Elephant Sanctuary & Floating Village Private Tour

A Day in Cambodia’s Heart: Elephant Sanctuary & Floating Village Private Tour

If you’re visiting Siem Reap and want an experience that combines ethical wildlife encounters with authentic local life, this private tour offers just that. For $65 per person, you’ll spend your morning at an Elephant Sanctuary, learning about these gentle giants’ behaviors and habitats, then drift into the afternoon exploring a Floating Village on Tonle Sap Lake. Guided by knowledgeable locals like Nara or Sopheak, who share stories with warmth and clarity, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Cambodia’s natural and cultural worlds.

What we love most is getting close to the elephants, feeding them handmade snacks, and watching them splash in the river—activities that are both fun and educational. The opportunity to see how the locals live in the floating village, watching stilted houses and floating schools, adds a genuine human dimension to the experience. A second highlight is the option to visit the Landmine Museum, deepening your understanding of Cambodia’s recent history.

One thing to consider is that the entrance fees for both the Elephant Sanctuary and Floating Village are not included, so you’ll need to bring cash for tickets. Also, since the tour involves some outdoor activities, packing sunglasses, sunscreen, and a change of clothes for elephant bathing is advisable. This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy wildlife, cultural insights, and scenic boat rides, especially those willing to pay a little extra for a private, personalized experience.

Key Points

• Ethical Wildlife Encounters: Visit a sanctuary where elephants are treated with care and respect.
• Authentic Cultural Experience: Explore a floating village and learn how locals survive on Tonle Sap Lake.
• Interactive Activities: Make snacks, feed elephants, and enjoy bathing with these majestic animals.
• Educational Component: Gain insight into elephants’ behaviors and Cambodia’s history through optional museum visits.
• Private Transportation & Guide: Enjoy the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle with a knowledgeable guide.
• Flexible Payment & Cancellation: Book now with the option to pay later and cancel 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Elephant Sanctuary & Floating Village Private Tour

The Elephant Sanctuary: A Closer Look at Cambodia’s Gentle Giants

The tour begins early, leaving from downtown Siem Reap in a private, air-conditioned vehicle. The drive to the Elephant Sanctuary typically takes around an hour, but time feels quicker thanks to the anticipation of spending quality time with these majestic creatures. As you arrive, you’ll be greeted by your guide, who will give a brief introduction about the elephants’ lives and the sanctuary’s mission—most are rescued and cared for in a setting that prioritizes their well-being.

What sets this experience apart is the emphasis on educating visitors about elephants’ natural behaviors. You might find yourself watching elephants playing in a stream, walking through the forest, or simply resting in the sun. Unlike commercial elephant rides, this sanctuary allows you to observe elephants in their natural habitat, which means there’s no riding or exploitation involved—just genuine observation and interaction.

A favorite part of this stop is making and feeding the elephants handmade snacks. You will be given ingredients to prepare simple, healthy treats, which the elephants eagerly come to munch on. As one reviewer noted, “It was satisfying to see elephants come right up and eat from our hands.” You’ll also have the chance to bathe them in a small river, which is not only fun but also a way to connect with these intelligent animals in a respectful manner.

The sanctuary visit typically lasts about three hours, giving ample time to take photos, ask questions, and simply enjoy watching their interactions. We loved the way the guide explained elephant behaviors—seeing them interact and play makes clear how social and emotionally complex they are.

The Landmine Museum: A Brief but Powerful Stop

On the way back or en route to the floating village, some tours include a visit to the Landmine Museum. This optional stop offers a poignant look at Cambodia’s recent history, highlighting the importance of peace and ongoing demining efforts. It’s an educational addition that offers context to the country’s resilience and recovery.

Floating Village: A Unique Riverine Community

Later in the day, the tour shifts gears to explore the Floating Village on Tonle Sap Lake. The boat ride provides a fascinating window into the lives of Cambodians who have made their homes on water. You’ll glide past stilted houses, floating schools, and even floating hospitals, gaining a sense of their daily routines and resilience.

Your boat captain, often a local resident, will point out features like freshwater mangrove forests and explain how the water levels change dramatically between dry and wet seasons—sometimes rising to submerge land and houses, other times revealing dry ground. The experience is both visually stunning and culturally enlightening, revealing how people adapt to a life on the water.

Keep in mind that admission to the floating village is not included in the tour price, so you should carry cash for the entrance fee. The boat ride typically lasts about an hour and offers plenty of opportunities for photos and observing daily life—fishing, children playing, markets bustling on floating platforms.

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Practicalities and Tips

This tour is designed for comfort and convenience. The vehicle is air-conditioned, and the guide will keep you informed throughout. The entire day spans roughly six to seven hours, giving you a leisurely pace without feeling rushed.

Be sure to pack sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the moments. If you want to participate in elephant bathing or feeding, bring a change of clothes. Cash is king here—bring enough for entrance fees, tips, and personal expenses.

What’s Worth Knowing

Several reviewers appreciate the personalized attention that this private tour offers, making it easier to ask questions and tailor some of the stops to your interests. Others note that the guides are passionate and knowledgeable, adding depth to the experience.

However, some mention that entrance fees are paid separately, so budget accordingly. While the tour is on the pricier side compared to group options, many feel the value is justified by the private transport, flexible schedule, and meaningful encounters.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience suits travelers who genuinely care about animal welfare and want to avoid unethical elephant rides. It’s perfect for families, animal lovers, and cultural explorers. If your goal is to see Cambodia beyond the temples and dive deeper into its natural and social fabric, this tour offers a balanced, authentic snapshot.

Final Thoughts

The Elephant Sanctuary & Floating Village Private Tour delivers a well-rounded day that combines ethical wildlife interaction with immersive cultural experiences. You’ll leave with a better understanding of elephants’ personalities, their environments, and the resilience of local communities living on Tonle Sap Lake.

While the tour does require some cash for entrance fees and involves outdoor activities, these are small inconveniences compared to the value of authentic, respectful encounters. It’s a rewarding choice for those who want a meaningful, personal experience that goes beyond typical sightseeing.

If you’re after a day that’s engaging, educational, and offers genuine connection—both with Cambodia’s wildlife and its people—this tour is certainly worth considering.

FAQ

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the entrance fees for the Elephant Sanctuary and Floating Village are not included. You should bring cash to cover these costs.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around six to seven hours, including transportation, activities, and breaks.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, a camera, a change of clothes for elephant bathing, and cash for entrance fees and personal expenses.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially for families who enjoy animal interactions and cultural experiences. Make sure children are comfortable with boat rides and outdoor activities.

Can I make snacks for the elephants myself?
Yes, the guide will help you prepare simple, healthy snacks that elephants love to eat.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s advisable to reserve your spot, especially for private tours. You can choose to pay later, and cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance.

What is the guide’s role during the tour?
The guide provides introductions, shares stories about the elephants and the local culture, and makes sure you get the most out of your experience.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses private, air-conditioned vehicles, which provide a comfortable ride between locations.

Will I see local people living in the floating village?
Absolutely, you’ll observe their houses, schools, and daily routines from your boat, gaining insight into their unique way of life.

You can check availability for your dates here: