The Mondulkiri Elephant Sanctuary is not a single location but a generic term designating several conservation projects established in Mondulkiri province, in eastern Cambodge. These structures, managed by NGOs in partnership with the Phnong community, welcome a handful of pachyderms rescued from forced labor (logging, tourist transport) and provide them with a forest environment close to their natural habitat. Visits are based on the principle of respectful observation, with no forced bathing or riding on the animals' backs.

Why visit the elephant sanctuary?

Mondulkiri is home to one of the last populations of Asian elephants in semi-freedom in Cambodge. Over the past decade, more than 40% of the province's forests have been cleared for commercial plantations and precious wood exploitation. This dynamic undermines both wildlife and local ethnic minorities, particularly the Phnong, whose way of life depends on forest resources such as rubber.

Visiting a sanctuary means:

• providing financial support for veterinary care of elderly or abused elephants;
• contributing to protection programs for threatened forest areas;
• funding local jobs for Phnong families (mahouts, guides, cooks);
• discovering a model of wildlife tourism that excludes intrusive direct contact.

In the zone commonly referred to as the "elephant sanctuary,