Siem Reap is known for its temples. But for those who look beyond the ancient stones — this city offers some of the most remarkable animal encounters in all of Southeast Asia.
1. Casa de Capybara — Cambodia’s Only Capybara Experience
Molly and Alex are the only two capybaras in Cambodia, living in a private oasis on Ring Road minutes from Angkor Wat. Designed by a qualified animal husbandry specialist — swimming areas, waterfall, spacious home, unlimited fresh food and water. $10 Full Experience includes private encounter, photography, feeding, facts, souvenir, pool, playground and playroom. $30 family package. Hotel guests unlimited complimentary access. Open daily 7am-9pm. cms.casadecapybara.com/. Guests regularly tell us that time with Molly and Alex was the most healing and unexpectedly moving experience of their entire trip.
2. APOPO Hero Rat Experience
African giant pouched rats detect landmines buried in Cambodia. Extraordinary, moving and educational. Like capybaras, they are rodents — visit APOPO in the morning and Casa de Capybara in the afternoon for the world’s most extraordinary rodent day. apopo.org
3. Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre
25km northeast of Siem Reap — 8 species of Cambodian butterflies in a peaceful garden enclosure. Supports rural Cambodian jobs. Quiet, beautiful, perfect for young children. Perfect combination with capybara encounter for a full animal day.
4. Kulen Elephant Forest
Ethical elephant encounters in a protected habitat north of Siem Reap. Conservation focused, community supported.
5. Tonle Sap Lake
Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake — extraordinary biodiversity, floating villages, UNESCO biosphere reserve.
The Animal Lover’s Perfect Siem Reap Itinerary
Day 1 AM: Butterfly Centre | Day 1 PM: Casa de Capybara — Meet Molly & Alex. Day 2 AM: APOPO | Day 2 PM: Casa de Capybara again. Day 3: Kulen Elephant Forest. Day 4 AM: Tonle Sap floating village | Day 4 PM: Final visit to Molly & Alex before departure.
By Manet Sisamouth | cms.casadecapybara.com/ | apopo.org
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