Visiting Cambodia’s Elephant Valley Project

Our two-day, one-night adventure at the Elephant Valley Project in Cambodia was nothing short of magical. We chose the “Taste of the Jungle” experience, and it truly lived up to its name, an unforgettable immersion in nature, wildlife, and culture. We left Sen Monorom early in the morning and, after a scenic ride, arrived deep in the Mondulkiri jungle. The forest welcomed us with its calm energy and rich greenery. Soon after arrival, we set out on our first guided elephant hike. Walking through the jungle trails, we observed elephants roaming freely, former working elephants now peacefully living as they should, in their natural habitat. Our guide shared the unique backstories of each elephant, and we learned about elephant welfare and the traditions of the local Bunoung people. After a hearty lunch, we had time to relax and soak in the surroundings. In the afternoon, we joined a volunteer session, helping with trail maintenance, a small but fulfilling way to give back to the sanctuary that gives so much. As the sun began to set, we made our way to the forest base camp, where we enjoyed a delicious buffet dinner and drinks while watching the sky turn golden above the treetops. The overnight stay was, let’s say, a true jungle experience. We had booked a private bungalow, which offered the basics for a night in the forest, but this was far from glamping. The hut had gaps and cracks that made it feel completely open to nature. Inside, we were greeted by giant spiders crawling on the walls, geckos darting through the beams, and, to our horror, even a snake curled up in our bed. It was a night filled with adrenaline rather than rest, a little too wild for our taste. The next morning, we woke up early and after breakfast, set off on our second elephant hike, spotting the elephants again as they wandered through the foliage. Each encounter felt personal, calm, and deeply respectful. Later, we joined a jungle trek, winding our way through dense vegetation, past waterfalls and ancient trees. We even glimpsed a few wild creatures along the way. By late afternoon, we were back on the road to Sen Monorom, feeling both inspired by the mission of the project and relieved to be returning to a room with walls that sealed. Despite the challenges, the Elephant Valley Project is a powerful and eye-opening experience, a rare opportunity to connect with elephants in a respectful, natural setting, and to witness the incredible biodiversity of Cambodia’s forests.

@Sofie Lynen

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