Tonlé Sap: Southeast Asia's Great Lake
Discover the wonders of Tonlé Sap, Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve teeming with life and unique floating villages.
Tonlé Sap, the 'Great Lake' of Cambodia, is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Connected to the Mekong River, its size fluctuates dramatically with the seasons, creating a unique and productive ecosystem that supports millions. Explore floating villages and witness a way of life intimately tied to the water.
A brief summary to Tonlé Sap
Local tips
- Visit during the dry season (November to April) for easier navigation and access to the floating villages.
- Hire a local guide to learn about the lake's ecology, history, and the unique culture of the floating communities.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable clothing, as the sun can be intense on the lake.
- Respect the local culture and customs when visiting the floating villages.
- Consider a boat tour that includes a visit to the Prek Toal bird sanctuary for a chance to see rare and endangered waterbirds.
Getting There
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Tuk-tuk
From Siem Reap, the most common way to reach Tonlé Sap is by tuk-tuk. Negotiate a round-trip fare to one of the floating villages, such as Chong Kneas (closer, more touristy) or Kampong Phluk (further, more authentic). The ride takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour to Kampong Phluk. Expect to pay around $15-$20 USD for the tuk-tuk for the day. Upon arrival at the village dock, you'll need to hire a boat to explore the floating village and flooded forest. Boat tours typically cost $20-$30 USD per person. Be prepared to pay in cash (USD or Cambodian Riel).
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Taxi
A taxi from Siem Reap to Tonlé Sap offers a more comfortable and faster option. Expect to pay around $30-$40 USD for a round trip. Like with tuk-tuks, negotiate the price beforehand. From the dock, boat tours are available to explore the floating villages, with costs ranging from $20-$30 USD per person. Remember to bring cash for the boat tour and any purchases in the village.
Discover more about Tonlé Sap
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tonlé Sap
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Discover the wonders of Tonlé Sap, Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve teeming with life and unique floating villages.
Kampong Kdei Bridge
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Pursat Railway Bridge
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Vishnu Circle
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Floating Village, on Tonle Sap Lake, Cambodia.
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Essential places to dine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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