Drifting Through the Floating Villages of Tonle Sap

Floating village on Tonle Sap Lake, Cambodia

Life on Cambodia’s great lake, far from the crowds

On the still waters of Tonle Sap, a different Cambodia comes to life — where homes drift with the tide, children paddle to school, and markets float under the sky. This day is about slowing down, seeing deeper, and feeling a rhythm shaped by the lake itself.

Description

Experience the quiet magic of Cambodia’s Tonle Sap Lake on a private full-day journey to Mechrey and Prek Toal. Away from the tourist crowds, you’ll explore authentic floating villages where life flows with the rhythm of the water. Cruise past homes, schools, markets, and temples — all drifting peacefully on the lake’s surface. Along the way, glimpse daily life, interact with locals, and witness a traditional way of living that has remained unchanged for generations. This intimate, eye-opening day reveals a side of Cambodia few visitors ever see.

Full Day
Easy

Highlights

• Journey by private boat through floating villages untouched by mass tourism
• Visit Prek Toal, a self-sufficient water-based community
• Explore the floating school, church, market, and homes
• Peaceful local interaction and authentic village life
• Scenic drive past rice paddies and water buffalo
• Seasonal birdwatching near the Prek Toal Biosphere

Itinerary

6:00 AM – Breakfast at your hotel
7:30 AM – Depart Siem Reap for Mechrey Pier
8:15 AM – Boat cruise through Mechrey floating village
9:15 AM – Cross Tonle Sap to Prek Toal
10:00 AM – Guided village exploration
11:30 AM – Optional birdwatching (seasonal)
12:30 PM – Return boat ride
2:00 PM – Arrive back at hotel

What’s Included

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Licensed English-speaking guide
  • Traditional covered boat with life jackets
  • Cold bottled water and towels

What’s Not Included

  • Entrance fee to Prek Toal area
  • Meals
  • Tips (optional)

Transportation

Air-conditioned vehicle to Mechrey pier (approx. 40 minutes). Return by boat and car.