Cambodia’s Elephant Valley Project
The Elephant Valley Project in Mondulkiri has become one of Southeast Asia’s leading voices in ethical elephant care.
This isn’t the place for selfies, swims or rides, and that’s precisely why we love it. Instead, you’ll spend time quietly observing these gentle giants as they socialise, forage and wander across forested hills, far removed from the tourism and labour industries they’ve escaped.
Each elephant has its own backstory, often involving decades of logging or tourism work. Once at the sanctuary, they receive veterinary care, nutritious food, and the freedom to roam. Whilst you’re at the sanctuary, you’ll also have the chance to learn about the Bunong community whose spiritual beliefs are deeply intertwined with elephants and forest conservation.
Start planning your journey here...
Give us a call 9am-5pm UK time Monday to Friday, or make an enquiry online at any time.
What to expect at the Elephant Valley Project:
- Observe elephants in their natural habitat — no rides, swims or feeding.
- Guided treks through forest to learn about individual elephants and their behaviour.
- Insights into the sanctuary’s welfare-led ethos and conservation work.
- The option to stay overnight in simple on-site accommodation.
- Volunteer opportunities for longer-term stays.
- Meaningful support for local communities and wild habitat.
A true escape
“On arrival I decided this is the perfect place to completely switch off. So I did. I turned my phone off and tuned into the world around me instead. ”
Letting Elephants Be Elephants
The team at E.L.I.E knows that the best way to help elephants recover from a life of work is to leave them in peace. Visitors observe from a distance, following strict welfare protocols. You’ll learn how the sanctuary monitors elephant health, manages their habitat, and gradually helps them regain trust in their surroundings.
In Partnership
The Bunong community of Mondulkiri has lived alongside elephants for generations. Their animist beliefs see elephants as spiritual beings and companions. The project works closely with local families, offering alternatives to animal labour and involving them in conservation and tourism initiatives that protect both cultural heritage and forest biodiversity.
Stay On-site & Volunteer
Situated nearby, are a handful of peaceful properties from which to explore Mondulkiri’s forested mountains and dramatic waterfalls. Think individual bungalows dotted throughout green grounds, private balconies and cooling outdoor pools. After a day exploring nature trails, visiting local villages and learning about the Elephant Valley project’s conservation work, you can sit back, relax and enjoy the scenic sun set views.
Wider Impact
Each visit directly supports E.L.I.E’s broader work providing income alternatives for elephant owners, regenerating the forest, and funding ranger patrols to monitor wild herds and prevent habitat destruction. It’s a small project making a significant impact — and every guest helps ensure its continued success.
Inspiring experiences and places to stay
Lean into the details of your bespoke Asia trip to discover rare experiences, exceptional hotels, local connections, inspiring conservation and much more…
Start planning your journey here...
Give us a call 9am-5pm UK time Monday to Friday, or make an enquiry online at any time.
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