Cambodia is a hidden gem for birders, offering a mix of rare species, unique habitats, and fewer crowds than neighboring Thailand or Vietnam. This list covers the top birding sites across the country, from the flooded forests of the Tonle Sap to the remote Cardamom Mountains. Whether you’re a seasoned lister or a casual nature lover, these destinations promise memorable sightings and authentic experiences.
Ang Trapaing Thmor
This protected wetland in Banteay Meanchey province is the premier site for the critically endangered Sarus Crane. During the dry season (December to May), hundreds of cranes gather here, along with other waterbirds like the Spot-billed Pelican and the Black-headed Ibis. The site also supports a healthy population of the rare Bengal Florican, which can be seen displaying in the surrounding grasslands. Access is best with a local guide from the Sam Veasna Center, who know the birds’ favored roosting and feeding spots.
Prek Toal Core Area
Located on the Tonle Sap Great Lake, this flooded forest is Southeast Asia’s most important breeding colony for large waterbirds. Between November and July, you can see the Greater Adjutant, Milky Stork, and Painted Stork nesting in the trees. A boat trip through the flooded forest is essential, and the floating village of Prek Toal has basic accommodation and a bird hide. The best time is early morning, when the birds are most active and the light is soft.
Koh Kong Province & the Cardamom Mountains
The dense rainforests and mangroves of Koh Kong support a suite of rare and localized species. Look for the Chestnut-headed Partridge, the Red-vented Barbet, and the elusive Masked Finfoot along the Tatai River. The Cardamom Mountains are also home to the endangered Siamese Crocodile, which you might spot basking on riverbanks. Birding here requires a 4WD and a good guide, as the terrain is rough and the birds are shy.
Kirirom National Park
Just a few hours from Phnom Penh, this pine forest on the Cardamom foothills offers a cooler climate and a different set of birds. The park is one of the best places to see the White-browed Piculet, the Grey-headed Parakeet, and the Indochinese Cuckooshrike. The dry season (November to April) is best, when the forest is more open and birds are concentrated around remaining water sources. The park has basic bungalows and easy trails, making it a good weekend escape.
Boeung Prek Lapouv
This seasonal wetland in Takeo province is a key feeding site for Sarus Cranes, which arrive in the dry season to forage in the shallow pools. The site also attracts the Black-necked Stork, the Lesser Whistling Duck, and a variety of waders. A network of dykes and paths allows for easy walking, and there are two observation towers for scanning the flats. It’s less visited than Ang Trapaing Thmor, offering a quieter experience.
Phnom Kulen National Park
While famous for its waterfalls and ancient temples, this mountain plateau is also a superb birding destination. The semi-evergreen forest is home to the Red-headed Trogon, the Blue-bearded Bee-eater, and the Great Hornbill. The park’s elevation brings in some montane species like the Black-throated Laughingthrush. The main road to the summit is paved, but you’ll need to walk the forest trails to find the birds. Combine birding with a visit to the reclining Buddha and the river of carved lingas.
Mondulkiri Province
The dry dipterocarp forests and grassland plains of Mondulkiri in eastern Cambodia are prime habitat for the endangered Bengal Florican. During the breeding season (December to April), males perform spectacular displays, leaping and calling from the grass. The area also holds the White-rumped Falcon, the Green Imperial Pigeon, and the Yellow-footed Green Pigeon. The best way to explore is with a local guide from the Sam Veasna Center, who work with communities to protect the birds.
Ratanakiri Province
This remote northeastern province offers a mix of forest, rivers, and volcanic lakes that attract a diverse avifauna. Look for the Red-headed Vulture, the White-rumped Vulture, and the Giant Ibis, one of the rarest birds in the world. The Virachey National Park is a vast wilderness where you can trek for days, but even the areas around Ban Lung town can be productive. The best time is the dry season, when the birds are more visible and the trails are passable.
Chhlong River & Kratie
The Mekong River near Kratie is not only for Irrawaddy dolphins; it’s also a great place for riverine birds. The sandbars and channels attract the River Tern, the Great Thick-knee, and the Small Pratincole. The nearby flooded forest of the Chhlong River is home to the White-shouldered Ibis and the Woolly-necked Stork. Boat trips are the best way to bird here, and you can combine your outing with a dolphin-watching cruise.
Phnom Samkos Wildlife Sanctuary
Part of the Cardamom Mountains, this sanctuary protects a large area of lowland and montane forest. It is one of the few places in Cambodia where you can see the Orange-necked Partridge, the Grey-faced Tit-Babbler, and the Cambodian Laughingthrush, which is endemic to the region. The terrain is steep and the trails are rough, so this is for the more adventurous birder. A multi-day trek with a guide is recommended to reach the higher elevations where the rarer species live.
How to Choose
When picking a birding site in Cambodia, consider the species you most want to see. For large waterbirds and cranes, the Tonle Sap and the northwestern wetlands are best. For forest birds and endemics, head to the Cardamoms or the eastern plains. Also think about the season: the dry months from November to April are generally the most productive, as birds concentrate around water. Accessibility matters too—some sites, like Kirirom and Boeung Prek Lapouv, are easy to reach on your own, while others, like Phnom Samkos and Ratanakiri, require a guide and more planning. Finally, consider your comfort level with basic accommodation and long drives; some of the best birding spots are in remote areas with limited facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year for bird watching in Cambodia? The dry season, from November to April, is generally the best time, as birds are more concentrated around water sources and the weather is more pleasant.
Do I need a guide to go bird watching in Cambodia? While you can bird independently at some sites, a local guide is highly recommended for the best experience. They know the birds, the trails, and the local conditions, and they can help you find the rarer species.
What equipment should I bring? A good pair of binoculars is essential, and a spotting scope is useful for open wetlands. A field guide to the birds of Southeast Asia is also recommended, along with sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water.
Are there any endangered birds I might see? Yes, Cambodia is home to several critically endangered species, including the Giant Ibis, the White-shouldered Ibis, and the Bengal Florican. Seeing them is a highlight of any birding trip.
Is Cambodia safe for birders? Yes, Cambodia is generally safe for tourists, including birders. However, it’s wise to avoid remote areas near the borders and to travel with a reputable guide.
Can I combine bird watching with other wildlife viewing? Absolutely. Many birding sites also offer opportunities to see other wildlife, such as Irrawaddy dolphins at Kratie, Siamese crocodiles in the Cardamoms, and primates in some forests.
Final Thoughts
Cambodia offers some of the most exciting and rewarding birding in Southeast Asia, with a mix of rare species, unique habitats, and a sense of discovery that is hard to find elsewhere. Whether you’re scanning the flooded forests of the Tonle Sap or trekking the remote mountains of the northeast, each site has its own character and its own special birds. With a little planning and the help of local guides, you can have an unforgettable birding adventure in this beautiful and welcoming country.