Freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins in Kratie, Cambodia

I have read about and wanted to see the Irrawaddy River Dolphins on the Mekong for as long as I can remember so it was a treat to finally get the chance. We hired a moped and trundled the 30km along country lanes to a spot in the river where they live. It's estimated there could be as few as 700 dolphins remaining making them a critically endangered species. Their continued existence is seen as a defining measure of the efforts being made to maintain the marine environment of the greater Mekong. We hired a small skiff at the riverside and our guide slowly skulled us out. This part of the river consists of deep ponds and islets which makes it ideal for the dolphins.


Almost immediately we were aware of the dolphins venting air and their sleek grey bodies moving through the water. Really beautiful creatures to see but impossible to photograph; makes you realise how patient wildlife photographers must be. Made me laugh listening to Diane cuss in the back of the boat. Sometimes 4 or 5 would surface together dipping through the water. Such a peaceful and serene place. It's tragic that their future hangs in the balance; still the tourist trade in this instance seems to be having a positive effect as the locals are desperate to protect them. We spent about an hour watching them before returning to the river bank. A fantastic experience, big smiles all round. Spent the remainder of the day enjoying the countryside before catching the bus up to Ratinakiri.