Cambodia's Conservation: Modern Approach For High-End Travelers

15.09.2023 - 04:55 / skift.com / Bill Bensley / Colin Nagy

In the evolving story of global conservation, Cambodia, with its verdant forests and deep cultural history, is at at an important inflection point: The country needs to find a modern approach to conservation while balancing the need for economic growth and bringing people out of poverty.

Essential to these efforts is the preservation of The Cardamom Forest. Historically, it’s been an economic lifeline for locals through logging and hunting, but thanks to new initiatives, parts of the forest are being preserved. 

David Steyn, General Manager of Shinta Mani lodge, a tented camp in Cambodia that is at the forefront of modern conservation efforts, highlights the tension. “Communities that once saw the forest as a source of livelihood are now grappling with its new protected status,” Steyn says.

This tension draws several parallels to Africa, where there is a constant push-pull between what people seek to take from the land and what is required to preserve animals and nature. 

Africa’s ongoing path to conservation serves as a playbook of sorts for Cambodia. But while Africa entices tourists with its majestic “Big Five” and high-end safari camps, Cambodia’s allure is different.

In the case of Shinta Mani, the appeal is the ability for conservation-minded guests to be on the front lines of the story. They regularly immerse themselves in important initiatives like anti-poaching and other efforts. 

“Our anti-poaching experiences have been profound for guests,” Steyn said. “It provides a hands-on insight into conservation unlike any other.”

Cambodia’s conservation objectives are plagued by diverse challenges, such as deforestation, bushmeat trade, and rampant animal poaching.

Foreign investments, particularly from China, in the form of infrastructure and entertainment hubs, intensify the complexities. China has eyed the country for various elements of its economic development, a tension that comes in opposition to what is required to preserve the land and its inhabitants.

“Chinese enterprises are keenly exploring opportunities here, from wind turbines to expressways,” Steyn said, hinting at the geopolitical undertones of these initiatives.

Amidst this complex matrix, Bill Bensley stands out with his avant-garde approach at the Shinta Mani Camp.

Bensley’s project melds the luxury tented experience you would find in Africa with the Cambodian land, and a sense of profound environmental consciousness. “Guests are not mere spectators here; they actively engage in understanding and contributing to conservation,” Steyn said.

In the global luxury travel market, Cambodia is crafting a unique narrative. It’s not mere indulgence; it’s about engendering awareness, responsibility, and participation among its high-end