KOH RONG

Welcome to Cambodia’s second largest island, Koh Rong (Khmer for “Rong Island”). Its name is something of a mystery. “Rong” is an old Khmer term for a cave or tunnel. It’s also used to describe a form of shelter, although some of the islanders say Koh Rong is named after a person long since forgotten in the mists of time.

The island is its own “Sangkat” (local district), located 25 kilometers (16 miles) off the port town of Sihanoukville in the Gulf of Thailand. It covers an area of approximately 78 square kilometers (30 sq. miles) and boasts 43kms (27 miles) of pristine beaches. There are four village communities within the boundaries of Koh Rong, namely Koh Touch, Doeum D'keuw, Prek Svay and Sok San.

Its balmy, tropical climate provides a year-round temperature of between 27 and 30 degrees Celsius and a consistently sublime water temperature that hovers around 30 degrees. There are two distinct seasons; the monsoon or wet season from June to September and the dry season from October to May.

Surprisingly, the island’s vegetation ranges from dense jungle to savannah, which dominates the interior. Many tree species are to be found on Koh Rong, including native Teak, Tamarind, Fig and the mythical Banyan, which all support a huge variety of animals, such as monkeys, birds, snakes and even buffalo. The surrounding waters are teaming with tropical fish and coral.

It’s yours to enjoy, but please remember that part of Koh Rong is a Marine Reserve and therefore all coral, shells and marine life are protected. We ask for your assistance in protecting Cambodia’s natural heritage. Please do not remove anything from the water and do not damage the reef whilst swimming and snorkeling. Our only rules:

• Take nothing but photos
• Leave nothing but footprints
• Keep nothing but memories
• Kill nothing but time