Cardamom Mountains – Untamed Wilderness Adventures

The Cardamom Mountains, spanning southwestern Cambodia into Pursat province, are known for their dense, pristine rainforests and rich biodiversity, including many endangered species. Covering about 2.5 million acres (1 million hectares), the range stretches from the Thai border in the west to 60 miles northwest of Phnom Penh. 

Mount Aural, Cambodia’s highest peak at 1,813 meters, is located here. The region is home to around 25,000 people, including ethnic minorities like the Porr.

Historically, the Cardamoms served as a Khmer Rouge stronghold, keeping the area isolated and undeveloped for decades. Two wildlife sanctuaries, Mt. Samkos and Mt. Aural were legally established in 1993 but lack active management. Today, the Cardamoms form Southeast Asia’s largest mainland wilderness, harboring species such as elephants, tigers, clouded leopards, sun bears, gibbons, and Siamese crocodiles, many endangered or extinct elsewhere.

Covering over 4.4 million hectares, the Cardamoms contain some of Cambodia’s most diverse and unique habitats, including fire-regulated ferns, upper montane forests, marshes, and blackwater rivers. Surveys by Fauna & Flora International and partners have documented hundreds of species, confirming the region’s global ecological importance.

Conservation efforts focus on protecting these vital ecosystems while balancing poverty reduction and development through managing the Phnom Samkos and Phnom Aural Wildlife Sanctuaries.

How to Get There

The Cardamom Mountains span several provinces, but Pursat makes an excellent gateway for exploration. From Pursat town, travelers can head west along National Road 5 and connect to National Road 10, which cuts through the mountains toward Koh Kong. Along this route, stops like Osoam Community in Veal Veng District offer eco-tourism activities, homestays, and jungle treks.

Independent travelers can also arrange 4×4 vehicles or motorbikes for deeper exploration, especially during the dry season (November–April). For guided treks, conservation centers and local eco-tourism projects provide safe, sustainable access to the wilder areas of the range.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: The dry season (November–April) is ideal for trekking and road travel; the rainy season makes access difficult but adds dramatic beauty to waterfalls and rivers.

What to Bring: Sturdy shoes, insect repellent, light rain gear, and plenty of drinking water. A hammock or tent is handy for overnight stays in eco-camps.

Respect Nature & Culture: Stay on marked trails, avoid littering, and support community-run eco-tourism projects, which directly benefit local families.

Connectivity: Mobile signal is weak or non-existent in many areas, download maps in advance and prepare for a true off-grid adventure.

Safety: Travel with a local guide when venturing into deep jungle; not only is it safer, but you’ll also learn more about the wildlife and traditions of the region.