Cambodia
The term “zoological,” often reduced to the word “zoo,” should not dull your imagination when thinking of Phnom Tamao. The image of animals behind bars or cages is far from what you will see and feel inside this park. Every person working here is passionate and devotes their professional life to the well-being of the animals—not to ease their conscience, but out of true vocation.
This type of refuge is essential in a country like Cambodia, where poaching and deforestation have plagued the natural environment for many years. The park covers 2,285 hectares of forest, plains, rivers, and other natural terrain, allowing it to welcome numerous animals each year. Located just a few kilometers south of the capital Phnom Penh, in Takeo province, this sanctuary offers a safe haven for animals in need of a healthy, protected natural habitat. They stay in the refuge for a time while the committed members of various organizations linked to Phnom Tamao work to find them a secure, wild, and natural home. Visiting this place is a deeply moving experience, especially when hearing the story behind each animal encountered.
A guided adventure
Over 1,000 animals inhabited this wildlife reserve in 2013, and today that number is closer to 1,200. Upon arrival, you will quickly notice two things: first, the tours are impeccably organized, running like clockwork; and second, the guides are true nature lovers and experts in wildlife.
These professionals will explain why some animals—such as tigers or bears—are housed in enclosures, while others—like deer, wild boars, certain monkeys, and squirrels—can roam freely just a few steps from you. You’ll feel truly at ease in these palm forests and among other typical Cambodian trees.
Your guide will also share the stories of the animals that have made Phnom Tamao famous. The reserve is home to the largest population of rescued Malayan sun bears, saved from certain death in their natural habitats. Today, they live alongside Asiatic black bears, or moon bears, in a sanctuary that spans over 10 hectares and shelters 130 individuals. There, you’ll find a discovery trail, a research center, and an information room to learn more about these species.
Asian elephants also reside at Phnom Tamao. They are kept here to ensure their protection and proper care. Their small number allows for close and attentive monitoring, better than what could be offered in the wild.
And finally, the tigers. Since 2000, they have been part of the reserve after the Cambodian Forestry Administration, assisted by Wildlife Alliance, carried out an operation in Phnom Penh to seize seven tigers that were about to be sold illegally by criminal networks. This operation aimed to expose such practices at the time and also provided these tigers with a suitable environment at Phnom Tamao, where they now live in vast forested enclosures.
You can also enjoy watching the gibbons and other monkeys swinging above your head and singing to welcome you. An unforgettable day awaits you there.
How to get there
To reach Phnom Tamao, located in Takeo province, simply follow National Road 2 south from Phnom Penh for about 40 kilometers. After about an hour and fifteen minutes by bus or car, you will arrive at Phnom Tamao Wildlife Park.
