Siem Reap: Afternoon APOPO Rats Tour + Phare Circus Option

Traveling to Siem Reap often means enjoying the iconic temples of Angkor, but this tour offers a different side of Cambodia’s vibrant culture. It’s a thoughtfully curated afternoon that combines humanitarian innovation, local artistry, and tradition with a dash of entertainment. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a meaningful way to spend your afternoon, this tour is a balanced mix that keeps the pace easy and engaging.

What we love about this experience is how it weaves education with authentic culture—meeting hero rats helping clear landmines, wandering through Khmer art collections, and participating in local blessings. Plus, the optional Phare Circus show adds a lively, high-energy finish to the day. That said, it’s worth noting that if you’re shy around rats or have mobility issues, some parts might require extra consideration. This tour is perfect for families, culture lovers, and curious travelers wanting a meaningful, relaxed afternoon before enjoying Siem Reap’s legendary nightlife.

Good To Know

• Unique Experience: Meet APOPO’s hero rats and learn how they save lives by detecting landmines.
• Cultural Insight: Explore Theams Gallery’s serene pavilions and Khmer artifacts.
• Local Traditions: Participate in offering a lotus flower at the Royal Independence Garden for good luck.
• Flexible Options: Add an energetic Phare Circus show for a full evening of entertainment.
• Small Group: Limited to 15 people, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
• Authentic & Educational: Combines humanitarian work with Cambodian arts and traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: A Different Side of Siem Reap

Most travelers visit Siem Reap for its breathtaking temples, but this tour offers an alternative glimpse into Cambodia’s ongoing efforts to improve lives and celebrate culture. It’s a calm yet captivating way to spend an afternoon, ideal if you’re seeking a break from temple-hopping while still soaking up local stories and innovations.

Three aspects truly stand out about this experience: learning about landmine clearance with hero rats, exploring Khmer art in a peaceful setting, and participating in a local blessing ritual. These moments create a deeper connection to Cambodia beyond the usual tourist sights. An added bonus is the option to finish your day with the spectacular Phare Circus, providing a perfect blend of cultural education and lively entertainment.

One consideration is that the tour may not be suitable for visitors with strong phobias or intense rats sensitivity, as part of the experience involves meeting APOPO’s hero rats. But overall, this tour suits those who are curious about humanitarian efforts, appreciate art, and want a relaxed, meaningful afternoon in Siem Reap.

What’s It All About? A Breakdown of the Tour

Starting Point and Timing

The tour begins promptly at 2:30 PM at StrEATs by ibis Styles Siem Reap. It’s a practical location close to the city center, making it easy to access or combine with other activities. The small group size (max 15) ensures you get a personalized experience, with guides able to answer questions and share insights comfortably.

APOPO – Hero Rats and Landmine Detection

The first stop is the APOPO Visitor Center, where you’ll get a clear picture of how these extraordinary rats assist in landmine detection. As one reviewer notes, “we learned how a single rat can search an area the size of a tennis court in under 30 minutes,” which highlights the speed and efficiency of these clever animals. The demonstration is engaging and surprisingly fun, making it accessible even for those who might typically find such topics heavy.

The visit provides a rare chance to see humanitarian work in action, which most visitors don’t encounter during typical temple excursions. It’s a testament to Cambodia’s ongoing recovery efforts, and guides often share stories of how these hero rats make a real difference.

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Theams Gallery – Khmer Art & Serenity

Next, you’ll stroll through Theams Gallery, created by artist Lim Muy Theam. This space isn’t just an art gallery; it’s a peaceful retreat that combines open-air pavilions, lush gardens, and Khmer artifacts. It feels reflective yet inspiring, offering a glimpse into Cambodia’s artistic soul.

Most reviews highlight the beautiful design of the space and the curated collection of traditional objects and instruments. It’s a perfect place to pause, take photos, or simply soak in the calm ambiance. The guide might point out symbolic details of Khmer craftsmanship, enriching your understanding of local culture.

Royal Independence Garden – A Local Blessing

The final stop is the Royal Independence Garden, renowned for its enormous fruit bats and historic significance. Here, you’ll participate in a traditional activity: offering a lotus flower for prosperity and good luck. This simple ritual gives visitors a tangible connection to local customs and a chance to reflect on everyday Cambodian traditions.

The guide often shares stories of how families and communities engage with this activity, making it more than just a photo op. The garden’s colonial architecture and lively atmosphere offer a scenic backdrop for this meaningful moment.

Optional: Phare Circus Show

For those craving a lively, artistic conclusion, the Phare Circus provides an exciting 2-hour performance. Created by the artists of Phare Ponleu Selpak, the show combines acrobats, theatre, and live music to tell a modern Cambodian story with humor, skill, and heart.

Guests opting for the circus are dropped off directly at the venue, making logistics simple. Plus, the tour includes a $10 street-food voucher, giving you a taste of local snacks before the show. Reviewers praise the Circus as “one of Siem Reap’s most highly rated evening activities,” especially for its impressive physical talent and storytelling.

Detailed Experience Breakdown

The Landmine Detection with APOPO

The highlight for many is witnessing the hero rats in action. The process begins with a brief intro at the Visitor Center, where guides explain how these rats are trained from a young age to detect landmines. The demonstration is surprisingly lively; the guide might joke that these rats are Cambodia’s smallest yet most effective deminers.

Expect to see the rats sniff out landmines hidden in a controlled environment, which utterly transforms the perception of what a rat can do. One reviewer called it “a surprisingly fun and heartwarming experience,” emphasizing how engaging the demonstration is for all ages. Children often love seeing the rats up close, while adults appreciate the serious impact of the work.

Exploring Theams Gallery

A peaceful walk through the gallery reveals Khmer artifacts—traditional instruments, jewelry, and symbols—that tell stories of Cambodia’s culture and resilience. The open-air pavilions foster a sense of serenity, making it an ideal spot for reflection or photography.

The guide shares insights into Khmer craftsmanship, from intricate wood carvings to symbolic objects used in local ceremonies. Visitors often comment on how beautifully designed and thoughtfully curated the collection is, giving a true sense of Cambodia’s artistic richness.

Local Ritual at the Royal Independence Garden

This activity offers a hands-on cultural experience that many find meaningful. Offering a lotus flower is a common Cambodian tradition symbolizing prosperity, purity, and good fortune. Guides explain the significance of this ritual, and many guests report feeling a genuine connection to Cambodian daily life.

You might also enjoy observing the fruit bats roosting in the trees, which is a memorable sight in itself. The surrounding historic architecture adds to the atmosphere, creating a perfect setting for a short moment of reflection.

The Phare Circus – An Artistic Finale

For those who add the circus option, the show is a dynamic mix of acrobatics, storytelling, dance, and music. Each act often represents a modern Cambodian story, blending traditional themes with contemporary issues.

Guests often leave feeling inspired by the high-energy performances and impressive physical feats. The inclusion of a street-food voucher makes it a well-rounded evening, allowing you to soak in more local flavors amidst the vibrant atmosphere.

Practical Aspects & Value

Duration & Logistics

The tour lasts around 3 hours, starting at 2:30 PM and ending around 5:30 PM if you skip the circus. The small group size creates a relaxed environment, ideal for questions and personal interactions with the guides.

Pricing & Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the experience’s real value lies in combining education, culture, and entertainment at a reasonable pace. Visiting APOPO provides a rare insight into Cambodia’s ongoing landmine clearance efforts, which many travelers find eye-opening. The art and ritual components deepen your understanding of local traditions without the crowds or rush of larger tours.

Accessibility & Considerations

The tour is not suitable for people with claustrophobia or those who are intensely sensitive to rats. Also, wheelchair users may find some parts challenging due to walking distances. It’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a camera, as much of the tour takes place outdoors.

Additional Perks

The $10 street-food voucher is a thoughtful touch, allowing guests to taste local snacks before the circus. The guide’s insights and the small-group setting turn this into a personalized, memorable experience that emphasizes authenticity over superficial sightseeing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience works best for travelers interested in Cambodia’s social progress, art, and local customs. It’s ideal for families, as children often enjoy meeting the hero rats and watching the circus. It also suits those wanting a calmer, more meaningful afternoon without sacrificing cultural depth. If you’re curious about humanitarian efforts and enjoy hands-on cultural activities, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into modern Cambodia.

It might not be perfect if you’re averse to rats or have mobility issues, but for most, it’s an enriching, enjoyable way to break from temple crowds and see a different side of Siem Reap.

Final Thoughts

This tour combines humanitarian work, artistic exploration, and local traditions into a cohesive, relaxing afternoon. What makes it stand out is how it offers a meaningful connection to Cambodia’s ongoing journey of recovery and cultural pride. You’ll walk away with a greater appreciation for both the innovative and spiritual aspects of Cambodian life.

The optional Phare Circus is an excellent addition for those wanting a lively, artistic evening, making this experience versatile and full of memorable moments. It’s a well-balanced way to discover Siem Reap’s creative spirit—beyond the temples—at a comfortable, manageable pace.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children usually enjoy meeting the hero rats, exploring Khmer artifacts, and participating in local blessings. The hands-on activities and engaging demonstrations make it family-friendly.

How long does each part of the tour last?
The visit to APOPO takes about an hour, Theams Gallery around an hour, and the Royal Independence Garden another hour. The optional Phare Circus adds two hours to the experience.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, a hat, camera, and sunscreen. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since the tour involves outdoor strolling.

Can I join if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves walking through gardens and outdoor spaces, so it might not be suitable for those with mobility challenges. Check with your guide if you have specific concerns.

How much does it cost?
While specific prices aren’t provided here, the tour is valued for its blend of education, culture, and entertainment—offering a richer experience than many standard half-day options.

What’s included in the Phare Circus option?
Guests are dropped off at the circus for the performance, which lasts about two hours, plus a $10 street-food voucher to enjoy snacks before the show.

Is there any free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible choice for spontaneous travelers.

This afternoon tour from Siem Reap offers a wonderful balance of meaningful insight, culture, and lively entertainment. It’s perfect for those who want to connect with Cambodia’s ongoing stories and celebrate its artistic spirit without the rush of temple tours. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as part of a small group, this experience promises a memorable, authentic glimpse into a different side of Cambodia.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby