Cambodia Cultural Gems & Island Escapes
Daily
PRIVATE tour
- Breakfast. Lunch also included on days 4-8 & 10. Dinner also included on days 2-3, 5 & 9
- 3* hotels, 4* and 5* hotels available at a supplement.
- The price shown includes international flights, domestic flight on day 12, boat transfers on days 12 & 15, private transfers between your hotels (excluding Koh Rong or Koh Russey), accommodation, sightseeing as outlined, private services of an English speaking guide and entrance fees.
- The best time to see Irrawaddy Dolphins is during the dry season from January to August. *Water levels vary seasonally at Tonle Sap, so the itinerary and what you see may vary.
- This holiday is 100% financially protected. ATOL protected 2713
Uncover the soul of Cambodia on this immersive journey, from the grand Royal Palace and history of Phnom Penh to the temple wonders of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom in Siem Reap. Cruise the Mekong past floating villages, cycle the tranquil island of Koh Trong and explore the ancient pre-Angkor ruins of Sambor Prei Kuk. After days steeped in culture and history, unwind on the white sands of Koh Rong or Koh Russey in the beautiful Bay of Cambodia. A perfect blend of ancient wonders, authentic encounters and idyllic islands.
Our suggested itinerary is a starting point
We're specialists in tailor-made holidays, where we can adapt each itinerary to suit your requirements
Days 1-4 Phnom Penh
Fly in to Phnom Penh and settle into your hotel. Explore Khmer, Chinese shophouse and French colonial architecture on a cyclo tour, visit the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and National Museum, take in the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields (which may cause distress), cruise the Mekong at sunset, join a market visit and cooking class with a local chef, wander local neighbourhoods on an off-the-beaten-track walking tour, and unwind with a spa treatment.
Day 5 Koh Trong
Drive to Kratié (approx 5 hours drive), which has retained its colonial-era charm. Travel on by local ferry to Koh Trong, an island in the middle of the Mekong River. Later, you’ll leisurely cycle or travel by ox and cart on a shady trail around the island visiting a Reforestation Project where you can plant a tree in your name.
Day 6 Chhlong
Take a ferry back to the mainland for a walking tour of Kratie, which includes a visit to the local market. Drive on to Wat Rokakandal Centre, a former pagoda and now local craft museum. This afternoon, visit Wat Phnom Sambok to see Buddhist monasteries and absorb magnificent views of the surrounding countryside from the hilltop. Later, board a local boat in the hope of spying rare freshwater Irrawaddy Dolphins before travelling on by road to the tiny town of Chhlong (approx. 1 hour drive).
Day 7 Kampong Thom
Drive to Kampong Thom (approx. 4.5 hours drive), via the provincial town of Kampong Cham to visit the local market. This afternoon, drive to 7th century Sambor Prei Kuk Temple and onwards to the ancient capital of Chenla with its 100 pre-Angkor temples.
Days 8-11 Siem Reap
As you travel to Siem Reap (approx. 3.5 hours drive), you will have the chance to see the daily lives of local people in the countryside. Make a stop at 12th century Kampong Kdei Bridge, which has more than 20 narrow arches spanning 285 feet (approx 3½ hours drive). Explore the Roluos group of temples, Angkor Thom (Bayon, Baphuon, the Terrace of the Elephants and Leper King Terrace), Banteay Srei and Banteay Samre, jungle-clad Ta Prohm, the stilted village of Kampong Phluk.
Embark on a tour of a genuine non-touristy village, where you are warmly welcomed and able to interact with the farmers through activities such as harvesting and watering crops. Travel by ox and cart before visiting a local family home for a tasty homemade lunch. A tour highlight is a visit to the incredible Angkor Wat Temple.
Days 12-14 Koh Rong or Koh Russey Islands
At leisure before your flight to Sihanoukville and onwards boat travel to your selected island. These islands are simply heavenly for doing nothing at all. However, optional jungle walks, snorkelling, diving and fishing trips are available (at extra expense).
Day 15 Phnom Penh
Return to Sihanoukville and meet with your driver who will drive you back to Phnom Penh for a day at leisure.
Day 16 Phnom Penh
Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
Need to know
Departures
Daily
Meals
Breakfast. Lunch also included on days 4-8 & 10. Dinner also included on days 2-3, 5 & 9
Accommodation
3* hotels, 4* and 5* hotels available at a supplement.
Tour price
The price shown includes international flights, domestic flight on day 12, boat transfers on days 12 & 15, private transfers between your hotels (excluding Koh Rong or Koh Russey), accommodation, sightseeing as outlined, private services of an English speaking guide and entrance fees.
Notes
The best time to see Irrawaddy Dolphins is during the dry season from January to August. *Water levels vary seasonally at Tonle Sap, so the itinerary and what you see may vary.
