Walk with the Elephants by Cambodiajeep

Experience the Heart of Cambodia: Walking with Elephants in Kulen Forest

If you’re seeking a truly authentic and memorable encounter with Cambodia’s gentle giants, Cambodiajeep’s “Walk with the Elephants” offers a compelling day out. For $270 per person, you’ll spend roughly 7 to 9 hours exploring the scenic countryside, the lush Kulen Mountain foothills, and the protected Bos Thom Community Forest, home to 14 elephants of Angkor. Led by an English-speaking guide, this tour combines adventure, natural beauty, and genuine interaction with Cambodia’s wildlife and local life.

What we love most are the vintage jeeps—they add a touch of nostalgia and fun to the journey, and the chance to drive on small dirt roads gives an unusual perspective on the landscape. We also appreciate the small group size, which keeps the experience intimate and allows for better interaction with guides and locals.

One thing to consider is that, since part of the tour involves small dirt roads and rural settings, travelers should be comfortable with some bumpy rides and rustic scenery. It’s not for those seeking a highly polished, all-inclusive experience—this is about authenticity and adventure.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, animal enthusiasts, and anyone interested in seeing Cambodia beyond the temples. It suits travelers who enjoy small-group tours with a mix of wildlife, culture, and leisurely exploration.

Key Points

• Unique Jeep Experience: Travel in restored vintage jeeps, providing an authentic, adventurous way to explore rural Cambodia.
• Wildlife Encounter: Visit the Bos Thom Community Forest to see the 14 elephants of Angkor in a protected environment.
• Cultural Connection: Drive through small villages and rice fields, gaining insight into local Cambodian life.
• Flexible Itinerary: The tour includes three stops—Kulen Elephant Forest, Preah Dak, and rural Siem Reap—offering a well-rounded day.
• All-Inclusive Value: Lunch, water, snacks, and entrance fees are included, making it a convenient option.
• Small Group & Private Feel: Despite the shared elephant visit, the overall experience remains intimate and personalized.

A Deep Dive into the “Walk with the Elephants” Tour

What Sets This Tour Apart?

This experience stands out because it combines wildlife conservation with rural scenery. Unlike crowded elephant sanctuaries, Cambodiajeep’s project emphasizes ethical treatment of elephants and provides a protected environment that allows for genuine observation and interaction. We loved the way the tour balances adventure and education, giving us a chance to understand the elephants’ habitat and the community efforts behind their care.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Kulen Elephant Forest Camp

Your day begins with a drive in a restored vintage jeep—think classic, open-top vehicles that evoke nostalgia—and a scenic ride into the foothills of Kulen Mountain. The highlight here is the Bos Thom Community Forest, a sprawling 1100-acre sanctuary for the elephants of Angkor.

The admission fee is included, and you’ll have time to observe these majestic creatures. The guide will likely tell you about their history and the conservation efforts, adding context to your visit. We appreciated how the elephants are kept in a protected environment, allowing for a far more natural interaction than typical tourist animal encounters.

What makes this stop special? We loved watching the elephants bathe and being able to feed them—a rare opportunity that brings you closer to these gentle giants. As one reviewer put it, “feeding elephants whilst watching them bathe in the water” was a real highlight.

Stop 2: Preah Dak

After a hearty lunch at the elephant project, the tour continues with a drive into the countryside. Traveling on small dirt roads, you’ll pass rice paddies, palm trees, and small villages, getting a taste of local rural life. This segment lasts around three hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the scenery and chat with your guide about daily life in Cambodia.

This part of the journey is especially appealing for anyone interested in seeing authentic village life away from tourist hotspots. It’s a chance to see how locals live, work, and interact with the land.

Stop 3: Rural Siem Reap Province

The final leg is a one-hour drive through more countryside in your vintage jeep. This is where you’ll truly see Siem Reap beyond Angkor Wat, interacting with locals and marveling at the views no other travelers typically see. The relaxed pace allows for some candid conversations with your guide and driver, making the experience more personal.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour is thoughtfully designed to be all-inclusive for convenience. Your fee covers lunch, drinking water, snacks, and fruit, as well as entrance to the Kulen Elephant Forest and the half-day visit to the Elephant Project.

Additional expenses, like personal souvenirs or gratuities for your guide and driver, are not included. We recommend bringing some cash for tips, as small gratuities are customary in Cambodia.

How About the Transportation?

Traveling in restored vintage jeeps adds a layer of fun and authenticity. These vehicles are well-maintained and give a nostalgic feel, making the journey just as memorable as the destinations. The small dirt roads might be bumpy, so pack your camera and be prepared for some dust—this is part of the charm.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventure seekers, wildlife lovers, and those wanting a deeper connection with Cambodia’s rural life. It’s suitable for most travelers, given the moderate physical demands and the fact that most of the experience is about observation and gentle interaction. However, those with mobility issues should consider the uneven terrain.

Authenticity and Conservation

One of the most praised aspects, according to reviews, is the ethical treatment of elephants. The feeding and bathing moments are highlights, and the fact that the elephants are in a protected environment offers peace of mind.

Final Thoughts on Value

While $270 per person might seem steep compared to basic tours, the inclusion of transportation, lunch, entrance fees, and small group interaction offers good value. You’re not just paying for sightseeing but for an experience that emphasizes ethical wildlife interaction and local immersion.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re a curious traveler eager for an outdoor adventure combined with wildlife, this is a solid choice. It suits those who prefer small-group, personalized experiences and want to see Cambodia’s countryside beyond the typical temple circuits. The chance to feed elephants and enjoy scenic drives makes it particularly appealing for families, couples, and wildlife enthusiasts.

FAQ

Is transportation provided for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and transportation in a restored vintage jeep.

How long does the tour last?
Expect around 7 to 9 hours, including stops, lunch, and driving time.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing suitable for rural outdoor conditions, sunscreen, a hat, and your camera.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it suitable, especially those comfortable with some bumpy rides and outdoor environments.

Are the elephants in a protected environment?
Yes, the elephants are in Kulen Forest, a protected and ethical environment.

Does the tour include any cultural or village visits?
Yes, you’ll pass through small villages and rural areas, offering insight into local life.

What’s included in the price?
Lunch, drinks, snacks, entrance to Kulen Elephant Forest, and the half-day Elephant Project visit.

Are there any hidden costs?
You might want to tip guides or pay for souvenirs; these are not included in the tour price.

Can I customize this tour?
It’s a private tour for your group, but the itinerary is fixed. You can discuss specific interests with your guide.

To sum it up, the “Walk with the Elephants” tour by Cambodiajeep offers a rich, immersive experience in Cambodia’s countryside, blending wildlife, local culture, and adventure. It’s a particularly good fit for travelers who want a meaningful encounter with nature and an off-the-beaten-path glimpse into rural life. If you value ethical elephant encounters, scenic drives, and small-group intimacy, this tour deserves a spot on your Siem Reap itinerary.