Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary and Great Lake Tour in Cambodia

The Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary in Cambodia offers nature enthusiasts a remarkable opportunity to witness the region’s vibrant biodiversity. Situated within the Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve, this unique tour provides close encounters with over 120 bird species, including many endangered ones, guided by knowledgeable experts. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – visitors also enjoy the local culture, exploring a fish farm and floating village. With stunning natural scenery and delightful dining, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to…

Key Points

• A 9-hour tour exploring the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary, a renowned wetland ecosystem within the Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve in Cambodia.
• Opportunity to observe over 120 bird species, including many endangered large waterbirds, guided by expert naturalists.
• Visits to a local fish farm and floating village to witness the daily life and traditions of the lake’s inhabitants.
• Seamless experience with meals, drinks, and necessary equipment provided throughout the tour.
• Immersive and educational experience showcasing the biodiversity, conservation efforts, and vibrant lake culture of the Tonle Sap region.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

The Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve in Cambodia.

Over 9 hours, travelers journey to observe over 120 bird species, many endangered, in their natural habitat. Expert guides provide insights and lead boat tours for close encounters with the sanctuary’s large waterbirds.

The tour includes stops at a local fish farm and floating village, allowing guests to witness daily life on the lake. Meals, drinks, and necessary equipment are provided, ensuring a seamless and immersive experience in this remarkable ecosystem.

Itinerary and Highlights

Starting at 6:00 am, the tour begins with hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle or tuk tuk, whisking guests away to the first stop at a local fish farm and floating village.

Here, they’ll witness the daily life on the lake, observing the fishermen and their families going about their routines.

The journey then continues to the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary, home to over 120 bird species, many of which are endangered.

An expert guide provides insights and leads the group to the best viewing areas, where they’ll board a ranger’s boat for close encounters with the unique large waterbirds.

Visiting the Local Fish Farm and Floating Village

As the tour departs from the hotel, guests are whisked away to a local fish farm and floating village on the Tonle Sap lake.

Guests are whisked away to a local fish farm and floating village on the Tonle Sap lake as the tour departs from the hotel.

They witness the daily life and activities of the lake’s inhabitants, from the bustling fish markets to the colorful wooden homes on stilts.

The guide provides insights into the sustainable aquaculture practices and the community’s reliance on the lake’s resources.

Guests have the opportunity to interact with the locals, learning about their traditions and adaptations to the unique floating environment.

This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the vibrant lake culture before continuing the journey to the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary.

Exploring the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary

Next, guests journey to the renowned Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary, a true avian paradise within the Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve. An expert guide leads the way, providing captivating insights and taking visitors to the best viewing areas:

• Observe over 120 bird species, including many endangered and unique large waterbirds like the spot-billed pelican, greater adjutant, and milky stork.

• Glide through the sanctuary’s channels and flooded forests aboard a ranger’s boat for close encounters with the diverse birdlife.

• Discover the sanctuary’s rich biodiversity and learn about conservation efforts to protect this vital wetland ecosystem.

• Immerse in the peaceful, serene atmosphere, surrounded by the sights and sounds of Cambodia’s vibrant avian life.

More Great Tours Nearby

Guided Boat Tour in the Sanctuary

The heart of the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary tour is the guided boat ride, where visitors embark on an intimate exploration of the region’s diverse avian wonders.

Expert guides lead guests through the tranquil waterways, providing fascinating insights into the over 120 bird species that inhabit this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Travelers are treated to close encounters with large, endangered birds like the spot-billed pelican and greater adjutant stork.

The boat tour’s flexible itinerary allows for optimal bird-viewing, with guides adeptly navigating to the best vantage points.

The flexible boat tour itinerary enables optimal bird-viewing, with guides expertly navigating to the best vantage points.

This immersive experience offers an unparalleled window into the vibrant wetland ecosystem.

Dining and Amenities Aboard the Tour

One highlight of the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary tour is the dining and amenities offered aboard the boat. Guests can enjoy a delicious meal and refreshing drinks as they take in the breathtaking sights and sounds of the sanctuary.

The tour includes:

• A meal served aboard the Queen Tara or at a floating restaurant in Prek Toal

• Two complimentary drinks, including soft drinks, beer, juices, or wines

• A vegetarian option available upon request to accommodate dietary needs

• A comfortable and scenic setting to make the most of the bird-watching experience.

Inclusions and Pricing

The Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary tour includes a comprehensive set of inclusions to ensure a seamless and memorable experience for visitors.

The tour package includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle or tuk-tuk, as well as the services of both English-speaking guides and expert bird guides.

The tour package includes convenient hotel transportation and expert guides to ensure a seamless birdwatching experience.

The entrance fee to the Biosphere Reserve is included, along with all checkpoint fees and necessary equipment.

Visitors will also enjoy two complimentary drinks, with a vegetarian meal option available upon request.

At $5,913 per person, the tour offers an immersive birdwatching adventure in Cambodia’s stunning natural wonder.

Important Information and Considerations

Although unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed on the tour, children 10 or under can enjoy the experience at half-price, while those 5 or younger can join for free. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so visitors should dress appropriately. Water levels may impact tour availability, so it’s important to inquire at booking.

Based on 2 reviews, the overall rating for this tour is 4.5 out of 5 stars.

The experience includes:

• Pickup and drop-off in air-conditioned vehicles

• English-speaking and expert bird guides

• Entrance fee to the Biosphere Reserve

• All checkpoint fees and necessary equipment

Frequently Asked Questions

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

While personal food and drink are generally not allowed on the tour, guests can enjoy meals and beverages provided as part of the tour package. Guests should check with the tour operator regarding any special dietary needs or requests.

Is There a Discount for Students or Seniors?

The tour offers a discounted rate for children 10 and under, but it doesn’t specify any student or senior discounts. Guests should inquire about any available discounts when booking the tour.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

The tour has no specific restrictions on photography, though visitors should be mindful of wildlife and avoid disturbing the birds. Cameras are allowed, and guests can capture the unique birds and scenery throughout the sanctuary’s boat tour.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if I Wish to Explore More?

Guests can inquire about extending the tour duration to explore more if desired. However, it’s subject to availability and may incur additional costs. The standard 9-hour tour already provides ample time to experience the bird sanctuary and local village life.

How Reliable Is the Tour Company in Terms of Punctuality and Service?

The tour company is highly reliable, consistently providing punctual pickups and professional guides who offer excellent service. Customers consistently praise the company’s attentiveness and organization, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.

The Sum Up

The Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary and Great Lake Tour in Cambodia offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the region’s remarkable biodiversity and cultural richness. From observing over 120 bird species, including many endangered ones, to experiencing local life in a floating village, this comprehensive tour provides a truly unforgettable adventure amidst Cambodia’s stunning natural landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: