Oudong and Koh Chen Island – Full Day Cruise & Tour with English speaking guide

An Authentic Day Exploring Cambodia’s Heart: Oudong and Koh Chen Island Tour

Thinking about how to experience Cambodia beyond the usual temples and bustling markets? This full-day tour from Phnom Penh combines scenic river cruising, visits to a craftsman village, and a trek up Oudong mountain with its impressive collection of Buddha statues and a royal stupa. Priced at $110 per person and lasting around eight hours, it offers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation, all with an English-speaking guide leading the way.

What we love most about this tour is how it offers a personalized feel — with a maximum of ten travelers, you get plenty of attention and insightful commentary. The boat cruise along the Tonle Sap River is relaxing and gives a genuine glimpse into local livelihoods along the riverbank, while the visit to Koh Chen is a delightful peek into Cambodia’s traditional silver craft scene. Plus, the trip up Oudong mountain provides stunning views and a sense of spiritual connection that few other experiences can match.

A potential consideration? The climb up Oudong mountain involves steps, which might be tiring for some. But the reward — panoramic scenery and a chance to see countless Buddha statues — makes it worthwhile for those willing to stretch their legs.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy authentic cultural encounters, scenic vistas, and a mix of land and water adventures. If you appreciate knowledgeable guides and good value for money in a small group setting, this trip is a superb choice.

Key Points

• Intimate Group Size: Limited to ten, ensuring personalized attention
• All-Inclusive: Entrance fees, lunch, drinks, and boat cruise included
• Authentic Experiences: Floating villages, silver crafts, and Buddha statues
• Spectacular Scenery: River views, mountain vistas, and cultural landmarks
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup/drop-off and smooth transportation
• Physical Aspect: Climb involved on Oudong mountain, so be prepared

A Deep Dive into the Experience: What’s on Offer

Starting Point and Logistics

Your day begins early at 7:30 am with hotel pickup — a plus if you want to avoid the hassle of finding your own way. The tour kicks off from a centrally located meeting point in Phnom Penh, with a comfortable transfer to the river. With a maximum of ten travelers, you’ll find yourself in a roomier, more relaxed atmosphere than typical big-group tours.

The Memorable Cambodia River Cruise

The highlight for many is the boat cruise along the Tonle Sap River, which lasts about two hours. It’s a peaceful way to see the river’s life firsthand. We loved the way the boat ride doubles as a moving observation deck — watching floating fishing villages and local boats plying their trade. Reviewers frequently mention how this part of the day felt “peaceful” and “relaxing,” with plenty of opportunities for photography.

One guest, Gwen, raved about the professional and friendly staff, noting that “the boat ride was very relaxing and enjoyable.” Another appreciated the refreshing fruits provided on board, making the journey even more pleasant.

Koh Chen: Silver Craft Village

After the cruise, the tour takes you by Tuk Tuk to Koh Chen, a village renowned for its silversmithing. Here, you’ll stroll through narrow streets filled with shopfronts showcasing jewelry, souvenirs, and traditional craftwork. Several reviews mention that the guide provides informative commentary, and you can see artisans at work.

Daniella described it as a chance to enjoy some retail therapy and learn about local craftsmanship. Many travelers find this stop both educational and fun—an authentic insight into Cambodia’s artisanal traditions.

Climbing Oudong Mountain

Next up is the Tuk Tuk ride to Oudong mountain, the former royal capital of Cambodia. Here, you’ll visit a collection of Buddha statues — with some reviews citing up to 5,000 statues — and the stupa containing the remains of former kings.

While some mention that the climb involves steps, the views from the top are widely praised. Gwen shared that “the climb up the Oudong mountain is worth it,” emphasizing the panoramic vistas and the spiritual significance of the site. Be prepared for some physical exertion, but most agree that the experience is meaningful and inspiring.

Lunch and Refreshments

Included in the tour is a delicious Khmer-style lunch at a local restaurant, with unlimited beer and soft drinks plus fresh fruit. Reviewers consistently mention how tasty and plentiful the food is, often saying it was one of the best meals during their Cambodia trip.

End of Day and Return

After a full day of sightseeing, the tour concludes back at the starting point around 3:30 to 4 pm, making it a manageable and well-paced day. The hotel drop-off ensures convenience, especially after a busy day of walking and boat rides.

Why This Tour Offers Excellent Value

At $110, the price includes a lot: entrance fees, transportation, a boat cruise, lunch, drinks, and guided commentary. Many reviews highlight the value for money, noting that the personal attention and the combination of activities make it worth every dollar.

The small group size means you’ll get more personalized interactions, and the local guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. This setup creates an immersive and authentic experience that larger, more impersonal tours often lack.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys culture, colorful scenery, and a mix of land and water activities, this trip will suit you well. The small group nature makes it ideal for travelers who want a more intimate experience, with plenty of room for questions and photos.

It’s especially perfect if you’re interested in local craftsmanship, Buddhist sites, or simply want a scenic, leisurely day outside the busy city. Keep in mind, the climb up Oudong mountain involves stepping, so it’s best for those with a reasonable level of mobility and fitness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts around 8 hours, starting at 7:30 am and ending in the early afternoon.

What is included in the price?
Entrance fees, hotel pickup and drop-off, boat cruise, lunch, unlimited beer and soft drinks, fresh fruit, tuk tuk rides, and an English-speaking guide.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate. However, the climb up Oudong mountain involves steps, so those with mobility issues may find it challenging.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for climbing, sun protection, camera, and perhaps a small amount of cash for souvenirs or additional snacks.

Are there any additional costs I should expect?
Not unless you choose to buy extra souvenirs or street food outside the included stops.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the best time to book?
On average, this tour is booked about 33 days ahead, so early booking is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Phnom Penh offers a well-rounded glimpse into Cambodia’s river life, traditional crafts, and spiritual heritage. The combination of scenic boat rides, authentic village visits, and cultural landmarks makes for a memorable and educational day. The small group setting and inclusive pricing make it especially appealing for travelers seeking personal attention and good value.

If you’re looking to experience Cambodia beyond the temples — with a touch of local life and scenic vistas — this tour hits the mark. It’s suited for curious travelers, lovers of cultural crafts, and those who appreciate a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities for photography and reflection.

While the climb up Oudong might require some effort, the rewarding views and tranquil atmosphere make it a highlight. The tour’s expert guides, delicious lunch, and beautiful scenery ensure that you come away with a genuine appreciation for Cambodia’s diverse heritage.

In short, this is a thoughtfully designed day trip that balances adventure, culture, and comfort — a worthwhile addition to your Cambodia itinerary.