Visit Tonle Sap Lake: Top Things To Do And See

Tonle Sap Lake, located in the heart of Cambodia, is Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake and an ecological marvel. This annual phenomenon, known as the “Great Lake,” sustains numerous species of fish and birds and supports the livelihoods of countless Cambodians who depend on its resources for fishing and agriculture.

Tonle Sap is home to floating villages, where houses, schools, and markets all bob on the water’s surface. Visit Tonle Sap offers a unique glimpse into a way of life intricately connected to the rhythms of this dynamic and vital ecosystem.

When visiting, there are many things to do and see in Tonle Sap. Hanoi Voyages will pick you up to reach some hot destinations on this beautiful lake.

Best things to do in Tonle Sap Lake

Tonle Sap, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, is famous for its floating villages, diverse wildlife, and unique way of life. A visit here promises unforgettable experiences, from cultural encounters to natural discoveries. Wondering what is the best things to do when visit Tonle Sap Lake? Let's find out!

Visit floating villages

One of the most unforgettable experiences is to visit Tonle Sap Lake and explore its remarkable floating villages. During the flood season, the lake transforms into a picturesque scene where homes, schools, and even markets float gracefully on stilts or wooden platforms. Life here revolves around fishing and aquaculture, offering visitors an intimate glimpse into the enduring traditions and daily resilience of the local communities.

Some of the most popular villages to visit include:

• Chong Khneas – The closest to Siem Reap, ideal for a short visit.

• Kampong Phluk – Known for its stilted houses and mangrove forest boat tours.

• Kampong Khleang – The largest and less touristy village, offering a more authentic experience.

Travel Tip: Hire a local guide or book a responsible eco-tour to ensure your visit supports the community directly and provides deeper insights into daily life on the lake.

Prek toal bird sanctuary

For nature enthusiasts, a must-do is to visit Tonle Sap Lake and explore the incredible Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary. This protected area is one of Southeast Asia’s most important bird reserves and serves as a crucial breeding ground for numerous waterbird species.

Here, you can spot rare and endangered birds such as: spot-billed pelicans, painted storks, grey-headed fish eagles, oriental darters

Visitors can also climb an observation tower for panoramic views of the wetlands, offering the perfect opportunity to admire both the diverse birdlife and the vast, untouched landscape of Tonle Sap Lake.

The best time to visit Prek Toal is from December to May (dry season), when water levels drop and birds gather in large numbers, making it easier to observe them.

Flooded forests

Another must-do experience when you visit Tonle Sap Lake is exploring its mysterious flooded forests. These unique ecosystems not only provide vital flood control and water purification but also serve as habitats for countless species of fish, birds, and plants.

One of the best ways to experience the flooded forests is by kayaking. As you paddle through tranquil waterways, you’ll discover:

• Hidden corners of the forest, accessible only by boat

• Peaceful floating communities surrounded by water

• Scenic rice paddies and lush landscapes

• A variety of bird species nesting in the trees

For an unforgettable memory, end your half-day kayaking trip by watching the sunset over Tonle Sap Lake, when the sky reflects beautifully on the water.

Sunset or sunrise boat tours

One of the most memorable experiences when you visit Tonle Sap Lake is taking a sunrise or sunset boat tour. As the first or last light of the day reflects on the water, the lake transforms into a breathtaking canvas of gold, pink, and orange hues, creating a magical and unforgettable atmosphere.

A traditional wooden boat will take you across the calm waters, where you can:

• Admire the floating villages and fruit orchards bathed in warm light

• Witness daily rural life along the lake’s edge

• Capture stunning photos of Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake

• Enjoy light refreshments, such as cocktails and local snacks, while cruising

Travel tip: Sunset cruises are especially popular for a relaxing end to the day, while sunrise tours offer a quieter and more peaceful atmosphere with fewer crowds.

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What to eat in Tonle Sap: Best local cuisine

Tonle Sap isn’t just about floating villages and wildlife—it’s also a place to savor authentic Cambodian flavors. From freshly caught fish to traditional local dishes, tasting the cuisine here is one of the best ways to experience the lake’s culture and daily life. Savoring its cuisine is also a must-try things to do in Tonle Sap. So, don't wait, let's delve into!

Some recommended Tonle Sap restaurants for your trip

Where to eat when visit Tonle Sap Lake? This place is primarily known for its floating villages and unique way of life, but it doesn’t have a well-developed restaurant scene like larger cities in Cambodia. Most dining options around Tonle Sap are local eateries and simple restaurants.

• Chong Khneas Floating Restaurants: Chong Khneas is one of the most visited floating villages on Tonle Sap. Here, you can find floating restaurants that offer a variety of seafood, including grilled fish and prawns. These restaurants are often part of boat tours.

• Kompong Khleang Floating Restaurants: Another popular floating village on Tonle Sap, Kompong Khleang, also has floating restaurants where you can enjoy a meal while experiencing life on the water.

• Local Stilt Houses: Some villagers in the floating communities offer home-cooked meals in their stilt houses. This can be a unique and authentic dining experience, but it’s often arranged through local guides or tour operators.

• Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary: If you’re visiting the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary, you may find simple restaurants serving basic Cambodian dishes. The experience here is more about birdwatching than gourmet dining.

The dining options around Tonle Sap Lake are limited compared to larger cities like Siem Reap or Phnom Penh. The focus here is more on experiencing the local way of life and enjoying freshly caught seafood. If you’re looking for a wider variety of dining choices, it’s recommended to dine in nearby towns like Siem Reap before or after your visit to the lake.

The best time to visit Tonle Sap Lake

The best time to visit Tonle Sap Lake in Cambodia is during the dry season, which generally spans from November to April. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions for exploration and enjoying the lake’s unique features:

• November to February: This is the peak tourist season as the weather is cool and dry, making it ideal for sightseeing. The lake is at its lowest water levels during this time, which allows for more extensive exploration of the floating villages and a better chance to see various bird species.

• March to April: These months are also part of the dry season, with warm temperatures. It’s a good time to visit if you want to avoid larger crowds compared to the peak months of December and January.

Transportation in Tonle Sap: Some options guide

To experience all the best things when you visit Tonle Sap lake, considering to choose a suitable vehicle. Transportation in the Tonle Sap region, especially around the lake and the floating villages, primarily involves boats and watercraft due to the extensive waterways. Here are the main modes of transportation you’ll encounter.

Boats and Ferries

• Local wooden boats: Often small and covered with canopies, these are the backbone of transportation for villagers. They’re mainly used for short trips between floating villages, fishing spots, or local markets. Taking one of these offers a closer, authentic look at local life.

• Longtail boats: Equipped with outboard motors, these boats can cover longer distances and are popular with both locals and tourists. They’re a convenient way to explore multiple villages or even venture further into the flooded forests.

• Tourist boats: From Siem Reap, many tour operators arrange boat trips to the lake. You can choose between traditional wooden boats for a rustic feel or larger, more comfortable boats with shaded seating. These tours often combine sightseeing with activities like bird-watching or cultural visits.

💡 Tip: Try booking a community-run boat service—your contribution directly supports the local families living on the lake.

Floating Villages

Within the floating villages themselves, you’ll see plenty of tiny paddle-powered boats used for everyday chores like going to school, fishing, or shopping. Visitors can often hop into these smaller boats for a short ride, giving you an intimate view of life in these unique communities.

Walking and Biking

On the mainland villages surrounding Tonle Sap, walking or renting a bicycle is a pleasant way to explore. You’ll pass rice paddies, small pagodas, and bustling markets. However, remember that these modes of transport are only practical on land—not between villages on the lake.

Tuk-Tuks and Taxis

For travelers based in Siem Reap, tuk-tuks and taxis are the most common way to reach Tonle Sap’s departure points. Drivers are usually familiar with popular boat docks like Chong Khneas or Kampong Phluk, and many will wait to pick you up after your tour.

Tip: Negotiate the fare in advance or ask your hotel to help book reliable transport to avoid overpaying.

Some tips before going to Tonle Sap Lake