Rainbow Lodge is certainly something different, and not for the faint-hearted. If you’re in search of your usual creature comforts and mod-cons (sorry, no air-con here!) then it may not be the one for you. However, what it may lack in modern touches it certainly makes up for in immersive experience.
An interesting journey through the jungle, across bridges and muddy tracks, brings you to your hot, sticky, but charmingly rustic home for the next couple nights. Walk along the raised boardwalks laced throughout the resort, pausing to listen to the soundtrack of the surrounding jungle.
A 3-hour drive from Sihanoukville Airport, with an unmatched riverside location in Cambodia’s south Cardamom Mountains, Rainbow Lodge is a little bit special.
River trips
Jungle trekking
Waterfall walks
Private balconies
We wanted some down-to-earth adventure - to get back to nature. Rainbow lodge undoubtedly delivers on that expectation.
Discover what to expect from staying at Rainbow Lodge
After a day trekking through the jungle and kayaking down the river, one of the many highlights is coming back to the lodge to savour some local cuisine. Conversation flows freely among staff and guests in the communal dining and open-plan living area, sharing adventure stories, playing board games and engaging in friendly conversation with other travellers.
While it may be more suited to adventurous families (who are already braced for more basic living in the midst of Mother Nature), cascading waterfalls, glimpses of local wildlife and the opportunity to get in touch with your intrepid side aren’t to be sniffed at. The staff and management are incredibly attuned to children’s needs, making both kids and parents feel equally relaxed. Meanwhile, couples looking for something a bit different can enjoy days kayaking down the river followed by ice-cold beer back at the lodge.
While there may not be a pool, a hot tub or a bite-size chocolate left on your pillow, there is attentive service, a clean Cambodian river flowing past the lodge that’s perfect for a refreshing dip, and natural jacuzzis at the nearby waterfalls. The local village and wildlife reserve are easily accessed, and the trekking opportunities are fantastic.
Rainbow Lodge is dedicated to sustainability and creating a positive impact on the environment. At every turn, all measures are considered to be eco-friendly. One example is their collaboration with local businesses, such as BoTree Kampot Pepper and Three Rivers Coffee, who provide local employment in the same way that Rainbow Lodge does. They also use local produce to create a range of homemade bread and spreads. Alongside the many other projects and initiatives they’re involved with, this demonstrates their commitment to local community and sustainability.