Siem Reap: Boat Tour to Floating Village Kompong Phluk

Siem Reap’s Kompong Phluk is a captivating floating village that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the lives of the local community. Accessible via a 5-hour guided boat tour, this excursion immerses travelers in the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. From exploring stilt houses to learning about traditional fishing and rice cultivation, the tour provides an authentic experience that’s both educational and enchanting. What secrets does Kompong Phluk hold, waiting to be uncovered?

Key Points

• A boat tour to the Floating Village of Kompong Phluk in Siem Reap, Cambodia, priced from $25 per person for a 5-hour excursion.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, a guided exploration of the village, and a photo stop at Ro Lus Market.
• Visitors can observe the stilt houses, explore the canals and waterways, and learn about the villagers’ livelihoods of fishing and rice cultivation.
• The tour features an optional exploration of the flooded mangrove forests, where diverse flora and fauna can be observed.
• The tour highlights the resilience and adaptability of the villagers’ lifestyles, showcasing their connection to the local ecosystem.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This boat tour to the Floating Village of Kompong Phluk offers a unique glimpse into the daily lives of the local community.

Priced from $25 per person, the 5-hour tour includes hotel pickup and a guided excursion to the village. The group size is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience with an English-speaking guide.

The 5-hour tour includes hotel pickup and a guided excursion to the village, with a group size limited to 10 participants and an English-speaking guide.

The itinerary includes a photo stop at Ro Lus Market and a private boat ride to the floating village, where visitors can explore the stilt houses, floating structures, and learn about local livelihoods.

Guests can also opt for a tour through the flooded mangroves.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with hotel pickup between 1:40 PM and 2:10 PM, followed by a 30-minute drive to the pier.

The tour starts at 2:30 PM with a photo stop at Ro Lus Market for 15 minutes.

Next, guests will embark on a private boat ride to Kompong Phluk floating village, which takes approximately 30 minutes.

During the 2-hour guided tour, visitors will explore the local life, see houses on stilts, and learn about fishing and rice cultivation.

The tour ends with a return to the hotel after sunset over the lake.

Exploring the Floating Village

As the private boat glides across the calm waters, visitors are greeted by the unique sight of Kompong Phluk, a floating village that stands on stilts up to 7 meters high.

This remarkable community offers a glimpse into the local way of life:

• Exploring the stilt houses and floating structures, including schools, shops, and a church

• Learning about the residents’ primary livelihoods of fishing and rice cultivation

• Observing the intricate system of canals and waterways that connect the village

• Discovering the diverse local flora and fauna in the flooded mangrove forests (optional tour)

• Gaining insights into the resilience and adaptability of the villagers’ lifestyle.

Local Livelihoods

Residents of Kompong Phluk rely on fishing and rice cultivation as their primary livelihoods.

Fishing is a year-round activity, with villagers using nets, traps, and other traditional methods to catch a variety of freshwater fish.

Fishing is a year-round activity in Kompong Phluk, with villagers using traditional methods to catch a variety of freshwater fish.

During the rainy season, the surrounding rice fields flood, allowing farmers to cultivate rice crops. The harvested rice is an essential food source and also provides income when sold.

Villagers also supplement their incomes by operating small shops, offering boat tours, and providing other services to visitors.

This unique floating community has adapted to its watery environment, making the most of the natural resources available.

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Flora and Fauna in the Mangroves

Though the floating village of Kompong Phluk offers a glimpse into local livelihoods, the surrounding mangrove forests provide an opportunity to explore the area’s diverse flora and fauna.

The optional mangrove tour allows visitors to:

• Spot various species of birds, including kingfishers, storks, and herons

• Observe curious monkeys navigating the treetops

• Discover unique plant life, such as the distinctive mangrove trees with their intricate root systems

• Learn about the important role these ecosystems play in maintaining the local environment

• Immerse themselves in the tranquil, natural beauty of the flooded mangrove forests.

Visiting Kompong Phluk

The boat tour to the floating village of Kompong Phluk offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the daily life and traditions of this remarkable Cambodian community.

Guests are transported by private boat to explore the stilt houses and floating structures, including schools, shops, and a church. Along the way, they’ll learn about the locals’ livelihoods, which center around fishing and rice cultivation.

An optional tour through the flooded mangroves allows visitors to appreciate the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

This 2-hour guided experience provides a fascinating glimpse into the vibrant culture of Kompong Phluk.

Tour Logistics and Accessibility

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel in Krong Siem Reap, with the tour guide arriving between 1:40 PM and 2:10 PM.

The tour starts at 2:30 PM, followed by a 30-minute drive to the pier. Along the way, you’ll make a 15-minute photo stop at Ro Lus Market.

The main attraction is the private boat ride to Kompong Phluk floating village, which takes 30 minutes. During the 2-hour guided tour, you’ll explore local life, see houses on stilts, and learn about fishing and rice cultivation.

The tour ends with a return to your hotel after sunset over the lake.

• Tour group size is limited to 10 participants

• English-speaking live tour guide is provided

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours for a full refund

• Reserve now and pay later option available

• Not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, wheelchair users, or people over 95 years

Customer Feedback

Based on the one review available, customers have praised the tour highly, giving it an overall rating of 5 out of 5.

The reviewer, Marketa from the Czech Republic, described the experience as "Excellent", and noted that the guide "took great care of us, always in the know and helpful."

This feedback suggests the tour provides a personalized and informative experience, led by a knowledgeable guide who ensures guests have an enjoyable and memorable time exploring the floating village of Kompong Phluk.

The positive review indicates the tour is a worthwhile investment for those seeking an authentic culture in Siem Reap.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

You can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. However, the tour package doesn’t include any meals or beverages, so you’ll need to purchase them yourself or bring your own.

Are There Bathroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are bathroom facilities available during the tour. The boat has basic bathroom amenities, and restrooms are also accessible at the pier and floating village for participants’ convenience throughout the 5-hour excursion.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Floating Village?

Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs from the floating village’s small shops and market stalls. These offer a range of handmade crafts, textiles, and local produce unique to the community.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no option to extend the tour duration. The 5-hour tour includes all the key activities at a fixed schedule. Extending the tour would require booking an additional private boat or separate tour.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit the Floating Village?

Visitors to the floating village typically don’t need a visa, as it’s part of a tour package. The tour operator will handle all necessary logistics and paperwork for the boat excursion. It’s best to check with the tour provider for the latest visa requirements.

The Sum Up

The Floating Village of Kompong Phluk offers a captivating glimpse into the local way of life. This guided boat tour from Siem Reap provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the stilt houses, learn about fishing and rice cultivation, and admire the natural beauty of the mangrove forests. At just $25 per person, it’s an affordable and unforgettable excursion that immerses travelers in the cultural and environmental richness of this unique Cambodian destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: