Kampong Samaky, nestled in the coastal stretch of Kampot province, is a model of community-driven sustainability. As Cambodia’s coastal communities are among the most vulnerable to climate change, Kampong Samaky eco-resort stands as a powerful symbol of resilience.
Rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and unpredictable weather patterns are threatening traditional fishing livelihoods. In response to climate change, these communities are turning to sustainable alternatives like eco-tourism to diversify their income. The Kampong Samaky community has embraced this shift, leveraging the natural beauty of its surroundings.
The coastal haven attracts visitors from across Cambodia and beyond—and also serves as a vital mangrove reforestation site. Tree-planting activities allow eco-tourists to learn about the role of mangroves in climate adaptation and coastal protection, while directly contributing to conservation efforts.
The vision is clear: to tap into the region’s rich natural assets to support both local livelihoods and environmental protection. For years, Kampong Samaky has balanced fishing, farming, and hospitality, creating a local economy grounded in eco-conscious practices.
Co-Action: A Sustainable Port by the People, for the Planet
That vision has now taken a bold step forward. With support from Action Education / Aide et Action (AEA), under the EU co-funded CO-SAVED project, the community has completed a new bamboo tourist port—a 6-by-12-meter platform designed to welcome boat travelers.
AEA provided the materials—bamboo, ropes, and other essentials—and supported the community builders’ efforts, led by Soam Ann. They transformed raw bamboo into a beautifully crafted boat dock that reflects their commitment to environmental sustainability.
In 2024, the CO-SAVED project provided materials and technical support to renovate and enhance eco-tourism services in eight fishery communities like Kampong Samaky. Nearly 70,000 tourists visited these sites located in Kampot, Koh Kong, and Kep, generating revenue through ticket sales, mangrove planting activities, boat tours, and fish raising.
Co-Impact: One Port, Many Opportunities
Bamboo, as a sustainable material, was key to ensuring that the port aligned with Kampong Samaky community’s values—but the impact goes further. The new port creates income opportunities for bungalow managers, tour guides, boat operators, and vendors, providing an attractive entry point to welcome eco-conscious tourists.
The port represents an opportunity to combine eco-tourism with environmental education, giving visitors an immersive experience of local life and biodiversity while raising awareness about climate resilience. It further positions Kampong Samaky as a leader in inclusive, climate-resilient development—where every visitor becomes part of a bigger impact.
MULTIMEDIA: About Kampong Samaky
- A new bamboo bridge: > Watch the video
- Youth leading climate action: > Watch the video
- Visit Kampong Samaky eco-resort: > Watch the video
- A cartoon series exploring the magic of eco-tourism on Cambodia’s coast: > An overview
