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 See Them

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

Canoe Rate 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 levels, dolphins more visible

How to Reach Kratie from Phnom Penh

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

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

Why This Species is Endangered

The Cambodian Mekong subpopulation was around 200 individuals in the 1990s. It has dropped to fewer than 90 today. The main causes include drifting gillnet fishing (in which dolphins drown), illegal electrofishing, sediment pollution (pesticides, heavy metals), and dam construction which 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, providing a viable alternative to intensive fishing.

GetYourGuide — Mekong Dolphin Tours
Guided excursions from Kratie · French-speaking guides available · Conservation contribution
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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.