While often described as a “zoo” Phnom Tamao Wildlife Sanctuary is, as the name implies, simply a sanctuary for wild animals that have been rescued from private ownership or animal traffickers.
Covering 6,000 acres of countryside in Takeo Province, just south of Phnom Penh, the sanctuary is home to roughly 1,000 animals, including elephants, tigers, leopards, numerous birds, and reptiles, such as crocodiles.
While there are many species occupying the expansive refuge, as it is not a zoo, and many of the animals are either off-limits to visitors or simply too shy to come around to the areas near which visitors might observe them. That said, there are a number of enclosures that are specifically designed to allow visitors to see some Cambodian wildlife, including the elephants, who are always eager to accept handfuls of bananas.
Getting There
Phnom Tamao Wildlife Sanctuary is located off National Road 2, 25 miles south of Phnom Penh, where there is an international airport. The best way to get here from the capital is by rental car or tuk tuk, the later of which are cheap to charter. Buses also run to the Phnom Tamao turn-off from Phnom Penh Central Market.
Need to Know
- What is It?: Phnom Tamao Wildlife Sanctuary is more of a animal reserve and rehabilitation center than a zoo, as they care for injured or abused animals, though there are opportunities for visitors to see some wildlife.
- When to Go: You can visit Phnom Tamao Wildlife Sanctuary year round, although the best (coolest) weather in Cambodia is November through March.
- Nearest Town: Phnom Penh, the Cambodian capital, is 25 miles away.
- Don’t Miss: The wandering elephants, the walkthrough enclosure, and the wildlife museum.
- Opening hours: Normal daylight hours
- Entrance fees: $5