Mechrey Floating Village, also known as Meychrey, is a tranquil and lesser-known destination located approximately 25 kilometers southwest of Siem Reap, Cambodia. Nestled on the northern edge of Tonle Sap Lake, it offers visitors an authentic glimpse into the traditional way of life on the water.
🛶 What to Expect
- Scenic Boat Tours: Departing from the Mechrey Pier, boat tours navigate through marsh-flanked canals, past the floating pagoda Wat Mechrey, and into the village’s northern and southern sections. The journey typically lasts around two hours.
- Cultural Insights: Experience the daily lives of the villagers, who rely on fishing and floating agriculture. The community’s resilience is evident as their homes and businesses adapt to the seasonal water levels of Tonle Sap Lake.
- Unique Attractions: Discover the floating cemetery and floating gardens, which showcase the community’s adaptation to their aquatic environment.
- Wildlife and Nature: Mechrey serves as an entry point to the Prek Toal Core Bird Reserve, home to over 100 bird species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
💰 Entrance Fees
- Standard Boat Tour: Approximately $20 USD per person, including the boat ride and tourism tax.
- Bird Sanctuary Tour: An additional $40 USD for a separate boat tour through the nature reserve, plus a $10 USD donation to the sanctuary.
- Entrance Fees $2.00/ per person
🚗 Getting There
Mechrey Floating Village is accessible by tuk-tuk or car from Siem Reap, with the journey taking about 1 to 1.5 hours. The Mechrey Pier, located in Kaev Poar Commune of Puok District, serves as the departure point for boat tours.
🌿 Responsible Travel Tips
- Support Local Initiatives: Opt for tours operated by reputable local companies, such as Prek Toal Tours, which reinvest profits into community development projects.
- Be Cautious with Donations: Avoid purchasing rice or other items from vendors claiming to support local children, as these may not reach the intended recipients. Instead, consider donating directly to organizations like The Lake Clinic, which provides medical services to communities on Tonle Sap Lake.
📸 Photography Tips
The village is particularly photogenic during the wet season (June to November), when the houses are surrounded by water and the landscape is lush and vibrant. Early morning or late afternoon light provides the best conditions for capturing the beauty of Mechrey.