Adventure tour of Cambodia's ancient temples

Siem Reap

Day 1: Welcome to Cambodia!

Following your arrival into Cambodia, you will be met by a tour representative who will assist you with your luggage and accompany you to your hotel. Check-in and enjoy a welcome drink while your guide briefs you on the schedule for the days ahead. 

Later, head out on a tour of Siem Reap, a characteristic river town with bustling market places and busy streets. You will venture to one of the city's most charming pagodas where you have the chance to become better acquainted with Buddhism. Following a humbling blessing from a monk, you'll be able to look forward to the adventure of the trip with serenity in mind.

Siem Reap - Angkor Wat

Day 2: Be Immersed in the Majesty of Angkor Wat

An extraordinary experience awaits as you set out to discover the legendary temple complex of Angkor Wat. Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before hopping into a tuk-tuk for a ride to the temples. Dating from the 12th century, Angkor Wat is one of the largest and most beautiful temple complexes in the world. 

The exploration begins at the Angkor Wat temple itself. Take some time to appreciate the stunning architecture and artistry of this majestic site. Later, continue your tour to Angkor Thom, which is home to the Bayon, a stunning Khmer temple. The partly overgrown temple of Ta Phrom is next on the agenda where massive roots have grown through the temple's foundations leaving an impression on both the landscape and your mind.

Siem Reap - Bantey Srei

Day 3: Journey Through the Countryside in a Vintage Jeep

Start your day with a journey into the countryside this morning. After breakfast, climb inside a vintage Jeep and set out on an excursion to various temples in the region. En route you will pass through ancient rice fields and quaint farming villages, maybe even an occasional ox-cart, an older more local mode of transport.

Today you will have the chance to see some of the less-known temples on Cambodia's "Grand Circuit," including Preah Khan, Ta Som, and Naek Pean, a majestic lake temple. 

Siem Reap

Day 4: Take a Cooking Class, Rent a Bicycle, or Visit a Spa

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel this morning before deciding what to do with your day. The choice is yours - there's nothing on the itinerary today and you can do exactly as you please. Opportunities abound to become better acquainted with Cambodia's exquisite culture. Consider taking a cooking class or maybe rent a bicycle and cycle around town. Visit a local spa for a therapeutic massage or enjoy a round of gold at the Nick Faldo golf couse.

Evening activities might include a visit to Phare, the Cambodian circus where you will be treated to an acrobatic performance depicting stories from Cambodia's past. 

Beng Melea - Koh Ker - Preah Vihear

Day 5: Make Your Way to Preah Vihear

Today's journey takes you to Preah Vihear with a few enchanting stops along the way. 

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and head to Beng Melea, one of the most intriguing temples in Cambodia because of the thick vegetation that engulfs it. 

After lunch, your adventure continues to Cambodia's ancient capital Koh Kor, which was the capital city from 928 to 944. Here, you will have the rare opportunity to visit a secluded, off-the-beaten-track temple where you can enjoy the serenity of the leafy forest before continuing to your final destination for today, Preah Vihear. At your hotel here, you'll be able to relax for the night.

Preah Vihear - Preah Khan

Day 6: See a Clifftop Temple and Spend the Night in a Jungle Reserve

Today's adventure in Cambodia begins with a visit to Preah Vihear's famous temple. Situated on a 525 meter high cliff near the Thai border, this ancient Hindu temple was built during the Khmer Empire. Set within a spectacular environment, the temple offers extraordinary views of the surrounding area. 

Next, you will embark on a very special experience. BeTreed Adventures is an organization that works closely with the local community to support conservation efforts in Cambodia. Tonight you will stay in a simple abode perched on stilts in a beautiful jungle preserve.

Preah Khan - Kampong Thom

Day 7: Wander Through the Temple Ruins of Preh Khan Kampong Svay

What's on the agenda for today? An expedition across the tranquil plains of Cambodia. You'll leave jungle to venture through the extraordinary temple ruins of Preh Khan Kampong Svay. A powerful serenity pervades this dreamlike setting as you wander through temple ruins overgrown with lush vegetation. Massive trees tower overhead as temple walls rise out from the undergrowth. Be at peace and spend some time exploring this mysterious place that whispers of an ancient history. 

Sambor Prei Kuk - Phnom Penh

Day 8: Explore the Diversity of Temples en route to Phnom Penh

By the end of the day, you'll be in Cambodia's capital city, Phnom Penh. But first, we have a few more adventures awaiting. 

As you make your way through the scenic villages of Kampong Thom, take in the passing views of local farmers and picturesque rice fields. Soon you will arrive in Sambor Prei Kuk, home to more stunning temples. Explore these sights with your guide as you make your way through the luscious forests, discovering temples and rooms hidden around every corner. 

Later, you'll continue onto to Phnom Penh where you'll be able to check into your hotel to rest and relax before tomorrow.

Phnom Penh

Day 9: Go on a Tuk-Tuk Tour of Cambodia's Capital City

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel this morning before setting out for a Khmer Cyclo (tuk-tuk) ride to the Royal Palace. Take in this architectural marvel before continuing on to Wat Phnom. This beautiful pagoda which rises from atop a 35-meter high hill gives Phnom Penh its name. Keep an eye out for cute but mischievious monkeys playing in the area. 

Hop back into the tuk-tuk for a visit to the Genocide Museum of Tuol Sleng and Choeung Ek, the "killing fields" where thousands of people were buried in mass graves. Learn about the darkest chapter of Cambodia's history and gain insight into how far the country's residents have come.

Phnom Penh

Day 10: Learn About Cambodian Cuisine on a Foodie Tour

What you choose to do on your final full day in Cambodia is up to you. From a half-day bicycle tour of the Mekong Islands to a boat ride to Oudong, the former capital, there are many intriguing activities in all areas of interest from which to choose from. 

Tonight, you can join a foodie tour that will lead you to a local market. Cheers with a cocktail or beer then taste the local delicacies offered by the street market vendors. You will learn about Cambodia's culinary traditions and end the evening with a Khmer BBQ.

Phnom Penh

Day 11: Goodbye, Cambodia!

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Phnom Penh this morning before heading to the airport for your ownward flight. If time allows, you will have the opportunity to join a morning workshop where you can learn about traditional Khmer musical instruments, carve fruit, or work with leather. 

We hope you've had an unforgettable experience in Cambodia and wish you pleasant travels!