Species: The Irrawaddy dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris) is a critically endangered freshwater species. The Cambodian Mekong subpopulation has fewer than 90 individuals. Gillnet fishing, pollution, and dam construction are the main threats.

The Kampi Site — Where to Observe Them

The village of Kampi, 15 km north of Kratie on Route 73, is the most accessible place to observe the dolphins. A fleet of small wooden boats takes visitors out on the river. The dolphins concentrate in this area between two rapids — a natural habitat that partially protects them from fishing nets.

Boat fare 9 USD/person for about 45 min
Distance from Kratie 15 km north (30 min by motorbike)
Best times Early morning (6am-9am) and late afternoon (4pm-6pm)
Best season Dry season (Nov-May) — low water level, dolphins more visible

How to Reach Kratie from Phnom Penh

Kratie is 250 km northeast of Phnom Penh. Direct buses with Sorya Transport or Mekong Express (5-6h, 8-12 USD). It is also possible to combine Kratie with Mondulkiri — the two towns are 175 km apart (3-4h).

Koh Trong Island, opposite Kratie, is worth a half-day visit: boat crossing, bike rentals on the island, temples, and colonial houses — very peaceful.

Why This Species is Endangered

The Cambodian Mekong subpopulation was 200 individuals in the 1990s. It has declined to fewer than 90 today. The main causes: drifting gillnet fishing (in which dolphins drown), illegal electrofishing, sediment pollution (pesticides, heavy metals), and dam construction that fragments populations and alters flooding regimes.

WWF Cambodia and the Dolphin Conservation Project work with local fishing communities to reduce accidental mortality. Your visit to Kampi directly contributes to the local economy, which is becoming a viable alternative to intensive fishing.

GetYourGuide — Mekong Dolphin Tours
Guided excursions from Kratie · French-speaking guides available · Conservation contribution
On nous pose souvent ces questions

Questions fréquentes

Not guaranteed 100%, but the chances are very high in Kampi. In the dry season during calm weather, dolphins regularly surface to breathe — visible from the canoes. The worst-case scenario is only seeing their dorsal fins briefly. With luck, you can observe them swimming just a few meters away.

Kratie is rarely included in a short itinerary. For travelers in a hurry (7-10 days), it is not a priority. For a stay of 15 days or more, or for those heading to Mondulkiri, a stop of 1-2 nights is a must — the colonial town is beautiful and the atmosphere very tranquil.