siem reap – cambodia
Kbal Spean, ACCB & BBC
Primary Forest Immersion, Wildlife Conservation & Butterfly Sanctuary
Guided by Christophe Guénolé, Environmental Naturalist Researcher
A A full-day experience dedicated to tropical forests, sacred rivers, and the protection of endangered species
North of the Angkor area, join Christophe Guénolé, environmental naturalist researcher, for a scientific and immersive journey into the heart of Phnom Kulen National Park. From wildlife sanctuaries and thousand-year-old underwater carvings to a tropical butterfly haven, experience an eco-tour rich in ecological, faunal, and botanical discoveries.
Experience Overview
Hotel pick-up at your preferred time (arrival at Kbal Spean before 9:00 AM).
Return expected between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM
Full-day nature tour (forest hike, guided visits & observation stops)
Small group (up to 5 people maximum to ensure optimal
observation quality and minimize wildlife disruption)
Wildlife conservation, primary forest flora, herpetology,
entomology & ethnobotanical heritage
Naturalist guiding by Christophe Guénolé, lunch during the day,
fresh water.
(Not included: ACCB and Butterfly Center entrance fees, to be paid on-site)
Itinerary
1. Cambodian Wildlife Conservation: ACCB (Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity)
The day begins at the foot of the mountain with a visit to Cambodia’s first nature conservation and wildlife rescue center:
- Encounter Endangered Species: Learn about breeding and reintroduction programs for rare mammals, land and freshwater turtles, and threatened bird species.
- Conservation Ecology: Discussions on key issues such as combating poaching, habitat loss, and ecological restoration efforts across the country.
2. Kbal Spean Hike & Primary Forest Exploration
A hike through preserved tropical forest leading to the carved riverbed of the « River of 1,000 Lingas »:
- Primary Forest Botany: Decoding vegetation layers, ancient trees, giant vines, and ecological adaptations under the canopy.
- Naturalist Observations: Spotting understory fauna, amphibians, reptiles, forest birds, and insects along the trail.
- The Sacred River: Arrival at the unique archaeological and natural site of Kbal Spean: observing aquatic dynamics, sandstone carvings in the riverbed, and the interplay between aquatic ecosystems and sacred rocks.
Lunch Break
A friendly and delicious lunch break is organized in a natural setting to recharge before the return journey.
3. World of Lepidoptera: Banteay Srei Butterfly Centre (BBC)
On the return journey, stop at the Banteay Srei Butterfly Centre, one of the largest enclosed butterfly sanctuaries in Southeast Asia:
- Butterfly Diversity: Walk among dozens of free-flying, vividly colored tropical butterfly species.
- Life Cycle & Micro-Ecosystems: Understanding metamorphoses (eggs, caterpillars, chrysalises), the essential role of pollinators in forest regeneration, and community-based sustainable farming projects supporting local livelihoods.
Practical Information
Fitness Level:
Accessible to anyone in good physical condition
(shaded 45-minute uphill walk on natural trails and stone steps).
Recommended Gear:
Sturdy closed-toe walking or hiking shoes, light and breathable clothing
(long sleeves and pants recommended), hat, sunglasses, binoculars,
camera, and insect repellent.