Cambodia is renowned for its wild and authentic natural landscapes. Hiking in Cambodia is an opportunity to explore the country's most remote areas, far from major tourist routes. The Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri regions are particularly appreciated by travelers seeking raw, untouched nature. Since trails are often not well-marked, it is often necessary to hire a local guide to hike in the Land of Smiles. 

Hiking in Mondulkiri 

Located in the east of Cambodia, Mondulkiri is an isolated and wild province offering numerous hiking opportunities. Easily accessible, it is affectionately known as the "Switzerland of Cambodia." It remains a preserved land, featuring a landscape of mountains, lush hills, and dense jungles. A true paradise for hikers, Mondulkiri offers trails that range from a few hours to several days of walking. A local guide is essential for trekking through this wild territory. Along the way, you can visit villages inhabited by numerous ethnic minorities. Within this natural environment, there are several waterfalls, including the Bou Sra waterfalls—two majestic falls, one 10 meters high and the other 25 meters, nestled in the heart of lush mountains. This is a natural gem to witness while hiking in Mondulkiri.

What to avoid: The region is known for offering elephant-back rides. Like in the rest of Cambodia, this activity hides a dark reality. Elephants are subjected to torture in order to break their spirit and make them submissive to human will. This is an activity we strongly advise against. 

Hiking in Ratanakiri 

Located on the border of Vietnam and Laos, in the northeastern part of Cambodia, the Ratanakiri province is the most remote region of the country. With its mountains, plateaus, and tropical forests, it offers an ideal playground for travelers looking to hike in Cambodia.  

The landscapes are varied, and the trails pass through villages where the indigenous people of the region live. It is an excellent opportunity to meet them and discover their animistic traditions and ancestral lifestyles. 

The most popular hiking trail in Ratanakiri is located in the Kalai jungle. This easy route takes you through shallow jungle, but, once again, it is advisable to hire a guide. The Cha Ong waterfall is one of the natural wonders to explore on a trek in Ratanakiri. The trail passes through rubber tree plantations before reaching this waterfall and its natural pool. The Yeak Lom crater lake is another must-see. A short trail allows you to circle it in about an hour's walk. 

For an exceptional hike in Cambodia, ask for a quote for our jungle tour in Ratanakiri. 

Hiking in the Cardamom Mountains

Located in the south of Cambodia, the Cardamom Mountains form a verdant mountain range stretching over more than 300 kilometers. Known as the "green lung" of Cambodia, the range is home to the largest tropical forest in Southeast Asia. Still relatively untouristed, it is the ideal place to hike in Cambodia off the beaten path.

It is possible to organize a multi-day trek, sleeping in the jungle. This is a great opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural habitat, including gibbons, deer, and wild pigs. The Cardamom Mountains are home to the highest point in Cambodia, Phnom Aural, which rises to an altitude of 1813 meters. It is possible to reach the summit with a two-day trek. The Khmer village of Chi Phat, known for its responsible tourism, is the perfect base to organize a hike in the Cardamom Mountains. 

Hiking in Phnom Kulen mountain range

Phnom Kulen is a small mountain range, rising 500 meters above the plain. Located 50 kilometers northeast of Angkor Wat, it is a significant pilgrimage site for the Khmer people. The trail to the summit is lined with historical sites to explore along the way. Among these remarkable sites is the River of a Thousand Lingas—an archaeological site discovered by a French ethnologist, which contains religious sculptures nestled in the riverbed. The trail is relatively easy and traverses a lush tropical forest. At the summit of Phnom Kulen, you will find a pagoda housing an 8-meter statue of a reclining Buddha. 

Hiking in Kep National Park

Kep National Park offers a great option for self-guided hikes in Cambodia. The hiking trails in this region are easy, accessible, and fairly well-marked. This natural reserve offers two trails through a lush forest, with circuits that take no more than 3 hours to complete. The "Staway to Heaven" trail winds through dense forest and passes several temples and viewpoints overlooking the countryside of Kep. It’s a great hiking option if you're passing through the south of the country. 

Linda Martinez