When planning a trip to Siem Reap, the temples naturally dominate the itinerary. Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, and Bayon are iconic, and for good reason. They represent history, scale, and craftsmanship that few places in the world can match. Like most visitors, I spent the first few days moving from one temple to another, chasing the perfect photo and ticking off must-see landmarks.
By the third day, however, the experience began to feel repetitive. The crowds were dense, the heat was unforgiving, and the pace was exhausting. I found myself wanting an experience that felt calmer and more connected to the present. I wasn’t looking for another attraction, but for something that offered perspective beyond ancient stone and historical narratives.
That search led me to another attraction located 30-40 minutes outside Siem Reap, but definitely a must-visit for anyone coming to Siem Reap: Angkor Wildlife & Aquarium.
Key Takeaways:
- Angkor Wildlife & Aquarium is a must-visit destination in Siem Reap.
- They are not a zoo; instead, they are a conservation centre.
- You can witness Cambodia Wildlife up & close
- Their private tours are worth trying.
- Ticket prices start at 20 USD
Initial Skepticism
I approached the idea with hesitation. As someone who tries to travel responsibly, wildlife attractions often make me uncomfortable. Too many places use animals as entertainment without giving proper thought to welfare, conservation, or long-term impact. I had the usual doubts: Is it ethical? Is it just another zoo? Are the animals there for display or for care?
These questions almost made me skip the visit entirely. I have done so in other destinations when answers were unclear. In this case, though, I decided to look deeper rather than dismiss it outright. What I found suggested that Angkor Wildlife & Aquarium was operating on a very different model.
First Impressions on Arrival
From the moment I arrived, the atmosphere felt noticeably different from what I expected. The layout was spacious, calm, and well-organised. There was no sense of chaos or overstimulation, which is often the case in animal attractions. Instead, the environment felt purposeful and controlled, designed with both animals and visitors in mind.
What stood out immediately was the educational tone. Signage focused less on entertainment and more on context, where the animals come from, why they are there, and what threats they face in the wild. This framing set the tone for the rest of the visit and made it clear that the experience was intended to inform, not simply impress.
Not a Zoo, but a Conservation Space
As I moved through the park, it became clear that AWA does not position itself as a traditional zoo. The focus is not on spectacle or rare animals from across the globe. Instead, the emphasis is on regional wildlife, particularly species native to Cambodia and the surrounding ecosystems.
Many of the animals housed here are rescues. They have been brought in due to injury, illegal trade, or unsafe environments, and cannot simply be released back into the wild. Understanding this context changes how you see each enclosure. You are not observing animals for entertainment, but learning about the consequences of human activity on wildlife.
Seeing Animals as Individuals
One of the most striking aspects of the visit was how the animals were presented. Species such as the Golden Jackal and the Indo-Chinese Langur were introduced not as attractions, but as individuals with stories. Information boards explained where they were found, why they were rescued, and what care they now receive.
This approach created a sense of connection rather than distance. It was clear that the goal was not to impress visitors with size or rarity, but to encourage understanding. The experience felt grounded and respectful, which is rare in wildlife tourism.
Staff Knowledge and Care
During my tour, the interaction between staff and animals was particularly telling. Caretakers demonstrated deep knowledge of animal behaviour, health indicators, and individual needs. Their approach was calm, patient, and respectful, with no sense of performance for visitors.
It was evident that welfare takes precedence over visitor expectations. If an animal did not engage during feeding or enrichment, staff adjusted without hesitation. This willingness to prioritise animal comfort over entertainment is a strong indicator of ethical practice.
Feeding as Enrichment, Not Entertainment
The feeding process itself was handled with care and explanation. Rather than turning it into a show, staff used the opportunity to explain dietary planning, enrichment strategies, and health monitoring. This helped visitors understand that feeding is part of ongoing care, not a spectacle.
The cleanliness and organisation of the food preparation areas were also notable. Standards were high, reinforcing the sense that animal health is treated seriously at every level.
The Aquarium Experience
The aquarium section of AWA deserves equal attention. Rather than focusing solely on visually impressive species, the exhibits highlight local freshwater ecosystems, particularly those connected to the Mekong River and Tonlé Sap Lake.
This focus adds depth to the experience. Many visitors encounter these environments on Tonle Sap Lake boat tours without understanding the complex life beneath the surface. The aquarium provides that missing perspective and connects wildlife conservation directly to everyday Cambodian life. They also offer a half-day package that takes you to Tonle Sap Lake first, then brings you to the AWA to learn about it.
Accessibility and Transport
Although AWA is located around 25 kilometres from Siem Reap, reaching it was straightforward. The drive takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes and offers a chance to see the countryside beyond the city centre.
The availability of a free shuttle service, particularly on weekends and public holidays, removes any logistical concern. This makes the visit accessible even for travellers without private transport.
Final Thoughts
Angkor Wildlife & Aquarium offers something genuinely different in Siem Reap. It shifts the focus from historical achievement to present-day responsibility. Rather than leaving with photos alone, visitors leave with a deeper understanding of conservation challenges and efforts in Cambodia.
Where the temples inspire awe for the past, AWA offers hope for the future. It is a place that encourages reflection, learning, and support for meaningful work. For travellers seeking more than sightseeing, it is well worth the visit.
