Phnom Penh Siem Reap 4 Days Luxury River Cruise and Heritage Tour

Traveling through Cambodia by river offers a unique blend of comfort, culture, and stunning scenery. The Phnom Penh to Siem Reap luxury cruise aboard the Victoria Mekong promises an upscale, immersive experience that balances guided exploration with luxurious amenities. While we haven’t personally sailed this route, detailed reviews and comprehensive itineraries reveal it’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a taste of authentic Cambodian life without sacrificing comfort.

What excites us most about this journey is the all-inclusive approach, featuring gourmet dining, guided village visits, and free-flow beverages. We also love how it combines luxury and local culture, giving travelers a deeper understanding of Cambodia beyond the typical tourist spots. The structured itinerary ensures a balanced mix of scenic cruising, cultural visits, and relaxation.

A potential consideration? The price point of $1,600 per person is on the higher side, which reflects the premium inclusions and quality of the experience. It’s best suited for those who value comfort and cultural insights over budget travel. This tour appeals to travelers seeking a more refined, hassle-free way to explore Cambodia’s rivers and heritage sites, especially those who enjoy guided experiences and onboard luxury.

Key Points

• Luxury Experience: Comfortable cabins, all-inclusive dining, and elegant onboard entertainment.
• Cultural immersion: Village visits, silk weaving demonstrations, and traditional crafts.
• All-Inclusive Value: Beverages, guided excursions, and some meals included.
• Scenic Route: Upstream cruise along the Mekong, with stops at notable cultural and historical sites.
• Group Size: Limited to about 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
• Practical Details: Transfers included, with a mix of guided tours and free time.

An Overview of the Itinerary

Day 1: Setting Sail in Phnom Penh

Your journey begins at the Phnom Penh Autonomous Port, where you board the Victoria Mekong around 4 pm. The initial evening is spent relaxing onboard, enjoying your first dinner and soaking in the views of the river. The cruise starts with a comfortable, intimate atmosphere—perfect for settling in and getting ready for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: Exploring Koh Chen, Oudong, Silk Island, and Angkor Ban

The morning kicks off with a walk through Koh Chen, a village famous for its copper and silversmith artisans. Here, you’ll have the chance to meet talented craftsmen and learn about traditional techniques—a real highlight for those interested in Cambodian craftsmanship.

Post-breakfast, the tour takes you to Oudong, the ancient Cambodian capital, with its historical monasteries and panoramic views. It’s a quick stop but packed with cultural significance. After a leisurely lunch onboard, you’ll visit Silk Island in Koh Dach, where witnessing silk weaving from worm to loom provides a tactile glimpse into Cambodia’s textile heritage.

The evening concludes with dinner and overnight at Angkor Ban, a peaceful riverside village where wooden houses and traditional lifestyles remain unchanged. Guests often comment on how authentic and calming this stop feels—like stepping back in time.

Day 3: Village Walks, Kampong Cham, and Cultural Demos

Starting early with breakfast, you’ll walk through Angkor Ban’s traditional village, observing local life and architecture. The walk offers a rare chance to connect with residents and appreciate the simplicity of rural Cambodian living.

Later, the cruise moves to Kampong Cham, a town with hidden charm. Here, you’ll explore on foot, discovering local markets, temples, and scenic river vistas. The highlight is a lotus flower demonstration in the lounge, where guests can learn about this significant part of Cambodian culture. Many reviews highlight the uniqueness of this experience, stating it was a “special cultural moment” during the trip.

Day 4: Transition to Siem Reap

On the final day, after breakfast, the cruise concludes with a road transfer to Siem Reap, stopping briefly at Kampong Kdei Bridge along the way. The journey offers picturesque views and a chance to reflect on your river adventure, culminating at the Lotus Blanc Hotel & Resort. The transfer, including lunch, makes this a seamless end to a compelling journey.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Comfort and Luxury

Guests consistently mention the “elegant onboard experience,” from spacious cabins to a free flow of soft drinks and local beer. The inclusion of house wine during lunch and dinner, plus a daily signature cocktail, elevates the experience without extra cost. The cruise’s internet connection, though subject to cellular signal, means you can stay connected during your voyage.

Authentic Cultural Encounters

The village visits, silk weaving demonstrations, and lotus flower craft shows provide meaningful insights into Cambodian traditions. Multiple reviews highlight how these guided excursions are well-organized and enriching, giving a genuine taste of local life—far from mere tourist stops.

All-Inclusive with Good Value

While the price may seem steep, most reviews agree that the value comes from the comprehensive inclusions—meals, guided excursions, beverages, and entertainment. The small group size (up to 10 travelers) ensures personalized attention, making the entire experience feel intimate and bespoke.

Scenic and Relaxing Cruising

Traveling along the Mekong River offers stunning vistas, especially as the boat navigates through lush landscapes and small villages. Guests appreciate the balance of scenic cruising and active exploration, with plenty of time to relax onboard.

Practical Aspects

Transfers between Kampong Cham and Siem Reap are included, simplifying logistics. The tour’s timings—starting at 4 pm and ending around 3:30 pm on the fourth day—fit well for most travelers. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer a structured yet flexible schedule, with dinner and entertainment included each evening.

The Experience from Reviews

While reviews are limited, they paint a picture of a well-organized trip with highlights that include the wine selection being notably good—a rare touch that elevates the dining experience. Guests appreciated the knowledgeable guides, such as those during village walks and cultural demos, describing them as “friendly and informative.” The small group size seems to foster an intimate atmosphere, allowing for more meaningful interactions.

Most reviewers also mention the quality of the onboard entertainment and the comfort of the cabins, making the journey both enjoyable and restful. The inclusion of free water refill stations and complimentary beverages makes it easy to stay refreshed without worrying about extra costs.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want to experience Cambodia’s natural beauty and cultural richness with the comfort of a luxury vessel. It suits those who appreciate guided tours but also want time to relax and take in the scenery. The small group size makes it perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking for a more personalized experience.

If you’re seeking a well-rounded, all-inclusive journey that combines heritage exploration with comfort and style, this cruise has a lot to offer. It’s equally suited for history buffs, cultural enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a unique way to travel between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

Final Thoughts

This 4-day luxury river cruise offers a thoughtfully curated blend of scenic cruising and cultural discovery. The inclusion of guided village visits, traditional crafts, and cultural demonstrations provides depth and authenticity, all wrapped in an elegant onboard experience. The all-inclusive drinks, meals, and entertainment make it a hassle-free journey—just sit back and enjoy the views and company.

While the price tag might be a concern for some, many find the value justified by the comfort, intimate group size, and rich cultural insights. It’s a fantastic choice for those who appreciate finer things and want a meaningful exploration of Cambodia’s river life.

If you’re looking for a comfortable, guided way to see Cambodia’s highlights—minus the crowds—this cruise deserves serious consideration.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, with a maximum of 10 travelers, this tour offers a cozy, social environment that many solo travelers find welcoming.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers all meals, guided excursions, free-flow beverages (water, soft drinks, house wine, local beer, cocktails), onboard entertainment, and transfers between Kampong Cham and Siem Reap.

Are there any optional activities not included?
Yes, personal expenses, private transfers outside the program, premium wines, and optional excursions are not included. Some gala dinners on specific dates have surcharge fees.

What should I pack for this trip?
Light, comfortable clothing for village visits, modest attire for temples, sun protection, and a hat. Bring a camera to capture the scenic views and cultural moments.

How reliable is the internet onboard?
Internet is available throughout the boat but depends on cellular network strength, which can vary in remote areas.

Are there any notable highlights mentioned by previous guests?
Guests praise the excellent wine selection, the authenticity of village visits, and the friendly, knowledgeable guides. The lotus flower demonstration is often described as a memorable cultural moment.

What is the best time of year to take this cruise?
While not specified, most river cruises in Cambodia tend to perform best in the dry season (November to April) for better weather and river conditions.

This 4-day journey along Cambodia’s waterways offers a carefully curated mix of comfort, culture, and scenic beauty. It’s perfect for travelers eager to see Cambodia from a different angle—relaxing in style while learning about local traditions and history.