The Mondulkiri Project

Mondulkiri, Cambodia

Nature
Wildlife
Hiking

Rescued elephants and Bunong-led jungle treks in Cambodia's wild east

In the forested hills outside Sen Monorom, four rescued elephants live freely in a protected valley. There are no rides, chains or bull hooks. Guests walk with the elephants, feed them and join them at a waterfall.

The project is fully Cambodian-owned and has run since 2014, with every tour led by Indigenous Bunong guides. Options range from a day trip to overnight stays in hammocks at the jungle lodge, and treks of up to 17km past waterfalls and working Bunong farms.

Sustainability

Climate & conservation

Forest protection, Founded in 2014 when Cambodian founder Mr Tree worked with Bunong elders from the Putang and Orang communities to protect an area of forest from logging
Elephant welfare, Four elephants rescued from logging, riding and hard labour roam the forest freely, with no riding, chains or performances
Veterinary care, The team includes a vet who cares for the herd

Community & culture

Bunong employment, Most staff are Indigenous Bunong, working as guides, mahouts, cooks and drivers, which gives local families an income tied to keeping the forest standing
Bunong knowledge, Treks are led by Bunong guides, with campfire meals cooked in the traditional way

Commercial

Cambodian NGO, The project is run by the Cambodia Elephant Rescue Organization, a registered Cambodian NGO, and is fully Cambodian-owned
Direct booking, Booking direct with pay-on-arrival keeps more of each fee with the project instead of with intermediaries

Sustainable Development Goals

Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8)
Life on Land (SDG 15)

In brief

Price bracket: £
Type of tour: Community tourism
Tour length: Day trip, Up to 2
Activities: Hiking, Wildlife watching
Setting: Jungle or forest

Mondulkiri, Cambodia

£pp / night Visit website

Guide price · £ <£100 · ££ £100–300 · £££ £300–800 · ££££ £800+ pp / night