Siem Reap Guided Tour & Hero RATs at APOPO Visitor Center

Siem Reap , Cambodia

Siem Reap Guided Tour & Hero RATs at APOPO Visitor Center

Active

(7 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore the poignant history of Cambodia with a half-day tour in Siem Reap that visits the APOPO Visitor Center and the Wat Thmei Killing Fields. This tour offers insight into the country’s struggles and triumphs, highlighting the ongoing efforts for a safer future. Engage with local narratives that shape Cambodia's resilience and hope through powerful stories and educational experiences at these significant sites.

- Visit the APOPO Visitor Center, dedicated to landmine detection and education
- Reflect at the Wat Thmei Killing Fields, a site of remembrance
- Gain profound insights into Cambodia's modern history and recovery efforts
- Ideal for history enthusiasts and those seeking to understand Cambodia's journey

Available options

Siem Reap Guided Tour & Hero RATs at APOPO Visitor Center

Pickup included

What's included

Ticket for Apopo Visitor Centre

Hotel pick up and drop off

Bottled water

Transportation by Tuk Tuk or Car

Professional English Speaking guide

Ticket to Wat Thmei Killing Field

Detailed itinerary

The APOPO Visitor Center offers a unique and inspiring experience. Discover how our remarkable African Giant Pouched Rats are trained to detect landmines and unexploded ordnance in Cambodia and beyond—helping to make communities safer.

Watch these clever heroes in action, learn about Cambodia’s recent history with landmines, and even get the chance to hold one of our friendly rats!

Conveniently located on the way back from Angkor Wat, it’s the perfect stop after a morning at the temples. Fun, educational, and family-friendly—kids especially love meeting the rats!

Wat Thmei (Thmey) — Siem Reap’s Killing Fields & Genocide Memorial

Located just south of Siem Reap (about 10–15 minutes by tuk‑tuk or 20–30 minutes by bike), Wat Thmei is one of several sites in Cambodia known as "Killing Fields" from the Khmer Rouge e

From 1975 to 1979, Wat Thmei—a Buddhist pagoda—was repurposed as a Khmer Rouge prison and execution site. Prisoners were brought in, coerced into false confessions, and tragically executed and buried nearby in mass graves and wells.

It’s estimated that around 8,000 innocent Cambodians—including intellectuals, former officials, and farmers—died here during the regime’s brutal rule.

Constructed in 1904 during the French protectorate, this elegant Khmer-style villa serves as the official royal residence for the King of Cambodia when he visits Siem Reap.

Though often mistaken for the "Royal Palace," it's actually a modest yet historically significant villa nestled alongside the Royal Independence Garden

Made in Cambodia Market – Siem Reap

A gem in central Siem Reap, the Made in Cambodia Market is a curated artisan bazaar showcasing locally crafted goods—with purpose. Located on Oum Khun Street, across from Shinta Mani Angkor, it’s open daily from around 12 pm to 8 pm (some list until 9 pm

Stop 5

Wat Preah Prom Rath – A Jewel in Downtown Siem Reap

Nestled along Pokambor Avenue by the Siem Reap River and a short stroll from Pub Street and Old Market, Wat Preah Prom Rath is a stunning Khmer-style Buddhist temple complex that serves as an active monastery.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Siem Reap

Siem Reap is the vibrant gateway to the ancient Angkor temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This charming city offers a blend of rich history, vibrant markets, and lush landscapes, making it a must-visit destination in Cambodia.

Top Attractions

Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This iconic temple complex is a masterpiece of Khmer architecture and a symbol of Cambodia.

Historical Half to full day USD 37 for 3-day pass

Angkor Thom

Angkor Thom is a walled city and the last capital of the Khmer Empire. It features several impressive temples, including the Bayon Temple with its famous smiling faces.

Historical Half to full day USD 37 for 3-day pass

Ta Prohm

Ta Prohm is a temple complex overgrown by jungle, featuring a unique blend of nature and architecture. It was famously used as a filming location for the movie 'Tomb Raider'.

Historical 1-2 hours USD 37 for 3-day pass

Pub Street

Pub Street is the heart of Siem Reap's nightlife, offering a vibrant mix of bars, restaurants, and street food vendors. It's a great place to experience the city's lively atmosphere.

Entertainment Evening Free to explore, budget for food and drinks

Siem Reap Night Market

The Siem Reap Night Market is a bustling market offering a variety of local crafts, souvenirs, and street food. It's a great place to shop for unique gifts and experience local culture.

Shopping 1-2 hours Budget to moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Amok

A creamy, coconut-based curry with fish, chicken, or tofu, steamed in banana leaves. It's a traditional Khmer dish with a unique flavor.

Main dish Vegetarian options available

Nom Banh Chok

A popular breakfast dish consisting of rice noodles topped with a fish-based green curry gravy and fresh vegetables.

Breakfast Vegetarian options available

Bai Sach Chrouk

Grilled pork served with broken rice and pickled vegetables. It's a popular breakfast dish in Cambodia.

Breakfast Contains meat

Lok Lak

A stir-fried beef dish with a tangy lime and pepper sauce, served with rice and fresh vegetables.

Main dish Contains meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Angkor Archaeological Park Exploring the bamboo train in Battambang Visiting spas and wellness centers Enjoying a traditional Khmer massage Exploring temples and historical sites Attending traditional dance performances Boat tours on Tonlé Sap Lake Swimming in waterfalls

Best Time to Visit

November to February

The best time to visit Siem Reap is during the dry season when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the temples. The cooler temperatures make it comfortable for long days of sightseeing.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Khmer
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Cambodian Riel (KHR)

Time Zone

Indochina Time (ICT), GMT+7

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Siem Reap is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of scams and overcharging.
• Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas.
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services.

Getting there

By air

Siem Reap International Airport • 5 km from city center

By bus

Siem Reap Virak Buntham Express Terminal, Siem Reap Giant Ibis Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Tuk-tuks are the most popular and affordable mode of transport in Siem Reap. They are widely available and can be negotiated for short or long trips.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PassApp, Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Wat Bo Wat Damnak Sivatha

Day trips

Battambang

150 km from Siem Reap • Full day

Battambang is a charming colonial town known for its well-preserved French architecture, bamboo train, and nearby temples. It's a great destination for a day trip from Siem Reap.

Kampong Phluk

16 km from Siem Reap • Half day

Kampong Phluk is a floating village on the edge of the Tonlé Sap Lake. It offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the local community and the stunning natural beauty of the area.

Kbal Spean

25 km from Siem Reap • Half day

Kbal Spean is a remote archaeological site featuring ancient carvings and a beautiful river setting. It's a great destination for those looking to explore off-the-beaten-path attractions.

Festivals

Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey) • April 13-15 (dates vary) Bon Om Touk (Water Festival) • November (dates vary) Angkor Photo Festival • December (dates vary)

Pro tips

Hire a local guide for the Angkor Archaeological Park to gain a deeper understanding of the temples' history and significance.
Visit the temples early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat.
Try local street food like nom banh chok and bai sach chrouk for an authentic culinary experience.
Bargain for better prices at markets and street stalls, but do so respectfully and with a smile.
Use a map app like Google Maps for navigation, as street signs can be limited and confusing.