Cambodia Overview

Cambodia protects some of the largest remaining tracts of dry dipterocarp forest and seasonal wetland in Southeast Asia. It is the stronghold for several of the region's most threatened birds, including Giant Ibis (the national bird), White-shouldered Ibis, Bengal Florican, and Sarus Crane, and it remains far less crowded than its neighbors.

Key Habitats & Highlights

• Northern Plains (Tmat Boey & Kulen Promtep): Open deciduous forest with seasonal pools, the best place in the world to see Giant Ibis and White-shouldered Ibis, plus vultures at community feeding stations.
• Prek Toal & Tonle Sap: The great lake's flooded forest hosts Southeast Asia's largest waterbird colonies, with Milky Stork, Spot-billed Pelican, and Greater Adjutant.
• Ratanakiri: A remote northeastern province of volcanic crater lakes and forest edge. Sunrise at Boeng Yeak Loam lake brings hornbills, barbets, and forest songbirds out into the open.
• Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary: Evergreen and semi-evergreen forest for Germain's Peacock-Pheasant, Orange-necked Partridge, and woodpeckers.
• Angkor Temple Complex: Old trees around the temples are easy birding for Hainan Blue Flycatcher, Asian Barred Owlet, and wintering migrants.

Seasonal Guidance

• Dry Season (November to April): The prime birding window. Waterholes shrink, concentrating ibises and other specialties, and roads into remote areas are passable.
• Wet Season (May to October): Heavy rain makes many forest tracks impassable, though Tonle Sap's flooded forest is at its most dramatic and local birding near towns remains rewarding.