Phnom Penh to Siem Reap Cruise

Board your river cruiser this afternoon in Phnom Penh and leave the big city behind with a northward journey to Kampong Chhnang.

The Tonle Sap River quickly narrows and you’ll have fabulous views of the riverbanks and villages as you embark on this first day’s journey.

Relax on board the ship this evening, enjoying dinner as the sun sets.

Overnight on board.

This morning the boat will reach Kampong Chhnang (or you will travel by land if the water level is low) and you get to see the rich tapestry of Cambodian rural life.

Take a smaller boat through narrow streams to the wetlands where a variety of bird life can be seen as well as enormous local fish traps, some half a kilometer long, to trap fish as they migrate from the falling lake into the Tonle River.

After your afternoon excursion, return to the boat for dinner.

Overnight on board.

This morning the mouth of the river reaches the edge of the Tonle Sap Lake and you will cruise across the waters, following small canals crowded with floating houses and enjoy the views of the local lake life.

Then double back to Phnom Penh and turn onto the Mekong River.

Stop at the little-known Chong Koh silk-weaving village for a morning walk and continue past the Mekong’s timeless villages before stopping at Peam Chi Kang village for a view of the wat, monastery or school.

Overnight on board.

Your last day of cruising takes you further upriver to Kampong Cham where you will visit the 8th century hilltop temple of Wat Hanchey.

You’ll also have time to explore Kampong Cham in the afternoon, seeing the historic Wat Nokor, the colorful local market, colonial-style buildings of the town and a center for underprivileged children.

Return to the boat for a farewell dinner and final night on board.

Overnight on board.

Early morning, a coach transfer will take you to Siem Reap, stopping at Kampong Thom for a picnic lunch. Arrive Siem Reap mid afternoon.