Waterfalls and wild swimming in eastern Cambodia
Waterfalls and swimming in eastern Cambodia: Bou Sra in Mondulkiri, Yeak Laom crater lake and the falls near Banlung, with seasons and access tips.
Bou Sra waterfall, Mondulkiri
Researched from published sources
In short
The east’s best water is Yeak Laom, a round volcanic crater lake near Banlung that you can swim in, and Bou Sra, a two-tier waterfall about 34 km from Sen Monorom. Both are half-day trips. Waterfalls are fullest from August to November, while roads and paths are easiest in the dry months that follow.
The eastern hills are cut by rivers that drop over ledges of rock on their way down to the Mekong. Their waterfalls are a good way to fill a half day between wildlife outings.
Mondulkiri
Bou Sra is the province’s best-known waterfall, dropping in two tiers into a forest pool about 34 km from Sen Monorom. The road is now mostly paved, and the trip takes around half an hour to an hour each way. A zipline operates over the falls for those who want it.
Closer to town are smaller falls and viewpoints over the forested ridges. They suit a relaxed afternoon after an early start with the gibbons or elephants.
Ratanakiri
Yeak Laom is the region’s standout: a near-circular crater lake about 5 km from Banlung, ringed by tall forest, with wooden platforms for swimming and a path around the rim. Local Tampuan communities managed the site for many years under a lease (current arrangements may differ), and a small entrance fee is charged. Go early, when the water is still and before the day heats up.
Several waterfalls lie within a short drive of Banlung, dropping into forest pools. Paths to the bottom can be steep and slippery after rain.
When to go
Waterfalls are at their fullest towards the end of the wet season, roughly August to November, but roads and paths are easiest in the dry months from December to April. A good compromise is November or early December, when the land is drying but the falls still carry water.
Seasons at a glance
Questions travelers ask
Can you swim at Bou Sra waterfall?
People do swim in the pools away from the main falls, but currents near the cascades are strong, especially after rain. Follow local guidance and stay well clear of the falling water.
Are the waterfalls worth visiting in the dry season?
Yes, but they are smaller, and by March and April some shrink considerably. The upside is easy access and clearer pools.
Is Yeak Laom safe for swimming?
It is calm and widely used for swimming, but it is deep. Weaker swimmers should stay near the platforms, and children need close supervision.
Sources and checks
Time-sensitive details on this page (prices, schedules, travel times, access) were last checked against the sources below on 11 October 2026. They change, so any proposal reconfirms them with the provider first.
Tell us what you want from eastern Cambodia
Share your dates, what you hope to see and how you like to travel. We reply with a first view of the route and, when you are ready, a written proposal with the price, what it includes and who provides each part of the trip.
