Insights into Cambodia

DAY 1: Phnom Penh Arrival

Welcome to Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia! Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel for check-in (available from 2:00 PM).

If time allows this afternoon, we’ll take a brief orientation walk, followed by a scenic sunset cruise along the Tonle Sap and Mekong Rivers to witness the lively transformation of Phnom Penh’s bustling riverfront.

The evening is yours to explore the city at your leisure.

Summary of inclusions

• Private airport transfer
• Sunset cruise Mekong river
• Hotel in Phnom Penh

DAY 2: Phnom Penh Sightseeing

After breakfast, we begin our day with a visit to the National Museum, home to an impressive collection of Khmer art, featuring over 5,000 objects on display.

Next, we explore the Royal Palace, which includes the Royal Residence, the Throne Hall, and the Silver Pagoda – a treasure trove of cultural artifacts, including a 90-kg golden Buddha encrusted with 2,086 diamonds and a floor paved with silver tiles.

Our morning concludes with a visit to Wat Phnom Temple, one of Phnom Penh’s most significant pagodas, built in 1373 on an artificial hill by a wealthy widow named Penh, after whom the city is named.

This afternoon, we will visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, also known as S-21 Prison. Originally a secondary school, it was converted by the Khmer Rouge during their brutal regime from 1975 until their fall in 1979. An estimated 20,000 people were imprisoned, tortured, and forced to confess to so-called “revolutionary crimes” before being executed at the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, located 15 km south of Phnom Penh, which we will visit after Tuol Sleng. While this excursion can be distressing, it offers a crucial insight into Cambodia’s historical and cultural past.

The remainder of the day is free for you to spend at your leisure.

Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Sightseeing Phnom Penh
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Phnom Penh

DAY 3: Oudong – Kampong Chhnang – Battambang

Travel by private vehicle along scenic back roads to Oudong, Cambodia’s former capital, located about 40 km from Phnom Penh. Along the way, you’ll pass through rural villages, local pagodas, and picturesque rice paddies before arriving at Oudong’s main hill. Ascend the stupa-covered hill for stunning views over the surrounding countryside.

Continue your journey to Battambang, with stops to visit the silversmith village and pottery workshops in Kampong Chhnang.

Upon arrival in Battambang, check in to your hotel, and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure, exploring this charming river town with its fine examples of French-colonial architecture. Despite being Cambodia’s second-largest city, Battambang maintains a relaxed and easygoing atmosphere.

Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Sightseeing en route
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Battambang

DAY 4: Battambang explore

This morning, after breakfast, we’ll explore some of the town’s notable attractions, including the Provincial Museum (closed on Saturdays and Sundays), Wat Ek Phnom, and a local market where Prahok, the famous Cambodian fish paste, is made. We’ll also enjoy a scenic drive along the Sangker River to visit Wat Slaket Pagoda, the residence of the provincial Buddhist patriarch.

In the afternoon, we’ll head to Phnom Sampeau, or “Ship Hill” in Khmer, named for its distinctive shape. This is one of the few hills that rise from the otherwise flat plains. From the small temple atop the hill, you’ll be treated to fantastic views of the landscape, with its vast paddy fields, pagodas, and sugar palm trees.

Later, we’ll take a fun ride on the famous bamboo train, known locally as the “norry.” This unique form of transportation, created by the villagers, consists of a bamboo platform powered by a small motorcycle engine that runs along the railway tracks, offering a delightful journey through beautiful landscapes and rice paddies.

The evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Sightseeing Battambang
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Battambang

DAY 5: Sangker River & Tonle Sap Lake Cruise

After an early breakfast, embark on a speedboat journey along the Sangker River, crossing Tonlé Sap Lake en route to Siem Reap. The ride offers a fascinating glimpse into Cambodia’s heart, as you pass by Cheur Khmao Pagoda, also known as the “Black Wood Pagoda,” the flooded forests of the Prek Toal Biosphere Reserve, and the unspoiled landscapes and traditional daily-life scenes of floating villages.

Upon arrival in Siem Reap, check in to your hotel and take some time to rest.

Later in the day, enjoy a fun tuk-tuk ride around Siem Reap, where you’ll catch glimpses of local life and receive a blessing ceremony from Buddhist monks, wishing you safety, prosperity, and happiness on your journey.

Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Sangker river & Tonle Sap lake cruise
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Siem Reap

DAY 6: Angkor Discovery

This morning, we’ll delve into the wonders of Angkor Thom, the final and most enduring capital of the Khmer Empire. Our exploration includes the South Gate of Angkor Thom, the Bayon Temple with its 54 towers adorned with countless serene and enigmatic Buddha faces, the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Terrace of the Elephants, and the Terrace of the Leper King.

Next, we visit Ta Prohm, famously featured in Angelina Jolie’s film “Tomb Raider.” This temple is renowned for its dramatic overgrowth of giant fig trees and sprawling vines, which envelop the stone ruins and create a captivating image of nature reclaiming human architecture.

In the afternoon, we will explore Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world and a symbol of the Khmer Empire. With its five majestic towers representing the five holy peaks of Mount Meru, the abode of Hindu gods, Angkor Wat is also celebrated for its extensive Apsara carvings. The construction of this architectural marvel is believed to have taken around thirty years. Today, Angkor Wat is depicted on Cambodia’s national flag, symbolizing the soul of the Khmer people.

At sunset, Angkor Wat becomes even more enchanting, providing a serene and less crowded opportunity to admire the Apsaras in their most radiant light.

The evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Discover Angkor Complex
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Siem Reap

DAY 7: Angkor further discovery

After breakfast at the hotel, we will explore the Preah Khan temple complex, built by King Jayavarman VII to honor his father on the site of his victory over the invaders. The temple’s name, meaning ‘Holy Sword,’ reflects its original designation as ‘the Holy City of Victory.’ This extensive complex once served as a Buddhist monastery and school, housing over 1,000 monks.

Next, we will visit Neak Pean, a small island temple situated in the middle of the last Baray. This temple symbolizes Anavatapta, a mythical lake in the Himalayas believed to have healing powers.

In the afternoon, we will head to the Roluos Group, the site of Hariharalaya, the first capital of the Khmer Empire from the mid-9th century. The temples here are constructed from various materials, including bricks, laterite, and sandstone. We will explore notable temples such as Bakong, a stepped pyramid temple with intricate carvings, Lolei, an island temple with detailed carvings and inscriptions representing Mount Meru surrounded by the ocean, and Preah Ko, the Sacred Bull temple built to honor the King’s ancestors.

Return to the hotel, and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.

Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Angkor Discovery
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Siem Reap

DAY 8: Anlong Veng & Mountain landscapes

After breakfast at the hotel, we bid farewell to Siem Reap and set off on a scenic drive through the captivating countryside towards Preah Vihear, near the Cambodia – Thailand border. Along the way, we’ll make several stops to capture photos of the landscapes, visit local villages, and engage with the community.

Our journey includes a visit to Anlong Veng, located near the Thai border, which was the last stronghold of the Khmer Rouge in the 1990s before its ultimate collapse. Here, we’ll see the graves of the regime’s infamous leaders, Pol Pot and Ta Mok, and learn about the grim history of this genocidal organization. We’ll explore the ruins of their former homes, including the remnants of the structure where Pol Pot was tried for crimes against the Cambodian people. While the visit may be unsettling, it offers a deeper understanding of this dark chapter in Cambodia’s history and the importance of peace.

Continuing our drive to Sra Aem, we’ll be rewarded with stunning mountain landscapes and ample opportunities to capture the exceptional scenery.

Upon arrival, check in to the hotel, and enjoy the remainder of the day relaxing or exploring the town at your leisure.

Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Sightseeing en route
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Sra Aem

DAY 9: Preah Vihear Temple – Stung Treng

Wake up early for a drive up the spectacularly steep mountain road to Preah Vihear Temple, where you’ll witness a breathtaking sunrise.

Perched atop Poy Tadi, a steep cliff in the Dangrek Mountain range that forms the natural border between Cambodia and Thailand, this temple boasts the most stunning location of any Khmer site. Positioned 550 meters above Cambodia’s lowland plains, the temple offers sweeping views over the fertile lands of both Cambodia and Thailand. Dedicated primarily to the supreme god Shiva, Preah Vihear Temple took over 300 years to construct, with contributions from several notable Khmer kings, from Yasovarman in the 10th century to Suryavarman II in the 12th century. This long history has given the temple a blend of architectural styles, making it a truly unique site. Its spectacular location and design earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

After an unforgettable sunrise and time spent exploring this magnificent temple, we’ll descend and return to the hotel.

We then embark on an overland transfer to Stung Treng, the provincial capital of the same name. This friendly, quiet town lies at the confluence of the Sekong and Mekong Rivers. The town itself is nestled along the banks of the Sekong River, with the mighty Mekong joining the scene on the northeastern outskirts.

Upon arrival and hotel check-in, the remainder of the day is free for you to explore the town’s charms and laid-back atmosphere. Spend the night at a scenic nature lodge overlooking the river.

Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Preah Vihear sunrise
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Stung Treng

DAY 10: Mekong River Kayaking

After breakfast, embark on a northward journey along the Mekong River to the village of O Sway, near the Lao border. Here, you’ll begin a full-day kayaking adventure down the river, passing through the remote flooded forests of Cambodia’s remarkable Ramsar Wetlands. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to spot various bird species that inhabit these forests.

As you paddle along the mighty river, take in the stunning views of the landscape and water, all while enjoying the thrill of this adventure. A picnic lunch will be served en route.

Return to your accommodation in the evening.

Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Mekong river kayaking
• Breakfast & lunch
• Hotel in Stung Treng

DAY 11: Dolphin safari – Kratie explore

After breakfast, depart from Stung Treng and drive south along the Mekong, passing through charming villages until you reach Kampi, one of the best spots to view the rare Irrawaddy Dolphins. Board a local boat to watch these dolphins in their natural habitat – an experience perfect for capturing stunning photos of river life.

Upon arrival in Kratie, check in to your hotel.

Kratie is a vibrant riverside town known for its expansive riverfront, stunning Mekong sunsets, and rich legacy of French – era architecture.

In the afternoon, you’ll cross the river from Kratie to visit the island of Koh Trong. Explore the island by local horse cart or bicycle, participate in farming activities with the locals, sample fresh local fruits, and visit a floating village at the island’s southern tip. End the day by relaxing at a riverside drink stall, taking in the spectacular sunset over the Mekong.

Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Mekong dolphin safari
• Kratie country explore
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Kratie

DAY 12: Chup – Kampong Cham – Phnom Penh

After breakfast at the hotel, bid farewell to Kratie and drive south towards Phnom Penh. We’ll stop in Chup, Cambodia’s largest rubber plantation, for a brief visit where you’ll learn about the local community and their work here.

Next, cross the Mekong River to Kampong Cham for a lunch break. Kampong Cham, the capital of its province, is named after the large Cham ethnic community that lives there. The city exudes a relaxed atmosphere and quaint charm, featuring colonial French architecture and a genuine “wild west” feel.

Following lunch, we’ll visit the twin mountain temples of Phnom Bros and Phnom Srei, which translate to ‘Men’s Hill’ and ‘Women’s Hill’ in Khmer.

We’ll continue our journey to Phnom Penh, making stops along the way to explore local markets and villages. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.

Summary of inclusions

• Private vehicle
• Sightseeing Kampong Cham
• Breakfast
• Hotel in Phnom Penh

DAY 13: Chup – Kampong Cham – Phnom Penh