How to ethically explore the Wildlife of Cambodia

Cambodia is a Southeast Asian nation with low-lying plains, the Mekong Delta, and the Gulf of Thailand coastline. Known as the Kingdom of Wonder with many natural attractions and the famed Angkor Wat temple complex Cambodia is also known for its abundant wildlife comprising elephants, deer, wild oxen, panthers, bears, tigers, cormorants, species of birds and snakes, and many more. As visitors with an interest to protect and conserve wildlife be aware of ethical practices and places to visit.

shankar s. from Dubai, united arab emirates, More Great Cormorants on a tree (14351367823), CC BY 2.0

Be conscious of ethical associations with wildlife

Most visitors to Cambodia look forward to an elephant ride during their visit and consider that as one of the most exciting and adventurous Siem Reap Attractions. In fact, to most visitors, experiencing wildlife amounts to just that elephant ride. However, the downside of these is the animals are being overworked to the point of exhaustion denying these magnificent animals the freedom to be themselves. Therefore be selective in the way you enjoy viewing and experiencing wildlife.

Wildlife in Cambodia

Cambodia is home to 16 globally endangered species and 2 critically endangered species resulting in many organizations working collectively to protect and preserve the remaining wildlife diversity.
There are numerous nature reserves, animal refuges, and wildlife sanctuaries that offer freedom and space to mammals, birds, and reptiles. Working on funding from non-profit organisations and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), they work on preserving endangered species such as the wild Asian elephant, Wild water buffalo, Eld’s deer, tiger, leopard, fishing cat etc. These are the ideal places you must visit to enjoy the behaviours and actions of wildlife which will give you insights about them and leave you with a more profound wildlife experience.

Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB)

As visitors to Cambodia who believe in experiencing wildlife without harming or endangering them, the 90-minute tours of the sanctuary handled by English-speaking guides are of enormous value. These well-informed guides elaborate on the conservation efforts and many stories about different species of animals making them interesting and enlightening tales. These tours are frequently used by visitors to FCC Angkor by Avani.
The minimum donation of 3 US Dollars collected by the centre is more than worth the information you receive. These donations go towards the centre's operations.

A few noteworthy wildlife experiences in Cambodia

Elephant Valley Project Mondulkiri – Considered to be the elephant sanctuary with the highest ethical standards in Cambodia, Elephant valley does not offer to ride, feed, wash, or bathe with elephants. In place of these usual practices, visitors on day trips to the valley have the joy of walking with the majestic giants, observing their playful antics in the jungle or at the river, and occasionally following herds of elephants stealthily guided by a mahout. These natural ways of experiencing elephants are encouraged at the valley and are enjoyed by visitors.
Prek Toal Core Bird Reserve – Located in the 31,282-hectare Tonle Sap (Great Lake) Biosphere, this is the largest waterbird colony in South East Asia and is a part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The outstanding site is mostly covered by freshwater swamps and is home to rare waterbirds, especially in the dry season. The Sam Veasna Centre, a non-profit NGO promoting eco-tourism provides tours of the reserve with assistance from local community members and is an accessible wildlife experience with ethical standards.
The Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre – An hour’s drive from Phnom Penh this wildlife sanctuary offers a day of exploration in the animal rescue and rehabilitation centre, With over 1200 animals including elephants, sun bears, moon bears, leopards, lions, tigers, and more to see in natural surroundings. However, of all the animals Chhouk the gentle giant, a rescued elephant with a prosthetic leg steals every visitor’s heart.