Siem Reap: Elephants & Apopo Rat Demining Private Trip

Siem Reap offers a unique opportunity for travelers to connect with nature and support humanitarian efforts. The Elephants & Apopo Rat Demining Private Trip promises an unforgettable 12-hour adventure. Visitors can feed and bathe elephants while learning about conservation, then witness the incredible skills of trained rats in landmine detection. With personalized tours, morning/afternoon snacks, and cold drinks, this trip provides an informative and memorable experience. But there’s more to uncover about this captivating excursion.

Key Points

• A private 12-hour tour in Siem Reap that visits an Elephant Sanctuary and the Apopo Rat Demining Centre, with personalized attention for a group of up to 10 people.
• The tour includes transportation, guided experiences at both attractions, and snacks/drinks, with entry fees for the attractions charged separately.
• At the Elephant Sanctuary, guests can feed, bathe, and observe the elephants, while learning about their conservation and the sanctuary’s ethical practices.
• The Apopo Rat Demining Centre showcases the trained rats’ landmine detection skills and provides insights into their humanitarian work for community safety.
• The tour is priced from $15 per person, with a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours prior to departure, and tips/personal expenses not included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview

The private trip to Siem Reap features an immersive experience at an Elephant Sanctuary and the Apopo Rat Demining Centre.

The 12-hour tour provides a chance to witness the ethical treatment of animals and learn about innovative demining efforts. Participants can choose between a morning or afternoon schedule, with the option to start at either attraction.

Group size is limited to 10 people, ensuring personalized attention from the English and Cambodian-speaking guides. Priced from $15 per person, the trip’s cost excludes entry fees to the sanctuary and centre.

Itinerary Details

Pickup for the private trip begins at the hotel lobby, where an air-conditioned SUV transports guests approximately 40 minutes to the Elephant Sanctuary.

Once there, the itinerary includes:

• A guided tour, allowing visitors to feed the elephants and observe them taking a mud bath and getting washed in the river.

• A visit to the Apopo Rat Demining Centre, where guests can learn about the Giant African Pouched Rats trained to detect landmines and even hold one of the rats.

• A morning or afternoon snack and cold drinking water provided throughout the tour.

Elephant Sanctuary Experience

What can visitors expect at the Elephant Sanctuary?

Guests will enjoy a guided tour, feeding the elephants, and bathing them in the river.

They’ll witness the elephants’ daily routine and learn about their care and conservation.

The sanctuary’s staff will share insights into the elephants’ behaviors and explain the center’s ethical practices.

Visitors can get up close and personal, interacting with the gentle giants in their natural habitat.

This hands-on experience provides a unique opportunity to connect with these magnificent creatures while supporting their wellbeing and the sanctuary’s important work.

Apopo Rat Demining Centre

After experiencing the wonders of the Elephant Sanctuary, the tour continues with a visit to the Apopo Rat Demining Centre.

Guests will learn about the remarkable Giant African Pouched Rats trained to detect landmines and unexploded ordnance.

The tour includes:

• An informative presentation on the rats’ training and their crucial role in mine clearance efforts.

• A chance to observe the rats in action as they demonstrate their landmine detection skills.

• An opportunity to interact with the rats and even hold them, fostering a deeper appreciation for their remarkable capabilities.

• Insights into the important humanitarian work of the Apopo organization in making communities safer.

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Sanctuary and Centre Entry Fees

The entry fees for the Elephant Sanctuary and Apopo Rat Demining Centre are separate from the initial trip price.

The entry fees for the Elephant Sanctuary and Apopo Rat Demining Centre are separate from the initial trip price.

For the Elephant Sanctuary, adults ages 11 and up pay $75 for a 2-hour experience or $45 for a 1-hour visit. Children aged 3-10 are $62.

At the Apopo Rat Centre, the entry fee is $10 per person.

These fees aren’t included in the base price of the private trip, which starts at $15 per person.

Visitors should budget accordingly for the sanctuary and centre entry fees when booking this experience in Siem Reap.

Customer Feedback

Customers have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback on this private trip in Siem Reap.

According to the reviews, the highlights include:

• Knowledgeable and friendly guides who enhance the experience

• Enjoyment of hands-on interactions with elephants and rats

• Appreciation for the ethical treatment of animals during the tours

• Informative and educational nature of the sanctuary and demining center visits

Reviewers have praised the well-organized itinerary and the inclusion of transportation, snacks, and water.

Cancellation Policy and Transportation

Travelers can take advantage of the trip’s generous cancellation policy, which offers a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure. This provides flexibility for those with changing plans or unexpected conflicts.

Transportation to and from the hotel lobby is included in the tour package, making it a hassle-free experience. Guests will travel by air-conditioned SUV, with the drive to the Elephant Sanctuary taking approximately 40 minutes.

While the entry fees for the Elephant Sanctuary and Apopo Rat Demining Centre aren’t covered in the initial trip price, this allows customers to customize their experience.

Personal Expenses

Personal expenses not covered in the initial trip price include gratuities and any other incidental costs incurred during the tour.

Travelers should budget for the following:

Travelers should budget for tips, optional purchases, additional meals, and personal items not included in the tour price.

• Tips for the guide and driver, typically $2-5 per person

• Optional purchases at the Apopo Rat Demining Centre, such as souvenirs or donations

• Any additional snacks, drinks, or meals not provided as part of the tour

• Personal items or activities not specified in the itinerary

These personal expenses allow for a more customized experience and support the local businesses and communities visited during the trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food or Snacks on the Trip?

Yes, participants can bring their own snacks or packed lunch on the trip. However, light refreshments and drinking water are already provided by the tour company during the excursion.

Is There a Dress Code for the Elephant and Rat Activities?

There’s no strict dress code, but comfortable, lightweight clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Avoid wearing anything too fancy or revealing, as the activities may get dirty. The focus is on having an enjoyable and practical experience.

Are There Any Medical or Health Requirements to Participate?

There are no specific medical or health requirements to participate. However, guests should be reasonably fit and able to walk for extended periods. Those with mobility concerns should consult the tour operator before booking.

What Should I Bring to Make the Most of This Experience?

Wear comfortable, casual clothing and closed-toe shoes. Bring sunscreen, hat, and insect repellent. Don’t forget your camera to capture the memorable interactions with the elephants and rats. Stay hydrated by bringing a water bottle.

Is There an Option to Extend or Customize the Itinerary?

Yes, the tour can be customized or extended. Customers can request additional activities, adjust the itinerary, or extend the duration of their visit. The tour provider is flexible in accommodating personalized requests within reason.

The Sum Up

The Siem Reap: Elephants & Apopo Rat Demining Private Trip offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and support humanitarian efforts. Visitors can feed and bathe elephants at the Elephant Sanctuary, then explore the Apopo Rat Demining Centre to witness the incredible skills of trained rats in landmine detection. With personalized tours, snacks, and drinks, this 12-hour adventure provides an unforgettable and informative day in Siem Reap.

You can check availability for your dates here: