Siem Reap to Phnom Penh Full-Day land/cruise tour (one way)

Traveling between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh is often considered a long haul—whether by road or boat, the journey can feel like a chore. But this full-day land and cruise tour changes the game. For $199 per person, you’ll enjoy a seamless, comfortable trip that combines the best of land scenery, river life, and a luxurious boat cruise, all in one package.

The experience kicks off with a luxury transfer in an air-conditioned Lexus or minivan, whisking you through Cambodia’s lush countryside to a river port—either Prek Kdam on the Tonle Sap River or Roka Kaong on the Mekong River, depending on weather conditions. The real highlight is stepping aboard the Mekong Tara Prince, a double-hulled, private cruiser originally owned by Cambodia’s royal family, which cruises you down either of these mighty rivers toward Phnom Penh.

What we love about this tour is the thoughtful combination of land and water travel—getting to see rural villages along the riverbanks and farmland from a comfortable boat, avoiding the tedium and unpredictability of crossing the lake. The BBQ buffet lunch on board, paired with unlimited drinks and two free alcoholic beverages, makes the day extra relaxing. And the knowledgeable guides help you understand regional culture and history along the way.

A small consideration: the tour operates in all weather conditions, so be prepared for sun or rain. Also, the walks along unpaved or uneven terrains mean it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with some walking.

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a mix of comfort, scenic beauty, and cultural insight, especially if they appreciate a smooth, hassle-free journey from one of Cambodia’s most iconic cities to its capital.

Key Points

• Comfortable transfer in luxury air-conditioned vehicles makes the journey pleasant.
• Scenic river cruise offers close-up views of rural Cambodia and local villages.
• Authentic experience of regional life, both on land and water.
• All-inclusive lunch, drinks, and guide service add value.
• Weather-proof operation means you travel rain or shine.
• Limited mobility considerations—not wheelchair accessible, some walking required.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Begins: From Siem Reap to the River Port

Your day starts at 8:00 am, with a hotel pickup, setting the tone for a smooth, stress-free trip. The vehicle—either a luxury Lexus or a minivan—is modern, air-conditioned, and comfortable, perfect for the roughly 4-5 hour drive through Cambodia’s scenic countryside. As you leave the bustling streets of Siem Reap behind, you’ll notice the landscape shifts to rice paddies, traditional villages, and lush greenery.

Many travelers appreciate the way the drive offers a glimpse into everyday Cambodian life. You might see farmers working their fields or children playing along the roadside, giving the trip a genuine local flavor that’s often missing on typical bus rides.

The River Meet-up: Connecting with the Waterway

Depending on weather conditions, you’ll arrive at either Prek Kdam on the Tonle Sap River or Roka Kaong on the Mekong River. This flexibility is crucial because water levels on these rivers can fluctuate, especially during the wet season. The change of meeting point also means you’ll experience different river environments—Tonle Sap, famous for its vast, shifting lake, or the bustling Mekong, one of Southeast Asia’s major arteries.

Once docked, you’ll be welcomed aboard the Mekong Tara Prince. This vessel is designed for comfort and intimacy, with a sleek double hull that allows it to come closer to riverbanks and navigate narrow waterways, offering you a more personal and immersive experience.

The Cruise: Scenic, Relaxed, and Informative

The cruise begins with a welcome drink as you settle in. The lunch buffet—a delicious BBQ with fresh seasonal fruits—awaits, served while the boat gently glides southward. The all-you-can-drink soft drinks and bottled water keep everyone refreshed, while the two free alcoholic drinks offer a relaxing additional touch.

As you cruise, you get an unobstructed view of Cambodian rural life—fishermen casting nets, villagers paddling boats, children waving from riverbanks. The guides are generally knowledgeable, pointing out interesting sights and explaining the significance of the river’s ecology and local livelihoods. Several reviews note the friendly, professional guides who enhanced the experience with insights into regional culture.

Traveling closer to the shoreline thanks to the vessel’s design means you see details often missed on larger, less maneuverable boats. You might explore narrow waterways or hidden nooks, adding a sense of discovery to your journey.

Arriving in Phnom Penh: A Smooth End

Expect to arrive around 5:30 pm at the Phnom Penh dock. From there, a free transfer to your hotel or guesthouse awaits, letting you unwind after an active day.

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What’s the Experience Really Like?

Many travelers comment on the balance of land and water—we loved how the drive through rural Cambodia set the context before stepping onto the boat. The cruise itself isn’t just a scenic ride; it’s an authentic glimpse into river life, with local villagers, floating markets, and traditional fishing all part of the scenery.

The lunch is described as tasty and filling, with some guests noting the well-prepared BBQ buffet that keeps them satisfied for the journey. The unlimited drinks and friendly staff make it a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for conversations or simply soaking in the views.

A common praise is for the professional guide service—they help explain the significance of the sights and keep the day running smoothly. As one reviewer put it, “The guides made the trip feel personal and informative, which added a lot to the experience.”

Practical Details: Transport, Timing, and Comfort

The transportation on this tour is key—modern, air-conditioned, and private. The timing from pickup at 8:00 am to arrival in Phnom Penh around 5:30 pm makes it a full but manageable day. Group sizes tend to be small, encouraging a more intimate experience, and the walks involved are along unpaved or uneven terrain, so some walking comfort is needed.

The price of $199 per person includes almost everything—meals, drinks, guide, and transfers—making it good value for those who want comfort, scenic beauty, and a taste of authentic Cambodia without the hassle of planning logistics themselves.

Flexibility and Booking

The tour operates rain or shine, so pack accordingly. If needed, you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility if your plans are uncertain. Cancellation is straightforward—up to 24 hours in advance—with a full refund, which adds peace of mind.

This tour suits adventurous travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic way to travel between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in local river life, want to avoid long road drives, or prefer a luxury cruise experience with included meals and drinks. It’s also great for those who value guided insights into regional culture and ecology, rather than just a transfer.

If you’re tired of the usual bus or car rides, this full-day land and river cruise offers a refreshing alternative that combines comfort with authentic sights. The scenic river views, local village scenes, and the luxury vessel all contribute to a memorable day.

It’s especially good for culture-curious travelers who want more than just transportation—who appreciate good food, professional guides, and a chance to see Cambodia’s rural and riverine worlds in one smooth journey. For those who dislike rough terrain walks or mobility challenges, be aware that some walking is involved, and it’s not wheelchair accessible.

This trip delivers a balanced, well-organized day that enriches your understanding of Cambodia’s landscape and people, all from the comfort of a luxurious boat and private vehicle.

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins with hotel pickup at 8:00 am and concludes around 5:30 pm upon arrival in Phnom Penh.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by adults; unaccompanied minors are not allowed. Some walking is involved, so consider your child’s comfort.

Is the cruise weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions, but the specific river meeting point (Tonle Sap or Mekong) depends on water levels and weather.

What is included in the price?
All fees and taxes, unlimited bottled water and soft drinks, two free alcoholic drinks, a BBQ buffet lunch, fresh seasonal fruits, a local guide, hotel transfers, and the cruise.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if specified at booking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there any walking involved?
Yes, some walking on unpaved or uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

What languages are available?
Guides speak Cambodian and English.

This full-day Siem Reap to Phnom Penh tour offers a unique way to see Cambodia’s riverside life without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. It’s a memorable, scenic, and cultural experience ideal for those wanting to combine the best of land and water in one seamless day.

You can check availability for your dates here: