Hidden Eco‑Treasure in Cambodia’s Koh Rong Marine National Park: Serene Mangrove Forest Explorations at Prek Kongkang

Published on December 12, 2025

The largest island in Cambodia, Koh Rong, is known for its immaculate beaches, verdant forests, and profusion of wildlife. It is situated in the Gulf of Thailand. The mangrove forest of Koh Rong Marine National Park is another natural treasure on the island that many tourists overlook. Nestled within the park’s protected boundaries, this forest invites visitors to explore its distinct ecosystem through eco-friendly tourism initiatives while providing a peaceful haven in nature. The mangrove forest serves as both a critical ecological area and a peaceful retreat for travelers seeking to connect with nature in an immersive and responsible way.

The Koh Rong Marine National Park: A Sanctuary of Biodiversity

The Koh Rong Marine National Park was established in 2018 as part of Cambodia’s commitment to preserving its coastal ecosystems and marine biodiversity. The park covers a vast area of more than 52,000 hectares, encompassing both land and sea. The park includes not only Koh Rong itself but also several smaller islands and surrounding marine environments. Its protected status aims to preserve the delicate balance of coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests, making it one of the country’s most ecologically significant areas.

Within the park lies the Prek Kongkang mangrove forest, a serene and vibrant habitat that serves as an essential part of the ecosystem. The mangrove forest plays a critical role in stabilizing the coastline, preventing erosion, and providing a nursery for marine life. Mangroves are also essential in the fight against climate change due to their ability to sequester large amounts of carbon. These forests not only protect the environment but also offer visitors a rare opportunity to witness one of Cambodia’s most important natural resources.

Exploring the Mangrove Forest: An Eco-Tourism Experience

For eco-tourists, the Prek Kongkang mangrove forest provides a unique opportunity to experience Cambodia’s natural beauty in a sustainable and responsible manner. The forest is part of an eco-tourism initiative run by the local community, which ensures that tourism benefits both the environment and the island’s inhabitants. Visitors are invited to paddle through the tranquil waterways of the mangrove forest, guided by local experts who are knowledgeable about the flora, fauna, and ecological importance of the area.

One of the most popular activities in the mangrove forest is paddling tours. The tour takes visitors on a serene journey through the mangrove-lined rivers, where they can witness the intricate root systems of the trees, see birdlife in their natural habitat, and enjoy the calm waters that wind through the forest. The tours are designed to minimize human impact on the delicate ecosystem while allowing visitors to get up close and personal with the environment.

A Thriving Ecosystem: Flora and Fauna of the Mangrove Forest

The mangrove forest is home to a variety of plant and animal species, many of which are adapted to the brackish waters and mudflats of the coastal environment. The forest is predominantly made up of red and black mangroves, which have specialized roots that allow them to thrive in the tidal waters. These trees play a crucial role in stabilizing the soil and preventing coastal erosion, while also filtering out pollutants from the water.

In addition to the mangrove trees, the forest is home to a variety of wildlife. Birds, including species such as the egret and the heron, can be seen nesting in the mangrove branches or foraging for food in the mudflats. The forest is also an important habitat for a variety of marine species, including small fish, crabs, and molluscs. The rich biodiversity makes the forest an ideal spot for birdwatching and photography, as well as an educational opportunity for those interested in conservation.

One of the most striking features of the mangrove forest is the Wild Orchid Flower Garden, a unique aspect of the area where visitors can see orchids growing in the wild. The vibrant blooms of the orchids stand in contrast to the lush greenery of the mangrove trees, creating a stunning visual display for visitors to enjoy. This combination of coastal forest and delicate flowers offers a rare glimpse into the diverse ecosystems of the island.

Cultural and Economic Impact of Eco-Tourism

The ecotourism efforts surrounding the mangrove forest benefit both the environment and the local community. The Prek Kongkang Ecotourism Community was established to create a sustainable form of tourism that would generate income for the local residents while preserving the island’s natural resources. By offering guided tours and other activities, the community can provide jobs to local families, including fishermen, farmers, and artisans, all while ensuring that the forest remains protected.

In addition to the economic benefits, ecotourism also helps raise awareness about the importance of mangrove conservation. Through the guided tours, visitors learn about the role of mangroves in protecting coastal ecosystems, supporting marine life, and mitigating climate change. The community also organizes reforestation projects, where local volunteers and tourists can help plant new mangrove trees to expand the forest and ensure its long-term health.

Sustainable Tourism and the Future of the Mangrove Forest

The growing popularity of eco-tourism in Koh Rong is a positive development for both the island’s environment and its residents. However, it is essential that tourism remains sustainable to prevent over-exploitation of the area’s natural resources. To this end, the local community and government are working together to monitor the environmental impact of tourism and ensure that the mangrove forest remains a protected area for years to come.

In addition to the efforts to protect the mangrove forest, the community is also expanding its eco-tourism offerings. Plans are underway to build eco-friendly accommodations, such as small guesthouses and lodges, that will allow visitors to stay overnight on the island and enjoy the natural beauty of Koh Rong without compromising its sustainability. These accommodations will be designed with minimal environmental impact, utilizing solar power and water conservation techniques to reduce their carbon footprint.

Getting There: Travel Tips for Visiting Koh Rong

Accessing the mangrove forest and other natural attractions on Koh Rong requires a boat journey from Sihanoukville, the nearest mainland port. Ferries run regularly between Sihanoukville and Koh Rong, taking approximately 45 minutes to reach the island. Once on Koh Rong, visitors can arrange tours to the mangrove forest through local guides or community centers.

The best time to visit Koh Rong and its mangrove forest is during the dry season, which lasts from November to April. During this period, the weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as kayaking and hiking. The wet season, from May to October, is characterized by heavy rains, which can make the trails and waterways less accessible.

A Tranquil Escape into Nature

The Prek Kongkang mangrove forest in Koh Rong Marine National Park provides a unique opportunity to explore Cambodia’s natural beauty in a sustainable and responsible manner. Eco-tourism allows visitors to enjoy the serenity of the mangrove forest while also contributing to its preservation. This protected ecosystem serves as a sanctuary for a variety of plant and animal species while also benefiting the local community through tourism. As Koh Rong expands its eco-tourism offerings, the mangrove forest remains one of the island’s most valuable natural treasures, providing a peaceful and enriching experience for all visitors.