The Irrawaddy Dolphins
The Irrawaddy dolphin is considered the most iconic animal of the Mekong River—and a sacred creature in Cambodian culture. Despite being named after Myanmar’s Irrawaddy River, these freshwater dolphins are most commonly found in the waters of the Mekong, particularly between Laos and Cambodia. During your visit to Cambodia, don’t miss the chance to witness these rare dolphins and explore the towns and villages along the riverbanks.
Discovery of the Mekong Dolphins
Scientifically known as Orcaella brevirostris, the Irrawaddy dolphin was first identified in 1866. It took many years before it was classified as a protected species and formally recognized as a distinct species. Irrawaddy dolphins are native only to Southeast Asia and form several sub-populations across different geographic regions.
Irrawaddy Dolphin overview
Scientific Name: Orcaella brevirostris
Subspecies: Orcaella heinsohni (Australian snubfin dolphin)
Estimated Population: While the exact number remains unknown, scientists estimate that around 6,000 individuals exist worldwide.
Description: These blue-grey cetaceans can grow up to 2.5 meters in length and weigh around 200 kilograms. They typically travel in groups of six. The most well-known population inhabits the 190-kilometer stretch of the Mekong River between Don Khon Island (Laos) and Kratié (Cambodia). As freshwater species, they cannot survive in saltwater or brackish environments, hence their strong link to the Mekong ecosystem.
Habitat: Beyond Cambodia, Irrawaddy dolphins are also found in other parts of Southeast Asia, including the Bay of Bengal, India, Indonesia’s Mahakam River, Thailand, Myanmar, and even the Philippines. Between 70 and 100 dolphins inhabit the stretch between Laos and Cambodia. 33 to 50 are found in Indonesia’s Mahakam River. In Myanmar, 50 to 70 individuals are known to reside along a 370 km stretch of the Irrawaddy River.
A species under threat
According to the WWF, only 64 to 76 Irrawaddy dolphins are believed to remain in the Mekong River. Their decline is primarily due to high levels of pollution, including pesticides, mercury, and other harmful substances that compromise their immune systems. Recently, over 50 young dolphins have died due to such pollution-related threats. They are also endangered by fishing nets and human exploitation of river resources. Since 2004, the Irrawaddy dolphin has been listed as an endangered species.
Other activities along the Mekong
Explore Kratié
A visit to the Mekong dolphins is best paired with a discovery tour of Kratié, a charming riverside town. Ride a tuk-tuk or motorbike taxi to explore its historical neighborhoods, monuments, and museums. Kratié is a quiet, restorative place—ideal for unwinding. In the midday heat, locals often seek shade under trees or shelter. For a livelier experience, head to the town’s markets, where fruit, vegetables, textiles, spices, and flowers form a colorful, fragrant maze.
Surrounded by lush countryside, Kratié is known for its scenic landscapes, where winding roads create islets and waterways that serve as a natural habitat for the Mekong dolphins.
Historic sites around Kratié
Phnom Sombok: A temple perched on a hill north of Kratié, accessed via a long staircase. The pavilion is decorated with striking murals depicting moral lessons through scenes of punishment.
Kratié Museum: Located at the northern edge of the town center, offering insight into the region's cultural and natural history.
Wat Roka Kandal: A riverside pagoda ideal for cycling or walking tours along the Mekong’s banks.
How to get there
To see the Mekong dolphins, first travel to Kratié. From there, you’ll need to take a boat or taxi to reach the riverside villages about 30 km away. Local boatmen, familiar with the dolphins' habits, will guide you to the best observation spots.
Best times and costs
The best time to spot dolphins is early morning (7:00 AM to 10:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:00 PM to 5:00 PM).
Dolphin sightings are only possible during the dry season, from December to May.
For a small fee, local boat operators will take you out to see the dolphins. To get the best value, it’s ideal to go in a group of at least three people.
