Siem Reap, the gateway to Cambodia’s iconic Angkor Wat, offers more than just ancient ruins. Venture beyond the temples and learn about the natural wonders of Prek Toal on Tonlé Sap Lake and the vibrant city of Battambang. This overnight adventure promises a unique blend of birdwatching, cultural exploration, and breathtaking scenery. From trekking through the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary to experiencing the charm of Battambang’s colonial architecture, this tour promises an unforgettable journey that will leave you captivated by the lesser-known gems of Cambodia.
Good To Know
- Explore the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary, home to over 120 rare bird species, with a 3-hour guided tour and optional 1-hour river boat ride.
- Visit Battambang for a bamboo train ride, Psa Nat market, and Ek Phnom Temple, showcasing local production and colonial architecture.
- The tour includes transportation via tuk-tuk and ferry, English-speaking guides, and entrance fees, with a duration of 9 hours.
- Timing is important, as the dry season (November to April) offers better bird watching, while the wet season (May to October) has lush landscapes.
- Pack light, wear comfortable shoes, and bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and water to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
👉 Check out our guide to the 20 Best 2 Day Tours In Siem Reap
Contents
- Good To Know
- Tour Overview
- Itinerary Highlights
- Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary
- Battambang Exploration
- Inclusions and Restrictions
- Getting There
- When to Visit
- Helpful Tips
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
- Is the Tour Available in My Native Language?
- How Do I Get to the Starting Point of the Tour?
- What if I Have Special Dietary Requirements?
- Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?
- Sum Up
- Our Top Picks in Siem Reap
- More Tour Reviews in Siem Reap
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Siem Reap we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview
The tour from Siem Reap to the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary Biosphere Reserve and Battambang lasts 9 hours and costs from $290.00 per person.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is offered.
The tour starts from Prek Toal Bird View and Krong Siem Reap, taking a tuk-tuk and ferry to reach the bird sanctuary.
Visitors will enjoy a 3-hour guided tour of Prek Toal and an optional 1-hour river boat ride before finishing the day in Krong Siem Reap.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Siem Reap.
Itinerary Highlights
Starting locations for the tour include Prek Toal Bird View and Krong Siem Reap, where visitors depart by tuk-tuk (20 minutes) and then take a ferry (20 minutes) to reach the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary.
The highlight is a guided tour (3 hours) of the sanctuary, home to 120 rare and endangered bird species. Visitors have the option to take a river boat ride (1 hour) before finishing the tour back in Krong Siem Reap.
The tour also includes a visit to Battambang, where travelers can explore the Psa Nat market, take a bamboo train ride, and visit the ancient Ek Phnom Temple and colonial architecture.
Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary
Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary is home to over 120 different rare and endangered bird species, making it one of Southeast Asia’s most important breeding grounds for waterbirds.
Notable species include the Black-headed Ibis, Painted Stork, Greater and Lesser Adjuncts, Spot-billed Pelican, Milky Stork, and Grey-Headed Fish Eagle.
Visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the sanctuary, which takes approximately 3 hours, and may opt for an additional 1-hour river boat ride to observe the birds in their natural habitat.
The sanctuary is recognized for its crucial role in protecting these magnificent creatures and their fragile ecosystem.
- 120+ rare and endangered bird species
- 3-hour guided tour of the sanctuary
- Optional 1-hour river boat ride
Battambang Exploration
A day tour of Battambang includes visits to the Psa Nat market, an exhilarating bamboo train ride, and the ancient Ek Phnom Temple. Visitors can learn about the local production of rice paper and prahoc, a Cambodian fish paste. The tour also explores the town’s colonial architecture and traditional costume displays. The highlight is the sunset view of bats at Phnom Sompov, a breathtaking natural spectacle.
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Psa Nat Market | 1 hour |
| Bamboo Train Ride | 30 minutes |
| Ek Phnom Temple | 1 hour |
| Rice Paper/Prahoc Production | 1 hour |
| Phnom Sompov Bat Viewing | 1 hour |
Inclusions and Restrictions
The tour includes several amenities to enhance the experience. The package covers hotel pick-up and drop-off, as well as private English-speaking guides and Tuk Tuk transportation.
Visitors can also enjoy local snacks, bottled water, a bamboo train ride, and all necessary entrance fees.
However, there are some restrictions to consider. The tour isn’t suitable for:
- Pregnant women
- Wheelchair users
- Individuals over 95 years
Plus, baby strollers, alcohol, drugs, and unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed.
Comfortable shoes and clothing, as well as mosquito protection, are recommended.
Getting There
Reaching the tour’s starting locations in Siem Reap and Prek Toal requires a combination of transportation methods.
Visitors begin at their Siem Reap hotels, taking a 20-minute tuk-tuk ride to the Chong Khneas ferry port. From there, they board a local ferry that transports them across Tonlé Sap Lake to the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary in 20 minutes.
Upon arrival, a guided tour explores the sanctuary’s diverse birdlife.
After the sanctuary visit, the tour continues to Battambang, where travelers experience a bamboo train ride, visit the Psa Nat market, and explore colonial architecture and cultural sites before ending the day with a sunset view of bats at Phnom Sompov.
When to Visit
The best time to visit the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary and explore Battambang depends on the traveler’s preferences and the weather conditions. There are a few factors to consider:
-
Dry season (November to April): Ideal for bird watching, as the water levels are lower, and the birds are more accessible. However, it can be quite hot and crowded.
-
Wet season (May to October): Offers a lush, green landscape, but the birds may be more dispersed, and the weather can be unpredictable.
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Shoulder seasons (April-May, October-November): Provide a balance of comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and good bird sightings, making them a popular choice for many visitors.
Helpful Tips
To make the most of your tour, it’s wise to pack light and wear comfortable shoes. Insect repellent is also a good idea to ward off mosquitoes in the bird sanctuary.
Remember to bring a hat, sunscreen, and water to stay hydrated. While the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, it’s an excellent opportunity for nature enthusiasts to explore the rich biodiversity of the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary.
Be mindful of the rules – no alcohol, drugs, or unaccompanied minors allowed. By following these simple tips, you’ll ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on your Siem Reap to Battambang adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
Pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour operator’s policy prohibits bringing pets due to safety and logistical concerns. Passengers must leave their pets at home or make alternative arrangements for their care during the tour.
Is the Tour Available in My Native Language?
The tour is offered with English-speaking guides, but other language options may be available upon request. Customers should inquire about availability of their native language when booking the tour.
How Do I Get to the Starting Point of the Tour?
The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, so you’ll be transported to the starting points – Prek Toal Bird View and Chong Khneas ferry – by your private guide and Tuk Tuk transportation provided as part of the tour.
What if I Have Special Dietary Requirements?
For guests with special dietary requirements, the tour operator should be notified in advance. They’ll accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other needs through the included snacks and meals during the tour.
Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Travelers can customize the itinerary and length of the tour to suit their preferences. Additional fees may apply for extended tours or personalized activities.
Siem Reap: Prek Toal Tonlé Sap Lake & Battambang Overnight
Sum Up
This overnight tour to Prek Toal and Battambang offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant birdlife of Prek Toal, ride the iconic bamboo train, and explore the colonial charm of Battambang, all while witnessing the mesmerizing sunset bat viewing at Phnom Sompov. This unforgettable adventure showcases the diverse and stunning landscapes of Siem Reap, creating lasting memories for travelers.
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