Destination: Siem Reap, Tonle Sap, Northern Dry Forests & Mekong River
Duration: 11 Nights / 12 Days
Tour Date: 2027
Description:
Cambodia is one of Southeast Asia’s most exciting and underexplored birding destinations, offering a unique combination of globally threatened species, rich wetland ecosystems, and expansive dry deciduous forests. This carefully designed itinerary focuses on the country’s most important birding regions, combining iconic species, conservation-focused sites, and diverse habitats.
The tour begins in Siem Reap, where we explore the wetlands of Tonle Sap and the remarkable birdlife of Phnom Krom Marshland, as well as the forested temple complexes of Angkor. A highlight is a visit to Prek Toal Core Reserve, one of Asia’s most significant breeding colonies for large waterbirds, where species such as Spot-billed Pelican, Greater Adjutant, and Painted Stork can be observed.
We then move north into Cambodia’s dry forests, one of the last strongholds for some of the world’s rarest birds. At Russei Trep, we focus on the critically endangered Giant Ibis (Cambodia’s national bird) and White-shouldered Ibis, alongside a suite of dry forest specialists including woodpeckers, owls, and other sought-after species. These areas are at the forefront of conservation efforts, and visiting them directly supports local communities and habitat protection.
Another major highlight is the famous Vulture Restaurant, where conservation feeding stations provide close views of several critically endangered vulture species. This offers a rare opportunity for both observation and photography in a controlled and ethical setting.
The journey continues along the Mekong River, where we search for riverine specialists such as Mekong Wagtail and enjoy the chance to see the endangered Irrawaddy Dolphin. The tour concludes in Phnom Penh after a final search for the endemic Cambodian Tailorbird.
Throughout the tour, we experience a wide range of habitats including wetlands, flooded forests, grasslands, and dry dipterocarp forest, making this itinerary one of the most comprehensive introductions to Cambodia’s birdlife. With expert guiding, well-paced travel, and a strong conservation focus, this tour offers exceptional opportunities for both birders and wildlife enthusiasts seeking rare and iconic species.
This tour starts in Siem Reap and ends in Phnom Penh.