Hiking in Cambodia
Including Cardamom Mountains (Chi Phat), Kirirom National Park, and Phnom Kulen National Park. On the map.
The vibe
Trekking here feels like a humid, slow-paced immersion into dense jungle and overgrown ruins rather than a high-altitude mountain challenge. The dry season from November to February is the only comfortable window to avoid the heavy rains that turn trails into impassable mud. You will mostly be navigating on your own or with a local guide, as formal trail systems are rare and often unmarked.
You will need a park ticket for most protected areas.
Cardamom Mountains (Chi Phat)
Koh Kong
Graham Maclachlan / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
The Cardamom Mountains offer some of the most pristine jungle trekking in Southeast Asia, with community-based tourism initiatives in Chi Phat providing access to deep forest trails. Trekkers can explore waterfalls, bat caves, and remote mountain ridges while supporting local conservation.
Access. Accessible via boat or road from Andoung Teuk; all treks must be booked through the local community center.
Notes. Leeches are common during the wet season; sturdy footwear and long-sleeved clothing are essential.
Kirirom National Park
Kampong Speu
Goldface2009 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Located in the highlands, Kirirom is known for its unique pine forests and cool mountain air, providing a stark contrast to the tropical lowlands. The park offers a network of well-marked trails that navigate through pine groves and rocky outcrops, perfect for day hikes.
Access. Located about 2.5 hours from Phnom Penh; easily accessible by private taxi or organized tour.
Notes. Best visited during the cooler dry season from November to February.
Phnom Kulen National Park
Siem Reap
Jean-Pierre Dalbéra from Paris, France / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
This sacred mountain plateau offers a blend of jungle trekking and historical exploration, featuring ancient riverbed carvings and hidden waterfalls. The trails wind through dense forest, leading hikers to the iconic 1,000 Lingas river and impressive multi-tier cascades.
Access. Accessible by car or motorbike from Siem Reap; requires a park entry permit purchased at the checkpoint.
Notes. The area is considered highly sacred; visitors should dress modestly and respect local customs.
Preah Monivong Bokor National Park
Kampot
Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit , Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
This former French hill station features misty mountain trails and abandoned colonial architecture set against a backdrop of lush rainforest. Hikers can explore paths that lead to panoramic viewpoints over the Gulf of Thailand and hidden jungle waterfalls.
Access. Accessible via a paved road from Kampot; the park is open to the public with various trailheads marked near the summit.
Notes. Weather can change rapidly; expect heavy mist and cooler temperatures at the summit.
Ream National Park
Khaet Preah Sihanouk
Николай Максимович / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
A coastal sanctuary featuring mangrove forests, sandy beaches, and low-lying jungle trails. It offers a unique opportunity to hike through diverse ecosystems where the forest meets the Gulf of Thailand.
Access. Accessible by boat or road from Sihanoukville; park rangers provide guided walking tours through the mangrove boardwalks and forest paths.
Notes. Best visited during the dry season from November to April to avoid muddy trails.
Virachey National Park
Ratanakiri
Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit , Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
One of Cambodia's most remote and expansive wilderness areas, offering rugged multi-day trekking opportunities through primary rainforest and grasslands. This is an authentic expedition-style destination where hikers can encounter diverse wildlife and indigenous communities.
Access. Access is strictly controlled and requires a registered guide and permits from the park office in Banlung.
Notes. Requires a high level of physical fitness and preparation for remote jungle conditions; malaria prophylaxis is recommended.