Oudong and Koh Chen Island – Full Day Cruise & Tour with English speaking guide

Setting out on a day trip from Phnom Penh to Oudong and Koh Chen offers a fascinating glimpse into Cambodia’s river-based lifestyle, craftsmanship, and spiritual sites. This tour combines scenic boat rides, cultural insights, and a chance to see some of the country’s most iconic sights, all within a relaxed, small-group setting.

What makes this experience especially appealing? For starters, the comprehensive itinerary covers floating villages, a traditional silver craft village, and the stunning Oudong mountains with its Buddha statues and king’s stupa. The all-inclusive price ensures no surprises—entry fees, lunch, drinks, and transport are covered. Plus, the tour’s intimate size—a maximum of ten guests—means you’ll get personalized attention and a more authentic feel.

A potential consideration is the duration of the boat trip—it takes a good two hours to reach the floating villages, which might seem long but is part of the charm. If you’re sensitive to long boat rides or prefer quick sightseeing, this may not be your ideal choice.

This tour suits travelers looking for a well-rounded day that combines cultural discovery, scenic beauty, and some light adventure, all delivered in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for those who enjoy storytelling guides, authentic local experiences, and a taste of Cambodia’s spiritual and artisanal crafts.

Key Points

• All-inclusive value with entrance fees, lunch, drinks, and transport included.
• Small group size maximizes comfort and personalized attention.
• Rich itinerary featuring floating villages, silver crafts, and Oudong’s Buddha statues.
• Relaxing boat cruise combined with land visits for a balanced experience.
• Knowledgeable guides who provide detailed context and answer questions.
• Suitable for most travelers, including those who appreciate cultural and scenic exploration.

The Experience: A Deep Dive into the Day

Scenic Start: Cruising the Tonle Sap River

The day begins early, with hotel pickup around 7:30am, setting the tone for a smooth and hassle-free experience. The small group—capped at ten travelers—immediately feels intimate and relaxed, allowing for plenty of interaction with your guide, Chamnap. From the start, you’ll appreciate the comfortable boat and the chance to watch the bustling river life unfold as you cruise upstream.

The boat ride itself, lasting about two hours, offers a slow, peaceful journey through the riverbanks, giving you time to enjoy the scenery, snap photos, and listen to insider stories. Reviewers mention how the trip was longer than expected, but that it provided extra time for the guide to share detailed information about the local lifestyle and farming activities along the shore—everything from rice paddies to floating fish farms.

Koh Chen: Silver Crafts and Local Life

After the cruise, you’ll stop at Koh Chen Island, known for its silversmithing traditions. The walk through this small village reveals a vibrant community of artisans dedicated to crafting silver, copper, and brass products. Reviewers often highlight how hands-on the experience is—some guides demonstrate how the silver pieces are made or show the different stages of craftwork.

One traveler noted that their guide was very informative and eager to share his knowledge, making the visit both educational and engaging. You’ll have the chance to browse and maybe pick up some unique souvenirs, but only if you’re interested—shopping is not pushed, and the focus remains on appreciating the craftsmanship.

From River to Mountain: Oudong’s Spiritual Majesty

Next, a tuk-tuk ride takes you up the Oudong mountains, where a series of Buddha statues and stupas await. Most people find the climb manageable, but reviewers warn that if you dislike steps, it might be a bit of a workout. The view from the top, however, is rewarding, with panoramic scenes of the surrounding countryside.

One reviewer called the Oudong temple complex “beautiful and spiritual”, emphasizing the opportunity to see thousands of Buddha statues and a stupa containing the remains of historic kings. The guide’s commentary helps you understand the significance of what you’re seeing, making this more than just a sightseeing stop.

Delicious, Carefree Lunch and Refreshments

Throughout the day, you’re treated to a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, featuring Cambodian flavors that many reviewers describe as “the best they had in Cambodia.” The meal is complemented by unlimited beer and soft drinks, alongside a fresh fruit platter—perfect for refueling after the mountain climb.

Travelers consistently praise the value of all-inclusive, especially the quality of the food and drinks, which add a nice touch of comfort and indulgence to the day.

The Practicalities

Transport and Timing

The tour starts sharply at 7:30am, with hotel pickup—convenient for those staying in Phnom Penh. The boat cruise and land visits are paced comfortably over the 8-hour duration, allowing ample time for exploration without feeling rushed. The small group size ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, and guides like Chamnap are praised for their clear, friendly communication and depth of knowledge.

Price and Value

At $110 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience. When you consider it includes entrance fees, transport, lunch, drinks, and a guided commentary, it’s quite reasonable. Reviews highlight the excellent value, especially compared to other local tours that might charge extra for each activity.

Accessibility and Suitability

Most travelers can enjoy this tour, but those who dislike climbing stairs may find the Oudong mountain a bit challenging. The boat cruise can be long, so if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer quick visits, keep that in mind. The tour is geared toward those interested in culture, scenery, and artisan crafts—not fast-paced sightseeing.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many comments provide useful nuances. For example, one traveler appreciated that they were the only couple on the trip, making it feel more personalized. They also mentioned that the guide, Chamnap, was very helpful and informative, answering all questions and even demonstrating silver-making techniques.

Another reviewer emphasized the beautiful scenery and the kindness of the staff, noting how the boat ride was “very relaxing and enjoyable.” The scenic views from Oudong mountain, especially during the photo stops, are a highlight for many—one even described the vistas as “great for photos.”

Tips from Past Travelers

• If climbing stairs isn’t your favorite activity, consider this before the Oudong stop.
• The boat ride provides plenty of opportunities for photos and observing local life—bring your camera!
• The all-inclusive lunch is highly recommended, especially for those who want to avoid additional costs or street food.
• Small groups mean more personalized attention—book in advance, as this tour is popular and often booked 33 days ahead.

The Sum Up: Who Should Book This Tour?

This Oudong and Koh Chen full-day cruise offers a balanced mix of scenic boat rides, culture, and spiritual discovery. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy authentic local experiences, engaging guides, and picturesque landscapes. The all-inclusive price and small-group setting make it ideal for those looking for value without sacrificing comfort or insight.

If you prefer quick visits or dislike walking up steps, this may not be your best fit. However, for those eager to learn about Cambodia’s artisan traditions, see Buddha statues, and enjoy relaxed river cruising, this tour hits most marks.

It’s perfect for curious travelers who want a personal, meaningful day with plenty of opportunities for photos, conversation, and cultural appreciation. The knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and delicious food combine to make this a memorable addition to any Phnom Penh itinerary.

FAQ

Is hotel pick-up included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off within Phnom Penh, making logistics easy.

How long is the boat cruise?
The boat ride takes about two hours each way, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and observe local river life.

What should I wear for the Oudong mountain climb?
Comfortable, sturdy shoes are recommended since there are stairs involved, and the climb offers spectacular views worth the effort.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees to the sites visited are included in the tour price.

Is food provided?
Yes, a full Cambodian lunch is included, along with unlimited soft drinks, beer, and fresh fruit.

Can I shop during the tour?
Shopping is available at Koh Chen, but it’s not a focus—just an opportunity to browse silver crafts and souvenirs.

How many people typically join the tour?
The tour is designed for a small group, with a maximum of ten travelers, fostering a friendly, personalized atmosphere.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; in case of poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour provides an engaging, well-rounded day in Cambodia that balances scenic beauty, cultural insight, and authentic craftsmanship—making it a standout choice for those wanting a genuine experience.