Cambodia’s southernmost province of Koh Kong is truly one of the most scenic and untouched regions in the entire country. Lush jungles, mangrove forests, white sand beaches, and dramatic cliffs line the coast along the Gulf of Thailand. As you hike through various trails, you’ll discover hidden waterfalls, secluded coves, and ruins of ancient temples dating back centuries. The rugged landscape offers breathtaking views at every turn.
Getting to Koh Kong Province
Koh Kong province is located along Cambodia’s southwestern border with Thailand. The main city and province, also called Koh Kong, is a 5-6 hour drive from Phnom Penh or Sihanoukville. Public transport options include buses, shared taxis, or vans. Buses depart daily from Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville’s main bus stations, and the journey costs $5-10, depending on vehicle type. Shared taxis are more expensive, ranging from $25-50 per vehicle, but they cut travel time significantly down to 3-4 hours.
The roads leading to Koh Kong have improved dramatically in recent years, but driving conditions can still be challenging during the rainy season from May to October when sections may flood. Allow plenty of travel time as buses occasionally get delayed. Upon arrival at the Koh Kong bus station, you can arrange transport like motos, tuk-tuks, or pickups to your guesthouse or hiking starting points. Most accommodations offer free transport from the station with advance notice.
Hiking to Tatai Waterfall
One of the most scenic hikes near Koh Kong town is the majestic Tatai Waterfall, located within the Tatai Wildlife Sanctuary. The trail passes through a dense jungle dotted with giant bamboo, jackfruit, and tamarind trees. Look out for exotic birds like hornbills and colorful monkeys playing in the trees. The 2-3 hour roundtrip hike has an elevation gain of only 150 meters, so it’s suitable for all fitness levels.
From Koh Kong town, take a moto or taxi 10km northwest to the sanctuary entrance. Pay the $5 entry fee and inform the rangers of your intended hike. The clearly marked trail starts as a dirt path winding gently uphill. After about 30 minutes, you’ll reach a clearing with panoramic views of the karst mountains in the distance. Continuing on, the trail narrows as it gets steeper through thick bamboo forest. Listen for the rushing waters getting louder as you approach the falls. Finally, you’ll emerge at the base of the 35-meter cascading waterfall. Take a dip in the refreshingly cool pools or relax on the smooth rocks. Be sure to allow 2-3 hours minimum for this memorable hike.
Trekking to Peamu Eucliff
For breathtaking clifftop views of the coast and jungle-lined inlets below, the trek to Peamu Eucliff is unparalleled. The trailhead is accessed via a 30-minute boat ride ($10 roundtrip per person) from Andoung Toek village. From Koh Kong town, arrange transportation to the pier in Andoung Toek, which is 30km southeast. Bring plenty of water as the 9km return trek can take 4-6 hours, depending on your pace.
After departing the pier, the trail winds through scenic coastal forest for about 45 minutes before emerging onto open grassy plains overlooking the cliffs and azure waters. From here, the eucliff comes into full view—a towering 300-meter wall of limestone karst carved by erosion. Follow cairns marking the route as it hugs the edge of the craggy cliffs, taking in panoramas stretching as far as Thailand’s border mountains. Watch your step on the sloped rock sections, as a single misstep could lead to a long fall.
Reaching the base of Peamu Eucliff, trail ends at a secluded cove beach strewn with large boulders. Swim or kayak in the cove’s emerald waters if tides permit. Refuel with snacks before beginning the journey back, allowing ample time to soak up the inspiring ocean vistas one last time. This memorable hike is well worth the boat transfer for a taste of Koh Kong’s raw coastal beauty.
Exploring Phrum Srodak Pagoda Ruins
Nestled in verdant jungle 4km north of Areyksat town lays the abandoned Phrum Srodak Pagoda complex—one of Koh Kong’s most fascinating historical sites to explore. Motor or bike 20 minutes north from Areyksat and look for a marked dirt road leading into the forest. Park at the footpath and begin your jungle trek.
The ruins date back to Angkorian times in the 12th-13th centuries when this area belonged to the Khmer Empire. Wander through crumbling sandstone stupas, temples, and ponds while admiring the intricate carvings still visible on some structures. Moss and vines have overtaken most buildings, but it’s easy to imagine their former glory days. After heavy rainfalls, the site fills with purple blooms of the rare Rafflesia flower, one of the world’s largest.
Allow 1-2 hours minimum to discover the layout and appreciate this lost corner of Cambodia’s history deep in the woods. Watch your step over stone rubble, and bring sturdy boots for the occasional muddy sections. Consider starting early to miss the heat of the day. This off-the-beaten hiking adventure promises serene jungle vibes and links to Koh Kong’s Angkorian heritage.
Trek to Chhung Preah Waterfall
For an invigorating full-day hike under the forest canopy, the trek to the three-tiered Chhung Preah Waterfall is a top choice. The trailhead begins in Preah Sea Commune, 30km northeast of Koh Kong town. Organize transport from Koh Kong early to allow ample time for the 7-8 hour roundtrip outing.
Your jungle trekking adventure begins down a dirt trail away from the village past rubber and palm tree plantations. After 1-2 hours of undulating terrain, you’ll reach the base of the first 100-meter-high waterfall cascading down layered sandstone. Swim in the cooling emerald pools or sunbathe on smooth boulders. Carry on further, and the trail steepens, winding up to the second 50-meter drop.
From here, it’s another 30-minute trek uphill to the tallest 150-meter section of Chhung Preah. Take a refreshing dip under its thundering force if waters are low. Refuel with packed eats before beginning the scenic return journey, keeping an eye out for wildlife like monkeys, deer, and curious hornbills. Leave plenty of extra time for swimming breaks as you hike through this emerald forest interior, reminding yourself how far modern civilization lies beyond the trees.
Mangrove Kayaking around Peam Krasaop Wildlife Sanctuary
For those seeking a more mellow coastal adventure, kayaking through the protected mangroves of Peam Krasaop Wildlife Sanctuary offers beautiful bird’s-eye views of this delicate ecosystem. Located 30km south of Koh Kong town, the sanctuary protects over 10,000 hectares of mudflats and mangroves, home to rare Irrawaddy dolphins.
Arrange transport from Koh Kong to the park entrance, where kayaks equipped with life jackets can be rented for $15 per person. Guides are mandatory for navigating the mudflats at high tide—book in advance. Paddle through winding channels, observing graceful herons, egrets, kingfishers, and sometimes dolphins breaking the water’s surface in the distance. Stay alert for crab-eating macaques lurking high in the mangroves, too.
Allow 2-3 hours minimum for this serene outing and aim to kayak during mid-high tide for best viewing of wildlife. Be sure to bring water, snacks, hats and sunscreen to fully enjoy Koh Kong’s scenic backwaters up close at your own peaceful pace. This gentle eco-adventure offers a memorable cultural and educational experience all smiles and laughs.
Kayaking into Wat Hanchey Caves
For daring kayakers and spelunkers seeking more heart-pounding adventure, navigating Koh Kong’s atmospheric sea caves should be high on the bucket list. Accessible only by kayak about 30km south of Koh Kong town, these jungle-lined limestone caverns hide intriguing ecosystems and pockmarked rock formations sculpted by ages of ocean tides.
Organize transport from Koh Kong to the village of Tatai Leu, which is located at the caves’ entrance point. Equip yourself with headlamps, dry bags, and life jackets before kayaking into the cave mouth as guides lead the way. Paddle through tight passages where soaring bats fly inches above your head before opening into towering cathedral-like chambers awash with flickering sunlight peering down from above.
Hop out and explore short trails leading off into offshoot tunnels and freshwater pools teeming with swifts and mountain squirrels. Stay extremely cautious of slippery rocks near surging waters echoing throughout the chambers. This thrilling caving adventure takes 2-3 hours from start to finish, and it involves kayaking through the magical sea caves. Only attempt it when tides are low, and guides deem conditions safe. Witnessing Koh Kong’s impressive coastal landscapes from within these cathedral-like caverns creates a truly unforgettable experience.
Tips for Hiking in Koh Kong Province
To fully enjoy your hiking adventures through Koh Kong’s stunning scenery, here are some important tips to keep in mind:
- Only hike during dry season from November to April to avoid flooded or muddy trails. Carry rain gear, just in case.
- Pack plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing/shoes suited for trail conditions. A first aid kit is also advisable.
- Inform others of your intended route and estimated return time. Consider hiring a guide for more challenging multi-day treks off main trails.
- Respect locals, their property, and sacred sites. Travel responsibly without littering or damaging the environment.
- Watch out for venomous snakes which may be found along jungle trails, particularly cobras. Do not try to handle any spotted animals.
- Beware strong afternoon sun with little shade on some exposed cliff treks. Apply sunscreen regularly and wear protective clothing/hat.
- Insect repellent is recommended for jungle hikes to deter mosquitos potentially carrying malaria or dengue fever.
- Avoid climbing angled rock faces or swimming in unsupervised waters that could pose drowning risks. Kayaking requires water safety skills too.
By preparing accordingly and following basic precautions, visitors can safely enjoy Koh Kong’s diverse natural scenery and help protect this unspoiled province for future generations. Let nature’s beauty and history be your guide through this wilderness wonderland.
