Pearls of Cambodia
Cambodia - 13 Days
Private Journeys
Journey Details and Highlights
Pearls of Cambodia
Day 1: Arrival Siem Reap
Upon arrival at Siem Reap International Airport and completion of immigration procedures, you will be warmly welcomed by your personal tour guide. A private transfer will bring you to your hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to relax or explore the city at your own pace.
Overnight in Siem ReapDay 2: Siem Reap (B)
Begin your day with a visit to Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Great Khmer Empire under King Jayavarman VII. Enclosed within a perfectly square 8-meter-high wall, the city is entered through the imposing South Gate, adorned with massive stone faces and elephants. Inside, discover the Bayon Temple, famous for its 54 towers topped with serene, smiling faces. Continue to the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King, and explore ancient temples including Baphuon, Phimeanakas, and the Khleangs. Next, visit the overgrown temple of Ta Prohm, known for its appearance in the film Tomb Raider. In the afternoon, explore Angkor Wat, the crown jewel of Khmer architecture. Built in the early 12th century, this iconic temple is a symbolic representation of Mount Meru and features nearly 2,000 intricately carved Apsara dancers. Conclude your day with a captivating sunset view over Angkor Wat’s majestic spires before returning to town by tuk-tuk.
Overnight in Siem ReapDay 3: Siem Reap (B)
After breakfast, visit Theam’s House, a unique art gallery and cultural sanctuary just minutes from Angkor. This serene space showcases the private collection of artist Lim Muy Theam and a curated showroom of locally crafted artworks. Next, head to the Apopo Visitor Center to learn about Cambodia’s landmine legacy and witness a live demonstration by trained HeroRATs working on a simulated minefield. Continue to the intricately carved temple of Banteay Srei, built in 967 AD and renowned for its red sandstone reliefs. On the return, stop at Banteay Samre and several 10th-century temples including Eastern Mebon, Pre Rup, and Prasat Kravan.
Overnight in Siem ReapDay 4: Siem Reap (B)
Today, board an open-air jeep and travel to the remote Beng Mealea Temple. Hidden in dense jungle, this mysterious 12th-century structure remains largely unrestored and offers an adventurous glimpse into nature reclaiming history. Continue to Koh Ker, a former Khmer capital filled with forested ruins and temples dating back to the reign of King Jayavarman IV. Explore the expansive site, once a thriving city of over 180 temples. Return to Siem Reap in the afternoon.
Overnight in Siem ReapDay 5: Siem Reap (B/L)
Around 8:30 AM, you'll be picked up from the hotel and transfer to the Roluos Group temples, where a short cycling tour begins. Ride along red earth paths through traditional Khmer villages and past a bustling local fish market. Continue to Kampong Khleang, one of Cambodia’s most impressive floating villages. Board a boat to explore the community and enjoy a traditional Khmer lunch in a stilted home. Visit a pagoda on an island and observe daily life in both the Cambodian and Vietnamese sections of the village, including floating schools and markets. Return to Siem Reap by minivan, passing local villages and scenic countryside.
Overnight in Siem ReapDay 6: Siem Reap - Battambang (B)
Depart Siem Reap for Battambang, with a stop en route to explore the remote and fascinating Banteay Chhmar temple complex. Depending on time, take a stroll through the nearby village and visit a local silk center. Upon arrival in Battambang, discover the city’s well-preserved colonial architecture and relaxed atmosphere. If time allows, enjoy an orientation walk with a local guide to explore its charming streets and historical buildings.
Overnight in BattambangDay 7: Battambang (B)
Today’s full-day tour by tuk tuk showcases the rich rural heritage of Battambang. Visit villages where locals produce rice paper, Prahoc (fermented fish paste), and Grolan (sticky rice in bamboo). Explore Wat Ek and, time permitting, Wat Somrong Knong, with its moving memorial to Khmer Rouge victims. Continue to Phnom Banan, an 11th-century hilltop temple offering panoramic views of the countryside. End the day at Phnom Sampeau, home to the poignant Killing Caves. If you stay until dusk, witness thousands of bats emerging from the caves at sunset.
Overnight in BattambangDay 8: Battambang – Phnom Penh (B)
Travel overland to Phnom Penh, stopping along the way at local workshops in Pursat and Kampong Chhnang, where artisans craft pottery and silverware sold across the country. Upon arrival in Phnom Penh, check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight in Phnom PenhDay 9: Phnom Penh (B)
Begin your day with a visit to Wat Phnom, the historic site believed to be the birthplace of Phnom Penh. Continue to the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, home to priceless Buddha statues and over 5,000 silver floor tiles. Explore the National Museum, a treasure trove of Khmer art and ancient relics. In the afternoon, visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek – somber but essential sites that offer insight into Cambodia’s tragic recent past. Conclude the day with a scenic sunset cruise on the Mekong River.
Overnight in Phnom PenhDay 10: Phnom Penh (B)
Phnom Penh Silk Island Half Day Tour by Vespa (Join In Tour) This morning, embark on a half-day Vespa tour to Silk Island. Cross the river by ferry and ride through rural villages, stopping at a local market, tofu skin workshop, and a Buddhist temple. Visit local silk weavers to witness traditional techniques passed down through generations. Return to Phnom Penh by early afternoon. The rest of the day is free for independent exploration or relaxation.
Overnight in Phnom PenhDay 11: Phnom Penh – Koh Kong (B/D)
After breakfast, travel to Koh Kong for a unique eco-adventure at Cardamom Tented Camp. At 14:00, depart from the Trapeang Rung Resort Pier and enjoy a scenic boat ride to the camp. Upon arrival, settle into your safari-style tent and learn about the ongoing wildlife conservation efforts in the area. Spend the afternoon taking part in optional jungle activities, including hiking, kayaking, or zip-lining. As evening falls, unwind at the riverside restaurant and immerse yourself in the peaceful natural surroundings.
Overnight in Koh KongDay 12: Koh Kong (B/L/D)
Begin the day with a guided kayak excursion to a ranger station, followed by a scenic jungle walk back to camp. After lunch, the afternoon is yours to explore—whether zip-lining through the treetops, swimming in the river, or paddling through calm waterways.
Overnight in Koh KongDay 13: Departure (B)
Enjoy a leisurely morning with time to explore the nearby trails or take an early kayak ride. Around 10:00, board a boat back to Trapeang Rung, where your journey concludes. Transfer (without guide) to Phnom Penh International Airport in time 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
