Inside Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue with Wildlife Alliance
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8–9 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires standing and walking up to 20 minutes intermittently throughout the day.
Overview
Spend a full day with Wildlife Alliance at Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre, gaining rare access to rescued wildlife and their caretakers. Discover Cambodia’s critical conservation work firsthand through close animal encounters not open to the general public.
Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre Behind the Scenes Tour
Departs from Phnom Penh!
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience an unforgettable day at Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre, where you'll engage with rescued animals and learn their inspiring stories. This exclusive behind-the-scenes tour offers unique access to areas closed to the public, showcasing the vital conservation work supported by your visit. Make a meaningful impact while enjoying close encounters with wildlife.
Phnom Tamao Wildlife Tour
Rates
November - April Adults (Ages 17+) - $150 Youths (Ages 4-16) - $75 Infant (Ages 0-3) - Free May - October Adults (Ages 17+) - $120 Youths (Ages 4-16) - $60 Infant (Ages 0-3) - Free
Duration
9 hours
About
Animals that are saved by the Wildlife Rapid Rescue Team (WRRT) are relocated to the Center and each individual is assessed for release based on their health and strength to survive independently. It is home to over 1,400 animals, and no animal in need is ever turned away. Over 200,000 visitors each year come to PTWRC to see the rescued wildlife and learn about conservation efforts in Cambodia. We offer an exclusive behind the scenes tour that will allow you to experience PTWRC in a unique and personal way.
Day Overview:
- Morning pick-up from a central location in Phnom Penh at 8:00 AM
- Stop at a local market to buy fruit for the animals
- Hand feed our female elephants and observe how we train them using gentle reward-based positive reinforcement, when we change Chhouk’s prosthetic foot
- Enter the tigers’ private dens, a section closed to the public
- Have a delicious Cambodian-style lunch, enjoy fresh coconut water and escape the heat of the day in our relaxing hammocks.
- Get up close with clouded leopards, gibbons, otters and the other endangered animals that Wildlife Alliance has helped rescue and care for at the sanctuary.
- Visit our nursery in the rehabilitation area – a section closed to the public – and see the beautiful baby animals that we care for up close.
- Interact with rescued baby macaque monkeys in their enclosure as you feed them.
- Afternoon drop-off in Phnom Penh between 4:30 – 5:30 PM depending on the group and traffic (an earlier drop-off can be arranged for an additional cost if you contact us in advance).
Adventure Tips
Dress for Tropical Heat
Lightweight, breathable clothing and sun protection are essential year-round to stay comfortable under Cambodia’s hot sun.
Bring Mosquito Repellent
Apply repellent throughout the day to prevent bites while spending extended time outdoors near animal enclosures.
Stay Hydrated
Carry a refillable water bottle; unlimited water is available to keep you hydrated during the active day of walking and standing.
Capture Moments Responsibly
Photography is encouraged, but maintain respectful distance and avoid flash to minimize stress on animals.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Clouded leopards
- Rescued female elephants with prosthetic treatments
History
Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre was established as a critical facility to care for animals rescued by the Wildlife Rapid Rescue Team from illegal traffickers and harm.
Conservation
Wildlife Alliance’s work combats the illegal wildlife trade by rescuing animals and fostering rehabilitation, with tours directly funding care and habitat preservation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Phnom Penh
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sun Hat
Protect your face and neck against strong tropical sun during outdoor activities.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Supportive shoes are needed for walking and standing on varied terrain at the sanctuary.
Mosquito Repellent
Apply frequently to avoid bites while moving through shaded and humid areas.
Refillable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated with water refills available throughout the tour.