Climate & Seasonal Travel
The Dry Season (November – May)
Low water levels are never an issue at Tara Riverboats. While other operators might struggle, our specially designed flat-hulled boats ensure a safe and comfortable cruise regardless of the depth. Whether the lake is ten meters high or just one meter deep, we navigate the entire waterway effectively 365 days a year.
Our shallow draft allows us to get closer to the floating villages than larger vessels, offering you unique photo opportunities and access to hidden lake and river systems. While the dry season can be warm, all our boats provide full protection from the sun, ensuring you travel in total comfort.
Year-Round Routes: Siem Reap to Phnom Penh (and vice versa), the Mekong River, and the stilted villages of Kompong Phluk, Kompong Khleang, Prek Toal, Chong Khneas, and Mechrey.
A Note on Battambang: From February to July, we suspend our water tours between Battambang and Siem Reap. Navigating the upper Sangker River at this time is difficult and, in our view, unsafe. Unlike other operators who may transfer guests via uncomfortable trucks for the majority of the journey, we prioritize your safety and comfort—water travel on this route is best enjoyed from July to February.
Bird Watching: For the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary, we recommend visiting between August and March to witness the breeding season in full swing.
The Wet Season (June – October)
Don’t let the term “wet season” deter you—it is often the most beautiful time to visit Cambodia. The countryside comes alive with vibrant green fields and lotus flowers in full bloom.
Rain typically falls in short, localized bursts, often at night or briefly in the afternoon. These storms clear quickly, leaving behind the most spectacular “golden hour” sunsets you will ever see. Our fleet is fully protected from both sun and rain, so your tour remains seamless. As we like to say: “If you only sail on sunny days, you will never reach your destination.”
Responsible Travel & The Tonle Sap Biosphere
When exploring Cambodia, you may encounter beggars in the streets or on the lake. We kindly ask that you resist giving out cash, as this promotes a cycle of dependency. Instead, Tara Riverboats supports every village we visit by providing school supplies and clean water filtration systems in direct coordination with village chiefs.
The Tonle Sap Lake is currently facing challenges from climate change, upstream damming, and dwindling fish stocks. By participating in our eco-tours, you are making a positive impact. Your visit creates local employment, supports education, and aids in the conservation of this vital Biosphere Reserve.
Coming Soon: The Adventurer’s Slow Boat
We are excited to announce a new 3-day, 2-night slow boat journey from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh. This weekly departure will offer an immersive look at Kompong Phluk, Kompong Khleang, Kompong Chhnang, and several remote riverside towns.