Frequently Asked Questions
No – the Tatai River is not home to crocodiles, and it’s perfectly safe for swimming, kayaking, and boat tours. The water is clean and calm, and many guests enjoy taking a dip right from their floating tent.
Malaria cases in Cambodia have dropped significantly, and the risk in our area is considered very low. In over fifteen years of operation, none of our guests – nor our long-term expat team – have experienced malaria during their stay. There were isolated cases in a nearby village several years ago, but none since. Given how common the side effects of anti-malarial medication can be, many travelers find the medication more disruptive than the actual risk. As always, we recommend consulting your doctor or travel clinic for personalised advice.
Cambodia is warm year-round, with a tropical climate that shifts between a dry season (November to April) and a green season (May to October).
If you’re planning a summer escape from Europe, June to August is a great time to visit. Yes, it’s the rainy season – but that usually means a dramatic afternoon shower followed by clear skies and cooler evenings. The landscapes are at their greenest, sunsets are spectacular, and it’s a quieter time to enjoy the jungle. Plus, you’ll find better rates and more availability.
For those preferring drier, sunnier weather, November to February is the most popular time to travel, with cooler mornings and lots of sunshine.
Yes – we strongly recommend (and require) that all guests have comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellations, medical expenses, and emergency evacuation. As a remote riverside retreat, we’re about 45 minutes from the nearest hospital in Koh Kong. Canvas & Orchids cannot be held responsible for costs incurred due to lack of insurance coverage.
We have a basic first aid kit on-site, and our key team members are trained in first aid. For anything more serious, we arrange transport to the nearest hospital in Koh Kong, about 45 minutes away. You’ll be in a remote, river-based location – much like staying on an island – so we strongly recommend consulting your doctor before travel, ensuring you’re fit for hot and humid conditions, and having valid travel insurance that includes medical treatment and emergency evacuation.
Yes – the Tatai River is calm and wide, making it ideal for both kayaking and boating. Our guides are familiar with the river and weather patterns and will advise if conditions change. Life jackets are available in all tents and boats and are recommended, especially for children or less confident swimmers. Complimentary kayaks are available throughout your stay.
All our tours are led by local guides who know the jungle intimately – some were once hunters or foragers and now use that deep knowledge to protect the forest and keep you safe. Group sizes are kept small for personal attention, and activities are tailored to the weather, terrain, and your comfort level. We provide proper equipment, maintain clear communication at all times, and adjust itineraries if needed.
Yes – you’ll have Wi-Fi access in the restaurant, lounge, and most tents. We laid our own fiber-optic cable along the riverbed to ensure reliable connectivity. Mobile signal varies by provider, but Metfone and Smart usually offer decent coverage in the area. So you’re never fully off the grid – unless you want to be.
Yes. Our floating tents are securely anchored and naturally rise with water levels – so in many ways, they’re better protected than traditional structures during flooding. Island tents are built on elevated platforms and reinforced to withstand heavy rains. We monitor conditions closely and adjust activities as needed – your safety is always our top priority.
Yes – all tents are equipped with a personal safety box. You’ll be shown how to use it during your welcome orientation tour.
Yes, Canvas & Orchids Retreat is safe and family-friendly. We welcome children of all ages and offer spacious two-bedroom island tents on land – ideal for families with a master bedroom (king bed) and second bedroom (twin singles). Our floating tents are securely anchored and equipped with sturdy handrails, but we do recommend adult supervision near the water. Activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, the firefly boat trip, fishing from your private terrace, and board games are all designed with families in mind.
As we’re located in a natural riverside jungle setting in the Cardamom Mountains, the occasional mosquito or bug can appear, though they’re usually not a major issue. We provide organic insect repellent at the retreat, and you’re welcome to bring your own preferred brand.
Our tents are equipped with netted windows and doors to help keep insects out – just make sure to zip them properly and keep lights off inside when you’re outside.
You may occasionally see a gecko, frog, or even a harmless snake or spider, but they tend to keep their distance. The island is generally protected from wildlife, aside from a few friendly local dogs and the occasional cow or water buffalo wandering nearby.
Yes, swimming in the Tatai River is generally safe and is one of the highlights of a stay with us. The water is clean, calm, and usually free of strong currents. We recommend swimming near the floating tents or in designated areas, where access is easy and conditions are well monitored. Life jackets are provided as standard equipment in each tent. As a precaution, please avoid swimming at night or after heavy rain. Children should always be supervised.
Yes – thanks to the completed Road 10, you can now travel from Battambang to Tatai without passing through Phnom Penh. It’s a scenic and smooth route, especially in the dry season. Travel time is around 6 to 8 hours. Let us know if you’d like help arranging a driver.
You have two main airport options:
- Sihanoukville International Airport (KOS): Closest – approximately 3 hours by car via Road 48
- Techo International Airport (TIA), Phnom Penh: 3.5 to 4 hours via expressway + Road 48
Note: Trat Airport in Thailand was previously a convenient option (3.5 hours via Cham Yeam border crossing), but the border is currently closed. Check with us for the latest status.
Check-in boat times: 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM. Check-out boat times: 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, and 12:00 noon.
Because we’re accessed by river, these scheduled boats are an important part of our operation. If your travel plans don’t align with these times, we can arrange a private boat for US$30 per boat per way. Just let us know your arrival time in advance and we’ll make it work – even late-night arrivals are possible with prior arrangement.
Our embarkation point is at Tatai Bridge, about 5 km from the retreat. When your booking is confirmed, we’ll send you the exact pinned location. If arriving by public bus, our team will meet you at Tatai Bridge. If arriving by car or taxi, head to our reception in Tatai Village where you can park safely. We’ll ask for your driver’s name and phone number before arrival so we can coordinate smoothly.
Apply for a Cambodia e-visa at evisa.gov.kh. For faster entry, use the Cambodia e-Arrival app to complete your digital arrival card in advance.
Yes. You can leave your car or motorbike at our reception in Tatai Village, located 5 km from the retreat. There’s 24-hour security at reception to keep your vehicle safe and secure.
Getting to Canvas & Orchids Retreat is easier than ever, thanks to Cambodia’s new Phnom Penh–Sihanoukville Expressway and the recently upgraded 4-lane National Road 48.
Travel times from key locations:
- Phnom Penh (Techo International Airport): 3.5 to 4 hours via Expressway + Road 48
- Sihanoukville International Airport: approximately 3 hours via Road 48
- Siem Reap: 7 to 9 hours via Battambang & Road 10
- Battambang: 6 to 8 hours via Road 10 – arguably the most scenic drive in Cambodia
Whether you’re coming by private car, taxi, minivan, public bus, motorbike, or even your own boat – we’ll help you arrive with ease. If arriving by public bus, our team will meet you at Tatai Bridge for your boat transfer to the retreat.
Yes. We can arrange bus transfers to Canvas & Orchids Retreat and onward to your next destination. We also provide private taxis from any point in Cambodia. You can request a transfer quote or add one from the “extras” section when booking your room.
Important update: The Cham Yeam – Hat Lek border crossing between Cambodia and Thailand has been temporarily closed since mid-2025 due to the ongoing border situation. Overland travel between Thailand and Cambodia is currently not possible via Koh Kong. We will update this page as soon as the crossing reopens.
In the meantime, the best way to reach us from Thailand is to fly from Bangkok to Phnom Penh or Sihanoukville, then travel by road to Tatai. We can arrange private transfers from either airport. Flight time is about one hour, and the drive to us takes 3 to 4 hours from Phnom Penh or about 3 hours from Sihanoukville.
The floating tented villa’s layout doesn’t allow an extra bed, but the existing chaise longue can serve as an additional sleeping spot for a small child. Our Island Tents offer more space and are better suited for families.
Floating Tented Villas come with a king-size bed. Island Tents have a king bed in the master bedroom and twin singles in the second bedroom. If you need a baby cot or crib, just let us know when booking and we’ll have it ready in your tent.
Canvas & Orchids is set in a natural riverside environment, so access involves boat transfers, uneven ground, and steps. We’re not fully wheelchair-accessible, but we do our best to accommodate guests with limited mobility – please contact us before booking so we can discuss your specific needs and work out the best solution.
To fully experience the warmth of our team, the adventure, comfort, and beautiful surroundings, we recommend staying at least three nights. There are plenty of activities – from waterfall boat tours and mangrove kayaking to jungle treks and sunset cruises – that you’ll want time to enjoy at a relaxed pace. Plus, your 4th night is free!
We have two physical tent designs – and the Island Tents come in two rate packages:
- Floating Tented Villa – our signature experience. A canvas tent on an anchored pontoon on the Tatai River, divided into two sections by a concrete wall: the main room (queen or twin beds, ceiling fan, safety box) and a private bathroom, separated by a curtain. Private terrace over the water. Sleeps 2 adults + 1 child (child on sofa, at extra cost).
- Island Tent – on land on Koh Andet Island, elevated on wooden platforms among tropical gardens. The tent is a single canvas structure divided into two rooms: a larger master bedroom (queen or twin beds, ceiling fan) and a smaller second room (twin beds or sofa). A brick-and-mortar bathroom was added to the tent, accessible from the master bedroom. Both rooms share this one bathroom. A spacious wooden lounge deck connects the tent to the surrounding garden.
The Island Tent is sold under two different rate packages – the tent itself is identical:
- Island Family – for families. 2 adults in the master bedroom, up to 3 children in the second room and on the sofa. Children 2–12 stay free.
- Island Double – for adult groups. Up to 4 adults across both rooms. Extra adults in the second room are charged at an additional rate. Ideal for two couples or friends travelling together.
No – and that’s by design. We are strongly committed to minimising energy consumption, so our tents are not air-conditioned but are well-ventilated with large netted windows, a ceiling fan, and standing fans to keep you cool. The floating tents benefit from the river breeze, and in some periods of the year it can get slightly chilly at night – you may be happy to use the blankets provided. This is part of our broader sustainability approach, which includes solar panels, LED lighting, and no air conditioning.
We provide filtered drinking water in reusable glass bottles in your tent and in the restaurant – refill anytime. Tap water is fine for showers and washing but not for drinking. We avoid plastic bottles as part of our sustainability practices.
Our open-air riverside restaurant serves a blend of Cambodian classics and Western favourites, made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Breakfast is included and served each morning. For lunch and dinner, you choose from a three-course set menu with multiple options per course. Locally sourced seafood, meat, fresh vegetables, and fruits are complemented by a wide selection of wines, beers, cocktails, and soft drinks. A snack and à la carte menu is available throughout the day.
Yes – we accommodate vegetarian, pescatarian, halal, vegan, and most intolerances and allergies as defined by the World Health Organisation. Unfortunately, we cannot cater for Kosher. Please let us know in advance so we can prepare.
Breakfast is always included. You can add half board (lunch or dinner) or full board (all meals) when booking, or decide on arrival. A tip: some excursions include lunch in the price, so check with us before pre-booking meals to avoid doubling up.
Our set menus offer multiple choices per course, so you’ll always have options. You’ll be asked in advance (usually at breakfast for lunch, and at lunch for dinner) so our kitchen can prepare fresh. Our à la carte menu is also always available.
Yes – in-tent or private deck dining can be arranged, especially outside peak periods. Just let our team know in advance for a more intimate riverside dining experience.
Absolutely! Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, honeymoon, or surprise, we can arrange romantic private dinners, flower setups in your tent, and a homemade birthday cake – on the house. Just let us know what you’re celebrating.
We have a beautiful open-air restaurant on land, just a short walk from the tents, overlooking the river. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful breakfast, a colourful sunset dinner, or a starlit nightcap surrounded by nature.
Prices are dynamic and depend on season, availability, and demand. Check current availability and rates on our booking page.
Your rate includes breakfast, regular boat transfers between Tatai Bridge and the retreat, complimentary kayaks, fishing rods, the firefly boat trip (seasonal), and a warm welcome from our team.
Infants under 2: Complimentary when sharing a bed with parents or in a baby cot (available on request).
Children 2–12: Stay free in Island Family Tents when sharing with parents. In Floating Tented Villas, children can share at an extra cost (on sofa bed). Meals and excursions are discounted for ages 2–12.
Teenagers 12 and above: Considered adults for pricing purposes.
Long stay: For every three nights you pay, the fourth is free. So pay 3 stay 4, pay 4 stay 5, pay 5 stay 6, pay 6 stay 8 – the longer you stay, the more you save.
Groups: 25% off when booking 8 or more tents. Contact us for group rates and tailored programmes.
Individual bookings (up to 3 tents): Free cancellation more than 30 days before check-in. Less than 30 days or no-show: 100% charge.
Group bookings (4+ tents or 5+ nights): Free cancellation more than 60 days before check-in. Between 60 and 31 days: 30% charge. Less than 30 days or no-show: 100% charge.
Deposits from cancelled bookings are not refunded but can be used as credit toward future bookings, valid for two years.
Full payment is due at the time of booking. We accept cash (USD, Khmer Riel, and sometimes EUR or THB), credit cards (with processing fees), and low-fee international transfers via Wise or Revolut in your preferred currency.
Cancellations made after the free cancellation period are non-refundable. However, we may convert your deposit into a credit for a future stay, valid for up to two years. Each case is handled individually – please contact us to discuss your situation. If you need documentation for a travel insurance claim (such as a Statement of Loss), we can provide that upon request.
We send a confirmation email once your payment is received and processed. If you haven’t received confirmation within 48 hours of making a transfer, please reach out and we’ll check right away. For bank transfers via Wise or Revolut, processing typically takes 1–2 business days.
During certain holiday periods (such as Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, and Khmer New Year), we host a special festive dinner that is included as part of your stay. This is a set-menu celebration evening and is reflected in the rates for those dates. We always communicate this in advance at the time of booking.
Yes – the Bakong Tourists App lets you scan KHQR codes nationwide and pay via Visa/Mastercard in USD or Riel. It’s widely accepted across Cambodia.