and breathing.
The walk through the mangroves culminates in a 200-meter long suspension bridge that leads to a tall wooden viewing platform. From here, visitors can take in panoramic views of the surrounding mangroves, which are particularly stunning at sunset. For those visiting during high tide, there is also the option to explore the mangroves by boat, offering a different perspective of this diverse ecosystem.
The Peam Krasaop Mangroves are home to hundreds of species, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Whether you explore on foot or by boat, the experience is a reminder of the importance of preserving these vital ecosystems.
Accommodation Options in Koh Kong
Koh Kong offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Visitors can find comfortable and affordable rooms in the city, often centrally located near shops, restaurants, and the riverside. These accommodations provide a welcome retreat after a day of exploring, with clean and well-equipped rooms that include amenities such as widescreen TVs, fridges, and tea and coffee-making facilities. While some hotels do not offer dining options, their central location means that guests have easy access to a variety of eateries in the city.
Dining in Koh Kong: Local and International Flavors
Despite its small size, Koh Kong offers a surprising variety of dining options, ranging from local Khmer cuisine to Western dishes. There are cozy establishments tucked away in traditional Khmer wooden houses, offering limited but delicious menus that include popular dishes like burgers and Khmer specialties. The friendly atmosphere and tasty food make these spots great places to unwind after a day of exploration.
For a more upscale dining experience, there are restaurants built over the water, offering al-fresco dining with stunning views. The seafood here is particularly noteworthy, with dishes like tuna salad, seafood tom yam soup, and whole steamed fish on the menu. While the prices are slightly higher than other local eateries, the quality of the food and the picturesque setting make it well worth the splurge.
In addition to these restaurants, Koh Kong also has a few street food vendors that set up along the riverside in the late afternoon. While the food hygiene might be a concern for some, these stalls offer a chance to sample local snacks and drinks at affordable prices.
Getting to Koh Kong: A Journey Worth Taking
Koh Kong can be reached from several major cities in Cambodia, including Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, and Siem Reap. The most common way to travel to Koh Kong is by road, with options including buses, mini-vans, and taxis. For those traveling from Phnom Penh, the journey takes between five and six and a half hours, with companies offering reliable service.
If you’re coming from Sihanoukville, the journey is slightly shorter, taking four to five hours by bus or taxi. For those traveling from Siem Reap, be prepared for a longer journey, as the trip can take up to 12 hours by bus or taxi. Alternatively, you can break up the journey by flying to Phnom Penh or Sihanoukville and then continuing by road.
Getting Around Koh Kong: Explore at Your Own Pace
Once in Koh Kong, getting around is easy. The city is small enough to explore on foot, and most of the attractions are within walking distance. For those who prefer to cover more ground, bicycles and motorcycles are available for rent from various hotels and guesthouses. Tuk-tuks are also readily available for short trips around the city, while taxis can be hired for excursions further afield.
Beyond Koh Kong: Additional Activities
While two nights in Koh Kong provide a good introduction to the area, there is plenty more to see and do if you have the time. Consider visiting Tatai Waterfalls, located about 20 kilometers from the city. This two-tiered waterfall, set in the Tatai River, is surrounded by stunning mountain and jungle scenery, making it a popular spot for visitors.
For beach lovers, Koh Yor Beach and Lam Da Beach offer quiet spots to relax, though they are a bit further from the city. If you’re up for an adventure, consider a trek in the Cardamom Mountains, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Koh Kong is a destination that offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the mangroves, lounging on a deserted island beach, or enjoying a meal in a local restaurant, Koh Kong provides an authentic Cambodian experience that is both enriching and memorable. So, pack your bags and set off to discover this hidden gem in Cambodia, where nature and adventure await at every turn.
A Final Note on Koh Kong
Koh Kong is not just a destination; it’s an experience that invites you to explore the lesser-known, the wild, and the beautiful. With its diverse landscapes and serene environment, it offers travelers a chance to reconnect with nature and discover a side of Cambodia that is still largely untouched. Whether you’re staying for a few days or longer, Koh Kong will leave you with memories of a tranquil, yet adventurous escape.
