The Stung Treng Ramsar site, a 1,460ha wetland in Cambodia, is an out-of-the-way treasure trove of biodiversity. Its trees and waters house a wide variety of rare wildlife, from Irrawaddy dolphins to white-shouldered ibis.

The local people have oriented their lives around the rhythms of the Mekong River, which rises and falls dramatically as wet season gives way to dry. In the dry season from November to April, the river waters recede, revealing unique tree roots. In the wet season from May to October, the waters flood the forests, inviting kayakers and tourist boats to cruise through the shaded waters.
To capitalise on the area’s natural beauty, the Samros Koh Han Ecotourism Community was established in Koh Sneng Village. Koh Han, an elongated island on the Mekong, offers visitors a serene and biodiverse environment, while also providing sustainable income opportunities for its small local community.

Eco-Friendly Activities and Attractions
Koh Han’s unique biodiversity makes it a natural haven for eco-tourists. Visitors can engage in activities such as kayaking, birdwatching, and boat trips through the flooded forests.
Boat trips are a popular option, allowing tourists to explore the flooded forest, observe local bird species, and experience the unique limestone landscapes that emerge during the dry season. Most boat trips can schedule a stopover on the island’s beaches as part of the tour. Groups of six or fewer can arrange small boat excursions ranging from KHR 70,000 -150,000 ($17.50-$37.50).
Birdwatching is where Koh Han really shines: the island is home to numerous bird species, making it a must-visit for ornithologists and casual birdwatchers alike.


In addition to the natural attractions, visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by staying in community-run homestays. This offers a unique chance to experience rural Cambodian life, taste traditional food, and learn about the customs and traditions of the island’s residents.

A Community-Driven Effort
The development of Koh Han as a CBET site is a community-driven effort, supported by organizations such as the Non-Timber Forest Products Exchange Programme (NTFP-EP) and the Partners for Forestry and Fisheries (PaFF). These organizations helped establish a CBET management committee in 2016 to ensure the sustainable operation of the tourism initiative.
The community’s efforts have already begun to pay off. By 2021, the Koh Han CBET welcomed over 1,000 tourists, generating approximately $4,000 in income for the community. This income is essential for supplementing traditional livelihoods such as farming, fishing, and raising livestock.

The CBET initiative not only provides employment opportunities through services such as tour guiding and hospitality but also empowers women within the community. Of the 28 members involved in the ecotourism initiative, 14 are women, and five of the 11 committee members are female. This reflects the community’s commitment to gender equality and inclusive development.

Looking ahead, Koh Han’s CBET committee is dedicated to expanding its tourism offerings. Plans include creating new forest trekking routes and enhancing the island’s conservation efforts to protect its natural resources.
As Mrs. Bun Samphan, the Chief of the CBET committee, explains: “We as a committee do it from our heart… For the long-term vision, I wish to see my CBET attract more tourists, community members earn more income, and natural resources become protected.”
To learn more about the Koh Han CBET, visit their Facebook page: facebook.com/kohhancbet.