Cambodia is not only about the grandeur of Angkor Wat or the charm of its cultural cities—it’s also home to breathtaking national parks filled with lush jungles, wildlife, waterfalls, and spiritual landmarks. If you’re planning a nature-filled getaway in 2026, Cambodia’s national parks offer a perfect blend of adventure, history, and tranquility.

Why Visit Cambodia’s National Parks?

Cambodia’s national parks are a window into the country’s incredible biodiversity and deep spiritual roots. From sacred mountains to dense forests and coastal ecosystems, each park reveals a unique side of the country’s natural beauty. Whether you’re trekking through remote rainforests, birdwatching, or exploring ancient relics hidden in the jungle, these parks provide unforgettable experiences for nature enthusiasts and families alike.

List of the Best National Parks in Cambodia

Phnom Kulen National Park – The Sacred Mountain of Cambodia

Phnom Kulen is one of the most historically significant and spiritually revered locations in Cambodia. Known as the birthplace of the Khmer Empire, this mountain remains an important pilgrimage site.

Top Highlights:

River of a Thousand Lingas (Kbal Spean): A riverbed carved with ancient Hindu symbols.
Preah Ang Thom Reclining Buddha: A massive 16th-century statue carved into rock.
Waterfalls: Featured in Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, these stunning waterfalls offer natural swimming spots.

Phnom Kulen combines spiritual exploration with natural beauty, making it one of the must-visit destinations for travelers in 2026.

Kirirom National Park – The Pine-Clad Highlands

Located just three hours from Phnom Penh, Kirirom National Park is famous for its pine forests and cooler mountain climate. The park offers hiking, cycling, and mountain biking trails with panoramic views of the Cardamom Mountains.

Visitors can enjoy waterfalls during the rainy season, while the scenic cliffs make perfect picnic spots. The park also holds historical charm—remnants of villas built during the 1960s by King Norodom Sihanouk still stand, offering glimpses into Cambodia’s elegant past.

Virachey National Park – Cambodia’s Wilderness Frontier

Virachey National Park, one of Cambodia’s largest protected areas, remains largely unexplored. Stretching across the northeastern provinces of Ratanakiri and Stung Treng, it’s a biodiversity hotspot.

Wildlife You Might Encounter:

Asian elephants
Sun bears
Clouded leopards
Giant ibises and hornbills
Endangered gibbons

Designated as an ASEAN Heritage Park, Virachey represents Cambodia’s commitment to preserving natural habitats. Access to the park is allowed only through guided eco-tours organized via the Virachey Eco-Tourism Center—ensuring minimal human impact on the fragile ecosystem.

Bokor National Park – The Misty Hills of History

Bokor National Park, once a French colonial hill station, offers a fascinating mix of cool climate, eerie charm, and panoramic coastal views. The park sits about 1,000 meters above sea level, providing respite from Cambodia’s tropical heat.

Things to See and Do:

Explore the abandoned colonial buildings from the 1920s and 1930s.
Visit the Old Catholic Church and Bokor Palace Hotel, now ghostly relics of the past.
Capture views of the coastal plain and Gulf of Thailand from Bokor Hill.

Although modern developments have added resorts and casinos nearby, the park’s misty forests and rich wildlife still captivate travelers.

Botum Sakor National Park – Cambodia’s Coastal Wilderness

Covering more than 1,700 square kilometers, Botum Sakor is Cambodia’s largest national park. Located along the southwest coast, it’s a paradise of mangroves, beaches, wetlands, and dense forests.

Despite facing modern challenges from development, efforts in eco-tourism and conservation have created sustainable experiences for visitors. Stay in elegant safari tents, take part in forest patrols, or join conservation projects that support local wildlife.

Expect to see macaques, hornbills, and even rare fishing cats as you explore the park’s unspoiled corners.

Kep National Park – Panoramic Trails and Ocean Views

Kep National Park, though small, offers big adventures. Situated above the beachside town of Kep, the park features an 8 km circular trail perfect for hiking or mountain biking.

Don’t Miss:

The “Stairway to Heaven” trail leading to a hilltop pagoda and Sunset Rock viewpoint.
Panoramic views of Phu Quoc Island (Vietnam) and Cambodia’s southern coast.

A new road under construction is expected to improve access and open up additional hidden trails by 2026.

Best Time to Visit Cambodia’s National Parks

The ideal time to visit Cambodia’s parks is from November to April, during the dry season. The weather is pleasant, and wildlife viewing and hiking are at their best. The rainy season (May–October) transforms waterfalls into spectacular sights but can make trails muddy.

How to Apply for a Cambodia Visa

Before exploring Cambodia’s breathtaking national parks, travelers need a valid Cambodia Visa. The process is simple and entirely online.

Step-by-Step Cambodia Visa Application Process:

Visit the official Cambodia visa application portal.
Fill out the online application form with accurate travel and personal details.
Upload a recent passport-size photo and scanned passport copy.
Pay the visa fee online through a secure payment gateway.
Receive your approved Cambodia eVisa by email within a few business days.
Print and carry the visa upon arrival.

(Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel date.)

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Benefits include:

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Avoid the risks of unauthorized websites or incomplete applications — apply safely through our trusted service and start your Cambodian adventure without stress.

Safety Tips & Responsible Travel Guidelines

Always travel with a local guide in remote areas.
Carry sufficient water and insect repellent.
Respect wildlife and local communities.
Avoid littering and use eco-friendly travel products.
Stay on marked trails to protect delicate ecosystems.

By following these practices, you contribute to preserving Cambodia’s rich biodiversity for generations to come.

Conclusion

Cambodia’s national parks offer more than scenic landscapes—they tell the story of the country’s heritage, spirituality, and ecological richness. Whether it’s hiking Phnom Kulen’s sacred trails, discovering wildlife in Virachey, or soaking in the sea breeze at Kep, every park promises a unique experience.

Start your 2026 adventure today—apply for your Cambodia Visa and explore the natural wonders that await you.