Day in a Life Authentic Village Experience in Siem Reap
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This responsible travel initiative is your chance to experience an authentic 'Day in a Life' in a real Cambodian Village, supporting HUSK Cambodia; it's an opportunity not to be missed!. Join a local family and spend a few hours walking in their shoes; help with a harvest, try your hand at rice planting, stitch palm leaf to repair homes, learn to drive a bullock cart and plant a tree! This full day responsible tour directly helps HUSK Cambodia to support the village by providing a sustainable income year round.
Available options
Day in a Life Authentic Village Experience in Siem Reap
What's included
Donation to HUSK Cambodia
Ox cart ride & all activities
Private tour
Khmer hot lunch, freshly prepared
Bottled water and cold towels
Professional English speaking guide
Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Transport by private vehicle
Hotel pickup, drop off at our centrally located office
What you'll see
Depart from Siem Reap and journey out to a local village where you will spend the day. The village sits around 16km from Siem Reap and consists of mostly farming families. Please note this is a real village not a replica set up for tourists to visit, as such you need to flexible, things can change, ceremonies may be running or events may be taking place in the village. We in no way want to impact on the traditional culture or practices in the village and so will adapt the tour if need be.
Host Family
Each tour works with one host family, who is a Type 1 Poor Family. Typically a type one family has no regular income source, and no savings. Families often miss meals and are very vulnerable to illness.
Activities
Activities on the tour may include planting rice, harvesting or transplanting rice depending on the time of year. Other activities include weaving thatch for roof repairs, weaving wall panels, planting vegetable crops, tree planting, making prahoc or rice wine. Every tour is different, activities will depend on the time of year, family needs and goings on in the village. On each tour you will also have the opportunity to plant a fruit tree for your host family. This will provide a future food and potential income source.
Village Life
Every tour welcomes you into the village. Learn about life in a typical village, visit the local Pagoda and school if possible. Find out about village customs and culture and gain new insights and experiences.
Lunch
A Khmer hot lunch is freshly prepared in the village, using ingredients prepared by our catering partner in Siem Reap. Your meal includes starter, main and fresh fruit for dessert. Lunch is normally enjoyed together with your host family, however sometimes they prefer to eat alone; please do not be offended by this. *
*Please note due to lack of electricity and proper sanitation we cannot source food from the village.
This Day in a Life Tour is part of Beyonds Responsible Tourism Initiative. Every tour directly helps a Type 1 village family. In addition every tour sets aside funding for projects in the village. Your participation directly helps Cambodian families.
*Please note providing gifts is a wonderful gesture but can cause issues of jealousy and lead to a begging cycle. If you would like to help please discuss this with tour staff who can provide information on the best way to make a meaningful difference. You may also visit www.huskcambodia.org
What's not included
Gratuities
Personal Expenses
Hotel drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.8
8 reviews
5★
7
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children 12-18 y.o must be accompanied by an adult
Please advise dietary requirements or allergies before arrival
Dress Code: Covered knees, covered shoulders and chest, sturdy footwear
Donations and handouts in the village are strictly forbidden; please discuss this with our staff or guide on the day
About Siem Reap
Siem Reap is the vibrant gateway to the ancient Angkor temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This charming city offers a blend of rich history, vibrant markets, and lush landscapes, making it a must-visit destination in Cambodia.
Top Attractions
Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This iconic temple complex is a masterpiece of Khmer architecture and a symbol of Cambodia.
Historical
Half to full day
USD 37 for 3-day pass
Angkor Thom
Angkor Thom is a walled city and the last capital of the Khmer Empire. It features several impressive temples, including the Bayon Temple with its famous smiling faces.
Historical
Half to full day
USD 37 for 3-day pass
Ta Prohm
Ta Prohm is a temple complex overgrown by jungle, featuring a unique blend of nature and architecture. It was famously used as a filming location for the movie 'Tomb Raider'.
Historical
1-2 hours
USD 37 for 3-day pass
Pub Street
Pub Street is the heart of Siem Reap's nightlife, offering a vibrant mix of bars, restaurants, and street food vendors. It's a great place to experience the city's lively atmosphere.
Entertainment
Evening
Free to explore, budget for food and drinks
Siem Reap Night Market
The Siem Reap Night Market is a bustling market offering a variety of local crafts, souvenirs, and street food. It's a great place to shop for unique gifts and experience local culture.
Shopping
1-2 hours
Budget to moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Amok
A creamy, coconut-based curry with fish, chicken, or tofu, steamed in banana leaves. It's a traditional Khmer dish with a unique flavor.
Main dish
Vegetarian options available
Nom Banh Chok
A popular breakfast dish consisting of rice noodles topped with a fish-based green curry gravy and fresh vegetables.
Breakfast
Vegetarian options available
Bai Sach Chrouk
Grilled pork served with broken rice and pickled vegetables. It's a popular breakfast dish in Cambodia.
Breakfast
Contains meat
Lok Lak
A stir-fried beef dish with a tangy lime and pepper sauce, served with rice and fresh vegetables.
Main dish
Contains meat
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Angkor Archaeological Park
Exploring the bamboo train in Battambang
Visiting spas and wellness centers
Enjoying a traditional Khmer massage
Exploring temples and historical sites
Attending traditional dance performances
Boat tours on Tonlé Sap Lake
Swimming in waterfalls
Best Time to Visit
November to February
The best time to visit Siem Reap is during the dry season when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the temples. The cooler temperatures make it comfortable for long days of sightseeing.
20-30°C
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Khmer
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Cambodian Riel (KHR)
Time Zone
Indochina Time (ICT), GMT+7
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Siem Reap is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of scams and overcharging.
- • Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas.
- • Use reputable tour operators and transportation services.
Getting there
By air
- Siem Reap International Airport • 5 km from city center
By bus
Siem Reap Virak Buntham Express Terminal, Siem Reap Giant Ibis Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Tuk-tuks are the most popular and affordable mode of transport in Siem Reap. They are widely available and can be negotiated for short or long trips.
Taxis
Available • Apps: PassApp, Grab
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Wat Bo
Wat Damnak
Sivatha
Day trips
Battambang
150 km from Siem Reap • Full day
Battambang is a charming colonial town known for its well-preserved French architecture, bamboo train, and nearby temples. It's a great destination for a day trip from Siem Reap.
Kampong Phluk
16 km from Siem Reap • Half day
Kampong Phluk is a floating village on the edge of the Tonlé Sap Lake. It offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the local community and the stunning natural beauty of the area.
Kbal Spean
25 km from Siem Reap • Half day
Kbal Spean is a remote archaeological site featuring ancient carvings and a beautiful river setting. It's a great destination for those looking to explore off-the-beaten-path attractions.
Festivals
Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey) • April 13-15 (dates vary)
Bon Om Touk (Water Festival) • November (dates vary)
Angkor Photo Festival • December (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide for the Angkor Archaeological Park to gain a deeper understanding of the temples' history and significance.
- Visit the temples early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat.
- Try local street food like nom banh chok and bai sach chrouk for an authentic culinary experience.
- Bargain for better prices at markets and street stalls, but do so respectfully and with a smile.
- Use a map app like Google Maps for navigation, as street signs can be limited and confusing.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
