Samatoa Lotus Farm
Discover the magic of lotus silk at Samatoa, a sustainable farm offering unique tours, workshops, and a peaceful escape near Siem Reap.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Greenery blooms, pleasant temps
Samatoa Lotus Farm
Best Time
Greenery blooms, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the magic of lotus silk at Samatoa, a sustainable farm offering unique tours, workshops, and a peaceful escape near Siem Reap.
"A hidden gem in Siem Reap – the magical lotus farm experience!"
🚲 Cycle for an Adventure
Cycle from Siem Reap (approx. 30 mins) for a scenic and eco-friendly arrival, but mind the heat! :athletic_shoe:
🍵 Savor Local Flavors
Enjoy complimentary lotus tea and pastries after your tour. A delightful taste of the farm's produce. :tea:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lotus Fiber to Fabric Tour
Witness the magical transformation of lotus plants into luxurious, eco-friendly fabric. A truly unique and sustainable craft.
Hands-on Workshops
Engage in fun, quick workshops like making lotus bead bracelets. A perfect souvenir and a creative experience.
Relaxing Lotus Tea & Pastry
Sip refreshing lotus tea and enjoy a delicious coconut & lotus pastry amidst serene farm surroundings.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
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Embrace the Local Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Cycle for an Adventure
Cycle from Siem Reap (approx. 30 mins) for a scenic and eco-friendly arrival, but mind the heat! :athletic_shoe:
🍵 Savor Local Flavors
Enjoy complimentary lotus tea and pastries after your tour. A delightful taste of the farm's produce. :tea:
🛍️ Support Sustainable Fashion
The on-site shop offers beautiful, handcrafted lotus silk products. A worthwhile splurge for unique souvenirs. :shopping_bags:
🤝 Empower Local Women
Your visit supports a sustainable initiative that empowers local women through employment. :raised_hands:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Cycle for an Adventure
Cycle from Siem Reap (approx. 30 mins) for a scenic and eco-friendly arrival, but mind the heat! :athletic_shoe:
🍵 Savor Local Flavors
Enjoy complimentary lotus tea and pastries after your tour. A delightful taste of the farm's produce. :tea:
🛍️ Support Sustainable Fashion
The on-site shop offers beautiful, handcrafted lotus silk products. A worthwhile splurge for unique souvenirs. :shopping_bags:
🤝 Empower Local Women
Your visit supports a sustainable initiative that empowers local women through employment. :raised_hands:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Samatoa Lotus Farm as a unique, peaceful, and sustainable experience. The guided tours are highly informative, showcasing the intricate process of lotus silk production, and the on-site workshops offer a fun, hands-on element. Many appreciate the farm's commitment to empowering local women and its eco-friendly practices, making it a truly meaningful visit.
"This lotus farm isn’t far from Siem Reap, you can even reach it by bicycle in about 30 minutes (as long as it’s not too hot). It’s the perfect place to relax, especially just after the rainy season (November to February), when everything is green and full of life. You can rest in a small wooden hut (the kind locals often use), order some food, and even take a nap if you’d like. It’s quiet, peaceful, and feels very local, not many tourists around, which makes the experience more authentic and calm. A great little escape into nature."
RRJ
"🌸 A Hidden Gem in Siem Reap – The Magical Lotus Farm Experience! 🌱
Looking for something meaningful, relaxing, and culturally rich to do in Siem Reap? This lotus farm is an absolute must-visit – a stunning place where nature, tradition, and sustainability come together beautifully.
From the moment the tour started, I was captivated by our guide’s storytelling. They walked us through the entire process of how the humble lotus plant is transformed into luxurious, eco-friendly fabric – and let me tell you, it’s mind-blowing. The patience, passion, and precision that go into creating lotus fiber are truly admirable. It gave me a whole new appreciation for the art of slow, sustainable fashion.
After the mini tour, we got to enjoy a refreshing cup of lotus tea, produced right on the farm, paired with a delicious coconut & lotus pastry. The perfect treat to enjoy while soaking in the peaceful surroundings.
🎨 They also offer quick and fun workshops – ideal if you’re traveling with friends, family, or a partner. You get hands-on with lotus crafts and take home something special you made yourself!
Whether you're into eco-tourism, cultural immersion, or just want to try something unique and relaxing, this place is a beautiful reminder of how nature can inspire creativity and conscious living."
Bea Banaag
"Visiting Lotus Silk Farm was such a special experience. As someone who travels a lot, this felt truly authentic. The ladies who guided the tour were so kind and explained everything with such care. The whole process is entirely sustainable, which makes you appreciate the craft even more. The shop at the end has beautiful pieces that are a bit of a splurge, but honestly so worth it. Highly recommend!"
Katerina Tourkot
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can cycle to Samatoa Lotus Farm, which takes about 30 minutes from Siem Reap, offering a scenic route. Taxis or tuk-tuks are also readily available for a more comfortable journey, especially during hotter parts of the day.
The farm is located approximately a 25-minute drive from Siem Reap city center, making it an accessible half-day trip.
Many visitors enjoy cycling to the farm for a more immersive experience, but taxis or tuk-tuks are convenient options. Consider the weather when choosing your transport.
Public transport options are limited. It's best to arrange a private taxi, tuk-tuk, or cycle to reach the farm directly.
While the farm doesn't typically offer transport services, they are easily reachable by local transport providers from Siem Reap.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tours are often booked through platforms like GetYourGuide, which include entry and a guided experience. It's advisable to book in advance to secure your spot.
The farm is generally open during daylight hours, but specific tour times and workshop availability can vary. It's best to check their schedule or booking platform for exact times.
Tour prices can vary, but they often include a guided walk, a tasting of lotus tea and pastries, and sometimes a small craft activity. Booking in advance is recommended.
While tours are the primary way to experience the farm and learn about the process, you can often visit the shop and enjoy the grounds. However, a guided tour is highly recommended for the full experience.
Discounts are not commonly advertised, but booking through certain platforms or as part of a package might offer savings. It's always worth checking for promotions.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Expect an insightful guided tour explaining the sustainable process of harvesting lotus flowers and transforming them into fiber and fabric. You'll also enjoy lotus tea and pastries.
Yes, Samatoa Lotus Farm offers quick and fun workshops, such as making lotus bead bracelets, which are great for hands-on cultural experiences.
Absolutely! The farm is described as a peaceful and quiet escape, perfect for relaxing in a small wooden hut and enjoying the natural surroundings.
The lotus flower is central to the farm's operation, as its fibers are sustainably harvested to create unique textiles, showcasing a remarkable natural process.
Yes, there is a shop at the farm where you can purchase beautiful, handcrafted lotus silk products, which are a bit of a splurge but considered worth it.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The farm offers delicious coconut and lotus pastries, often paired with their refreshing, farm-produced lotus tea.
While they offer delightful snacks like pastries and tea, the focus is on these treats rather than full meals. It's a perfect spot for a light refreshment.
Yes, the lotus tea and pastries are produced right on the farm, highlighting the use of local ingredients and farm produce.
The coconut and lotus pastry is likely vegetarian. For specific dietary needs, it's best to inquire directly with the farm staff.
The cost for the lotus tea and pastries is generally reasonable and often included with a tour or workshop booking.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, the farm offers beautiful, serene surroundings with lush greenery and lotus ponds, making it a picturesque spot for photography.
The lotus ponds, the traditional wooden huts, and the areas where the silk-making process is demonstrated are excellent for capturing unique shots.
Photography is generally allowed during the tour, allowing you to capture the intricate details of the lotus fiber and fabric creation process.
While generally permitted, it's always polite to ask guides or staff before taking close-up photos of individuals or specific processes.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for photography, and also coincide with the most pleasant temperatures for visiting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the farm is peaceful, the open spaces and natural beauty can be enjoyable for kids. It's a great opportunity to introduce them to sustainable practices and the importance of craftsmanship in a relaxed setting. Remember to consider the heat if cycling, and ensure children stay hydrated. The farm's tranquil atmosphere makes it a pleasant outing for the whole family.
🌿 Eco-Conscious Travelers
Your visit directly supports an initiative that empowers local women, offering them fair employment and valuable skills. This social impact, combined with the environmental consciousness, makes Samatoa a truly meaningful destination. It’s a chance to engage with a business that prioritizes both people and the planet.
🎨 Art & Craft Enthusiasts
Participating in the workshops provides a hands-on opportunity to engage with the craft, creating a personal memento. The shop also features beautifully crafted items, showcasing the artistry of the local artisans. It’s an ideal place to appreciate unique textiles and the dedication behind them.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Lotus Silk
The journey from lotus flower to finished textile is a testament to patience and skill. The fibers are carefully extracted from the lotus stems, then spun and woven by hand. This meticulous approach results in a fabric that is incredibly soft, breathable, and has a unique sheen. Visitors can witness this entire process firsthand during guided tours, gaining a deep appreciation for the slow fashion movement and the dedication of the artisans.
This commitment to sustainability and ethical production is a core value of Samatoa. By supporting the farm, visitors are not only experiencing a unique cultural craft but also contributing to an initiative that empowers local women and promotes environmentally responsible practices. The resulting products, from scarves to garments, are not just beautiful but also carry a story of conscious creation.
A Peaceful Retreat
Guests can unwind in traditional wooden huts, reminiscent of local dwellings, while enjoying refreshments like the farm's signature lotus tea and delicious pastries. This setting provides a perfect opportunity to rest, reflect, and connect with nature. The unhurried pace of the farm encourages visitors to slow down and appreciate the simple beauty of their surroundings.
Many reviewers highlight the authentic, local feel of the farm, noting that it's not overrun with tourists. This allows for a more personal and immersive experience, where one can truly soak in the tranquility and the natural charm of the place. It’s a hidden gem that offers a meaningful and calming interlude during a trip to Siem Reap.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit