Awesome Bird Watching Spots Near Siem Reap In Cambodia

Cambodia is home to more than 400 recorded species of birds, making it an excellent destination for those looking to add new sightings to their life list or simply enjoy a day in nature. 

Awesome Bird Watching Spots Near Siem Reap In Cambodia

With so many options available within easy reach from Siem Reap, you won’t have trouble finding something that suits both beginner and expert ornithologists alike.

Keep reading for all the details on these fantastic birding sites near Siem Reap – you’re sure to find something perfect for your next outdoor adventure!

1. Prek Toal Sanctuary

Prek Toal Sanctuary is a great spot for bird watching near Siem Reap in Cambodia.

Located within the Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve, it’s home to many rare and endangered birds including cormorants, storks, pelicans and more.

It’s also one of the last remaining large waterbird colonies in Southeast Asia.

Visitors can take a boat tour from Siem Reap to explore Prek Toal Sanctuary and its diverse array of wildlife.

There are observation towers throughout that offer incredible views over the lake and surrounding areas.

When you arrive at the sanctuary, you’ll be greeted by friendly guides who will show you around and point out any interesting sights or species they see during your visit.

The best time to go bird watching here is usually between November and April, when most of the migratory birds have returned from their wintering grounds elsewhere in Asia.

During this period, visitors can expect to see hundreds of different species of aquatic birds such as egrets, terns, ducks, gulls, and kingfishers all living side-by-side in harmony with nature.

2. Boeng Toal Vulture Restaurant

Boeng Toal Vulture Restaurant is one of the most popular bird watching spots near Siem Reap in Cambodia.

Located in a remote forest near Dangphlet, it’s an ideal spot for a quick stopover or a full day trip.

Here, visitors can observe vultures, as well as other birds like storks and herons, soaring high above the restaurant grounds.

The Boeng Toal Vulture Restaurant offers plenty to see and do:

1. Admire the views from the nearby lake, where thousands of birds flock together to feed on fish.

2. Marvel at the variety of species that inhabit this area such as spoonbills, ibis and black-winged kites.

3. Take pictures with your camera or phone while getting up close and personal with these majestic creatures.

4. Enjoy a delicious Cambodian-style meal prepared by local cooks who specialize in traditional cuisine from around the country.

Visitors will undoubtedly come away from their experience at Boeng Toal Vulture Restaurant with lasting memories of wildlife and nature’s beauty that are sure to stay with them long after they leave Cambodia.

With its stunning scenery, friendly locals and remarkable biodiversity.

3. Florican Grasslands

Located just outside Siem Reap in Cambodia, Florican Grasslands is a wonderful spot for bird watching.

Rich with biodiversity and natural beauty, this area offers many opportunities to view some of the world’s most fascinating avian species. 

The best time to visit Florican Grasslands is during the summer months, when it’s warm enough to attract a variety of birds.

During late June through August, one can expect to see colorful cranes wading in shallow pools or soaring over the treetops; white storks perched atop tree branches; brown darters flitting among reeds; kingfishers hovering above waterholes; and resident raptors including hawks and eagles patrolling their territories from high up in the sky. 

A wide array of songbirds are present too – these include cuckoos, shrikes, warblers, and orioles.

4. Tmatboey

Tmatboey is a small village in the Preah Vihear province of Cambodia that has become known as one of the best bird watching spots near Siem Reap.

Located about 80 kilometers from the city, Tmatboey boasts an impressive array of diverse habitats for birds and wildlife species. 

From grasslands to wetlands and tropical forests to mangroves, this area provides an ideal habitat for many rare species of birds.

The abundance of water sources makes it easy for visitors to find plenty of opportunities to spot uncommon birds like herons, ibises, storks, and spoonbills.

In addition to these common sightings, there are also several endangered species such as Bengal Floricans, White-shouldered Ibis and Red Jungle Fowls which can be found here.

5. Phnom Aural

Phnom Aural in Siem Reap, Cambodia is one of the best bird watching spots in the area.

Located on a plateau at an altitude of 1,800 meters, it’s home to numerous species of birds that are hard to find elsewhere. 

The views from Phnom Aural are incredible – you can spot hawks soaring overhead or catch glimpses of exotic birds perched among the treetops.

It’s not just about spotting birds either; there are many other interesting creatures living near the park, including giant monitor lizards and civets.

With its unique topography and abundance of wildlife, this protected area offers something for everyone.

6. Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary

Another great bird watching spot near Siem Reap in Cambodia is the Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary.

This sanctuary was established to protect and conserve over 260 species of birds which are native to Cambodia, including some endangered and rare varieties. 

Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary provides an excellent opportunity for bird watchers to view some of these unique species up close.

Birders can take part in guided tours or opt for self-guided walks through the park’s trails. 

There are plenty of spots where visitors can observe different kinds of birds that call this sanctuary home.

In addition, there are several observation towers scattered throughout the area, perfect for taking pictures and enjoying panoramic views of the entire reserve.

The best time to visit the Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary is during the dry season, between November and February, when it’s not too hot or humid.

During this period, you’ll be able to get a better look at all sorts of exotic birds without having to worry about rain or extreme temperatures.

7. Bokor Mountain

Bokor Mountain is another great bird watching spot near Siem Reap.

Located in the Preah Monivong National Park, this mountain offers a variety of terrain and habitats that makes it an ideal place for avid bird watchers to explore. 

The best time to go birdwatching at Bokor Mountain is during the dry season between December and April, when there are more birds around due to migration patterns.

The top of the mountain has a plateau which provides stunning views of the surrounding area – perfect for viewing larger species such as eagles or vultures soaring up high above.

In addition, there’s also a forest at the foot of the mountain where you can find different types of tree-dwelling birds like sunbirds and woodpeckers. 

This is also a great location for spotting some rare local species like Black Baza, Red Jungle Fowls and Great Hornbills.

Conclusion

If you want to see exotic birds like pelicans or endangered species like the Bengal floricans then these areas should be on your bucket list!

We would definitely recommend visiting each one as they offer something unique and beautiful that will stay with you forever. 

Olivia Kepner