Cambodia Grand Tour Package

DAY 1 – PHNOM PENH – ARRIVAL

Welcome to Phnom Penh! Sitting at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap Rivers, this capital city was once considered one of the most beautiful cities in the Orient. Despite its recent dark history, the city still retains much of its former colonial charm.

Upon arrival in Phnom Penh, our guide and driver will be waiting to provide transport to the hotel for check in.
After relaxing for a bit, enjoy an atmospheric sunset river cruise and watch how Phnom Penh’s popular riverfront comes to life in the evening.

This evening, enjoy a delicious Khmer welcome dinner at Romdeng, a lovely charity restaurant where former street children are taught the principles of hospitality. The restaurant is located in a restored colonial building with an atmospheric garden right in the city centre.

(Note: Romdeng is usually closed during national holidays and for the entire month of April over the Khmer New Year holiday.)

Overnight in Phnom Penh.

DAY 2 – PHNOM PENH CITY

Embark this morning on a cyclo tour through some of the most remarkable sights of Phnom Penh. First, pay a visit to Wat Phnom, which is situated near the northern boundary of the city. Continue next along the lively riverfront to the Royal Palace. The Palace, built in 1866, also houses the Silver Pagoda, known for its 5,000 heavy silver tiles that cover its floors.

After the cyclo tour, continue with a more somber visit to explore some of Cambodia’s darker history. The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) is a former schoolhouse that was turned into a detention and torture centre by the Khmer Rouge. A grim, but important visit that provides some unique insight into present day Cambodia.

For those interested in shopping, continue with a visit to the Russian Market, one of the city’s most popular markets, home to beautifully woven Khmer silks and cottons, basketry and wood carvings.

Later in the afternoon, head to the riverside area of Phnom Penh, a pleasant French style promenade that is great for people viewing. In the early evening (and morning) various activities take place including exercise classes, Khmer dancing, and plenty of snacking on local food.

Overnight in Phnom Penh.

DAY 3 – PHNOM PENH – KAMPONG CHAM – KRATIE

In the morning, depart Phnom Penh for Kampong Cham (2.5 hours), a former French trading post on the Mekong. After a tour of the town center, continue to Wat Nokor, an 11th century Angkor era Buddhist temple. Continue to Kratie Province (2 hours drive) and check into the hotel on Koh Trong Island, only a short 10 minute boat ride away from Kratie. The rest of the afternoon is free at leisure to discover the picturesque rural island.

The Kratie stretch of the river is particularly famed for its striking sunsets. Enjoy one of these spectacular Mekong sunsets with a cold drink in the evening.

Overnight on Koh Trong Island.

DAY 4 – KRATIE

After breakfast at the hotel, drive north along the banks of the Mekong to the village of Kampi, one of the best places to view the rare Irrawaddy Dolphins. Board a local boat to explore the preferred habitats of these interesting creatures. As soon as the first dolphin has been spotted, the boat driver cuts the engine in order to follow the dolphins silently (duration 1-1.5 hours).

From here, continue towards the village Sambo for a visit of Wat Sorsor Mouy Roy, also known as the ‘100 Pillars Pagoda.’ After the visit, enjoy lunch at Local restaurant.

Return to Koh Trong in the afternoon. This Mekong island displays typical Cambodian village life, where people’s livelihood largely depends on rice farming and fruits cultivation (Koh Trong is famous for its pomelo!). Upon arrival, decide whether to take a local horse cart or bicycle to explore the island.

The first destination of the tour is the island’s Wat, where a special activity awaits: a tree planting project initiated by a local farmer, working to re-cultivate the once densely forested island. Contribute to the project by planting a tree here, leaving behind a positive trace on the island. Continue back on the preferred mode of transport, sampling local fruit along the way and visiting a Vietnamese floating village on the southern tip of the island.

Overnight on Koh Trong Island.

DAY 5 – KRATIE – KAMPONG THOM

After breakfast, leave Kratie for Kampong Thom Province (5h drive). En route, stop at Phnom Santuk Mountain and climb the 980 steps to the top to visit the pagoda and enjoy fantastic views over the countryside. Upon arrival in Kampong Thom, check into the hotel and enjoy a leisurely afternoon cycling tour along the river or relaxing by the beautiful hotel pool.

Overnight in Kampong Thom.

DAY 6 – KAMPONG THOM – SIEM REAP

Today head towards the rarely visited Sambor Prei Kuk, one of the most important pre-Angkorian sites in the country. Built between the 6th and 7th century, the site has over 100 well-preserved temples scattered in the forest. Enjoy a beautiful walk through the jungle with breathtaking views; a visit that supports a community-based tourism project.

The villages around the temple complex still practice the ancient art of craft making, using materials such as bamboo and rattan. Stop at one village to observe the local production. The community runs the Isanborei Craft Hut next to the temples and sells their products as part of a community-based tourism project. The local community will prepare a simple but tasty lunch near the temple.

Continue towards Siem Reap (3h). On arrival, check in to the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

DAY 7 – SIEM REAP CITY

Arise early for an unforgettable sunrise over Angkor Wat.

Enjoy breakfast at Angkor Café (across from Angkor Wat), before visiting the temple in depth. Built in the early 12th century, Angkor Wat was constructed to represent Mount Meru- the Hindu/Buddhist home of the gods. Inside the temple, the walls are covered with stone carvings, bas-reliefs, and over 2,000 Aspara dancers. Construction of this national icon is thought to have taken around thirty years of intensive labor to complete.

After the Angkor visit, head to the Angkor Silk Farm 15 km west of Siem Reap, where it’s possible to witness the entire process of silk creation from the breeding process and life cycle of the silkworm to hand making the fine products. Return to Siem Reap for a midday break.

Late in the afternoon, explore the 12-13th century Ta Prohm temple. Ta Prohm is unique in that it has been left largely as it was found: overgrown by jungle trees and vines, with many parts of the temple crumbling to the ground. After exploring this picturesque temple, enjoy a rural sunset over the paddy fields from the pyramidal Pre Rup temple.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

DAY 8 – SIEM REAP CITY

Begin the morning with a visit to Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Great Khmer Empire under the reign of Jayavarman VII. This city is surrounded by an 8 m high wall, drawing a perfect square around the perimeter. Enter the city from the ancient South Gate, an impressive stone gate carved with elephants and four giant faces, before continuing on to Bayon Temple. This 12th century masterpiece is known for its superb bas-reliefs, its Terrace of the Elephants, and Terrace of the Leper King.

Later in the day, head to the banks of Tonlé Sap, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake. Board a local boat and visit Kampong Phluck, a village where houses are built on stilts to combat the flood waters of the rainy season (when the lake swells to four times its normal size.) During the cruise, pass floating houses and impressive flooded forests, portraying the unique life on the water.

Return to Siem Reap.

(Note: Due to low water levels during the dry season, the boat trip is only possible from June to March. However an alternative floating village at Chong Kneas can be arranged instead).

Overnight in Siem Reap.

DAY 9 – SIEM REAP CITY

After breakfast, transport will be provided to the quiet Beng Mealea (1.5 hours away). Enjoy a short walk through the dense jungle and feel like an explorer while discovering this completely overgrown temple. Hidden for centuries, Beng Mealea has only recently been made accessible and remains one of the very few temples that one can actually climb through. After the adventurous explorations, enjoy a delicious packed lunch at a local house close to the temple site.

Continue with a trip to the “gem” of the Angkor area: Banteay Srei. Also known as the “Citadel of the Women,” this remains the best preserved temple in Cambodia, displaying some of the finest examples of classical Khmer art with its remarkable bas-reliefs.

Heading back to Siem Reap, there will be a chance to stop at villages along the way where the guide will help to interact with the local communities. Seize the opportunity to see how rice paper is produced and to taste Palm Wine and Palm Sugar, which are a popular local produce.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

DAY 10 – SIEM REAP – BATTAMBANG

Today, embark on one of the most stunning boat trips in Cambodia on a private cruise from Siem Reap to Battambang. Enjoy a packed lunch on board.

Note: This boat trip is only possible in the high water period from July to December as water levels are too low during the dry season and transfer times extremely long. From January to June, transport is by road. (Duration 6-7 hours).

Tonlé Sap is an exceptional (and wholly unique) water system; its incredible expanding levels help to flood nearby fields and forests, supporting an extraordinarily rich and diverse eco-system. The swelling of the lake requires the people living on the water to adapt their living conditions accordingly- hence the plethora of stilted or floating houses.

In the afternoon, arrive in Battambang, Cambodia’s second largest city. Despite being (not too long ago) a stronghold of the erstwhile Khmer Rouge, the city still boasts a beautiful countryside and some striking French colonial architecture. Locals here are exceedingly friendly, most of which have not been exposed to many foreigners before! The former rice bowl of Cambodia, Battambang today still holds a thriving agriculture industry with large orange and jute plantations.

Check in to the hotel and enjoy the afternoon at leisure, relaxing by the pool or strolling through the charming town centre.

Overnight in Battambang.

DAY 11 – BATTAMBANG

Battambang’s countryside is what makes this pleasant river town a real treat. The town is situated along the Sangker River, a quiet, small body of water that winds its way through Battambang Province.

Begin with a visit to Phnom Sampeau, also known as “Ship Hill” in Khmer, due to its distinctive shape. One of the few hills standing out in this otherwise pancake-flat plain, Phnom Sampeau offers beautiful views from its peak as well as a picturesque temple at the top. Additionally, Phnom Sampeau is also home to the infamous killing caves, a cruel reminder of Cambodia’s troubled past.

Continue the day with an experience on the Bamboo Train, an original mode of transportation built on the old train tracks.
(Note: the train tracks from Battambang to Phnom Penh are currently being rebuilt. The long term future of the bamboo train ride cannot be guaranteed. Should the service stop we will arrange alternative sightseeing).

The trip continues with a walk through local villages and farms heading to Wat Banan, an 11th century temple on a mountain top situated between lush paddy fields and beautiful lotus ponds. Climb to the top where amazing views over the countryside await.

In the afternoon, visit the cultural villages around Battambang, learning how locals produce rice paper, prahok (typical Cambodian fish paste), grolan (sticky rice stuffed in bamboo), and other Cambodian treats.

Optional: Phare Ponleu Selpak

Enjoy an evening at Phare Ponleu Selpak. A School of Music, Visual & Performing Arts, Phare combines the Arts to provide education, support and entertainment to the poor communities. (Note: The circus performance is only performed regularly on each Monday & Thursday. On other days private performances are available on request and for a supplement).

Overnight in Battambang.

DAY 12 – BATTAMBANG – KAMPONG CHHNANG – OUDONG – PHNOM PENH

In the early morning, head for Kampong Chhnang, known for its production of traditional pottery. In a village near Kampong Chhnang, stop to see the different aspects of pottery making, and experience the production of traditional rice wine.

Continue to Oudong, the former royal capital of Cambodia. The drive passes through many rural villages and pagodas; take note of the temple mountain with its dozens of stupas from afar. Upon arrival at Oudong, enjoy a traditional Khmer lunch at a picnic hut at the foot of the hill.

After the picnic, climb the stairs to the top of Oudong Mountain and enjoy magnificent views over the plains below. The guide will explain the history of the area as well as the religious culture of the Cambodian people. Enjoy some time soaking in the magnificent views over the plains below.

En route to Phnom Penh, visit Koh Chen, an island in the Tonlé Sap River accessible via the new bridge. Koh Chen is known as the ‘Silver Village’ for its production of silver crafts and jewellery. Stroll through the village to see the many silver workshops in the local families’ houses.

Reach Phnom Penh around midafternoon and check into the hotel. As this is the last evening in Cambodia, an authentic farewell dinner will be celebrated at Malis, a renowned restaurant for fine Khmer dining in chic surroundings.

Overnight in Phnom Penh.

DAY 13 – BEACH EXTENSION: PHNOM PENH – KEP OR SIHANOUKVILLE

After breakfast, transfer by private vehicle to Kep or Sihanoukville (4 hours – no guide). Check in at the hotel and free time at leisure for the rest of the day.

Kep

Cambodia’s prestigious seaside resort of the 1960s, Kep is now awakening to its former glory. The small town offers reminders of the past and a growing choice of activities including island trips, a national park and the famous crab market.

Sihanoukville

Upon arrival in Sihanoukville, transfer to the hotel for check in and enjoy the remainder of the day free at leisure for swimming and relaxation on the beach.

Overnight in Kep/Sihanoukville.

DAY 14 – BEACH EXTENSION: KEP OR SIHANOUKVILLE

Enjoy the day at leisure or enjoy an optional tour.

Ream National Park (ex Sihanoukville only, not offered from Kep)

The park was established in 1993 on a 210 km² area on the Gulf of Thailand that includes thick pristine jungle, mangrove forests and off-shore coral reefs. It’s a nature lover’s paradise with nearly 200 bird species, many kinds of monkeys, and home to the elusive pangolin. Transport will be provided to one of Ream’s most scenic isolated beaches, called Koh Sampouch. Enjoy lunch at local restaurant on the beach.

Three Islands tour (ex Sihanoukville only, not offered from Kep)

Take a boat trip (departing 9AM) to explore the three islands of Koh Chaloh, Koh Tres and Koh Ta Kiev. Enjoy a day of relaxing, swimming, or snorkeling. Koh Ta Kiev is particularly notable for its crystal clear waters filled with exotic fish and coral reef- perfect for swimming or snorkeling. Relax on the golden sand beaches and enjoy a provided lunch. In the afternoon, return to Sihanoukville around 4-5PM.

Overnight in Kep/Sihanoukville.

DAY 15 – BEACH EXTENSION: KEP OR SIHANOUKVILLE

Spend the day at leisure or enjoy one of the aforementioned (Day 14) optional tours.

Overnight in Kep/Sihanoukville.

DAY 16 – KEP OR SIHANOUKVILLE – PHNOM PENH – DEPARTURE

Breakfast at hotel. Free at leisure until midday transfer back with driver only to Phnom Penh airport.