Chi Phat Ecotourism Village is a community-based eco-tourism project located in the Koh Kong province of Cambodia. Situated in the Cardamom Mountains, it offers travelers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty and biodiversity of one of Southeast Asia's largest remaining rainforests while supporting conservation efforts and the local economy.
Chi Phat is accessible by road and boat. Visitors typically travel to Andoung Teuk by bus or taxi from Phnom Penh or Koh Kong. From Andoung Teuk, a boat transfer arranged by the community takes visitors up the Preak Piphot River to Chi Phat Village.
Chi Phat offers a variety of activities such as trekking through the rainforest, cycling, kayaking, bird watching, and participating in cultural exchange activities. Visitors can explore waterfalls, mountains, and traditional Khmer villages, and can also join wildlife-spotting expeditions, guided by local experts.
Yes, Chi Phat provides a range of accommodation options, from homestays with local families to guesthouses and bungalows. The accommodations are managed by the community to ensure that the benefits from tourism go directly to local households and support the village's development.
The best time to visit Chi Phat is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. During this period, the weather is more predictable, and the trails are in better condition for trekking and other activities. However, visiting in the wet season (May to October) can also be rewarding with lush landscapes, though some trails may be more challenging to navigate.
The Chi Phat community is directly involved in conservation efforts to protect the local environment and reduce poaching, logging, and other destructive activities. The income generated from ecotourism is reinvested into the community and used for conservation projects, wildlife monitoring, and environmental education, offering alternative livelihoods to practices that harm the ecosystem.
It is recommended to book your visit to Chi Phat in advance to ensure accommodations and guides are available for your preferred dates. By planning ahead, you can also tailor your visit to include the activities and experiences you are interested in.
Yes, Chi Phat has a visitor center where guests can find information about the village, conservation projects, activities, and local culture. It serves as a starting point for booking tours and accommodations, and for meeting with guides and community members.
Visitors should bring comfortable walking or hiking shoes, insect repellent, sun protection, rain gear, a flashlight or headlamp, essential medical supplies, and any personal items. It's also wise to bring cash, as there are no ATM facilities in the village.
There may be opportunities to volunteer at Chi Phat, such as assisting with English teaching, conservation projects, or community development. Those interested in volunteering should contact the Chi Phat Community-Based Ecotourism (CBET) directly to inquire about current needs and opportunities.