Experience the remarkable APOPO center in Siem Reap Cambodia
Nestled on Koumai Road in the vibrant city of Siem Reap, APOPO - Humanitarian Demining offers a fascinating and heartwarming glimpse into a unique effort to make the world safer. This pioneering center is renowned for its innovative use of highly trained Tanzanian Giant Rats, affectionately known as HeroRATs, that detect landmines and unexploded ordnance, saving countless lives and resources across Cambodia and beyond.
What makes the APOPO center a must-visit destination
Visitors consistently praise APOPO for its engaging and educational guided tours that last about 45 minutes to an hour. The tours, conducted by knowledgeable guides with excellent English skills, provide intriguing insights into the history of landmines in Cambodia as well as the groundbreaking methods of mine detection using rats. These gentle, clean, and highly trained animals systematically scan for explosives in a demonstration that is both captivating and deeply meaningful. For a memorable experience, you even have the chance to hold a HeroRAT yourself and appreciate their calm and docile nature.
APOPO’s commitment to humanitarian work shines through every aspect of the visitor experience, combining education, compassion, and cutting-edge technology to help communities recover from the ravages of past conflicts.
Facilities and visitor amenities
The APOPO center features a small gift shop where you can find unique souvenirs such as bamboo water bottles, perfect for eco-conscious travelers. After the tour, visitors can relax in the on-site café offering a variety of snacks and both hot and cold beverages—an ideal spot to reflect on the inspiring work you’ve witnessed. The center’s air-conditioned environment makes for a comfortable visit, especially as a refreshing stopover after exploring the nearby Angkor temples.
Frequently asked questions about APOPO Siem Reap
- What are the operating hours of the APOPO Visitor Center? The center is open daily from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, with the last tour beginning at 4:30 pm.
- How much does a tour cost? A joint tour costs $10 per person. Private tours are available at $30 per person for 1-4 people and $20 per person for 5-20 people.
- Is it necessary to book a tour in advance? It is recommended to book online in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Can children visit the center? Yes, children under 10 years old can join the tour for free.
- Where is the APOPO Visitor Center located? The center is located at Trapeang Ses Village, Kouk Chauk Commune, Koumai Road, Siem Reap 171253, Cambodia.
Community sentiment and visitor highlights
The sentiment surrounding APOPO's humanitarian work is overwhelmingly positive. Visitors often express admiration for the center’s educational value, the dedication of its staff, and the unique opportunity to engage with the HeroRATs. This experience is frequently described as eye-opening and inspiring, blending compassion with cutting-edge science to bring real change to communities affected by war.







