Day 1 Siem Reap & Kampong Pluk Floating Village
Upon your arrival, a friendly guide will be waiting to welcome you at the airport and assist with your transfer to the hotel. After checking in, you’ll have a moment to refresh and unwind before embarking on an exciting adventure. Meet your guide in the hotel lobby, and get ready for your first destination!
Important Note: Hotel check-in time begins at 14:00. Early check-in may be available, but is subject to hotel capacity and could incur an additional fee.
Next, you’ll be taken to the boat pier for a private boat transfer to Kampong Pluk, a vibrant village located approximately 20 km southeast of Siem Reap Town.
Here, you’ll discover a unique community of over 3,000 inhabitants, primarily Khmer people, who live in charming wooden and bamboo houses elevated on stilts between 6 to 7 meters high. During the dry season, when the water levels are low, these stilted homes appear like towering skyscrapers against the landscape. Many villagers adapt to these conditions by temporarily migrating to the lake, constructing provisional stilted homes to accommodate their needs. As the wet season arrives and the water levels rise, they return to their permanent homes on the floodplain, as their stilts gracefully disappear beneath the water’s surface. The community thrives on fishing, producing an array of delicacies such as fish paste, fermented fish, smoked fish, dried fish, and dried prawns.
Upon arriving in the village, you’ll have the opportunity to explore these fascinating ways of life. Engage in heartwarming conversations with local children during a private English class and stop by Buddhist Island to admire beautiful Buddha paintings.
As your day winds down, indulge in a delicious buffet dinner complete with a captivating Apsara dance show, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Cambodia (included in your package). This enchanting evening will leave you with lasting memories of your extraordinary adventure!
Day 2 Siem Reap – Angkor Temple Tour
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel, fuel your spirit for a day steeped in history and splendor. Your first stop is the ancient city of Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Great Khmer Empire, flourishing under the reign of the illustrious King Jayavarman VII. As you approach, take in the grandeur of the 8-meter high walls encircling the city, forming a perfect square, a testament to the ingenuity of the Khmer civilization.
Enter through the awe-inspiring South Gate, a stunning stone entrance adorned with intricate carvings of elephants and the four giant faces gazing serenely across the land. On either side, a captivating row of 54 gods and demons grips the sacred Naga snake, setting the stage for the wonders that lie ahead.
Venture into the heart of Angkor Thom and behold the magnificent Bayon Temple. This 12th-century masterpiece, famous for its 54 towers topped with enigmatic faces, represents the 54 provinces of the Great Khmer Empire. Each stone face whispers stories of days gone by, inviting you to lose yourself in their mysteries. Nearby, the impressive Baphuon Temple, the ethereal Phimean Akas Temple, the Elephant Terrace, the Leper King Terrace, and the remnants of the Royal Palace beckon with their intricate bas-reliefs and historical significance.
After a morning filled with exploration, return to town for a leisurely lunch, where you can relish the delightful fusion of Cambodian and Western cuisine ensuring both taste and comfort. (Included in the price)
In the afternoon, embark on a journey to Ta Prohm Temple, a stunning example of the Bayon style, constructed in the late 12th and early 13th centuries. Unlike many other temples, Ta Prohm has been left in a wondrously natural state, with colossal fig and silk cotton trees entwined around its once-majestic walls. These towering giants create a mystical atmosphere, perfect for those Instagram-worthy shots of “trees in temples.”
Then, prepare to be awed by Angkor Wat, an iconic structure built during the reign of King Suryavarman II around the early 12th century. This architectural marvel follows the model of the temple mountain, symbolizing Mount Meru, the sacred home of the gods. As you wander through the temple, admire the stunning stone carvings and bas-reliefs that recount tales from Hindu mythology and the epic battles fought by Suryavarman II. Look closely, and you’ll find over 2,000 Apsara dancers gracing the walls, each telling a story of artistry and devotion. Construction of this magnificent temple took around thirty years, showcasing the dedication and skill of its builders. Today, Angkor Wat stands as a proud symbol of the Khmer people’s soul, even gracing the nation’s flag.
As the day begins to wind down, visit Angkor Wat during the golden hour, where the soft light casts an enchanting glow on the temple’s structures. Here, the Apsaras appear even more ethereal, bringing the day’s journey to a picture-perfect conclusion.
After an enriching day of exploration, return to your hotel to relax and freshen up. Later, gather in the hotel lobby to meet your guide and head to a local restaurant for dinner, where a feast awaits. Enjoy a well-deserved evening of leisure, reflecting on the incredible history and beauty you’ve encountered throughout the day. (Included in the price)
Note: Please remember that proper attire is required when visiting the Bakan Tower of Angkor Wat. Shoulders and knees must be covered, and children under twelve are not permitted to climb this sacred tower. Keep in mind that it will also be closed on Buddhist Sabath Days and religious observances (four days a month).
Day 3 Siem Reap Departure, Koh Ker, Anlong Veng
After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, gather your belongings and prepare for check-out. Meet your guide in the hotel lobby, and get ready to embark on an exciting journey to your next destination.
As you set off toward Anlong Veng, the first stop on your itinerary will be the magnificent Koh Ker temple, a treasure inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Nestled about 120 kilometers (75 miles) from Siem Reap, Koh Ker is a remote archaeological wonder that served as a prominent city of the Khmer Empire. Known historically as Lingapura (the City of Lingams) or Chok Gargyar, this site boasts more than 180 sanctuaries spread over an extensive area of 81 square kilometers (31 square miles). While only a couple of dozen monuments are open for exploration due to the dense forest concealing many others, the sense of adventure and discovery is palpable as you step into this ancient realm. Notably, the site earned its UNESCO designation on September 17, 2023, during the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, making it a vibrant chapter in Cambodia’s rich cultural narrative.
Continuing your journey, you’ll arrive in Anlong Veng, a district in the Oddar Meanchey province located 125 kilometers north of Siem Reap and near the Thai border. Once known as the last stronghold of the Khmer Rouge, Anlong Veng holds a significant place in Cambodia’s history, being the final bastion to come under government control in 1998 and the last resting place of Pol Pot himself.
Upon your arrival in Anlong Veng, check in at your hotel and take a moment to freshen up. Then, rejoin your guide in the lobby for the next leg of your exploration.
Your first stop will be Ta Mok’s House, a poignant cultural site that delves into the darker chapters of Cambodia’s past. Ta Mok, often referred to as “Brother Number Five” or “the Butcher,” was a notorious military chief in the Khmer Rouge. His role in orchestrating numerous massacres, including the tragic loss of 30,000 lives in the Angkor Chey district, signifies the horrors experienced during this tumultuous period. This site stands as a reminder of history’s lessons and the resilience of the Cambodian people.
Next, visit the Anlong Veng Peace Center, a beacon of hope and reconciliation. Dedicated to memorializing the past while fostering a vision for future peace, the center focuses on peace studies and genocide education. Through innovative educational efforts, the center analyzes the complex root causes of conflict and encourages dialogue and understanding. By addressing the fundamental questions of what transpired during the Khmer Rouge era, the center aims to cultivate a legacy of peace, education, and the rule of law.
Prepare to engage deeply with Cambodia’s history, but also to reflect on the resilience and hope that continues to shape the nation today.
(Lunch and Dinner is not included in tour price)
Day 4 Anlong Veng to Preah Vihear temple, Preah Vihear Provincial Town
After enjoying a delicious breakfast, it’s time to prepare for checkout. Gather your belongings, meet your guide, and hop into the car waiting for you in the hotel lobby as you set off for the enchanting town of Preah Vihear.
Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take a moment to freshen up. Get ready for an unforgettable experience as you explore one of Cambodia’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the majestic Preah Vihear Temple.
Perched dramatically on the edge of a plateau, Preah Vihear commands breathtaking views of the expansive Cambodian plains below. This remarkable temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, features a series of sanctuaries interconnected by elegant pavements and striking staircases along an impressive 800-meter axis. While its origins can be traced back to the 9th century, the temple complex we admire today dates back to the first half of the 11th century AD.
One of the secrets to its excellent preservation is its remote location, which has shielded it from the ravages of time and modern development. As you wander through the site, take in the extraordinary architectural beauty that seamlessly blends with the natural landscape. Marvel at the exquisite carved stone ornamentation that adorns the temple, telling stories of devotion and artistry from centuries past.
As your journey continues, immerse yourself in the charm of Preah Vihear provincial town. Discover local culture, savor delicious cuisine, and engage with the welcoming warmth of its residents. Your adventure is just beginning!
(Lunch and Dinner is not included in tour price)
Day 5 Preah Vihear to Kratie, Phnom Sambok, 100 Pillar Pagoda, Boating with Dolphin
After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, it’s time to check out and meet your guide and driver in the hotel lobby. Get ready for an exciting day as you venture to the charming town of Kratie!
Upon arriving in Kratie, you’ll quickly check in to your hotel and prepare for a full day of adventure. Your first stop is Phnom Sambok, also known as Chambak Meas. This serene meditation center and ancient site, perched between Kratie and Kampi, offers spectacular views of the Mekong River plains. As you ascend the first flight of stairs, you’ll have two enticing options: head left (west) to uncover remnants of an ancient temple accompanied by tranquil meditation huts and a prayer hall, or venture right (east) up another set of stairs leading you to a series of mystical shrines at the mountain’s pinnacle. Here, a chaitya and a magnificent Buddha statue await, alongside a small vestibule featuring a unique moonstone from the ancient complex. From this higher vantage point, you’ll also admire a contemporary prasat inspired by traditional designs, showcasing the sculpture of Nandin/Preah Ko.
Next, we travel to the 100 Pillar Pagoda, located in the Sam Bor District, a mere 36 kilometers north of the provincial town. This architectural marvel stands on the historic grounds where the Royal Palace temple of Sam Phu Borak once thrived during the Chen La period. As you explore the surroundings, you’ll encounter four stunning Buddhist temples, each facing a different direction: Vihear Lao to the West, Vihear Sar Sar-100 to the North, Vihear Kork Keut to the East, and Vihear Kork to the South, where only the foundations remain.
Then, get ready for an unforgettable adventure as we head out for some boating with the dolphins! This immersive wildlife experience on the Mekong River allows you to paddle through a lesser-known region of northern Cambodia to the dolphin pools of Kampi, where you’ll get up close and personal with these enchanting creatures—without the noise of a motorboat disrupting the tranquility. As you glide along the river, you’ll encounter vibrant birds, colorful butterflies, and unique aquatic life. Be on the lookout for opportunities to take a refreshing swim on the sandy river islands, all while catching glimpses of the rare Irrawaddy dolphins in the swirling pools at Kampi.
After a thrilling day, return to your hotel for a quick freshen-up. Later, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and stroll to a local restaurant for dinner. Savor delicious local cuisine while relishing the day’s adventures. (Included in the price)
As the night unfolds, take the opportunity to explore the charming streets of Kratie, soaking in the local atmosphere and perhaps discovering a hidden gem or two along the way. Enjoy the rest of your evening in this delightful town!
(Lunch is not included in tour price)
Day 6 Kratie, Wat Rokar Kandal, Local market, Kampong Cham, Koh Pen cycling
After enjoying a delightful breakfast at the hotel, it’s time to check out and embark on our next adventure! Meet your guide and driver in the hotel lobby, where excitement fills the air as we prepare for our journey to the charming town of Kampong Cham.
As we set off, our first stop is the serene Wat Rokar Kandal, located just south of Kratie. This exquisite temple, constructed in the 18th century, is a hidden gem that showcases stunning wooden pillars and an intricate internal frame topped with a beautifully tiled roof. Recently restored, Wat Rokar now serves as a vibrant crafts center during the tourist season, inviting visitors to appreciate its artistic heritage. Be sure to admire the intricately carved wooden pediments adorning the exterior and the exquisite cross beams inside that are both functional and artistic. As you stroll around, you’ll discover two ancient stupas and a new pagoda just across the road—a true testament to local history and culture.
(Lunch is not included in the tour price.)
Next, we’ll venture to the bustling Kratie local market, a hive of activity that epitomizes life in this lively town. Here, you’ll find everything from fresh produce and meats to clothes and household goods. As we meander through the vibrant stalls, soak in the sights and sounds of the locals going about their daily routines. There’s always something fascinating happening, making this one of my favorite experiences in Southeast Asia—an authentic glimpse into local life that you simply can’t miss!
Upon our arrival in Kampong Cham, we will head straight to the hotel for check-in, where you can freshen up and prepare for an exhilarating cycling adventure on Koh Penh Island.
Koh Penh is a picturesque Mekong Island located just off the town of Krong Kampong Cham. Our guided cycling tour begins with a breathtaking ride across one of the bridges leading to the island. If fortune smiles upon us, we might even cross the world’s longest bamboo bridge, rebuilt each year after being washed away by the Mekong River! As we pedal through the stunning countryside, you’ll encounter local farmers tending to their fields, friendly animals along the way, and breathtaking views that embody the essence of rural Cambodia.
Our cycling expedition culminates at a pristine beach, where you’ll be treated to a delicious lunch amidst the gentle sounds of the Mekong. Take a moment to relax and soak up the sun before we make our way back to the starting point, pedaling away with memories to cherish.
As the day winds down, we will return to the hotel for a delightful dinner at the hotel restaurant, where a savory feast awaits you. (Dinner is included in the tour price.)
Day 7 Kampong Cham Departure, Phnom Pros & Phnom Srey, Spider Market and Phnom Penh
After breakfast, ready for check out and meet your guide and car at the lobby, get ready for the last stop, the capital city of Cambodia, Phnom Penh.
Before leaving Kampong Cham we will first drop by and visit Phnom Pros & Phnom Srey, known as the “Woman Hill” and “Man Hill” respectively, are two iconic hills in Cambodia’s Kampong Chhnang province. These hills are steeped in local legend, offering picturesque viewpoints of the countryside and the Tonle Sap River. Their special charm lies in the enduring folklore and the tranquil scenery that draws both tourists and pilgrims seeking blessings for love and fertility.
Spider market, his busy market town has grown up around the intersection of National Highway 6 and National Highway 7. Skuon is around 49 kilometers (30 mi) west of the provincial capital at Kampong Cham city and 75 kilometers (47 mi) north of the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh.[1] Skuon is sometimes known in the local language as “Spiderville”, it is famous with international visitors to Cambodia for its fried spiders.
Phnom Penh Arrival, hotel check-in, the rest of the day is at free at leisure, enjoy hotel facilities or take a short city tour.
(Lunch is not included in tour price)
Day 8 Phnom City Tour – Choeung EK (Killing fields), Royal Palace, Toul Sleng, Russian Market
After a hearty breakfast, gather in the hotel lobby to meet your guide for a day of exploration and reflection in the intriguing heart of Phnom Penh. The first stop on your journey is the haunting yet significant Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, located about 17 kilometers south of the city. Once an orchard, this somber site now bears witness to the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge regime from 1975 to 1979. As you stroll through the grounds, you’ll find mass graves containing the remains of approximately 8,895 victims, a stark reminder of a tragic chapter in Cambodia’s history. At the center of Choeung Ek stands a poignant Buddhist stupa, its acrylic glass sides showcasing over 5,000 human skulls—a solemn memorial honoring the lives lost.
After this profound experience, return to the city for a delicious lunch, which is included in your tour package.
Next, you’ll visit the majestic Royal Palace, a stunning architectural marvel constructed between 1866 and 1870 under the reign of King Norodom, who moved the royal capital from Oudong to Phnom Penh. The palace complex is a harmonious blend of cultural symbols and royal heritage, divided into four distinct compounds: the Silver Pagoda, the Khemarin Palace, the Throne Hall, and the Inner Court. Prepare to be mesmerized by the intricate designs and serene beauty that echo the grandeur of Cambodia’s royal history.
Your journey continues to Toul Sleng, known as “Hill of the Poisonous Tree.” This former secondary school turned prison, or Security Prison 21 (S-21), is a chilling museum that tells the harrowing story of the Cambodian Genocide. From 1975 until the Khmer Rouge’s fall in 1979, an estimated 20,000 people suffered imprisonment here. The classrooms, now transformed into claustrophobic cells and torture chambers, still carry the weight of their dark past, with electrified barbed wire enclosing the perimeter to prevent escape. Rooms remain eerily preserved, bearing witness to the tragic history of a regime that meticulously documented its actions, leaving behind thousands of haunting photographs.
To lighten the mood, you’ll visit Phsar Toul Tom Poung, commonly known as the Russian Market—a vibrant hub of local culture and commerce. This bustling market is the largest in Phnom Penh, filled with stalls offering a treasure trove of wooden handicrafts, antiques, miniature Buddha figurines, fruits, veggies, jewelry, and more. Embrace the lively atmosphere as you navigate through rows of colorful goods, including not-so-genuine brand-name products, and be sure to sample Khmer iced coffee, indulge in grilled bananas, and find the perfect pair of elephant pants. Don’t forget to test your bargaining skills while you’re at it!
As your day draws to a close, the evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure—dinner is not included in the tour, allowing you the freedom to explore the local cuisine on your own.
(Dinner is not included in tour price)
Day 9 Phnom Penh Departure
Start your morning with a delightful breakfast at the hotel, savoring a spread of delicious options to kick off your day. After your meal, enjoy some free time to relax and explore at your leisure—whether it’s a last stroll through the hotel grounds, a quick visit to a nearby attraction, or simply unwinding with a book.
When the time comes, your guide will be ready to assist you, ensuring a smooth transfer to the airport for your departure. Take a moment to reflect on the wonderful experiences you’ve had, as you prepare for the next adventure that awaits you!
