Areng Community-Based Eco-Tourism Center (STAR-CBET)

Background

Located in the Cardamom Rainforest Landscape, the Steung Areng Valley is one of Southeast Asia’s most important ecological areas. Home to endangered species like the Siamese crocodile and the Royal Turtle, Steung Areng Community-Based Eco-Tourism Center (STAR-CBET) was established in 2016 to protect the environment while offering locals sustainable livelihoods through ecotourism. This project, supported by Wildlife Alliance, works with local authorities to safeguard the valley’s natural and cultural heritage.

Vision

Steung Areng’s people aim to build a model of sustainable ecotourism in Cambodia. STAR-CBET actively promotes natural and cultural conservation while improving local infrastructure and livelihoods. By managing tourism and protecting resources, the community strives for a balanced, sustainable future.

Goal

STAR-CBET aims to conserve natural and cultural resources while offering sustainable job opportunities to locals, reducing illegal activities like logging and poaching. The project develops tourism infrastructure, provides skills training, and supports community development, all while preserving the area’s biodiversity for future generations.

Objectives

• Protect natural and cultural resources
• Provide alternative employment for former loggers and hunters
• Empower local communities
• Improve local living conditions

Wildlife Alliance

Wildlife Alliance’s collaboration with STAR-CBET offers sustainable income options to former loggers and poachers, ensuring community investment in preserving the valley’s resources. The organization’s guidance reduces illegal activities and fosters long-term ecological protection.

Facilities

STAR-CBET operates four Visitor Centers, each with a restaurant and amenities, built using sustainable materials like bamboo and recycled plastics. These centers serve as meeting points for tourists and locals, with bilingual staff available to assist.

CBET Restaurant: Authentic Khmer Dining in Steung Areng Valley

The CBET Restaurant offers a diverse menu that showcases local flavors and fresh ingredients sourced directly from the community. Whether you’re fueling up for an adventure or relaxing after a long day of exploring, the restaurant provides delicious, traditional Khmer meals with options for all dietary needs, including vegetarian and vegan dishes upon request. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect:

Start your day with a hearty and satisfying breakfast, perfect for preparing you for a full day of exploring the Areng Valley.

• Rice with Pork and Egg: A simple, yet filling traditional breakfast dish that combines rice with seasoned pork and a fried egg, providing the perfect balance of protein and carbohydrates to energize you for the day.
• Fried Rice: Choose from mixed vegetables and meat, all stir-fried together with egg. This dish can easily be made vegetarian or vegan upon request.
• Pancakes with Fruit: For a lighter start to the day, enjoy freshly made pancakes served with seasonal fruit—ideal for vegetarian visitors.

The lunch and dinner menu at the CBET Restaurant features a wide array of Khmer dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate.

• Lok Lak with Beef: A traditional Khmer favorite, this dish features tender sautéed beef served with rice and a side of fresh salad, drizzled with a tangy lime-pepper sauce.
• Fish Soup: A light and flavorful soup made with local fish, infused with the zesty flavors of lemongrass and lemon, and topped with onions for added texture.
• Chicken Soup: Similar to the fish soup, this comforting dish combines chicken with lemongrass, lemon, and onions, creating a light but satisfying meal.
• Grilled Chicken (BBQ): Perfectly grilled chicken served with rice and fresh green vegetables, offering a healthy and hearty option.
• Grilled Beef and Vegetables (BBQ): Another grilled delight, this dish offers juicy beef paired with a variety of seasonal vegetables, served alongside steamed rice.
• Fried Mixed Vegetables: A versatile dish that includes an assortment of stir-fried vegetables. It comes with oyster sauce by default, but vegetarian or vegan requests can easily be accommodated.
• Kor Ko Soup: A traditional mixed vegetable soup featuring a variety of fresh, local produce and meat for a warm, nourishing meal.
• Brohok Khtis: A fragrant Khmer curry made from coconut cream and pork, offering rich and bold flavors in every bite.
• Keng Vegetable Soup: A spicy and sour vegetable soup that can be adjusted to suit vegetarian and vegan diners.
• Keng Jackfruit Soup: Similar to the Keng Vegetable soup, but with the unique addition of jackfruit, creating a slightly sweet and sour flavor profile. Vegan options available upon request.
• Hot Fried Chicken: Fried to perfection, this chicken dish is served with rice and fresh vegetables for a classic and delicious meal.
• Hot Fried Pork: A savory pork stir-fry, served alongside rice and vegetables.
• Hot Fried Beef: Another satisfying stir-fry, featuring tender beef served with rice and vegetables.
• M’Chou Khmer: A traditional Khmer sour soup made with morning glory and fish, offering a tangy and refreshing taste.
• M’Chou Vietnam: A Vietnamese-style sour soup with a mix of vegetables, and a choice of chicken, pork, or fish, depending on availability.
• Fried Egg with Pork: A simple yet tasty meal consisting of fried eggs and pork, served with rice.

Special Dishes Unique to Areng Valley

For those seeking a more adventurous culinary experience, the CBET Restaurant offers some truly unique dishes.

• Bok Ki: A local delicacy made from smoked dry fish, shrimp paste, garlic, lemon, and chili, served alongside fresh vegetables and rice. This dish is packed with bold flavors and is also suitable for vegetarians.

Be sure to try these delicious, freshly prepared meals while visiting the Areng Valley, and make the most of your culinary journey in this beautiful, ecologically rich destination!

Homestay

Homestays provide visitors with a unique cultural experience, staying with local families who run small farms. Equipped with solar power, water filters, and basic amenities, these homestays offer an authentic rural experience. Guests can also enjoy meals with their host families, though STAR-CBET staff can assist with special dietary needs.

Camping

For a deeper connection with nature, STAR-CBET offers camping tours in Areng Valley. From jungle campsites to mountain tops, visitors can sleep under the stars and wake up to birdsong. Tents and supplies are provided, with meals prepared over a campfire by experienced forest cooks.

Through sustainable tourism, STAR-CBET creates a lasting impact on both the community and the environment, ensuring that Steung Areng remains a natural treasure for generations to come.