Southern Cardamoms Protected Forest

In an effort to protect the southern Cardamom Mountains from poaching, logging and encroachment by turning the forest into a source of jobs and income for local people, the Wildlife Alliance is launching an ambitious project to transform the Southern Cardamoms Protected Forest (1443 sq km), whose southern boundary is NH48 between Krong Koh Kong to Andoung Tuek, into a world-class ecotourism destination.

Over the next few years, the Wildlife Alliance - with Dutch government funding - plans to do the following:

Establish two visitors centres - built of natural materials (except wood!) - with displays on the Cardamoms' geography, flora and fauna. They will be situated on the Tatai River and at Andoung Tuek.

Build two ecotourism lodges, a 'forest retreat' near the Tatai River and a 'spa retreat centre' near Chi Phat.

Assist locals in organising boat tours along the area's many rivers.

Help establish community-based homestays and guesthouses in villages such as Andoung Tuek and Trapaeng Rung and along the Tatai River.

Provide microloans so local people can set up small businesses hiring out mountain bikes and kayaks.

Expand ecotourism facilities in the Chi Phat area.