Phnom Penh: Buddha Kiri and Phnom Tamao Zoo Private Day Trip

Phnom Penh: Buddha Kiri and Phnom Tamao Zoo Private Day Trip Review

If you’re looking for a day outside the hustle of Phnom Penh that combines spiritual sights with wildlife encounters, this private tour might be just what you need. For $138 per person, you’ll spend about a full day exploring two very different but equally fascinating sites in Kampot Province—Buddha Kiri, with its thousands of golden statues, and Phnom Tamao Zoo, home to over 102 species of animals.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its blend of cultural insight and natural beauty. You get to walk among thousands of Buddha statues, which are both surreal and awe-inspiring, and then switch gears to visit a zoo that’s dedicated to conservation and education. Plus, the convenience of a private, door-to-door transfer makes it a hassle-free day, allowing us to focus on the sights rather than logistics.

One potential consideration is that this tour lasts a full day, so it’s best suited for travelers with a decent amount of energy and curiosity. Also, since it involves some walking and outdoor exposure, comfortable clothes and insect repellent are recommended. If you prefer a relaxed pace with guided insights into Cambodia’s heritage and wildlife, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

This experience appeals most to travelers who want an authentic, diverse glimpse into Cambodia’s spiritual and natural worlds without the hassle of planning multiple separate excursions. It suits those who enjoy a mix of scenic views, cultural learning, and wildlife spotting—offering real value for the price.

Key Points

• Unique Scenic Experience: Thousands of Buddha statues covering Buddha Kiri create a surreal visual that’s hard to forget.
• Convenience & Comfort: Private transport includes hotel pickup and drop-off, streamlining your day.
• Educational & Insightful: Learn about Cambodian Buddhism and heritage from knowledgeable guides.
• Wildlife Encounters: Phnom Tamao Zoo offers a chance to see endangered species and learn about conservation efforts.
• Full-Day Itinerary: About 5 hours of sightseeing plus travel makes for a comprehensive experience.
• Value for Money: At $138, the tour’s combination of cultural and wildlife sights is quite reasonable considering the private service.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The day begins with hotel pickup in Phnom Penh, which is a major plus. Being able to relax in an air-conditioned vehicle while en route to Kampot Province helps set a comfortable tone for the day. The journey itself lasts about an hour—just enough to settle in and anticipate the adventures ahead.

Visiting Buddha Kiri: A Sacred Mountain of Statues

Your first stop is Buddha Kiri, founded in 2017 by four monks, perched atop a low-rise mountain surrounded by lush scenery. Here, the highlight is the tens of thousands of small golden Buddha statues that blanket the hillside—an almost hypnotic sight. Photographers will love capturing the shimmering chaos of statues stretching as far as the eye can see.

Our guide, Mony, shared that the monks aim to reach a total of 84,000 statues, making it a place of ongoing spiritual significance. Visitors get a chance to learn about Buddhism and Cambodian heritage, which adds depth to the visual spectacle. We appreciated Mony’s insights, as he explained how the site is both a place of prayer and a symbol of collective devotion.

While the sight is breathtaking, it’s also quite a walk—so wear comfortable shoes. The site’s elevation and open hillside mean you’ll be exposed to the sun and bugs, so insect repellent and a hat are wise. As one reviewer noted, “It’s a very surreal experience, especially with the golden statues shining in the sunlight,” which captures the awe many visitors feel.

Transitioning to Phnom Tamao Zoo

After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere, we head to Phnom Tamao Zoological Park, set within a protected forest and arboretum. The drive offers scenic views of Cambodia’s countryside, making the transition from spiritual to natural environment feel seamless.

This zoo isn’t your typical tourist trap. It’s actively involved in conservation efforts and houses over 102 species, including some endangered mammals, reptiles, and birds. We loved the chance to see animals like tigers, bears, and various reptiles—many of which are rescued or bred for conservation.

Guided by an expert, the zoo tour lasts about 2.5 hours. You’ll get to see animals up close and learn about their habitats and the zoo’s role in protecting endangered species. The park’s layout encourages a relaxed walk, allowing plenty of time for wildlife viewing and photography. Several reviews mentioned how impressive it was to see the variety of species, with one noting, “It’s a great place to see Cambodia’s native wildlife and learn about conservation efforts.”

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Returning to Phnom Penh

After a full day of cultural and natural exploration, your driver will take you back to your hotel. The convenience of door-to-door service means you can unwind without worrying about transport logistics. It’s a good way to reflect on the day’s experiences and share impressions with your travel companions.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour is suitable for most travelers but not wheelchair accessible or ideal for those with limited mobility or visual impairments.
• Bring essentials like camera, comfortable clothes, insect repellent, long pants, cash, and a power bank for devices.
• The tour includes cold water, but food is not included, so plan to have a snack or lunch beforehand or bring some water along.
• Since entrance tickets aren’t included, check the current prices ahead of time to budget accordingly.
• Booking is flexible with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance and pay later, making it simple to plan.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for culture and wildlife enthusiasts who want to see a different side of Cambodia without overextending their schedule. It suits those interested in spiritual sites and conservation, especially if you enjoy guided insights and scenic views. If you’re traveling with family, or prefer a private experience that offers flexibility and comfort, this tour provides good value.

The Sum Up

This private day trip from Phnom Penh offers a balanced mix of spiritual reflection and wildlife discovery, wrapped in the comfort of private transportation. The scenic views, especially at Buddha Kiri, create memorable photo opportunities, while Phnom Tamao Zoo provides an educational look at Cambodia’s native species. The guided aspect enhances understanding and connects you more deeply with the sites.

While it’s a full day, those with an interest in authentic cultural and natural experiences will find this tour rewarding. It’s especially valuable for travelers who want a hassle-free way to explore beyond the city, combining inspiring sights with the chance to learn about Cambodia’s heritage and conservation efforts.

If you’re after a meaningful, well-organized, and scenic day outside Phnom Penh, this tour delivers on its promises—offering quality experiences at a reasonable price. It’s a great choice for those eager to see both spiritual symbols and wild animals in one memorable day.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making your day more comfortable and hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 1 day, with a typical schedule of around 5 hours of sightseeing plus travel time.

Are transportation costs included?
Transportation is part of the package, provided by an air-conditioned vehicle as part of the tour price.

Do I need to buy tickets separately?
Yes, attraction tickets are not included, so you should budget for entrance fees at Buddha Kiri and Phnom Tamao Zoo.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s a private tour with some walking involved, so it’s best suited for those who can comfortably manage outdoor activities and walking.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You also have the option to reserve now and pay later.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, comfortable clothing, insect repellent, long pants, cash, and a power bank for your devices.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with significant mobility challenges.

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Cambodia’s spiritual and natural worlds, making it an enriching addition to any itinerary in Phnom Penh. If you’re curious about the country’s cultural symbols and love wildlife, it’s likely to be one of the more memorable days of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: