Siem Reap: Afternoon APOPO Rats Tour + Phare Circus Option

Siem Reap isn’t just about Angkor Wat and ancient temples — it’s a city bursting with surprises that reveal Cambodia’s vibrant soul. This tour offers an engaging afternoon that balances humanitarian efforts, local art, and Cambodian traditions, topped off with an optional high-energy circus show.

What makes this experience stand out? First, you get up close and personal with APOPO’s hero rats, whose landmine detection skills are nothing short of extraordinary. Second, you’ll wander through Theams Gallery’s tranquil spaces, soaking in Khmer artistry and symbolism. Lastly, the chance to offer a lotus flower at a revered shrine connects you with local customs.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour is quite relaxed, making it less suitable for those seeking a fast-paced adventure or with mobility limitations, especially as it involves walking through gardens and galleries. Still, if you’re after an authentic, meaningful glimpse into Cambodian culture with a humanitarian touch, this tour is a fantastic choice.

Ideal for families, culture enthusiasts, or those wanting a gentle, insightful afternoon before an evening at Phare Circus.

Key Points

• Humanitarian Innovation: Learn how hero rats help clear landmines quickly and safely in Cambodia.
• Cultural Insight: Explore Khmer art and artifacts in a peaceful gallery designed to be both inspiring and educational.
• Local Traditions: Participate in a simple blessing ritual with a lotus flower for prosperity.
• Flexible Options: Choose to add the vibrant Phare Circus for an energetic evening performance.
• Small Group: Intimate, personalized experience with guided insights.
• Balanced Schedule: Approximately three hours, perfect for a relaxed yet meaningful afternoon.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Early Start and Meeting Point

The tour begins at 2:30 PM at StrEATs by ibis Styles Siem Reap, a convenient central location. Being part of a small group (limited to 15 participants) ensures a more personal feel — no endless waiting or overcrowding here. The tour is designed to be leisurely, giving you ample time to absorb each stop without feeling rushed.

APOPO: Landmine Detection with Hero Rats

The first stop, APOPO’s Visitor Center, is a highlight. Here, the focus is on Cambodia’s ongoing efforts to clear landmines, a vital project given the country’s history. Visitors meet the hero rats, specially trained to detect landmines with astonishing speed and precision.

A guide will explain how these rats, weighing only about 1.3 kg, can search an area the size of a tennis court in under 30 minutes — a task that would take a human deminer several days. This efficiency isn’t just impressive; it’s critical for saving lives and opening up land for development and farming.

According to one reviewer, the demonstration is “clear, clever, and unexpectedly engaging,” providing a rare glimpse into a challenge most travelers never see firsthand. The visit also emphasizes the humanitarian impact of this project, making it a meaningful addition to your Cambodia experience.

Exploring Theams Gallery: Art and Serenity

Next, you’ll visit Theams Gallery, a serene space created by master artist Lim Muy Theam. The setting itself is a piece of art — open-air pavilions, lush courtyards, and structures inspired by ancient Khmer architecture. It’s a calming environment, perfect for those who appreciate art and craftsmanship.

Inside, you’ll find a curated collection of Khmer objects, traditional instruments, and everyday artifacts, offering a window into Cambodia’s cultural fabric. The space acts as both a gallery and a workshop, with the artist’s workspace visible, adding an authentic, working-artistic vibe.

One review notes that the gallery “blends home, atelier, and museum,” and that wandering through the courtyards feels like a journey through Khmer symbolism and craftsmanship. It’s a peaceful pause from temple ruins, providing deeper understanding of Cambodia’s artistic soul.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Royal Independence Garden and Local Customs

The tour culminates at the Royal Independence Garden, a lively yet tranquil site. Surrounded by colonial-era architecture like the Raffles Hotel d’Angkor, it’s famous for large fruit bats resting in the trees — a quirky spectacle.

Adjacent is Preah Ang Chek Preah Ang Chorm Shrine, a key local worship site. Here, you’ll participate in a simple activity — offering a lotus flower — which symbolizes prosperity and good luck. This ritual connects you to the daily spiritual practices of Cambodians and adds a heartfelt element to the tour.

Optional: An Evening at Phare Circus

Guests opting for the Phare Circus are transferred directly to the venue for an evening of entertainment. Created by the talented artists of Phare Ponleu Selpak, the show combines acrobats, theater, dance, and live music into a story that reflects modern Cambodian life.

The performance is highly energetic, often described as “impressive” and “emotionally powerful,” with stories told through physical talent and artistic expression. Plus, Discova offers a US$10 street-food voucher, giving you a chance to sample local snacks before the show.

Those who choose not to attend the circus will return to the meeting point around 5:30 PM, making this an easy transition from a relaxed afternoon to a lively evening.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

1. Meeting at StrEATs by ibis Styles Siem Reap

The centrally-located meeting point makes it easy to access and start the tour on time. The group size is small, which enhances the overall experience and allows guides to offer more personalized insights.

2. APOPO Landmine Detection Tour

A guided visit of approximately one hour. Here, the focus is on education and humanitarian work. The guide will explain how HeroRATs are trained and deployed, and will demonstrate their remarkable skills. Expect to learn about Cambodia’s landmine issues, which still affect parts of the countryside.

The demonstration is engaging and memorable — a perfect mix of technology, animal intelligence, and human effort. It offers an emotional connection to Cambodia’s ongoing recovery and development.

3. Theams Gallery Visit

About one hour exploring Khmer art and structures. You’ll walk through serene pavilions and lush courtyards, soaking in the creative ambiance. The curator or creator might share insights into Khmer symbolism, making this stop both visually and intellectually stimulating.

The gallery feels intimate and authentic, offering a break from the bustling streets and temples. Reviewers have mentioned how the space “feels both intimate and immersive,” making it a highlight for art lovers.

4. Royal Independence Gardens and Shrine

Another hour here involves gentle walking and participation in local customs. You’ll see fruit bats resting in trees and learn about the significance of the lotus flower offering. The shrine is an active place of worship, and the activity helps deepen your understanding of Cambodian spirituality and everyday traditions.

5. Phare Circus (Optional)

The evening show lasts about two hours and is a lively, artistic performance filled with acrobatics, storytelling, and music. It’s a showcase of Cambodian talent and resilience, often described as “high-energy” and “powerful.” Guests also receive a street-food voucher, adding to the value.

Those not attending return to the starting point around 5:30 PM, making the afternoon and evening seamless.

Practical Details

Transportation and Group Size

You’ll travel on foot between stops, with guides providing contextual commentary along the way. The small-group format ensures a relaxed pace and personalized attention.

Duration and Timing

The entire tour lasts around three hours, starting at 2:30 PM and wrapping up by early evening if you skip the circus or around 5:30 PM if you attend. This timing leaves your evening free for dinner or other activities.

Price and Value

While exact costs aren’t listed here, the tour’s value lies in its combination of humanitarian insight, cultural exploration, and entertainment. The access to APOPO’s landmine detection, the tranquil art space, and the cultural activity at the shrine, all within a manageable schedule, make it a well-rounded choice for a reasonable price.

Suitability

This tour is ideal for families and culture enthusiasts who enjoy relaxed, educational activities. It’s also perfect if you’re interested in Cambodia’s ongoing development efforts or want a meaningful experience beyond temples. However, it’s less suitable for travelers with strong rat phobias or mobility issues, due to walking and the nature of some stops.

Final Thoughts

This Siem Reap afternoon tour offers a rare glimpse into Cambodia’s innovative humanitarian efforts and vibrant cultural scene. It balances education, art, and local traditions, making it a well-rounded experience for those curious about Cambodia’s broader story beyond Angkor Wat.

The opportunity to meet hero rats — animals making a real difference — is memorable, while the tranquil gallery visit offers a peaceful, artistic perspective. Coupled with the optional circus, it’s a versatile half-day that suits travelers seeking depth, authenticity, and a bit of fun.

If you value meaningful experiences, appreciate Khmer art, or want to learn how Cambodia is healing from its past, this tour is a smart addition to your itinerary.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially for families interested in humanitarian projects and art. Just note that there’s a rat involved, so kids with strong rat sensitivities might find it less comfortable.

How long does each stop last?
Around one hour at APOPO, one hour at Theams Gallery, and about an hour at the Royal Independence Gardens, making for a relaxed pace.

Can I attend the Phare Circus if I book this tour?
Yes, you can opt for the circus performance, which is a separate ticket included in the tour package.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, hat, camera, and sunscreen are recommended for comfort during walking.

Is there any physical activity involved?
Mostly walking and standing; the tour isn’t suitable for those with severe mobility issues or claustrophobia.

What is the group size?
Limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

How is the tour guided?
By an English-speaking guide who provides insights at each stop, making it both informative and engaging.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, with a full refund available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
No, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to walking and site access limitations.

How much free time do I get after the tour?
You’ll have free time after the tour to explore further, enjoy dinner, or visit other attractions.

This afternoon experience in Siem Reap offers a thoughtful, engaging way to understand Cambodia’s ongoing journey of recovery, creativity, and tradition. Perfect for curious travelers looking to add depth to their temple visits.

You can check availability for your dates here: