Kompong Phluk With Two Villages Cruise Tour From Siem Riep

Set out on a captivating half-day journey to Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, with the Kompong Phluk with Two Villages Cruise Tour from Siem Reap. This immersive experience allows travelers to witness the unique way of life in a floating village and the stilt community of Kompong Phluk, where they’ll explore the stunning mangrove forests and savor a delightful Khmer-style lunch aboard the spacious Queen Tara boat. With an air-conditioned minivan transporting guests and a range of inclusions, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure that delves deeper into the authentic culture of Cambodia’s renowned Tonle Sap region.

Key Points

• This half-day tour from Siem Reap takes visitors to Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia.
• The tour includes visits to a floating village and a stilt village, as well as a cruise through the mangrove forest.
• Lunch and drinks are provided on the 135-foot Queen Tara boat, and round-trip transport from Siem Reap hotels is included.
• Visitors can explore the daily life and adaptations of the Tonle Sap communities, including fishing and fish farming activities.
• The tour offers an opportunity to experience the unique natural environment and cultural charm of the Tonle Sap region.

Tour Overview and Itinerary

The half-day tour from Siem Riep takes visitors to Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia.

The tour includes visits to a floating village and a stilt village, along with a cruise through a mangrove forest. Lunch and drinks are provided on the 135-foot (41-mt.) lake boat, the Queen Tara.

The tour also includes round-trip transport from Siem Riep hotels, a professional guide, and all necessary fees.

Travelers depart from their hotels at 10:00 am, traveling by air-conditioned minivan through scenic landscapes before boarding a traditional longtail boat for the cruise.

Departure and Travel to Tonle Sap

Departing from their Siem Reap hotels at 10:00 am, travelers embark on an air-conditioned minivan journey through picturesque landscapes of lotus farms and rice fields, en route to the captivating Tonle Sap Lake.

This scenic drive allows them to witness the rural charm of the Cambodian countryside before reaching the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia.

The transport provided ensures a comfortable and convenient start to the excursion, setting the stage for the immersive experiences that await on the lake.

As the minivan navigates the roads, travelers eagerly anticipate the unique sights and insights that the Tonle Sap tour has in store.

Floating Village Experience

Upon arrival at Tonle Sap Lake, travelers board a traditional longtail boat and embark on a captivating cruise.

The first stop is a floating village, where they can witness the daily life of the lake’s residents. Floating homes, markets, and schools dot the landscape, showcasing the community’s unique way of living.

Guests explore the flooded mangrove forests, observing the intricate aquaculture system that sustains the villagers. The experience provides a glimpse into the resilience and adaptability of the Tonle Sap people, who’ve thrived on this remarkable lake for generations.

After the village visit, travelers return to the larger boat, the Queen Tara, to enjoy a delightful lunch before continuing their journey.

Lunch on the Queen Tara

After exploring the floating village, travelers board the spacious 135-foot Queen Tara boat for a delightful lunch.

The Queen Tara, a well-equipped lake boat, provides a comfortable setting to enjoy a meal and soak in the serene lake views.

The lunch includes:

1. A variety of Khmer-style dishes, showcasing the local cuisine.
2. Fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, providing a true taste of the region.
3. Chilled beverages, including water and soft drinks, to stay hydrated.
4. Exceptional hospitality from the attentive crew, ensuring a memorable dining experience.

This lakeside lunch aboard the Queen Tara is a highlight of the tour, allowing travelers to savor the flavors of Tonle Sap while taking in the stunning natural surroundings.

Kompong Phluk Stilt Village

From the Queen Tara, the tour continues to the stilt village of Kompong Phluk.

Guests explore the unique village built on stilts up to 10 meters high, with houses, shops, and even schools suspended above the seasonal floodwaters.

They’ll walk through the narrow streets, observing daily life and activities like fishing, fish farming, and preparing for the next flood season.

Depending on water levels, visitors may also have the option to row through the surrounding mangrove forest, home to diverse wildlife.

The village visit provides a fascinating glimpse into how the Khmer people have adapted to living on the vast Tonle Sap Lake.

Sightseeing and Activities

During the tour, guests explore the unique stilt village of Kompong Phluk, observing the daily life and activities of the Khmer people who’ve adapted to living on the vast Tonle Sap Lake.

The tour includes the following activities:

1. Visiting local fish markets and a training school for Buddhist monks.
2. Exploring the stilt village and local neighborhoods, with options to walk through or row in the mangrove forest depending on water levels.
3. Experiencing the flooded mangrove forests and floating aquaculture that are integral to the lake’s ecosystem.
4. Learning about the ingenuity and resilience of the Tonle Sap community.

Inclusions and Amenities

The tour includes a range of amenities and provisions to ensure a comfortable and enriching experience for guests.

Bottled water and a delicious lunch are provided onboard the 135-foot lake boat, the Queen Tara. Travelers can also purchase alcoholic beverages during the cruise.

Safety measures are in place, with life jackets available on all boats. The air-conditioned minivan transportation from Siem Reap hotels, as well as on-board restroom facilities, add to the convenience.

The tour’s inclusions ensure that guests can fully enjoy the natural wonders and cultural attractions of the Tonle Sap Lake region without having to worry about logistics.

Booking Information

Travelers can confirm their booking within 48 hours, subject to availability. A minimum of 2 people is required per booking, with a maximum group size of 20 travelers.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but children can participate when accompanied by an adult, and service animals are allowed.

The key booking information includes:

1. Minimum 2 people per booking
2. Maximum group size of 20 travelers
3. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
4. Not wheelchair accessible, but children and service animals allowed

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour allows passengers to bring their own food and drinks. However, a full lunch and bottled water are already included in the tour price, so bringing additional provisions may not be necessary.

Is There an Option for a Private or Customized Tour?

There may be options for a private or customized tour. Travelers should check with the tour operator to see if they offer any personalized tour packages or the ability to tailor the itinerary to their specific needs and interests.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. Customers can receive a full refund if they cancel within this timeframe, providing flexibility and protection against unexpected changes in travel plans.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for Children?

There are no age restrictions, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate. Service animals are allowed on the tour.

Can I Take Photos and Videos During the Tour?

Yes, you can take photos and videos during the tour. The tour allows photography and videography, so guests are free to capture the scenic landscapes, floating villages, and daily life on Tonle Sap Lake.

Recap

The Kompong Phluk with Two Villages Cruise Tour from Siem Reap offers an unforgettable experience on Tonle Sap Lake. Travelers can enjoy a scenic boat ride, a delicious Khmer-style lunch, and enjoy the unique daily life of local communities. Whether it’s exploring the floating village or the stunning mangrove forests, this tour provides a fascinating glimpse into the cultural and natural wonders of the region.