"Two roads diverged in a wood and I, I took the one less travelled by and that has made all the difference."
- Robert Frost
- Robert Frost
Prek Toal
Prek Toal is one of the most important Siem Reap attractions that exist today, and it's importance reaches far further than the region, even the country. Prek Toal is actually a floating village - one of the most impressive of all the floating villages and gifted with one of the most stunning locations on the whole of the vast Tonlé Sap lake, but it's also unique in that it is home to the largest freshwater bird sanctuary in the whole of Southeast Asia which is the destination for some of the biggest migrations of endangered species in the world. What adds to it's charm is the fact that you can visit the surroundings which include markets, pagodas, fishing communities, floating forests, mangroves and much more, while still spotting rare endangered birds flying overhead or resting in the branches of the lake's trees.
For those in the know, some of the species that can be spotted include pelicans, storks, ibis, adjuncts, and some very impressive eagles. Massive flocks of birds descend upon Prek Toal due to its unique biosphere and perfect breeding and hunting ground for birds. The dry season is when it's especially busy. For photographers and nature lovers this place is a must, and for those who may wish to spot birds by night accommodation is available within the lake, and a journey to nearby Sangkar river and other nearby surroundings is highly recommended.
How much does it cost?
The price of a single day long visit for one person is US 50, or US 70 for two people, which includes a boat trip around the village, it's surroundings, and of course the sanctuary itself. You will have to pay transport to the site from Siem Reap.
Fish Eagle - above Prek Toal village
When should I go and how long do I need?
Prek Toal is a wonderful place to visit at any time of the year. Both rainy and dry seasons have different advantages; in the dry season there are more birds to spot, and in the wet season the lake is higher and more dramatic as a backdrop to the village. A full day will allow you the chance to see the site in its entirety.
What else can I see?
We'd recommend giving a full day to Prek Toal, but if you are pushed for time you can pick from a wide range of attractions on the Tonlé Sap lake such as Kompong Khleang or Kompong Phluk for example, or even some of the temples from the Roluos Group.
Purple Swamphen - Porphyrio porphyrio virdis
Prek Toal reviewed on TripAdvisor
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