Highlights of Cambodia

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Phnom Penh Arrival

Welcome to Cambodia – a land of vibrant culture, ancient temples, and warm smiles! Upon arrival in Phnom Penh, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel to settle in. Take some time to relax or begin soaking in the city’s energy before joining your fellow travellers over welcome drinks. Your Tour Leader will walk you through the journey ahead, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure through Cambodia’s fascinating past and vibrant present.

Overnight in Luxcity Hotel & Apartment (4 Star) or similar.

Day 2: Phnom Penh (B)

Explore Phnom Penh by Cyclo (Bicycle Rickshaw), a chaotic, energetic and always fascinating city. Start your tour at the Wat Phnom, the birthplace of the capital. Then, visit the Royal Palace, the residence of King Norodom Sihamoni, with its stunning Silver Pagoda. A short walk away is the National Museum, which contains a comprehensive collection of Khmer art. Do not miss Phnom Penh's Central Market, a labyrinth of stalls selling everything from DVDs to silk, crafts, jewelry and daily household items. In the afternoon (by vehicle), visit the Toul Sleng Museum. Formerly a high school it became the most infamous interrogation and torture facility for the Khmer Rouge regime.

Overnight in Luxcity Hotel & Apartment (4 Star) or similar.

Day 3: Phnom Penh to Siem Reap (B/ L)

In the morning, enjoy an overland transfer from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. Along the way, we will make stops at the infamous spider and insect market in Skun, as well as the stone mason village near Santuk. Before reaching Siem Reap city, visit the floating village of Kampong Phluk. This isolated community consists of three villages built on stilts, providing a unique and scenic experience. The villages are flooded for approximately half of the year (August/September – February), allowing for visits by local boats and contributing to the local community’s income. If the water level of the lake permits, we will take a small rowing boat through the flooded mangrove forests. This exceptional ecosystem thrives in the wet soil for half of the year, supporting a diverse range of wildlife. Afterwards, return by boat and continue the journey by vehicle to Siem Reap, where you will check in at your hotel.

Overnight in Angkor Paradise Hotel (4 Star) or similar.

Day 4: Siem Reap (B)

Today we start at pre-dawn to witness the breathtaking sunrise over Angkor Wat. After sunrise visit the bas-relief and central complex of Angkor in the quiet early morning. Breakfast is served at a local restaurant near the temple complex. Continue to the Southern Gate of Angkor Thom ‘Great City’. This will include many of the finest Temples of King Jayavarman VII, who ruled from 1181 to 1220. Marvel at the imposing 23m (75-foot) high stone faces of Avalokiteshvara, featured in the Tomb Raider movie. At the center of this citadel lies the state temple of Bayon, built at the end of the 12th century and adorned with hundreds of gigantic stone faces. The tour also includes the Terrace of Elephants, the Terrace of the Leper King. Later in the day you will discover the most famous temples from the 11th century: Baphuon, Phimeanakas. Continue the day by visiting Ta Prohm, known for the massive trees with thick roots that entangle the walls. Return to Siem Reap.

Overnight in Angkor Paradise Hotel (4 Star) or similar.

Day 5: Siem Reap (B/ L/ D)

Start your day with a visit to the local market at Damdek before continuing your journey to Beng Mealea temple. Beng Mealea is built from perfectly-squared sandstone blocks, still partly buried under vegetation. The temple’s outstanding decoration dates back to the first half of the 12th century, featuring pediments sculpted with narrative scenes from the Ramayana. While Hindu iconographic themes are prevalent, Beng Mealea is primarily a Buddhist sanctuary, similar to Banteay Samre. Confirming this is the magnificent statue of the Bodhisattva Lokeshvara discovered within the monument, now housed at the Angkor Conservancy. Enjoy some lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Banteay Srei temple. Stop and visit the Landmine Museum, established in 1997. See defused and safe landmines up close, learn about their workings and how you can contribute to the ongoing efforts of clearing these weapons worldwide. On the return journey, visit a local village to see the local sugar palm production. In the evening enjoy a sumptuous Khmer Farewell Dinner in a beautiful local restaurant

Overnight in Angkor Paradise Hotel (4 Star) or similar.

Day 6: Siem Reap Departure (B)

It’s time to say farewell, but the memories of Cambodia’s ancient wonders, heartfelt stories, and colourful street life will stay with you long after your journey ends. A transfer will take you to the airport for your onward travels — taking home not just souvenirs, but stories to share for years to come.

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