6 Best Tours & Experiences In Kratie

Kratie is a quiet town on the Mekong River known for its relaxed atmosphere and unique wildlife, especially the rare Mekong River dolphins. Unlike larger Cambodian cities, Kratie offers intimate experiences that bring you closer to local life and nature. We particularly love the 4-hour tuk-tuk tour to see the dolphins and explore the countryside, offering a perfect blend of wildlife viewing and cultural sights. Whether you’re paddling in a kayak or cycling on island paths, Kratie’s tours promise authentic, memorable moments away from the usual tourist crowds.

If you’re looking to explore Cambodia’s Mekong region in a way that balances adventure, culture, and wildlife, this list covers a variety of options. From iconic boat trips and kayaking adventures to thrilling jeep rides and island cycling, each experience offers something special—so you can pick what best fits your interests and travel style.

1. 4 hours taking tuk tuk to see Mekong dolphins and countryside

This tour is a favorite for travelers seeking a personalized, small-group experience—limited to just 15 people—making it more intimate and relaxed. It starts with exploring Phnom Sambok Pagoda, a mountain temple that provides panoramic views of the Mekong and surrounding fields. The highlight, of course, is heading to Kampi village, just 15 km north, where the endangered Mekong River dolphins live. These elusive creatures are thought to number only around 80, making each sighting a special moment.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of wildlife viewing with cultural visits, such as walking around Kratie town before heading out. The tuk-tuk rides between stops add a fun local touch, and the guide offers insights into the region’s ecology and history. Reviews praise the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, with many emphasizing the thrill of seeing the dolphins in their natural habitat. As one traveler put it, “Very friendly and knowledgeable guide… would recommend.”

Bottom line: For around $20, this tour offers a balanced glimpse of nature and local life, making it ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, immersive experience.

2. Kratie Dolphin Tour: Mekong Boat Trip, Villages & Sunset

This half-day boat tour on the Mekong combines dolphin watching with village visits and scenic sunset views. It’s perfect if you prefer a more leisurely, water-based experience. The trip begins with an early morning or late afternoon departure—timed for the best chances to spot the rare Irrawaddy dolphins and enjoy the changing light over the river.

During the trip, you’ll explore sand islands and flooded forests, learning about local farming, craftsmanship, and river life. The guide introduces you to traditional village crafts like bamboo basket weaving and local brick-making, providing a window into rural Cambodian life. You’ll also have a chance to sample homemade bamboo sticky rice, a regional delicacy, and end the day with a beautiful sunset over the Mekong, perfect for photos.

Reviewers highlight the stunning scenery and the chance to see dolphins in the wild, with some noting how peaceful it feels to be on the water. The tour involves physical activity like walking and boat riding, so it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable around water.

Bottom line: If you want a scenic, cultural experience with dolphin sightings, this trip provides a relaxed yet rich snapshot of river life, especially good for nature lovers.

3. Mekong Magic: Kayaking, Dolphins & Island Camping Adventure

For those craving a multi-day adventure, this overnight kayaking tour stands out as a truly unique way to experience the Mekong. Over two days, you’ll paddle through scenic sand islands and flooded forests, stopping to spot the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins in their morning habitat. The highlight is sleeping under the stars on a tranquil sandbar, with a campfire dinner and plenty of opportunities to swim and relax.

Guides take you on canoe trips, exploring flooded areas where waterbirds and local wildlife thrive. You’ll learn about the river’s ecology and traditional livelihoods, making it both an adventure and an educational experience. The tour appeals to travelers seeking a peaceful, unplugged escape from modern life.

Reviews note the restrained number of participants and the rarity of being on the river overnight, which makes it a special trip. While it’s physically demanding, the experience offers a chance to connect deeply with nature.

Bottom line: This two-day kayaking and camping trip is suited for adventurous travelers looking for a tranquil, off-the-beaten-path experience that combines wildlife, paddling, and camping under the stars.

4. Not Your Usual Tour: Beng Mealea Jeep Adventure

If you want to escape the crowds of Angkor and see some of Cambodia’s lesser-visited sites, this 6-hour Jeep tour is a fantastic pick. It combines scenic countryside drives with visits to Beng Mealea Temple, a jungle-covered ruin that’s often called the “lost temple” for its mysterious, overgrown appearance.

The real charm is exploring remote villages and ancient quarries along the way, giving you a taste of rural life untouched by mass tourism. Your guide, with a good knowledge of local history, shares stories while you enjoy a peaceful picnic lunch surrounded by nature.

Reviews mention that the jeep ride offers a fun, open-air perspective on Cambodia’s landscape, and many appreciate the chance to see local life up close. The tour is best suited for travelers with some mobility and a sense of adventure, as it involves uneven terrain and walking around ruins.

Bottom line: For an active day combining history, scenery, and local culture, this jeep adventure offers a different side of Cambodia rarely seen by travelers.

5. Kratie: Half-Day Kayak Adventure with Dolphin Watching

This half-day kayak trip is perfect for travelers who want the thrill of paddling and the chance to see dolphins in a more active way. Starting early in the morning, you’ll be introduced to your guide and paddle across the Mekong to the west bank, where the Irrawaddy dolphins often surface.

What sets this trip apart is its focus on small-group intimacy and education. Your guide shares insights about the dolphins’ endangered status and local river ecology. You’ll enjoy a light breakfast of homemade pumpkin bread and coffee or tea before heading out, making the experience both tasty and refreshing.

During the paddle, you’ll stop at a sandbank for a swim and snacks, then drift toward the dolphin sightings—an exciting moment that often feels like witnessing a rare act of nature. The reviews are glowing, with one calling it a “10/10 visit,” praising the guide’s knowledge and the spectacular dolphin sightings.

Bottom line: For active travelers eager to combine wildlife watching with physical activity, this kayak adventure is a rewarding and immersive way to explore Kratie.

6. Kratie: Koh Trong Island Cycle Tour with Snacks

This 4-hour cycling tour offers a gentle way to explore Koh Trong Island, a peaceful spot just across the river. You’ll pedal through small villages, passing bats high in the trees and seeing the largest tree on the island. The highlight is a visit to the Vietnamese stilted house community, providing insight into local life and traditions.

The tour includes a ferry ride across the Mekong, and an enjoyable break at a local homestay where you can try homemade pumpkin bread and fresh coconuts. You’ll also visit a traditional fishing village and see how villagers live in harmony with the river.

Reviewers appreciate the laid-back pace and the chance to see authentic rural life away from tourist hotspots. The modest price and manageable time make it a good choice for travelers who want a relaxed, family-friendly activity.

Bottom line: If cycling through small villages and enjoying local snacks appeals to you, this tour offers a delightful, cultural day on Koh Trong Island.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When selecting your Kratie adventure, consider your budget, time, and interests. If wildlife viewing is your priority, the dolphin-focused tours—like the tuk-tuk trip or the half-day kayak—are excellent options. For a more active, immersive experience, the island cycling or kayaking overnight are great bets, especially if you enjoy being on the water or in nature.

If you want to combine history, scenery, and rural life, the Jeep adventure to Beng Mealea offers a different perspective on Cambodia’s countryside. Budget travelers might prefer the affordable tuk-tuk dolphin tour, while those looking for a full-day or multi-day experience should consider the Mekong Magic kayak trip or the Island camping adventure.

Booking early is always a good idea, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred times and small-group slots. Think about what kind of experience will leave you with lasting memories—whether it’s the thrill of dolphin sightings or the tranquility of island cycling—and choose accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Kratie offers a surprising variety of ways to experience the Mekong River and its surroundings. For wildlife lovers, the tuk-tuk dolphin tour and kayaking trips provide amazing sightings and authentic moments. History and adventure seekers will appreciate the Jeep tour to Beng Mealea, with its mix of scenic drives and ancient ruins. Culture and relaxation are well-covered by the island cycling tour, which combines gentle activity with local flavor.

No matter what your travel style, Kratie’s tours can deepen your understanding of Cambodia’s rural life and river ecology. If you’re tempted, don’t wait too long—these experiences fill up quickly, and early booking guarantees a spot on your favorite adventure. Happy exploring!