For the most authentic glimpse into Cambodia’s water-based cultures, Siem Reap’s boat tours are a must. These practical, well-organized excursions take you directly into floating villages where locals have lived for generations. I especially recommend the Kampong Phluk tour for its genuine village experience and the Floating Village Bike & Boat combo which offers both cycling and sailing through these fascinating communities. The Mangroves Forest Cruise adds a nature element, letting you glide through mystical flooded forests.
Tours typically run 4-6 hours, include English-speaking guides, and cost $25-45 per person – a fair price for such unique experiences. The boats are basic but comfortable, and most operators provide water and weather protection.
Check out these top-rated tours to start your floating village adventure:
Key Points
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Floating Village Tours offer diverse experiences, including boat rides, cultural insights, and cuisine sampling in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Tonle Sap Lake.
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Lotus Silk Farm and Floating Village Bike & Boat tours provide hands-on culture through workshops, farm visits, and scenic bike rides.
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Sunset Cruises on Tonle Sap Lake showcase the breathtaking natural beauty, with opportunities to observe the iconic stilt houses and floating markets.
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Tour logistics are convenient, with small group sizes, hotel pickup/drop-off, and flexible cancellation policies, catering to various traveler needs.
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Affordable pricing, inclusive packages, and family-friendly options make these boat tours accessible and provide excellent value for the cultural and scenic experiences.
Floating Village Sunset Boat & Jeep Tour – Inclusive Drinks
For those seeking an immersive cultural experience in Siem Reap, the Floating Village Sunset Boat & Jeep Tour provides a well-rounded adventure.
This highly-rated tour, with a Badge of Excellence, takes travelers on an open-air jeep ride through the countryside to local farms, where they can learn about rice wine and mushroom production.
The highlight is a scenic sunset cruise on Tonle Sap Lake, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offering views of floating village communities.
Throughout the tour, travelers can enjoy local delicacies and refreshments, including snacks, bottled water, soft drinks or beer.
With a maximum of 8 travelers and free cancellation, this tour offers an immersive and flexible cultural experience.
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Kampong Phluk Floating Village Tour by Boat
The Kampong Phluk Floating Village Tour by Boat offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the rural Cambodian lifestyle just outside Siem Reap. Priced from $26.13 per person, this 5-hour tour takes visitors to the local pagoda and market in Kompong Phluk.
Travelers can ride a motorized boat around stilted houses and enjoy the scenic views of floating markets, fish farms, and rice paddies. An optional canoe ride through the flooded forest is available from October to January.
The tour includes hotel pickup or a meet-up at a designated point, as well as air-conditioned transportation. Entrance fees, the motorized boat ride, and a professional guide are also included in the shared tour price.
Read our full review: Kampong Phluk Floating Village Tour by Boat Review
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Floating Village Bike & Boat – Inclusive Lunch & Boat Ticket
This full-day tour combines the best of Siem Reap’s rural landscapes with an immersive cultural experience.
Guests will embark on a 30-35 km bike ride through local farms, village markets, and rice production homes, stopping for a delicious Cambodian lunch.
The tour also includes a boat ticket to the floating village, where travelers can enjoy a sunset boat tour.
With Trek mountain bikes, a support vehicle, and equipment for children, the tour caters to a wide range of fitness levels.
Praised for its knowledgeable guides, the Floating Village Bike & Boat experience offers a unique opportunity to explore Cambodia’s countryside and culture.
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Siem Reap: Kampong Phluk Floating Village Tour With Boat
Situated in Siem Reap, the Kampong Phluk Floating Village offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore Cambodia’s rural landscapes and enjoy the local culture.
This 5-hour tour, priced from €39.29 per person, includes a boat cruise on Tonle Sap and a chance to witness the vibrant stilt houses and floating restaurants.
Highlights include a photo stop at Wat Thamisararam and sunset views from the lake.
The tour accommodates small groups of up to 2 participants and is wheelchair accessible, with a live English-speaking guide.
Pickup and drop-off service, climate-controlled transportation, and bottled water are included.
Additional activities like a floating forest canoe ride are available for a small fee.
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Discover Floating Villages and Tonle Sap Lake by Boat
Exploring the serene Tonle Sap Lake and its enchanting floating villages is a captivating experience for visitors to Siem Reap, Cambodia.
This 4-hour cruise offers a glimpse into the unique lifestyle of the local community, with stops at lotus fields, crocodile and fish farms, and a visit to the Chong Khneas floating village.
Travelers can enjoy a delightful lunch at the Tara floating restaurant, complemented by refreshing cocktails.
The tour is family-friendly, with children under 10 priced at half the adult rate.
While the tour receives mostly positive reviews, some guests suggest it could be longer and express concerns about animal treatment at the farms.
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Siem Reap: Lotus Silk Farm Boat Ride & 3 DIY Crafts
Visitors to Siem Reap can discover the intricate artistry of Cambodian lotus cultivation and textile production through the Lotus Discovery package at the Lotus Silk Farm.
The 2-hour experience includes a guided visit, boat ride, and three unique DIY workshops. Guests will learn about the cultural significance of lotus, then enjoy a scenic boat tour through the lotus fields.
Workshops allow visitors to create lotus paper, lotus fiber yarn, and a bracelet using dried lotus seeds. The package costs from £27.66 per person and includes refreshments and take-home handicrafts.
While not suitable for wheelchair users or young children, the Lotus Discovery offers an immersive cultural experience and excellent value.
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Floating Village Sunset Boat Vespa Tour
The Floating Village Sunset Boat Vespa Tour takes travelers on an immersive journey through the serene waterways and local communities of Siem Reap. This highly-rated experience earns a Badge of Excellence and 100% recommendation from past guests.
Priced at $60 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, boat tickets, a Vespa with driver, and refreshments. Groups are limited to 8 travelers, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours beforehand.
While not wheelchair-accessible, the tour is suitable for most visitors. Highlights include riding through rice fields, visiting a mushroom farm, and interacting with the floating village community.
Consistently positive reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to discover local culture.
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Siem Reap: Boat Tour to Floating Village Kompong Phluk
Travelers embark on a 5-hour boat tour to the captivating Kompong Phluk floating village, nestled within the expansive Tonle Sap, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake.
After a 30-minute drive from Siem Reap, they visit a local market before boarding a boat for a 30-minute ride to the floating community.
During the 1+ hour exploration, they witness locals’ daily life on the water, from stilt houses and floating shops to schools and a police station.
An optional tour through the flooded mangroves offers a chance to observe the local fauna and flora.
The tour concludes with sunset views over the serene lake.
Priced from Kč 601 per person, the small-group experience includes a professional guide, community fees, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
Read our full review: Siem Reap: Boat Tour to Floating Village Kompong Phluk Review
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Sunset Dinner and Drinks With a Floating Village Cruise
For those seeking a more immersive and atmospheric experience on Tonle Sap Lake, the sunset dinner and drinks cruise offers a captivating alternative.
Lasting 4 hours, the tour includes hotel pickup, a small boat cruise around a floating village and lotus fields, and a buffet dinner on a floating restaurant with unlimited cocktails.
Children 10 and under pay half price, and those 5 and under ride free.
While not wheelchair accessible, the cruise provides vegetarian options and operates in all weather.
Though some reviews note cold food and obstructed views, most praise the guide’s knowledge, food quality, and stunning sunset vistas.
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From Siem Reap: Floating Village Tour by Boat
Departing from the heart of Siem Reap, this captivating 5-hour floating village tour immerses visitors in the serene waterways and traditional lifestyles of rural Cambodia.
Priced from $26.13 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, A/C transportation, and a guided boat ride through stilted houses, floating markets, and fish farms.
Highlights include an optional rowing boat ride, a visit to a local pagoda or market, and panoramic views of rice paddies.
With flexible cancellation and pay-later policies, this is an ideal way to discover the tranquil charm of Cambodia’s countryside.
Private tours and add-ons, like a sunset cafe stop, are available for a personalized experience.
Read our full review: From Siem Reap: Floating Village Tour by Boat Review
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Tonle Sap Joined in Tour Sunset Cruise From Siem Reap
Though departing from Siem Reap, the Tonle Sap Joined in Tour Sunset Cruise offers a unique opportunity to experience the renowned Tonle Sap Lake.
Recommended by 100% of travelers, this tour is rated 5.0 based on 35 reviews and accommodates a maximum of 15 guests.
Led by a professional English-speaking guide, the cruise includes transportation, entrance fees, a boat ride, dinner, and wine.
Guests can witness the daily life of floating villages, though water levels during the dry season may pose some challenges.
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Floating Village Sunset Boat Ride Tour and Market Visit
The Floating Village Sunset Boat Ride Tour and Market Visit allows visitors to enjoy the authentic countryside living and traditional farming practices of the local Khmer people.
Priced from $69 per person, this 5-hour tour includes a visit to Chreav Market and the Kompong Phluk floating village, where travelers can observe traditional houses on stilts and learn about the role of the local pagoda in community life.
The experience concludes with a sunset boat ride and local cuisine at a floating restaurant.
Included services feature an English-speaking guide, tuk-tuk transportation, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
Guests are advised to bring cash, insect repellent, and comfortable attire.
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Amazing Craft Classes and Boat Trip to Lotus Fields
Travelers seeking a hands-on cultural experience can embark on the Lotus Silk Farm tour, which offers a captivating boat ride to lotus fields and immersive handicraft workshops.
Located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, the farm boasts a 4.9/5 rating and is recommended by 100% of travelers. The tour includes guided visits, workshops to create lotus yarn, paper, and incense, and the opportunity to take home tangible souvenirs.
Priced from $35 per person, the experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with a maximum group size of 10.
Positive reviews highlight the organization, friendly staff, and unique activities, making this an exceptional choice for eco-conscious travelers seeking authentic Cambodian crafts.
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Angkor Bike Tour & Gondola Sunset Boat
For those seeking to experience the captivating beauty of Siem Reap at sunset, the Angkor Bike Tour & Gondola Sunset Boat provides an exceptional opportunity. Priced from $29 to $36.25 per person, this 2-5 hour tour combines a bike ride through the countryside with a private gondola boat cruise along an ancient waterway.
Highlights include unobstructed views of Angkor Wat, a quick break for refreshments, and bypassing crowds. The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, professional English-speaking guides, and all necessary equipment.
Not suitable for pregnant women or those unable to ride a bike, this personalized experience allows visitors to discover Siem Reap’s serene countryside and historic landmarks.
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Kompong Phluk Village Boat Trip Half Day Private Tour in Siem Reap
Spend a half-day exploring the captivating floating village of Kompong Phluk on a private boat trip from Siem Reap.
This lesser-known part of Cambodia offers a glimpse into local culture, with a Khmer guide providing insight. Discover floating communities from the water, promoting a lower ecological impact.
The tour includes private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and necessary amenities. Timing is important, as delays incur additional fees.
While not wheelchair-accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers. Prices start at $48 per person, with free cancellation and a lowest price guarantee.
Reviewers praise the fantastic sights and informative guides, recommending morning tours for a more intimate experience.
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Angkor Bike Tour & Gondola Sunset Boat With Drinks & Snack
On this combined Angkor Bike Tour and Gondola Sunset Boat experience, visitors can explore the stunning Angkor Wat complex from a hidden trail with unobstructed views.
The 2-5 hour tour includes a guided bike ride through the Siem Reap countryside, crossing the river and accessing park roads and trails for a unique perspective of the temples.
After refueling with refreshments, the tour concludes with a private gondola boat cruise on an ancient waterway at sunset.
Priced from $30 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, professional English-speaking guide, bicycle, helmet, and boat ride, along with bottled water and local snacks.
Angkor temple pass is an additional $37.
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Angkor Wat Sunrise and Tonle Sap Cruise Sunset Tour
This sunrise-to-sunset tour allows visitors to marvel at the grandeur of Angkor Wat at dawn and then cruise along the serene waters of Tonle Sap Lake to witness the vibrant floating villages at dusk.
The tour includes hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, and entrance fees to the temples. Travelers will also enjoy a boat trip to the floating village, as well as complimentary water and towels.
While meals and personal expenses aren’t included, the tour offers a comprehensive experience for a reasonable price starting at $90.10 per person.
With free cancellation and flexible rescheduling, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking to explore the best of Siem Reap in a single day.
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Angkor Bike Tour & Gondola Sunset Boat W/ Drinks & Snack
Travelers who’ve experienced the serene Tonle Sap Lake can now embark on an Angkor Bike Tour & Gondola Sunset Boat excursion. Priced from $30 per person, this 2-5 hour tour offers an immersive experience exploring Angkor on a guided bike ride and concluding with a private Dragon Boat cruise at sunset.
Highlights include unobstructed views of Angkor Wat, crossing the Siem Reap river, and bypassing crowds to discover rice fields and historic family parcels.
The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, a support vehicle, an English-speaking guide, and refreshments, though the Angkor temple pass is an additional $37.
Travelers can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Tonle Sap Lake Sunset Cruise Small Group From Siem Reap
A small-group sunset cruise across the serene Tonlé Sap Lake from Siem Reap provides travelers with an immersive experience observing the local way of life along the shores.
This tour offers a personalized setting, sailing past the Chong Kneas Floating Village and visiting the 12th-century Wat Athvea temple. Priced from $79 per person, the experience includes hotel pickup, a shared air-conditioned vehicle, and an English-speaking guide.
Travelers can enjoy one local beer and snacks, though other meals and drinks aren’t included. While not wheelchair accessible, most visitors can participate.
With a 5.0 overall rating, the cruise is praised for its comfortable ambiance and unique cultural insights.
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Kulen Elephant Forest & Tonlesap Lake Include Boat /Transfer
Offering a captivating blend of nature and cultural exploration, this tour whisks travelers on a 5-hour adventure that begins with a visit to Kulen Elephant Forest.
Guests can save up to 20% on this excursion, which includes hotel pickup, a guided walk with the elephants, and a boat trip to the picturesque floating village of Kompong Phluk on Tonle Sap Lake.
Along the way, you will learn about the forest’s elephant conservation efforts and gain insights into the local Cambodian lifestyle.
With free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour provides a flexible and immersive experience for nature and culture enthusiasts.
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Guided Floating Village Boat Tour in Siem Reap
Frequently, travelers embark on the Guided Floating Village Boat Tour in Siem Reap, Cambodia, a 3-hour excursion that immerses them in the unique, water-based lifestyle of the region.
The tour begins with a scenic 9-mile drive to Tonle Sap Lake, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, where travelers board a boat for a sightseeing tour. They’ll visit a traditional floating village, observe how locals purify water, and explore a Lotus Garden.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all fees, and an English-speaking guide. With a maximum group size of 30, the experience offers a chance to see diverse wildlife and the daily life of Cambodian villagers, with flexibility to accommodate families and those with mobility needs.
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Private Yacht Visit Floating Village Chong Kneas
For those seeking a more exclusive and intimate experience, the Private Yacht Visit to the Floating Village of Chong Kneas offers an exceptional opportunity. Priced from $120 per person, this day-long excursion provides a private cruise on a luxury boat, complete with drinks and refreshments.
Visitors can witness the breathtaking sunset over the Tonle Sap Lake and explore the unique features of the floating houses in Chong Khneas, a community that has existed for centuries. The tour includes entrance fees, life vests, and public liability insurance, though transportation to the boat station must be arranged independently.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this private yacht visit is a flexible and rewarding way to discover the vibrant floating village.
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Explore The Beautiful Day View With Angkor Gondola Boat Ride
Aboard the Angkor Gondola, visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of Siem Reap’s waterways. This 2.5-hour private boat tour costs from $45 per person and can accommodate up to 4 people.
The journey begins with a 20-minute tuk-tuk ride to the South Gate of Angkor Thom, where the boat cruise along the waterway offers stunning views of the Prasat Chrung temples.
Along the way, guests can enjoy the unique Khmer boat service and the tranquility of the surroundings. The tour also includes photo stops and walking tours, ensuring a well-rounded experience.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during high season, and an Angkor temple pass is required to participate.
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Floating Village-Mangroves Forest Private Tonle Sap Cruise Tour
The Floating Village-Mangrove Forest Private Tonle Sap Cruise Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the stunning natural landscapes of Siem Reap’s Tonle Sap Lake.
Starting from €72.62 per person, this private tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and all necessary fees and taxes.
Highlights of the tour include a visit to a local floating village, a boat trip through mangrove forests, and the chance to interact with local fishermen.
With a perfect 5.0 rating from 4 reviews, this tour is praised for its flexibility and customization options, making it accessible for most travelers.
The free cancellation and rescheduling policy further adds to the convenience of booking this unforgettable Tonle Sap Lake experience.
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Day Trip From Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh for Cruise Ship
Cruise ship passengers can enjoy a day trip from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh, saving up to 15% on the regular price.
The 10-hour tour includes roundtrip transportation via express highway, English-speaking guides, and entry fees to top attractions like the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.
Travelers can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
The tour isn’t suitable for young children, the elderly, or pregnant women, but it offers a convenient way to experience Cambodia’s capital during a cruise stop.
With flexible scheduling and comprehensive inclusions, this day trip provides an efficient and cost-effective sightseeing experience.
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Recap
Siem Reap offers a variety of boat tours and cruises to explore the region’s floating villages and Tonle Sap Lake. From sunset tours with drinks to private yacht visits, there’s an option to suit most travelers’ interests and budgets. These tours provide an opportunity to experience the unique way of life on the water and gain insight into the local culture.