Immerse yourself in a haven of wildlife near the legendary temples of Angkor, in Siem Reap Province. At the Angkor Centre for Biodiversity Protection, you can admire fauna while observing preservation work in action.

History

Founded by Allwetterzoo Münster and the Society for the Conservation of Species and Populations, with the support of Dr. Stephan Goetz, the Angkor Centre for Biodiversity Conservation (ACCB) was established in 2003. Cambodia's first NGO dedicated to nature conservation, the centre is located within Phnom Kulen National Park, near Siem Reap. It is devoted to rescuing endangered animals, providing care, and reintroducing them into forests following their rehabilitation. The ACCB also plays a vital role in breeding programmes designed to prevent the extinction of certain threatened species.

Discovering the Angkor Centre for Biodiversity Protection

The ACCB awaits you some fifty kilometres north of Siem Reap city. You can easily combine this visit with a discovery of the historic site of Banteay Sray. Beyond the pink citadel, you venture into the heart of Phnom Kulen National Park. It is within this wilderness paradise, at the foot of the Kbal Spean mountain, that the ACCB chose to establish itself.

Visiting the centre requires advance reservation. Accompanied by an environmental guide specially trained by the NGO, explore the park's splendid fauna and discover the compelling conservation projects being carried out on-site.

A bulwark against the ravages of human activity

In Cambodia, the scourge of illegal logging persists, particularly around Siem Reap where human activities since the Khmer empire era have devastated natural habitats and endangered the wildlife that depends on them. Projects such as the ACCB help counter this tragic fate for animals. Standing as a fortress against poachers, the centre offers a safe sanctuary, accompanied by comprehensive care for endangered species. At the same time, the NGO raises awareness among local communities and recovers animals held illegally.

More than forty species rescued

During your visit, the guide will introduce you to the animals rescued and cared for at the centre. The residents change as individuals are reintroduced into the forest. However, you will generally find birds, primates and other indigenous species.

With approximately 45 wildlife species and a total of 550 animals, including gibbons, silvered langurs, tortoises, small carnivores, peafowl and a variety of raptors, the centre offers an experience rich in diversity. Don't miss the majestic sarus cranes among the large wading birds.

Take this unique opportunity to encounter wildlife being reintroduced into the temples of Angkor. In addition to lar gibbons, you may catch sight of a collection of small primates. Let yourself be captivated by their distinctive calls, while delighting in the mystical landscape of the archaeological site.

How to get there

Located 50 km north of Siem Reap and 12 km from Banteay Sray, the Angkor Centre for Biodiversity Protection is accessible via National Road 67. In Siem Reap, various transport options are available to reach the site. Tuk-tuks are the most affordable alternatives, but if you prefer to travel in comfort, opt for taxis. Before departing, make sure to negotiate stop times for each visit.

Hours and rates

The ACCB welcomes visitors Monday through Saturday, with tours departing at 9am and 1pm, lasting approximately 1.5 hours from the entrance near the Kbal Spean car park. It is crucial to arrive on time, as late tours are avoided for logistical reasons and to minimize stress to the animals. For groups of more than 15 people, please book at least 48 hours in advance.

As for admission fees, while there is no fixed rate, a minimum donation of 3 USD is suggested. As a non-profit organisation, the ACCB uses all funds raised for animal feed, infrastructure maintenance and support to local communities. No profit is retained by the administration.