The Amazing World of Tonle Sap Lake

Description

All the great ancient civilizations formed in the valleys of major rivers. The capital district of Angkor grew near Lake Tonle Sap. Thanks to the arrival of meltwater from the mountains via the Mekong River, the lake expands to 12-14 thousand square kilometers during the rainy season. It shrinks to a third or a quarter of that size in the dry season. The water level difference can reach 7-10 meters. Traditionally, fishermen settled in the lake's floodplain. People are forced to adapt to nature and build incredibly tall stilts or floating homes.

The world of Lake Tonle Sap often amazes, and sometimes even shocks, the European visitor. From the city of Siem Reap, it is possible to visit one of the villages of your choice:

• The floating village of Vietnamese refugees, Chong Kneah. The whole trip takes about 3 hours. Along the way, there is an opportunity to visit the Pnom Krom temple on the hill using an Angkor ticket. It's a 20-minute journey from the city to the pier.
• The village of Kampong Phluk. Here, houses are mainly built on massive stilts. There is an opportunity to take a canoe ride through the submerged mangrove forest. It's a 40-minute journey to the pier.
• Kampong Kleang. The furthest and non-touristic village. Some houses stand on stilts, while others float.

Return to the hotel around 11:00 AM.

Included:

• Transfer from the hotel and back
• All transfers along the route are by air-conditioned minibus.
• English speaking guide
• Boat rental
• Water

Take with you:

• Headdress
• Sunscreen