Discover how staying at Chambok homestay offers an authentic glimpse into rural Cambodian life while supporting sustainable tourism. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about accommodation, activities, getting there, and what makes this community-based tourism initiative so special.
What is Chambok Homestay?
Chambok homestay is a remarkable community-based tourism initiative located in a peaceful village just 2 hours from Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s bustling capital. Established in 2007, this unique program was born from a collaboration between local villagers and Mlup Baitong, a Cambodian environmental NGO.
What makes Chambok truly special is that it’s entirely managed by the local community. Unlike typical tourist accommodations, staying here means becoming part of a Cambodian family’s daily life while directly supporting their sustainable livelihood.
The homestay program allows visitors to experience authentic rural Cambodian life, from traditional wooden houses on stilts to home-cooked meals using local ingredients. Each homestay is simple but comfortable, providing an immersive cultural experience that you simply can’t find in hotels or guesthouses.
How to Get to Chambok Village
Location
Chambok village is situated in Kampong Speu Province, approximately 120 kilometers west of Phnom Penh and about 20 kilometers from Kirirom National Park. Its location makes it an ideal stop when traveling between the capital and the coastal areas of Sihanoukville or Kampot.
From Phnom Penh to Chambok
There are several ways to reach Chambok from Phnom Penh:
By Private Car/Taxi:
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours
- Cost: $40-50 USD one way
- Convenience: High (direct door-to-door service)
- Booking: Your accommodation in Phnom Penh can help arrange this
By Public Bus:
- Take a bus from Phnom Penh to Kampong Speu town
- Duration: 1-1.5 hours
- Cost: $4-5 USD
- Departure: Phnom Penh Central Bus Station
- From Kampong Speu, take a tuk-tuk to Chambok
- Duration: 30-45 minutes
- Cost: $8-10 USD
By Organized Tour: Several tour operators in Phnom Penh offer day trips or overnight packages to Chambok. These typically include transportation, meals, and activities. Prices range from $60-100 USD depending on the package.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Chambok is during the dry season (November to April) when roads are easily accessible and outdoor activities are more enjoyable. The green season (May to October) offers lush landscapes but may include occasional rain showers that can affect hiking trails.
Accommodation at Chambok Homestay
Types of Homestays
Chambok offers two main accommodation options:
Traditional Family Homestays:
- Stay with a local family in their traditional wooden house
- Authentic experience with shared living spaces
- Simple accommodations with mattress, mosquito net, and bedding provided
- Shared bathroom facilities (typically outside the main house)
- Cost: $5-7 USD per person per night
Community Guesthouse:
- More private option with individual rooms
- Basic but comfortable facilities
- Shared bathrooms with western toilets
- Better option for those wanting more privacy
- Cost: $8-12 USD per person per night
What’s Provided
- Bedding and mosquito nets
- Towels (basic)
- Three home-cooked meals per day
- Drinking water
What to Expect
The accommodations at Chambok homestay are simple and authentic. Electricity is available but may be limited to certain hours. Wi-Fi is generally not available, providing an opportunity to disconnect and fully immerse yourself in village life.
Bathrooms are typically shared and may be simple squat toilets with bucket shower facilities. While basic by western standards, they are clean and well-maintained.
Activities and Experiences at Chambok
Cultural Immersion
The heart of the Chambok experience is cultural immersion. During your stay, you’ll:
- Participate in daily family activities
- Learn about traditional farming methods
- Observe traditional crafts like bamboo weaving
- Experience authentic rural Cambodian life firsthand
Chambok Waterfall Trek
One of the highlights of visiting Chambok is the trek to the local waterfall:
- 3km hike through community forest (approximately 40 minutes each way)
- Moderate difficulty level, suitable for most fitness levels
- Swimming possible at the base of the 40-meter waterfall
- Best experienced in the morning when the forest is alive with birdsong
- Cost: $3 USD guide fee (required as part of the community tourism initiative)
Traditional Cooking Classes
Learn to prepare authentic Cambodian dishes:
- 2-3 hour cooking experience
- Learn to make dishes like amok (coconut curry), fresh spring rolls, and sticky rice desserts
- Use ingredients from local gardens
- Enjoy your creations for lunch or dinner
- Cost: $5-7 USD per person
Mountain Biking
Explore the surrounding countryside:
- Half or full-day guided bike tours available
- Visit nearby villages and natural attractions
- Various difficulty levels
- Bikes and helmets provided
- Cost: $5-8 USD for half-day, $10-12 USD for full-day
Cambodian Dance Performances
On special nights, the community organizes traditional dance performances:
- Local children perform traditional Cambodian dances
- Learn about the cultural significance of each dance
- Not available every night (usually for groups of 4+ visitors)
- Cost: Donation-based ($5 USD suggested per person)
Community Impact of Tourism in Chambok
Chambok homestay is an excellent example of how tourism can positively impact local communities when done right.
Economic Benefits
Your stay directly supports the local economy:
- 85% of all revenue remains within the village
- Provides sustainable income for over 40 families
- Funds community development projects
- Creates jobs beyond direct homestay hosts (guides, cooks, drivers)
Environmental Conservation
Tourism has helped promote environmental conservation:
- Community forest protection (2,000+ hectares preserved)
- Reduced illegal logging and hunting
- Environmental education for visitors and locals
- Implementation of waste management systems
- Reforestation projects funded by tourism income
Cultural Preservation
The homestay program encourages the preservation of traditional practices:
- Renewed interest in traditional crafts and skills
- Cultural exchange that values local knowledge
- Documentation of cultural practices and traditions
- Pride in local heritage among younger generations
Practical Information & Booking Tips
What to Pack
- Light, modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered out of respect)
- Walking shoes or hiking sandals
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
- Personal toiletries
- Flashlight/headlamp (for evening navigation)
- Small gifts for host family (optional but appreciated – school supplies, practical items)
- Cash (no ATMs or card facilities available)
Booking Process
To arrange a stay at Chambok homestay:
- Book online through Airnbnb
- Email the community directly at chambokcbt@gmail.com
- Book through a tour operator in Phnom Penh
For the best experience, book at least 3-5 days in advance to allow the community to prepare for your arrival.
Recommended Stay Duration
While day trips are possible, staying at least one night is recommended to fully experience village life. Most visitors find 2-3 nights ideal to participate in all activities without rushing.
Language Considerations
While many guides speak basic English, communication with host families may be limited. This is part of the authentic experience, and guides are available to translate when needed.
Payment Details
- Cash payment upon arrival (USD widely accepted)
- No credit card facilities available
- Small denominations preferred
- Typical total cost: $20-30 USD per person per day (including accommodation, meals, and basic activities)
FAQs About Chambok Homestay
Q: Is Chambok homestay suitable for families with children?
A: Yes, Chambok welcomes families and can be a wonderful educational experience for children. Activities can be adjusted to suit different ages, and local children are often eager to play with visitors. If traveling with very young children, request a homestay with a private room.
Q: Is there electricity at the homestays?
A: Yes, most homestays have electricity, though it may be limited to certain hours (typically 6-10 PM). It’s enough to charge basic devices, but power banks are recommended for extended use.
Q: What about bathroom facilities?
A: Bathroom facilities are basic but clean. Most homestays have outdoor bathrooms with squat toilets and bucket showers. The community guesthouse offers more private facilities with western-style toilets.
Q: Is the food safe to eat?
A: Yes, food is freshly prepared and cooked thoroughly. Many ingredients come directly from village gardens. If you have specific dietary requirements, inform your hosts in advance.
Q: Can I get internet access during my stay?
A: Mobile data coverage is limited but available in some areas of the village. Consider this an opportunity to disconnect and fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Q: How does the money I spend benefit the community?
A: 85% of all revenue stays within the community. This includes direct payment to host families, activity providers, and a community fund that supports local projects like education initiatives and infrastructure improvements.
A Typical Day at Chambok Homestay
To give you a better idea of what to expect, here’s how a typical day at Chambok homestay might unfold:
5:30-6:00 AM: Wake up with the village (roosters are your alarm clock!)
6:30 AM: Simple breakfast with your host family
7:30 AM: Morning activity (waterfall trek or bike ride)
11:30 AM: Return to village for lunch
1:00-3:00 PM: Participate in seasonal village activities or crafts
3:00-5:00 PM: Cooking class or oxcart ride
6:00 PM: Dinner with host family
7:30 PM: Evening cultural program or relaxation with the family
9:00 PM: Early to bed (village life starts early!)
Why Choose Chambok Homestay?
In a country famous for Angkor Wat and beautiful beaches, Chambok offers something different: an authentic connection with Cambodian people and their way of life. Here’s why it’s worth including in your Cambodia itinerary:
- Authentic Cultural Experience: Move beyond tourist attractions to experience real Cambodian village life.
- Positive Impact Tourism: Know that your travel dollars directly benefit local families and conservation efforts.
- Natural Beauty: Explore protected forests, waterfalls, and scenic landscapes away from crowds.
- Connection: Form meaningful connections with your host family despite language barriers.
- Contrast: Gain perspective on Cambodian life beyond the cities and tourist centers.
Chambok homestay offers more than just accommodation—it’s a chance to experience authentic Cambodian village life while contributing to sustainable community development. By choosing to stay here, you’ll create meaningful memories while supporting a tourism model that truly benefits local people.
Ready to experience the real Cambodia? Book your stay at Chambok homestay and discover a side of the country most tourists never see.
Looking to explore more of Cambodia? Check out our Perfect 10-Day Cambodia Itinerary which includes Chambok and other must-visit destinations.
