NESTLED deep within the wilderness of the South Cardamom National Park and perched over more than a kilometre of river and waterfalls, Shinta Mani Wild's 14 one-bedroom tents (100sqm) and one two-bedroom tent (140sqm) were meticulously designed to evoke what it might have been like to be on luxury safari in the jungles of Cambodia with Jackie Kennedy who travelled throughout the Kingdom with King Sihanouk in 1967.
Shinta Mani Wild has been described as a radical fusion of world-class design, hospitality and conservation. The camp was born when world-renowned designer Bill Bensley identified an unprotected, 350-hectare wildlife corridor and set out to save it from poaching, mining and logging.
Guests can explore the untrammelled waterways of South East Asia's last wild estuarine ecosystem aboard a custom Bensley-designed expedition boat or join Wildlife Alliance rangers on anti-poaching patrols. Ever-changing menus are inspired by sustainably foraged wild edible plants, as the camp's naturalists guide guests through the forest to discover - and taste - Cambodia's natural larder.
Described by Bensley as a "utopia of sustainability", Shinta Mani Wild's comprehensive conservation and community programs are spearheaded by the Shinta Mani Foundation, and include the provision of long-term employment opportunities to local people in places where there is minimal infrastructure and few work prospects.
Rates start from USD950 per person per night (based on twin or double occupancy) plus applicable service charge and government taxes and are inclusive of all food and beverages; private guided activities and excursions; unlimited spa treatments; personal Bensley Butler and land transfers from Phnom Penh or Sihanoukville airports.
A minimum three-night stay is required and a minimum age of 10 years. Rate is valid to December 20.