Kingdom of Wonder
Daily.
PRIVATE tour
- Breakfast. Lunch also included on day 7 and dinner also included on days 6 & 7.
- 3★ hotels. Alternatively, 4★ or 5★ hotels available at a supplement.
- The price shown for this privately escorted tour by air-conditioned car includes international flights, boat transfers as highlighted, accommodation, sightseeing as outlined, private services of an English speaking guide and entrance fees.
- This holiday is 100% financially protected. ATOL protected 2713
Discover the hidden treasures of Cambodia on this 15-night adventure, combining meaningful cultural experiences, incredible nature encounters and idyllic tropical beaches. Immerse yourself in the inspiring community work of Smiling Gecko Farmhouse, venture deep into the lush Cardamom Mountains for jungle hikes, kayaking and wildlife-rich wilderness, before unwinding on the white-sand beaches of Koh Rong. Explore the charming riverside town of Kampot, visit organic pepper plantations and traditional salt fields, sample fresh seafood in coastal Kep and enjoy a hands-on Khmer cooking class in Phnom Penh. Offering a wonderful blend of authentic local experiences, conservation, adventure and relaxation, this journey reveals a fascinating and less-explored side of Cambodia.
Our suggested itinerary is a starting point
We're specialists in tailor-made holidays, where we can adapt each itinerary to suit your requirements
Day 1 Phnom Penh
Fly to Phnom Penh. On arrival, meet your drive and then enjoy the scenic transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free rest or begin exploring this beautiful historic city independently.
Days 2-4 Kampong Chhnang
A drive north this morning takes you to the wonderful Smiling Gecko Farmhouse (approx 1½ hours). Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed with a refreshing drink and the remainder of the day is yours to relax, enjoy the hotel and its facilities. Join a staff member from the Smiling Gecko for a guided two hour tour to learn more about this award-winning retreat which is part of a proud NGO project where all profits support the local community.
Choose to relax poolside, treat yourself at the world-class spa, or join an optional tour to learn more about the wonderful work done here.
Days 5-6 Cardamom Mountains
This morning's scenic drive takes you through lush rural landscape to Trapeang Rung pier (approx 4 hour drive) for a 30 minute boat ride along the tranquil Preak Tachan River to the secluded Cardamom Tented Camp. Following a brief introduction on their conservation and protection work of Wildlife Alliance, you have the option to take an exploratory hike in the jungle surrounding the camp, kayak or swim in the pristine river or maybe zip-line across the river.
Kayak to the old ranger station for a morning of following trails through the wilderness. Try your hand at some more of the activities including the zipline, exploring trails close to the camp, swimming in the river or perhaps enjoy further kayaking along shady tributaries of the river. As evening falls, unwind with dinner and soak in the tranquil ambience of the jungle.
Days 7-10 Koh Rong
Return by boat to Trapeang Rung pier where you then join your driver for a picturesque drive south toward Sihanoukville (approx 2½ hours), during which you will see landscapes change from forested hills to coastal plains. Catch a speedboat (45 minutes) to Kong Rong Island, a tropical paradise known for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, swaying palms and laidback atmosphere. Enjoy three full days to relax amidst these stunning surrounds, be that on the beach or beside your hotel pool.
Alternatively, take a peek below the waves with a snorkel or maybe take a jungle walk? On your final day, board the speedboat and journey to Kampot pier (approx 1¼ hours). From here, it's a short drive to Kampot, a charming riverside town known for its French colonial architecture, relaxed atmosphere, pepper plantations, salt fields and cool mountain air.
Days 11-13 Kampot
Kampot's blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, make it ideal for travellers seeking both tranquillity and exploration. Visit La Plantation, an organic pepper and spice farm, for a guided tour and tasting session. There are also spectacular views over the secret lake and Bokor Mountain to take in. Consider a trip to Kampot market, as well as the town itself, before driving on to Kep.
The first stop here is the famous Crab Market where you can immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as local fishermen deliver fresh seafood, including Kep's renowned blue crabs. Take time to explore the vibrant stalls and savour freshly prepared seafood delicacies before watching the sunset over Kep's coastline, where the tranquil waters and colourful sky create a serene and unforgettable experience. See the salt fields, which are enhanced by beautiful rice paddies dotted with palm trees and a mountainous landscape. Move on to Phnom Chngouk to walk a 203-step staircase down into the caves and admire the pre-Angkorian bricked temple. Spend time on the Kampot River, as you kayak through the green cathedral (green loop).
Days 14-15 Phnom Penh
Drive back to Phnom Penh (approx 3 hours drive), a route which takes you through the countryside passing small villages, rice fields and glimpses of rural life before arriving in vibrant Phnom Penh. During your stay, you'll join a cooking class where you'll join the chef to purchase ingredients at a market, and then in the kitchen, the chef will guide you in preparing traditional Khmer dishes. You'll then have the chance to taste your creations for dinner and will be given the recipes to take home.
If you wish you can join a half day cycling or tuk-tuk tour, a 2 Faces of Life walking tour or relax with a one hour Khmer massage (all at extra expense), with details as follows. The half day cycling or tuk tuk tour allows you to experience the serene beauty of Koh Dach island (also known as Silk Island), which is just a short ferry ride from Phnom Penh. The 2 Faces of Life walking tour provides an authentic glimpse into local life away from typical tourist routes, including a remote slum community and an impactful English Language Learning Centre which provides free classes to underprivileged children. As the tour progresses, it transitions from poverty to a landscape of skyscrapers and affluent lifestyles, and the juxtaposition of worlds underscores the complexity of life in Phnom Penh. This tour concludes with a foot or Khmer traditional massage at La Rose Spa.
Day 17 Depart Phnom Penh
All too soon, it's time for a transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
Need to know
Departures
Daily.
Meals
Breakfast. Lunch also included on day 7 and dinner also included on days 6 & 7.
Accommodation
3★ hotels. Alternatively, 4★ or 5★ hotels available at a supplement.
Tour price
The price shown for this privately escorted tour by air-conditioned car includes international flights, boat transfers as highlighted, accommodation, sightseeing as outlined, private services of an English speaking guide and entrance fees.
