When people think of Cambodia, they often imagine Angkor Wat and don’t think about the country’s abundant flora and fauna. While the ‘Land of the Khmer’ boasts many cultural marvels, Cambodia is also blessed with natural wonders like the mighty Mekong River, miles upon miles of pristine coastline, and rainforests and jungles thick with tropical plants. Many mammals, birds, and reptiles thrive here including native creatures and endangered species.

While much of Cambodia is quite flat, the northeast and southeast are home to lush highland areas. If you venture into some of the more rural regions, you’ll also find acres of fertile, cultivated farmland in rich shades of emerald green. Another natural wonder in Cambodia is the Tonle Sap -- Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake. This swamp forest habitat is home to many types of fish and endangered water birds.

If you’re looking to surround yourself in Cambodia’s nature and glimpse the wildlife on land, the country offers a number of parks or protected forests. At Phnom Kulen National Park, you'll find yourself surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. Cambodia also has a variety of unique native animals like the Irrawaddy dolphin, which lives in a short stretch of the Mekong by Kratie. Unfortunately, these dolphins are highly endangered, and fewer than 90 remain. Asian elephants are also found in Cambodia, although they’re quite rare to see. Please remember that when traveling to Cambodia’s remote areas, make sure to take a reliable tour guide with you.