Prek Toal Biosphere Reserve Tour from Siem Reap

Prek Toal Biosphere Reserve Tour from Siem Reap

On this 9-hour wildlife tour from Siem Reap, head to the port of Chong Khneas to visit a crocodile and fish farm, before exploring the Prek Toal Biosphere Reserve in search of endangered birds. Painted storks and spot-billed pelicans both call this area home, as do ibis, milky storks, and the grey-headed fish eagle. See floating villages along Tonle Sap Lake, and enjoy a traditional Cambodian lunch when you dock at a floating restaurant.

At 6am, you will be picked up from your hotel or guesthouse in an air-conditioned minivan, and driven to the port of Chong Khneas to board your awaiting boat. 

After feeling the wind as it blows through your hair, you'll make a stop at the Crocodile and Fish Farm to get up close with the crocs, as well as see snakes, enormous catfish, and meet the people who catch them. If snakes and catfish aren't really what you came for, there's also the chance to shop for souvenirs. 

As you motor through a floating village, the boat ride allows you to see Cambodians enjoying their daily life. Wave at the fishermen, boat-makers, and children who you'll find on this scenic route, and once the trip through Chong Khneas is complete, your boat will begin the journey across the great Tonle Sap Lake.

When you arrive at the Biosphere Reserve at Prek Toal, your guide will handle all of the fees and escort you into the reserve. This area is popular with visiting birdwatchers, and the best time to visit is in the dry season between December and May. That's the time when migratory birds will congregate here at Prek Toal, and while the populations definitely increase as the waters begin to recede, it also makes some viewing areas a little more difficult to reach. 

You’ll depart from Prek Toal in the early afternoon and head to the famous Queen Tara, which is set in the heart of a floating village on the shores of Tonle Sap Lake. Enjoy a traditional Cambodian meal, as well as two cold drinks, and then board the boat at 2:15pm for the short ride back to Chong Khneas. From here you'll climb in the air-conditioned vehicle for the drive to your guesthouse or hotel.