Best time to visit Cambodia

Mekong River Boat Trip in Cambodia

Take a boat trip down the Mekong River and explore numerous Mekong Islands or head to Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam

Best time: July–November

Mekong River Boat Trip
Mekong River Boat Trip
Mekong River Boat Trip

Discover true rural Cambodia in a boat trip down the Mekong River. You can stop at any island on the way to cycle through orchards and market gardens and to learn about the lives of the people living there. The other option is to make a cruise straight to Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, which allows you to explore the Mekong River more. Expect to see traditional floating villages, fish farming and incredible natural landscapes on your way. It is recommended to take a cruise during the high water season from July to November.

Practical info

What is the best time to take a boat trip on the Mekong River in Cambodia?

To experience the most striking scenery and access more remote areas, high water season (July to November) is the best time to take a boat trip on the Mekong River in Cambodia. It makes navigation easier for boats as water levels are higher during this time. In addition to this, abundant fish and bird species can be seen and the surrounding jungle and vegetation are vibrant and lush. Show more

Can I cycle through orchards and market gardens on the Mekong Islands?

Travel enthusiasts can definitely enjoy cycling through orchards and market gardens if they are planning their visit to the Mekong islands. These places are home to a variety of fruit trees like mangoes, rambutan, durian and watermelons. The tourists can visit street markets during evenings and relish local food. Some biking tours allow bookers to explore local weaving and handicraft villages that offer unique cultural experiences and offer opportunities to buy authentic handicrafts and souvenirs. Show more

How can I learn more about the lives of the people living on the Mekong Islands?

Discovering more about the lives of people dwelling on the Mekong Islands can be rewarding for tourists. They can interact with the locals, especially the women vendors, and learn about their traditions and daily routines by visiting local markets. Travelers can also visit traditional silk weaving centers or local village schools and observe Cambodia's traditional practices and education system. An eco-tour offers visitors an insightful understanding of the cultivation of crops, as well as fisheries and aquatic farms, which play an important role in the economy of these small communities. Show more

Do I need to have a visa to enter Vietnam from Cambodia via Mekong River?

All visitors entering Vietnam from Cambodia via Mekong River must have a valid visa. Travelers can submit an application online or through the respective embassy. It is recommended that tourists confirm these necessary arrangements before their boat trip, especially if there are plans of stepping foot on Vietnamese shores. Along with valid passports, it is important to have all other necessary travel documents and vaccines in place before departure. Show more

What kind of natural landscapes and traditional floating villages can I expect to see during the boat trip?

The boat trip along the Mekong River is an excellent opportunity for visitors to witness stunning natural landscapes and traditional floating villages. The river, a peaceful and awe-inspiring path, courses through paddy fields, traditional villages, and jungles. People living in these villages depend on the river water for agriculture and fisheries, residing on boats along the riverbanks. This region harbors various national parks and reserves, where one can witness tigers, crocodiles, elephants, and other rare fauna in their natural habitats. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin