siem reap – cambodia
Mushroom Discovery Walk
Naturalist Exploration & Scientific Eco-Tourism by Christophe Guénolé
Mushroom Discovery Walk
Despite centuries of exploration and scientific writings accumulated since the rediscovery of Angkor, the region’s fungal kingdom had remained a complete terra incognita. Following 14 years of field study and inventories, Christophe Guénolé, environmental naturalist researcher, opens the doors to this fascinating realm. Take advantage of the wet season to discover an exceptionally rich biodiversity hidden beneath the canopy and at the base of the park’s giant trees.
Experience Overview
Best Season: Wet season (June to September/October)
Schedule: Morning field session:
departure between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM (at your choice), ending around 12:00 PM
Guide: Christophe Guénolé (Researcher & pioneer in the study of Angkor’s mushrooms)
Audience: Nature enthusiasts, curious minds, amateur mycologists,
macro photographers, families
Themes: Tropical mycology, taxonomy, forest symbioses (mycorrhizae),
local edible & toxic mushrooms
Morning Program
1- Unprecedented Research in Angkor
• 14 Years of Discoveries: The story behind the very first systematic study of Angkor’s fungal diversity—a field entirely untouched by past scientific literature or historical travel accounts.
2- The Vital Role of Fungi in the Tropical Forest
• Mycorrhizal Networks: Understanding the vital, invisible alliance between fungi and the giants of the Angkor forest (particularly Dipterocarps).
3 – Field Workshop & Ethno-Mycology
• Field Identification Criteria: Learning to observe sporocarps (cap, gills, stem, volva, spore print, odors) directly in their natural environment.
Practical Information
Recommended Gear: Closed-toe walking shoes, light clothing covering
arms and legs (sun and insect protection), hat, binoculars, camera, water bottle.
Included: Scientific guiding by Christophe Guénolé (Environmental
Naturalist Researcher),observation equipment (field magnifiers), fresh water.
