Southern Cardamom National ParkSouthern Cardamom National Park at a Glance
About Southern Cardamom National Park
Southern Cardamom National Park is a protected area in southwestern Cambodia’s Cardamom Mountain range located in Koh Kong province, established to conserve lowland and montane rainforest. It is part of one of Southeast Asia’s largest remaining contiguous rainforest blocks.
The park protects rivers, waterfalls, primary forest and important habitat for large mammals and primates, attracting conservationists, researchers and guided ecotourism trips. Visitors encounter rainforest scenery, riverine habitats and opportunities for wildlife observation on guided excursions.
The park was created by the Cambodian government as part of broader efforts to expand formal protection across the Cardamom Mountains to reduce deforestation and poaching and to conserve key biodiversity. Management involves national authorities and conservation partners.
The park is located in Koh Kong province in southwestern Cambodia, within the Cardamom Mountains inland from the Gulf of Thailand and relatively close to the Thai border.
- Access: Access into the park is limited and often requires organized tours or local guides; some areas are remote and undeveloped.
Best Time to Visit Southern Cardamom National Park
Dry season (November-April) is best for access and trekking; wet season offers dramatic rivers but more difficult travel.
Weather & Climate near Southern Cardamom National Park
Southern Cardamom National Park's climate is classified as Tropical Monsoon - Tropical Monsoon climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 21°C to 33°C. Heavy rainfall (2491 mm/year), wettest in July with a pronounced dry season.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Ideal | 21° - 30° | 25° | 6 mm | partly cloudy | 80% | 1.4 m/s | 1.8 very high | 11.4h |
| February | Excellent | 22° - 31° | 26° | 22 mm | partly cloudy | 76% | 1.6 m/s | 1.9 very high | 11.7h |
| March | Very Good | 23° - 32° | 31° | 65 mm | partly cloudy | 76% | 1.7 m/s | 2.0 extreme | 12.0h |
| April | Good | 24° - 33° | 34° | 104 mm | overcast | 80% | 1.4 m/s | 2.1 extreme | 12.3h |
| May | Acceptable | 24° - 32° | 34° | 281 mm | overcast | 87% | 1.7 m/s | 2.0 extreme | 12.5h |
| June | Acceptable | 24° - 31° | 32° | 400 mm | overcast | 91% | 1.8 m/s | 1.9 very high | 12.7h |
| July | Acceptable | 24° - 30° | 31° | 453 mm | overcast | 91% | 2.1 m/s | 1.8 very high | 12.6h |
| August | Good | 24° - 30° | 27° | 434 mm | overcast | 92% | 2.0 m/s | 1.8 very high | 12.4h |
| September | Good | 23° - 30° | 27° | 378 mm | overcast | 92% | 1.6 m/s | 1.8 very high | 12.1h |
| October | Good | 23° - 30° | 27° | 244 mm | overcast | 91% | 1.2 m/s | 1.8 very high | 11.8h |
| November | Very Good | 23° - 30° | 26° | 87 mm | partly cloudy | 88% | 1.6 m/s | 1.8 very high | 11.5h |
| December | Excellent | 21° - 30° | 26° | 17 mm | partly cloudy | 83% | 1.8 m/s | 1.8 very high | 11.3h |
How to Get to Southern Cardamom National Park
Access is typically from Koh Kong town or coastal points in Koh Kong province. Travel often involves a mix of paved and unpaved roads; for interior trek access, arrange transport and guides through eco-tour operators or community-run initiatives in Koh Kong.
Tips for Visiting Southern Cardamom National Park
- Hire a local guide to reach remote forest areas - they know seasonal river crossings and Cambodian land-use norms.
- Mosquito protection and vaccinations are important in lowland tropical forest regions.
- Support community-based conservation projects when visiting; local groups run ranger programs and eco-tours.