Phnom Penh Safari

Description

Look, I’ll be straight with you – Phnom Penh Safari isn’t your average zoo. Having visited countless wildlife parks across Southeast Asia, I can tell you this place really stands out. It’s a sprawling wildlife sanctuary that combines modern facilities with Cambodia’s natural charm. You’ll find yourself wandering through carefully designed habitats that house everything from majestic tigers to playful monkeys.

The safari park strikes a nice balance between entertainment and education. Sure, it’s not as polished as some other Asian wildlife parks I’ve been to, but that’s part of its authentic appeal. The animals seem well-cared for, and the staff’s passion for wildlife conservation is obvious – something that really touched me during my visits.

Key Features

• Spacious animal exhibits featuring both local Cambodian and exotic species
• Interactive feeding sessions with selected animals (my personal favorite is the elephant experience!)
• Educational wildlife shows that actually teach you something useful
• Kid-friendly play areas and rest zones scattered throughout
• Clean, wheelchair-accessible pathways and facilities
• On-site restaurant serving local and international cuisine
• Shaded viewing areas – trust me, you’ll appreciate these during midday
• Professional photography opportunities with some of the animals
• Modern veterinary facility that visitors can peek into
• Gift shop with unique wildlife-themed souvenirs

Best Time to Visit

From my experience, early morning (right when they open) or late afternoon works best. The animals are most active during these times, and you’ll dodge the worst of Cambodia’s heat. I’ve found that weekday mornings are particularly peaceful – perfect for really taking your time to observe the animals.

The dry season (November to April) offers the most reliable weather for visiting. But honestly? I kinda love coming during the green season (May to October) too. The grounds are lush, there are fewer tourists, and afternoon showers usually pass quickly. Just pack a light raincoat, and you’ll be fine.

How to Get There

Getting to Phnom Penh Safari is pretty straightforward. If you’re staying in central Phnom Penh, grab a tuk-tuk – it’s the most atmospheric way to travel, and drivers generally know the place well. Expect about a 30-minute ride from the city center, depending on traffic.

For those who prefer air-conditioning (no judgment here – Cambodia’s heat can be intense), book a Grab car through the app. Some hotels also offer shuttle services to the safari, which can be super convenient if you’re traveling with family.

Tips for Visiting

Let me share some hard-earned wisdom from my multiple visits. Bring water – lots of it. Yeah, there are shops inside, but they’re pricier than city rates. Wear comfortable walking shoes because you’ll be covering some serious ground. A hat and sunscreen are absolute must-haves – I learned this the hard way!

Try timing your visit around the animal feeding sessions – they’re usually scheduled for morning and afternoon. The elephants are particularly entertaining during these times. And don’t miss the wildlife shows, but get there 15 minutes early to snag good seats.

Photography enthusiasts, bring your zoom lens – the enclosures are designed to give animals plenty of space, which means they might not always be right up close. Oh, and if you’re visiting with kids, pack some snacks and maybe a change of clothes. There’s plenty of space for them to run around and potentially get messy!

Pro tip: Consider buying your tickets online to avoid queues, especially during peak season. And if you’re planning to eat at the restaurant, time your lunch either before or after the typical noon rush. The food’s decent, but I usually pack some light snacks just in case.

Last but not least, keep an eye on the weather forecast. If it looks like rain, bring an umbrella – some of the viewing areas aren’t fully covered. But don’t let a little rain scare you off – watching the animals during or after a shower can be a uniquely beautiful experience!

Location

Places to Stay Near Phnom Penh Safari

Find and Book a Tour

Explore More Travel Guides