This morning after breakfast we transfer out from Siem Reap towards the vast wetlands on the edge of Asia's largest freshwater lake, the Tonle Sap. The lake's size and depth increases with the annual monsoon rains by as much as six times and local people have found ingenious ways to live with the ever changing water world. Whilst most visitors head directly south to the crowded stilted villages, we will take you south-west to the quiet floating village of Mechrey. Once we reach the end of the road, we board a traditional local boat on which we cruise down toward the village. Close to the village, our specialist guide will provide a safety briefing before we slip into the water aboard our kayaks. Glide through the waterways which make up the streets of the floating village and witness the lives of the locals who rely on this diverse ecosystem for their living. Explore the surrounding flooded forests and mangroves before venturing out to the edges of the great lake, which in fact resembles a sea. (1-1.5 hours in duration). We'll head back to Siem Reap around lunchtime and the afternoon is free time at leisure. In the evening, you will be collected to attend the famous Phare, The Cambodian Circus. More than just a circus, Phare performers use theatre, music, dance and modern circus arts to tell uniquely Cambodian stories; historical, folk and modern. The young circus artists will astonish you with their energy, emotion, enthusiasm and talent.
Note: during the dry season Feb to Aug/Sept the kayak tour may not be available and so an alternative itinerary will be provided.
Accommodation: Baitong Heritage Hotel or similar
Meals: B