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Located on the edge of Kirirom National Park, approximately 120 kilometers from Phnom Penh, Chambok has emerged as a leading model for community-based ecotourism (CBET) in Cambodia. Once a remote and impoverished region reliant on forest exploitation for survival, Chambok has undergone a remarkable transformation—becoming a beacon of environmental protection and community empowerment.
A Journey out of Poverty Through the Forest
Chambok comprises nine villages and more than 760 households, where residents historically depended on agriculture and forest-based livelihoods. In the past, the forest faced severe degradation due to illegal logging, hunting, and unsustainable extraction. Many villagers felt trapped—knowing that cutting trees jeopardized future generations, yet lacking viable alternatives.
That turning point came in 2003, when a community-based ecotourism project was launched with support from international conservation organizations. The initiative not only introduced economic opportunities but also empowered locals to manage and operate the tourism model autonomously.
Tourism as Immersion, Not Just Exploration
Today, Chambok offers more than scenic visits—it provides immersive, authentic experiences that connect travelers with nature and local life. Visitors can participate in:
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Forest trekking to hidden waterfalls
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Ox-cart rides and cycling through village trails
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Swimming in natural streams and pools
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Homestay accommodations and shared local meals
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Cooking classes, Khmer weaving, and cultural learning
As one visitor noted:
“Waking up at 4 AM to the sound of roosters, with no Wi-Fi and no honking cars—it felt like stepping back into a quieter, more honest world.”
When Locals Become Guides, Chefs, and Forest Guardians
The CBET model has redefined the roles of hundreds of Chambok villagers. Women who once remained behind kitchen walls are now cooking for international guests. Former hunters have become forest guides, sharing deep knowledge of ecosystems.
Most importantly, income from tourism has broken the dependence on forest exploitation. Locals now protect the forest, plant and care for trees, clean waterfall sites, and safeguard natural resources as if they were their own treasured assets.
A Transparent Model – Revenue for the People
One of Chambok’s most notable features is its transparent and equitable financial system. 100% of visitor spending goes directly to the community. Revenue from homestays, trekking tours, meals, and other services is distributed among participating villagers—without intermediaries or private operators.
This ensures not only fair compensation, but also long-term motivation to maintain and grow the sustainable tourism model.
A Different Side of Cambodia – Serene, Authentic, and Human-Centered
While most tourists to Cambodia flock to Siem Reap or Phnom Penh, Chambok offers a radically different perspective—a Cambodia that is peaceful, traditional, and inspiring. Visitors don’t come just to relax, but to learn, connect, and create lasting positive impact on a local community.
The people of Chambok hope that through each visitor, their story will be shared—serving as a living testament that sustainable tourism can truly transform both lives and the environment.
Chambok is not merely a destination—it is a powerful reminder that humans and nature can thrive together, when the approach is rooted in respect, equity, and community empowerment.
