Kulen Elephant Forest Sanctuary is an important conservation area near Phnom Kulen National Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Established with the primary goal of providing a safe haven for retired working elephants, the sanctuary offers a natural and peaceful environment where these magnificent animals can live out the rest of their lives free from the pressures of labor and exploitation. The sanctuary's mission is rooted in ethical tourism, emphasizing the well-being of the elephants and fostering an environment where visitors can appreciate these creatures without causing them harm or stress.

The sanctuary is spread across a vast, forested area, which closely resembles the elephants’ natural habitat. This expansive space allows the elephants to roam freely, engage in social interactions, and display their natural behaviors. Unlike traditional elephant camps, which often subject these animals to harsh conditions and unnatural activities, Kulen Elephant Forest Sanctuary prioritizes the comfort and health of the elephants. There are no rides or performances here; instead, the focus is on letting the elephants live as they would in the wild, while allowing visitors to observe and learn from a distance.

Visitors to Kulen Elephant Forest Sanctuary can participate in a variety of activities designed to be both educational and respectful to the animals. One of the highlights of the visit is the opportunity to walk alongside the elephants through the forest. This experience allows guests to see how elephants naturally interact with their environment, their social bonds, and their feeding habits. Additionally, visitors can assist in preparing food and feeding the elephants, creating a personal connection while ensuring that the animals are well-nourished. Throughout the visit, trained guides provide insightful information about elephant behavior, the history of elephants in Cambodia, and the ongoing efforts to protect these animals from harm.

Education plays a central role in the sanctuary's operations. The sanctuary offers programs that delve into the conservation challenges elephants face, including habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and the negative impacts of irresponsible tourism. By educating visitors, the sanctuary aims to raise awareness about the importance of protecting elephants and encourages more ethical approaches to wildlife tourism. This focus on education ensures that visitors leave with a deeper understanding of the complexities of elephant conservation and the steps they can take to support these efforts.

Beyond its role in elephant conservation, Kulen Elephant Forest Sanctuary also contributes positively to the local community. The sanctuary provides employment opportunities for local residents, supporting the surrounding villages and promoting sustainable tourism practices. This community engagement not only enhances the lives of the people in the area but also strengthens the sanctuary’s conservation efforts by fostering local support and involvement.

Located approximately 50 kilometers from Siem Reap, the sanctuary is easily accessible for day trips, offering a unique opportunity to explore Cambodia’s natural beauty while contributing to a noble cause. A visit to Kulen Elephant Forest Sanctuary is more than just an encounter with elephants; it’s an experience that combines conservation, education, and ethical tourism, making it a meaningful and memorable journey for anyone who cares about wildlife and environmental preservation.

Greeting from Kulen Elephant Forest!

We will have two tour per day. The morning starts from 8am-14pm and Afternoon from 12pm-18pm. 

The price will be 90USD per person. 20% off for kid from 8-11y, 50% off for kid from 3-7y and under 3y are free.

Tour including: Transportation, an English speaking tour guide and one meal.

Tour program:

-Scenic 1-hour drive from downtown Siem Reap to Kulen Elephant Forest.

-Introductory briefing.

- Hand Making Healthy snacks for elephants 

-Elephant meet and greet and feeding them snacks.

-Observation trek. (2km)

-Make enrichment and watch the elephants play by the pond.

-Khmer-style lunch for morning or Picnic Snacks for afternoon tour

-Return to Siem Reap