Classic Cambodia
Cambodia - 13 Days
Private Journeys
Journey Details and Highlights
Classic Cambodia
Day 1: Siem Reap Arrival
Welcome to Cambodia! Upon your arrival, your tour guide will greet you at the international airport and accompany you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.
Overnight in Hotel Vellita Siem Reap (or similar)Day 2: Siem Reap (B)
After breakfast, begin your day by exploring the pre-Angkorian temples of the Roluos Group: Lolei, Preah Ko, and Bakong. While there are a few smaller temples in the area, they are not geared towards tourism and can be difficult to reach. Your tour will also include a fascinating visit to the flora and fauna around Tonle Sap Lake. Experience a traditional long-tail boat ride through Kampong Phluk, a community of stilt houses comprising three isolated villages. These villages are accessible only by boat for roughly half the year (from August/September to February). Navigate through the flooded mangrove forests, a unique ecosystem, before returning to Siem Reap
Overnight in Hotel Vellita Siem Reap (or similar)Day 3: Siem Reap (B)
After breakfast, begin your day by visiting the exquisite Bantrey Srei temple, constructed in 967 AD, approximately 40 km north of Siem Reap. This intricately adorned temple, dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva, boasts stunning red sandstone carvings, making it one of Cambodia's most captivating temples. On your return journey, explore the Landmine Museum and witness local palm sugar production. Make a stop at the Banteay Samre temple, dating back to the mid-12th century and commissioned by King Suryarvaman II. If time allows, delve into the 10th-century temples including Eastern Mebon, Pre Rup, and Prasat Kravan.
Overnight in Hotel Vellita Siem Reap (or similar)Day 4: Siem Reap (B)
Embark on your temple exploration journey from your hotel via Tuk Tuk, heading to Angkor Thom, the ancient capital of the Great Khmer Empire. Marvel at the impressive structures including Bayon temple with its iconic faces, Terrace of the Elephants, and Baphuon. Continue to Ta Prohm, engulfed by jungle, before visiting the magnificent Angkor Wat, adorned with intricate carvings and celestial dancers. Conclude your day with a sunset view over the plains of Angkor before returning to Siem Reap by Tuk Tuk.
Overnight in Hotel Vellita Siem Reap (or similar)Day 5: Siem Reap (B)
Embark on an open jeep adventure to Beng Mealea, an ancient jungle temple from the 12th century. This secluded site, about 40 kilometres east of the main complex, offers a serene exploration experience amidst nature's tranquillity. Then, journey to Koh Ker, once a Khmer Empire capital, known for its Hindu monuments dating back to King Jayavarman IV's reign in 928 AD. Return to Siem Reap in the late afternoon, enriched by the historical and cultural discoveries of the day
Overnight in Hotel Vellita Siem Reap (or similar)Day 6: Siem Reap (B)
Today, venture into rural Cambodia aboard a Remork (Tuk Tuk) to meet the friendly Khmer villagers outside Siem Reap. Travel along scenic red dirt roads, avoiding main routes whenever possible. Experience local life at a fish market, then explore a nearby fresh market for Khmer delicacies. Conclude with a sacred Monk Blessing Ceremony at a local pagoda, where you'll receive blessings for cleansing and luck amidst the serene surroundings.
Overnight in Hotel Vellita Siem Reap (or similar)Day 7: Siem Reap (B/L)
Today, embark on an active trek on Kulen Mountain, 60 km north of Siem Reap, the birthplace of the ancient Khmer Empire. Accompanied by knowledgeable rangers, explore the lush forest for approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, encountering a bat cave, a clear water river, and diverse wildlife such as silver langurs and hornbills. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring mosquito repellent and sunscreen. Enjoy a lunch break by a waterfall before returning to Siem Reap.
Overnight in Hotel Vellita Siem Reap (or similar)Day 8: Siem Reap - Battambang (B/L)
In the morning overland transfer from Siem Reap to Battambang. A side trip will bring you to the impressive temple of Banteay Chhmar, a rather unknown ancient Khmer temple site. Enjoy a local lunch at the community restaurant in the village. Afterwards to Battambang. Here the French left probably their most beautiful colonial architecture in Cambodia. Discover this picturesque city, the second largest city in the country, with its small temples and market places. If time permits you can do a short stroll through this small colonial town with its many small art galleries.
Overnight in Maison Wat Kor (or similar)Day 9: Battambang (B)
Enjoy a full-day Tuk Tuk tour in and around Battambang, renowned for its picturesque rice fields and orchards. Explore various villages to witness the production of local specialties like rice paper, Prahok, and Grolan by small family businesses. You can even sample these Khmer delicacies. Visit Wat Ek Temple and, if time allows, Wat Samrong Knong to learn about Battambang's history during the Khmer Rouge regime. In the afternoon, journey to Phnom Banan, an 11th-century temple atop a 400 m hill offering stunning panoramic views. Continue to Phnom Sampeau, once the front line of the Khmer Rouge. Explore the haunting Killing Cave, a stark reminder of Cambodia's turbulent past. Stay until sunset to witness thousands of synchronised bats emerging from their caves in search of dinner.
Overnight in Maison Wat Kor (or similar)Day 10: Battambang - Phnom Penh (B)
Depart from Battambang today and travel through Pursat and Kampong Chhnang on your way to Phnom Penh. Along the route, stop by traditional pottery and silversmith workshops, where artisans craft handmade goods sold in markets across Cambodia, including Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. Before reaching the capital, explore the historic city of Oudong, the former royal capital of Cambodia. Arrive in Phnom Penh by late afternoon.
Overnight in Courtyard by Marriott (or similar)Day 11: Phnom Penh (B)
Half day City Orientation tour with Cyclo (Bicycle Rickshaw) In the morning, begin your tour through Phnom Penh's rich history, starting with a visit to the National Museum. Marvel at the exquisite antiquities showcasing the brilliance of the Khmer civilization. Next, explore the awe-inspiring Silver Pagoda and the majestic Royal Palace, both renowned for their intricate designs and vibrant, sloping roofs. Your senses will be captivated by the ornate grandeur of these cultural gems. Afterwards, visit the serene Wat Phnom Pagoda, offering a moment of tranquility amidst the bustling city. Following this, you have the opportunity to indulge in a shopping experience at the Art Deco-era Central Market, where you'll find a plethora of treasures and souvenirs. In the afternoon, dwell into the Darkest Chapter of Cambodia In the afternoon, delve into Cambodia's dark history with visits to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Choeung Ek mass graves, known as the Killing Fields. These sites serve as poignant reminders of the hardships endured by the Khmer people during Pol Pot's regime, offering a somber yet essential learning experience. Conclude the day with Sunset Cruise on the Mekong River. (one Drink up to wine and tapas platter is included)
Overnight in Courtyard by Marriott (or similar)Day 12: Phnom Penh (B)
In the morning enjoy Half Day Tour to Silk Island with Vespa (Join In tour) Meet up at your hotel lobby in Phnom Penh, We head out of Phnom Penh city by Vespa with our experienced driver. After that, you’re set to board the ferry going to Silk Island. Once you arrive, get ready for an exciting adventure that will take you through the countryside, farming village’s local market tofu skin producing and Buddhist temple of Phnom Penh. Be prepared to experience and observe the local culture and way of life as well as enjoy some breathtaking views of the rural landscape! Next, we will take a visit to the unique craft of silk weaving. Our local villagers will be able to provide you with an authentic insight into the history of silk weaving in Cambodia, a tradition that has been passed down through generations from parent to child. This is an incredible opportunity to learn more about the culture of this country and experience its rich heritage firsthand. You can expect to get back to Phnom Penh city around 12:30 pm. In the afternoon, free at leisure.
Overnight in Courtyard by Marriott (or similar)Day 13: Phnom Penh Departure (B)
Today marks the end of your journey in Cambodia, the Kingdom of Wonder. Enjoy some free time before your driver takes you to the airport for your departure flight.
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Included Services
All described sightseeing as in program above
Transportation in private air-conditioned vehicle
Accommodation in hotels with daily breakfast
English-speaking local guides
Admission fees to indicated sights
Meals mentioned in the itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Domestic gov’t tax and service charge
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Excluded Services
International air tickets
Flights & visa fees
Travel Insurance in all kinds
Meals not mentioned in itinerary
Compulsory Meals
Drinks during Meals
Tip, drinks, any personal expenses
Early check-in and late check-out
