War Museum, Killing Field and Floating village (Kampong Kleang)

Exploring Cambodia’s Hidden Corners: War Museum, Killing Field, and Kampong Kleang Floating Village

This tour offers a compelling mix of culture, history, and local life in Cambodia. For around $86 per person, you’ll spend roughly 7 to 8 hours exploring some of the most meaningful sights near Siem Reap. From the bustling local markets to a floating village on the Tonle Sap, and somber reminders of the Khmer Rouge, this experience packs a lot into one day.

One of the things we really appreciate about this tour is the focus on authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences. Visiting Kampong Kleang, with its houses on stilts and fish farms, gives a genuine glimpse into rural Cambodian life — especially since most travelers don’t get to see this part of the countryside. The inclusion of poignant sites like the Wat Thmey Killing Fields adds a deeply human element, providing context and reflection on Cambodia’s complex history.

However, a potential consideration is the somewhat packed schedule, especially if you’re sensitive to long travel times or prefer a more relaxed pace. The tour involves a mix of outdoor walking, boat rides, and visiting sites that could be emotionally intense. Still, it’s well-suited for travelers looking to deepen their understanding of Cambodia beyond Angkor Wat.

This tour appeals best to those with an interest in history, culture, and authentic local experiences. It offers a balanced blend of education, cultural insight, and community life, making it a meaningful addition to any Cambodia itinerary.

Key Points

Authentic rural experience: Visiting the largest floating village, Kampong Kleang, offers a rare look at rural Cambodian life on the Tonle Sap.
Deep historical insights: The War Museum and Killing Fields provide important, sobering perspectives on Cambodia’s recent past.
All-inclusive convenience: The tour includes transportation, guide, boat ride, and some snacks, delivering good value for the price.
Flexible and private: Only your group will participate, making it more personalized and comfortable.
Longer day, meaningful rewards: Expect a full day with a mix of outdoors, history, and culture—perfect for curious travelers.
Potential emotional impact: The Killing Fields and War Museum may evoke strong feelings, so be prepared for a reflective experience.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Kampong Kleang Floating Village

After an early start, you’ll head about 50 km southeast of Siem Reap — roughly an hour’s drive — into the countryside. We loved the way this part of the tour immerses you in everyday life, away from the tourist crowds. Kampong Kleang, home to over 10,000 residents, is a lively community where most people fish, farm, trade, and even host a few travelers.

The drive itself is a highlight, with stops to taste Kralan, a local snack of bamboo sticky rice, which is surprisingly delicious. The countryside scenery along the way adds a relaxed, rural charm. Once at the village, you’ll see houses perched on stilts up to 8 meters high, shops, and a school — all built to adapt to seasonal changes in water levels. If you visit during the dry season, you can walk through the village; during the wet season, a boat ride is the best way to explore.

Many reviews mention how eye-opening it is to see how locals live in such a unique environment. Some travelers noted that the fish farms and floating structures make for fascinating photo opportunities. Expect about four hours here, with time to absorb the sights and sounds of daily life.

War Museum Cambodia

Next, the journey takes you back to Siem Reap for a sobering visit to the War Museum. This spot houses military vehicles and weapons from Cambodia’s long civil war, offering a tangible connection to the country’s tumultuous recent past. It’s not just a static display; your guide, possibly someone like Mr. Sokha, who shared his own life experiences during the conflict, makes this part more personal and impactful.

While the admission isn’t included ($5 per person), many find the museum’s collection insightful, especially if you’re interested in understanding Cambodia’s unique history. Expect a two-hour visit that balances history with personal storytelling, giving context to Cambodia’s resilience.

Wat Thmey (Killing Fields)

The final stop is the Wat Thmey Killing Fields, a site filled with both historical significance and emotional weight. The guide will share personal stories about the Khmer Rouge period, helping you grasp the scale and human cost of the atrocities that took place. The entrance fee is $3, but what really makes this site powerful is the atmosphere and the stories shared.

Visitors often describe this as a moving experience — one that prompts reflection. The site features memorials and mass graves, and some reviews mention how their guide’s personal anecdotes added depth to the visit.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transport: Comfortable AC vehicles, such as a minivan or minibus, are used to shuttle between sites. The journey is well-paced, with stops for snacks and photo breaks.
Timing: The tour begins at 8:30 am, so plan on an early start. Expect the entire day to be spent outdoors, with some emotional moments at the Killing Fields.
Group Size: This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for a more tailored experience and easier questions.
Price and Value: At $86, the tour offers a lot of value — transportation, a guide, boat rides, and entrance fees are included or optional, making it a comprehensive experience.
Additional costs: Entrance fees to the War Museum and Killing Fields are extra, but they are modest ($5 and $3, respectively). Food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.

Accessibility: While most travelers can participate, be prepared for some walking and boat rides that could be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Booking: Most travelers book about 48 days in advance, reflecting its popularity among those wanting a meaningful day outside major temples.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This full-day experience is ideal for travelers who want to go beyond Angkor Wat and gain a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s history and rural life. If you’re interested in seeing how locals live in floating villages, and also want to learn about Cambodia’s darker past in a respectful, informative way, this tour hits the mark. The private format makes it more intimate, perfect for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers seeking a personalized experience.

It’s a good choice for those comfortable with some emotional weight, as the Killing Fields can be quite moving. The inclusion of local snacks, storytelling, and rural scenery also makes it a well-rounded cultural day out. For budget-conscious travelers, the price is reasonable considering the transportation and guided insights.

All in all, this tour offers a balanced mix of education, culture, and authentic life — a genuine way to connect with Cambodia’s story and its people.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes transport in an AC vehicle, minivan, or minibus, making the journey comfortable and stress-free.

What is the start time? The tour begins at 8:30 am, so an early departure is recommended to fit everything in.

Are entrance fees included? Entrance fees for the War Museum ($5) and Killing Fields ($3) are not included, but they are modest. The boat ride and visit to Kampong Kleang are included in the price.

How long is the tour? Expect around 7 to 8 hours, depending on pace and time spent at each site.

Is this a group or private tour? It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate for a more personalized experience.

What should I wear? Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor walking and warm weather. Respectful attire is advised at memorial sites.

Are food and drinks included? No, but bottled water is provided, and you might want to bring snacks or a packed lunch.

Is the tour suitable for children? Most travelers can participate, but be mindful of the emotional impact at the Killing Fields and the physical activity involved.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time, with a full refund.

What makes this tour worth it? The combination of rural life, historical sites, and personal stories provides a meaningful, well-rounded perspective of Cambodia that’s hard to find elsewhere.

This experience offers a thoughtful, engaging look at Cambodia’s diverse realities. Whether you’re a history buff, a curious traveler, or someone seeking authentic cultural insights, this full-day tour provides a well-balanced, respectful exploration of Cambodia’s past and present.