8 Cool Creatures in Vietnam and Cambodia

Southeast Asia’s natural side is full of surprises for the observant traveller.

When people think about travelling to Vietnam and Cambodia, their minds often go to ancient temples, fragrant noodle soups, and misty rice terraces. But this part of Southeast Asia also offers an incredible range of wildlife—much of it visible to the curious traveller, even without venturing deep into the jungle.

These two countries are home to tropical rainforests, river deltas, limestone mountains, and floodplain lakes—each hosting species that are unique to the region. While sightings of elusive animals like leopards or pangolins are rare, there are plenty of fascinating birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians that you may spot during your tour or learn about through local conservation projects.

1. Macaques 🐒

Where you might see them: Perfume Pagoda region, Angkor temple complexes, rural roadsides

Long-tailed macaques are one of the most widespread primates in Southeast Asia. Intelligent, social, and highly adaptable, these monkeys are commonly seen near temples and forests. In places like the Perfume Pagoda and Angkor Wat, they’re known to travel in small groups, sometimes approaching humans out of curiosity (or in search of snacks).

Note: While often playful in appearance, macaques are still wild animals. Feeding them is discouraged, as it alters their natural behaviour and can lead to aggression.

2. Water Buffalo 🐃

Where you might see them: Rice paddies, village roads, and rural fields throughout Vietnam and Cambodia

A defining image of the Southeast Asian countryside, the water buffalo plays a central role in rural life. These strong, even-tempered animals are perfectly suited to the region’s wet, muddy fields, where they help plough rice paddies, haul carts, and cool off in ponds during the heat of the day.

More than just working animals, water buffalo hold symbolic meaning in both Vietnamese and Khmer culture. They represent strength, patience, and prosperity, and are commonly depicted in traditional artwork and rural festivals. In many areas, owning a buffalo is still seen as a sign of stability and family pride.

Fun fact: In Vietnam’s lunar calendar, the Year of the Buffalo is associated with reliability and hard work—qualities that reflect the animal’s quiet strength and importance in everyday life.

3. Lesser Adjutant Stork 🕊

Where you might see them: Tonlé Sap Lake biosphere, flooded forests, and wetland reserves

This tall, somewhat prehistoric-looking bird is a rare but significant resident of Cambodia’s wetlands. With its bald head and long bill, the lesser adjutant plays an important role in maintaining ecological balance. While its population is declining in much of Asia, protected areas near the Tonlé Sap Lake remain key habitats.

Best chance to spot: Boat excursions into the lake’s floodplain forests or floating village regions often provide good opportunities to see storks and other wading birds.

4. Tokay Gecko 🦎

Where you might see them: Hotel walls (not too often hopefully!), forest lodges, and night-time excursions

Loud, colourful, and often larger than expected, tokay geckos are a memorable part of the Southeast Asian soundscape. Their distinctive “to-kay!” call is often heard at night, particularly in rural or semi-forested areas. Despite their appearance, they are harmless and beneficial, helping to keep insect populations under control.

Cultural insight: In Vietnam and Cambodia, hearing a gecko at the start of a conversation or journey is considered a sign of good luck.

5. Sun Bear 🐻

Where you might see them: Wildlife rescue centres, wildlife rehabilitation sites

Small but powerful, the sun bear is native to the forests of Southeast Asia. Due to habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade, their numbers in the wild have sharply declined. Fortunately, rescue centres like Phnom Tamao in Cambodia play a vital role in rehabilitating bears rescued from poaching or captivity.

Why it matters: Ethical wildlife tourism supports conservation and educates visitors on the threats facing Southeast Asia’s native species.

6. Asian Openbill Stork 🐦

Where you might see them: Rice fields, lakesides, and wetland sanctuaries

This graceful wading bird is easy to recognise thanks to the gap between its upper and lower bill—an adaptation that helps it crack open snails, a staple of its diet. Openbills are commonly seen in both Cambodia and southern Vietnam, especially in agricultural areas with access to water.

Good to know: They’re often spotted while driving between destinations or during countryside excursions.

7. Civet Cats (Nocturnal) 🐾

Where you might see them: Coffee farms, forest-edge villages, and educational centres

These shy, mostly nocturnal mammals are known for their role in producing civet coffee (kopi luwak), a controversial delicacy. Although wild civets are rarely seen, visitors to farms or conservation centres may learn about their behaviour and the growing movement toward ethical, cage-free practices.

Conservation note: Many civet species are threatened by habitat loss and exploitation.

8. Red-shanked Douc Langur 🐵

Where you might see them: Central Vietnam – forests near Da Nang, Bach Ma National Park, Son Tra Peninsula

Sometimes called the “Queen of the Primates,” the red-shanked douc langur is one of Vietnam’s most iconic—and endangered—wildlife species. With its brilliant colouring (red legs, white tail, golden face, and grey-blue body), it almost looks painted. These leaf-eating monkeys live in the forest canopy and are most active during the day.

Conservation status: Critically endangered due to deforestation, hunting, and the illegal pet trade. Vietnam has made increasing efforts to protect their habitats, particularly in central coastal regions.

Why it matters: Seeing a red-shanked douc—or even learning about one—adds a meaningful layer to your journey. It’s a reminder of the fragile beauty of Vietnam’s natural heritage, and the global importance of preserving it.