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Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center
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wildlife-area
Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center is Cambodia's premier facility for the rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation of native wildlife. Established in 1995, it covers approximately 2,300 hectares of regenerated forest in Takeo Province, located south of Phnom Penh. The center provides sanctuary to over 1,200 animals across more than 100 species, including Asian elephants, tigers, sun bears, and rare water birds. Most residents are survivors of the illegal wildlife trade or were rescued from snares set by poachers. It is managed by the Forestry Administration in collaboration with international NGOs like Wildlife Alliance and Free the Bears. Beyond providing medical care, the facility focuses on breeding endangered species for eventual release back into protected wilderness areas. Visitors can explore the vast enclosures and gain insight into the complex challenges of protecting Southeast Asia's biodiversity. The center serves as both a safe haven for injured animals and an essential educational hub for local and international visitors regarding environmental stewardship.
- Location: Cambodia
- Top sights: Phnom Thma Doh Temple · Prasat Ta Prohm · Phnom Tamao Zoo
- Nearby: Takeo (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 28 | 30 | 31 | 31 | 30 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 16 | 11 | 30 | 62 | 129 | 190 | 163 | 167 | 190 | 167 | 89 | 28 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
While the rescue center is open year-round, visiting during the dry months from November to April usually provides a much more pleasant walking experience. The paths are generally firmer, and you can explore the extensive grounds without the frequent interruptions of tropical downpours.
Best time of day
Arriving right when the center opens in the morning is typically the best strategy to beat the intense midday heat. The rescued animals are often fed during the earlier hours, making them more visible and active before they retreat to shaded areas.
Etiquette
Since many residents are undergoing rehabilitation, visitors must strictly respect all barriers and refrain from making loud noises that could cause distress. Under no circumstances should you attempt to feed the wildlife, as they are on carefully managed diets prescribed by veterinarians.
What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes are an absolute necessity, given the massive scale of the facility and the amount of ground you will cover. Be sure to carry ample drinking water, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the relentless Cambodian sun.
Getting there
The rescue center is located just a reasonable drive away from the capital, Phnom Penh, making it accessible via a hired taxi or a standard tuk-tuk. Negotiating a return fare with your driver in advance is highly recommended to ensure a smooth journey back to the city.
What to expect
Because the enclosures are intentionally designed to be large and naturalistic to aid in rehabilitation, you may have to wait for the animals to reveal themselves. Keep in mind that this is a sanctuary first and foremost, so quietly observing their natural behaviors is part of the respectful experience.
Geography
Facts
- Established in 1995
- Covers roughly 2,300 hectares of forest
- Home to over 1,200 rescued animals
- Houses more than 100 different species
- Run with Wildlife Alliance and Free the Bears
- Located about 40 km south of Phnom Penh
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center (8)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center located?
It is located about 40 kilometers south of Phnom Penh in Takeo Province.
What animals can be seen at Phnom Tamao?
It is home to rescued tigers, elephants, bears, gibbons, and many other native Cambodian species.
How much is the entrance fee for Phnom Tamao?
Entrance for tourists is approximately 5 USD per person. Vehicles incur an extra charge.
Can you feed the animals at the rescue center?
It is recommended to only feed where explicitly allowed and with appropriate food provided.
How much time should be planned for the visit?
A half to full day is well-suited as the grounds are very extensive.
Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center: where is it located?
Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center is located in Cambodia.
Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center: what is there to see?
Highlights include Phnom Thma Doh Temple, Prasat Ta Prohm, Phnom Tamao Zoo.
Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center: why is it worth visiting?
Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center is Cambodia's premier facility for the rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation of native wildlife.
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