Elephant Valley Project: Ethical Elephant Encounters

The Elephant Valley Project (EVP), established in 2007, is a pioneering elephant sanctuary located in the Mondulkiri Province of Cambodia. It provides a safe haven for elephants that have been rescued from lives of hardship and overwork, allowing them to retire and rehabilitate in a natural environment. The project operates within a 1,500-hectare (3,700 acres) protected nature reserve, encompassing forests, rivers, grasslands, and bamboo groves, offering ample space for the elephants to roam freely. EVP's core mission revolves around providing an alternative approach to elephant care, emphasizing their well-being and natural behaviors. Visitors can observe the elephants in their habitat, witnessing their interactions, grazing habits, and natural social dynamics. The project maintains a strict 'hands-off' policy, meaning no riding, bathing, or direct contact with the elephants, ensuring their comfort and minimizing stress. Beyond elephant care, EVP is deeply committed to supporting the local indigenous Bunong community. The project provides employment opportunities, healthcare support, and educational initiatives, contributing to the sustainable development of the region. By visiting EVP, tourists directly contribute to the well-being of the elephants, the livelihoods of local people, and the conservation of the surrounding environment. EVP collaborates with organizations like the Wildlife Conservation Society and the Ministry of Environment to protect the Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to wild elephants and other endangered species.