Located in the southwestern corner of Cambodia, Koh Kong Province is one of the largest in the country, offering vast natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and increasing economic significance. It features an expansive coastline, pristine rivers, tropical islands, and dense forested interiors that form part of the Cardamom Mountains—the largest remaining rainforest in Southeast Asia.
Koh Kong’s capital, Krong Koh Kong, sits near the Thai border and serves as an emerging cross-border trade and travel hub. With its tranquil setting, vibrant nature-based activities, and improving infrastructure, the province is steadily gaining popularity among domestic and international travelers alike.
Geography
Covering 11,160 square kilometres, Koh Kong is bordered by Pursat to the north, Kampot and Sihanoukville to the west, and the Gulf of Thailand to the south and east. The province’s terrain is defined by the Cardamom Mountain range, which dominates the interior landscape with tropical rainforests, waterfalls, and rivers flowing westward into the sea.
Among the most significant waterways are the Stoeng Kaoh Pa and Stoeng Me Toek rivers. Unlike Cambodia’s central plains, Koh Kong’s terrain is largely hilly and forested, with minimal flat agricultural land except along riverbanks closer to the coast. The highest elevation in the province reaches 1,210 metres, contributing to the region’s biodiversity and natural appeal.
Population
As of 2007, Koh Kong had a population of approximately 207,474 people, making up 1.45% of Cambodia’s total population. The population density is relatively low at 18.6 people per square kilometre, reflecting the province’s largely undeveloped and forested landscape.
Most residents are ethnic Khmer, with many also speaking Thai, Chinese, and Vietnamese, reflecting the province’s historical and geographical ties with neighboring countries. English is spoken to a limited extent, particularly in tourism-related areas.
Climate
Koh Kong enjoys a tropical monsoon climate, making it warm and humid year-round. Its proximity to the sea and mountainous terrain provides a lush environment that supports a wide range of plant and animal life.
- Cool Season (November – March): 17°C – 27°C
- Hot Season (March – May): 29°C – 38°C
- Rainy Season (May – October): 27°C – 35°C, with humidity reaching up to 90%
Travelers are advised to plan visits outside the late rainy season months, as some rural roads may be difficult to navigate due to flooding.
Economy
Koh Kong’s economy is undergoing transformation, driven by improvements in cross-border trade, infrastructure, and eco-tourism. Agriculture remains the main livelihood for rural households, especially in areas with access to arable land. The province also supports small-scale manufacturing, fishing, and timber-related activities.
Tourism is emerging as a key economic driver, supported by nature tours, coastal getaways, riverside excursions, and visits to nearby islands. The province also features border casinos and is developing an Export Processing Zone and port facilities to boost international trade with Thailand and beyond.
While industrial development is still modest, Koh Kong’s natural assets and improved road connections—facilitated in part by Thai-funded infrastructure—position it well for future growth, especially in eco-tourism and sustainable development sectors.
Koh Kong is a province of contrasts—rich in biodiversity, culturally diverse, and strategically located. Its rugged mountains, extensive rainforests, and serene coastline make it a unique destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers. With improved accessibility and a growing tourism sector, Koh Kong is poised to become one of Cambodia’s key eco-tourism and cross-border trade hubs, offering an authentic experience for those looking to explore the country’s lesser-known coastal frontier.
