5 Best Tours In Kampong Phluk (With Reviews & Prices)

Kampong Phluk is one of Cambodia’s most captivating sights—an authentic floating village on Tonle Sap Lake where life on stilts and in boats feels like stepping into another world. It’s a fantastic place for tours because it offers a genuine glimpse into local life, colorful fishing scenes, and lush mangrove forests all in one visit. What makes these tours stand out is their ability to combine cultural insight with scenic beauty, whether you’re exploring the floating homes or cruising past ancient Angkorian ruins. Our favorite is the Kampong Phluk Floating Village Morning or Sunset Boat Tour — it captures the serenity of the lake at different times of day, providing unique photo opportunities and a chance to understand the local community firsthand. The tour’s focus on learning about the villagers’ daily routines, combined with scenic drives through the countryside, makes it a well-rounded experience. You can see floating schools, markets, and fishermen working the waters, which makes it more than just a boat ride.

Whether you’re after a quick half-day trip or an immersive multi-day adventure, Kampong Phluk offers options. The tours vary from simple boat rides to combined temple visits and full-day explorations. To help you decide, we’ve put together a list of the five best tours, detailed below, each with its own charm and focus.

1. Kampong Phluk Floating Village Morning or Sunset Boat Tour

This highly-rated tour (5/5 from three reviews) offers a 6-hour journey through one of Cambodia’s most iconic floating villages. Starting from Siem Reap, the tour takes you on a wooden boat to explore floating homes, schools, shops, and the busy life of fishermen. The guide shares stories about the community’s daily routines, which turns what could be just a scenic boat ride into a meaningful cultural encounter. The tour also includes a scenic drive through the Cambodian countryside and a visit to the flooded mangrove forest, where you can glide through narrow, tree-lined canals.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its flexibility with timing—opt for the morning or sunset departure. The sunset option, in particular, offers stunning views of the lake as the sky changes colors, perfect for photography. The boat ride is complemented by a visit to local markets and a taste of local snacks, adding flavor to the experience. Because the tour is designed for a small group, you’ll get personalized attention and plenty of opportunities to ask questions.

Bottom Line: This tour balances scenic beauty with authentic cultural insight, making it ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, informative experience in Kampong Phluk. It’s especially good for those interested in local lifestyles and stunning sunset views.

2. From Siem Reap: Beng Mealea and Kamphong Phluk Day Tour

For around $150, this full-day tour combines two of Cambodia’s highlights: the ancient ruins of Beng Mealea and the floating village of Kampong Phluk. It’s a well-chosen combo for those who want a mix of history and water-based culture. The day kicks off with a visit to Beng Mealea, a sprawling 12th-century temple covered with jungle vines and less crowded than Angkor. Tour guide Kelly is an expert, sharing insights about the temple’s mysterious carvings and its role within the Khmer Empire.

After exploring the ruins, the tour continues with a boat cruise on Tonle Sap Lake, passing by floating houses and stilted communities. The village visit offers a chance to meet local families and see seasonal fishing practices firsthand. This tour is perfect if you want to experience the contrast between ancient ruins and modern river life, all in a single day.

What makes this tour unique is its combination of archaeology and authentic water-based Cambodian life, making it suitable for history buffs and culture seekers alike. The price includes transportation, guiding, and boat rides, offering good value for a comprehensive day.

Bottom Line: If your time is limited but you want a broad view of Cambodia’s history and daily life, this tour is a smart pick. It’s especially good for travelers who enjoy learning about different aspects of Khmer culture in one trip.

3. Siem Reap: 4-Day Angkor Wat, Temples, and Villages Tour

This extensive 4-day guided tour offers a deep dive into the Angkor region, including Angkor Wat, jungle temples, and floating villages. It’s designed for travelers who want more than just a quick look—this itinerary covers the major highlights at a comfortable pace, with plenty of time for exploring and absorbing history.

Highlights include visits to Angkor Wat, the jungle temples of Ta Prohm, and the floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake. You’ll also spend time at Phnom Kulen National Park, visiting sacred waterfalls, the River of a Thousand Lingas, and reclining Buddha statues. The tour’s guide brings Khmer history to life with detailed stories and cultural insights, making it ideal for those who appreciate context and storytelling.

What sets this tour apart is its balance—covering iconic temples, remote ruins, and authentic villages—making it suitable for history lovers and adventure travelers alike. The tour’s length allows for a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s rich cultural tapestry.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers with a week or more, who want an immersive experience that combines temple exploration with village life. It’s a comprehensive way to see the best of Siem Reap and beyond.

4. Siem Reap: Angkor Small Tour & Floating Village Private Tour

This 4-day private tour offers a personalized approach to exploring Siem Reap’s most famous sites, including Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and the Kampong Phluk Floating Village. It’s designed for those who prefer a more flexible, tailored experience, with the option to focus more on certain sites or spend extra time in specific areas.

Highlights include the mystical temples of Angkor, the Kulen Mountain waterfalls, and the flooded forests of Kampong Phluk. The tour guide shares detailed historical context along with personal anecdotes, making every visit more meaningful. The floating village visit is especially memorable, with its stilt houses and boat rides providing a glimpse into local life.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on quality over quantity, with a private guide and customizable itinerary. It’s ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, in-depth experience and are willing to pay a bit more for personalized service.

Bottom Line: If you’re after a flexible, intimate tour that covers both Angkor temples and floating villages with expert guidance, this is a top choice.

5. Siem Reap: Kulen Mountain & Tonle Sap Lake Sunset Tour

For a full-day adventure, this tour combines visits to Phnom Kulen National Park—including the famous River of 1,000 Lingas and Reclining Buddha—with a boat tour of Tonle Sap Lake culminating in a stunning sunset. It’s a longer, more active option, perfect for those who want to see some of Cambodia’s most sacred sites and experience nature’s beauty.

After hotel pickup, the day begins at Kulen Mountain, where you’ll explore the natural spring, sacred waterfalls, and ancient carvings. You’ll then head to the floating village for a boat cruise, where the vibrant life on the lake continues year-round. The sunset over the lake provides a peaceful end to a busy day.

This tour is suited for active travelers who enjoy a combination of cultural sites, outdoor scenery, and a full schedule. It also includes practical tips like bringing sunscreen, hats, and a change of clothes, considering the physical nature of the day.

Bottom Line: Ideal if you want a comprehensive, full-day experience that mixes spirituality, nature, and river life, ending with a memorable sunset.

How to Choose the Right Kampong Phluk Tour for You

Choosing between these tours depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you’re after a quick but meaningful visit, the Morning or Sunset Boat Tour offers a beautiful, relaxed intro. History enthusiasts might prefer the 4-day Angkor exploration, while those wanting a comprehensive experience combining temple ruins and floating villages should consider the 4-day private tour. For active travelers, the Kulen Mountain & Tonle Sap Sunset Tour provides a full day packed with diverse sights.

Keep in mind that some tours, like the From Siem Reap: Beng Mealea and Kamphong Phluk Day Tour, include both cultural and water-based experiences, making them ideal for those wanting variety. Booking early is recommended, especially for the private tours, and consider the time of year, as some tours are seasonal or better during dry season.

Final Thoughts

Kampong Phluk offers a compelling mix of scenic boat rides, cultural sites, and village life, making it a versatile destination for all kinds of travelers. Whether you want a quick glimpse or an in-depth exploration, options like the Kampong Phluk Floating Village Morning or Sunset Boat Tour or the 4-Day Angkor Experience will meet your needs. For a personalized touch, the private tours provide flexibility and in-depth stories, perfect for those who want to tailor their experience.

Remember, booking early ensures you get your preferred tour and time slot. With so much to discover, Kampong Phluk is a place where every boat ride reveals a new story—so pick the tour that matches your interests and go enjoy this fascinating corner of Cambodia.