Angkor, tropical adventure & secret paradise
From the Mekong to the temples of Angkor, from wild mountains to white sandy beaches.
Duration
15 days
From
€1,355/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jan, Feb, Mar, Nov, Dec
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
Charm & Character
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
The muddy waters of the Mekong blend with the emerald rice fields of Kampong Cham while in Kratié, Irrawaddy dolphins break through the surface of the royal river. At Sambor Prei Kuk, red sandstone towers emerge from the tropical forest, remnants of the Chenla empire that preceded the Angkor kings. Red earth tracks then lead to ancient sanctuaries where the Bayon deploys its towers with giant faces and where Ta Prohm disappears beneath the embrace of hundred-year-old fig trees.
Battambang reveals its French colonial soul between golden pagodas and houses with faded shutters, before the road winds towards the Cardamom mountains. In Koh Kong province, the Tatai waterfalls roar in the heart of the primary jungle populated by hornbills and gibbons. Mangroves give way to the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand, where the island of Koh Rong Samloem stretches out its immaculate beaches bordered by coconut trees.
This journey traverses fifteen centuries of Khmer history, from pre-Angkorian capitals to the kingdoms of Angkor, in a country where the heritage of god-kings mingles with the smiles of the Tonlé Sap fishermen.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh Airport → Phnom Penh
Welcome by our driver upon arrival at the airport. Transfer and check-in at our hotel. The rest of the day is free. Rooms available from 2:00 PM.
If you arrive a bit early and your room is not yet ready, you can leave your luggage at the reception before going for a stroll in town or resting by the pool.
Day without English-speaking guide
Phnom Penh, vibrant capital
We then visit the National Museum and discover one of the most important collections of Khmer art: 14,000 sculptures and ethnographic objects, mostly from the temples of Angkor. This jewel of Khmer architecture was built between 1917 and 1920, and features a magnificent interior courtyard, a truly lush garden surrounded by the museum's unique pieces.
We then visit the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda, true jewels of Khmer architecture built in the mid-19th century.
The dress code for the Royal Palace is quite strict: shoulders and knees must be covered.
Visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21), a former Phnom Penh high school that the Khmer Rouge transformed into an interrogation, torture and death center. It is the largest detention and torture center under the Pol Pot regime that will reveal to us a very painful chapter in Cambodia's history.
Today converted into a museum, the former S21 Prison reminds each visitor of the atrocities committed in Cambodia during the terrible years of communist dictatorship. No fewer than 17,000 people were inmates of Tuol Sleng prison, and only 7 survived and can today tell of the abuse they suffered. A visit to S21 can be a disturbing and poignant experience that some may not be able to bear. However, it is one of the keys to understanding the hell and madness in which Cambodia locked itself during these years of terror.
Depending on the time remaining, we can visit the central market and/or the Russian market
Kampong Cham and Kratié
In the morning, we head towards Kampong Cham.
Along the way, let's be adventurous and take full advantage of a "gastronomic" stop in the city of Skun, famous for its spiders and grilled insects.
In Kampong Cham, we leave the city to go to the village of Steung Trong and explore the beautiful rice fields and other plantations (peanuts, jicama and yam beans) in this very fertile area by the river. A little further on, a different landscape awaits in the Krouch Chhmar district. We set off to meet the village inhabitants on a short 30-minute ride through tobacco crops. A discovery of authentic rural Cambodge.
We then head to Kratie, a peaceful city-province on the banks of the great Mekong with magnificent rural landscapes.
Once we arrive at our destination, we settle into the hotel; the rest of the day is free.
Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide.
Irrawaddy Dolphins and Stopover in Kampong Thom
Equipped with a life jacket, a cap and a water bottle, set off on a kayaking adventure down the river, at your own pace, solo (following a guide of course!) or in tandem.
Meet at your guesthouse reception at 7am for breakfast and to meet your kayak guide who will give you instructions and safety details.
This morning excursion will have you paddling mainly with the current between the small sandy islets dotting the Mekong River and a river forest. Your efforts will be punctuated by several snack breaks & swimming stops, with the highlight being a stop to observe the rare Irrawady dolphins from your kayak.
Return to the guesthouse around 12:30pm.
Road transfer to Kampong Thom.
On the way, at the edge of Kampong Thom, let's discover the magnificent pre-Angkorian temples of Sambor Prei Kuk.
This archaeological site has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List since July 2017 and owes this status to its role as an ancient capital before the rise of the Khmer empire, which would later settle in Angkor a few centuries later.
Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide.
Sambor Prei Kuk and arrival in Siem Reap
This morning, we are heading towards Siem Reap.
Kampong Thom → Kampong Khleang
On the way, we make a detour towards the village of Kampong Kleang located on the Tonlé Sap lake about 1 hour 30 minutes by car from Siem Reap.
We board a private boat to discover and visit this floating village that lives mainly from fishing.
Once we arrive at our destination, we settle into the hotel; the rest of the day is free.
Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide.
The Majestic Temples of Angkor by Bike
Day trip by bicycle to discover the wonderful temples of Angkor located around and within Angkor Thom.
We discover in particular Angkor Wat, symbol of the pinnacle of the Khmer Empire during the Angkorian era. Within the Angkor Thom complex, discover Bayon and its numerous towers with gigantic faces, Baphuon and its gigantic statue of a 40-meter reclining Buddha, Phimeanakas, the Terrace of Elephants and its great diversity of sculptures as well as the Terrace of the Leper King.
Let's conclude with Ta Prohm famous for its immense trees with sprawling aerial roots or, if you are ready to brave the crowds, with a sunset from the heights of Phnom Bakheng (_note: Phnom Bakheng is off-limits to children under 12 years old and authorities limit access to 300 people at sunset, creating a queue_)
Due to an already busy schedule, we deliberately skip some secondary temples of the small circuit such as Banteay Kdei, Thommanon, Chau Say Tevoda or Ta Keo. If you wish to visit these sites, do not hesitate to inform your guide at the beginning of the day so he can best arrange the schedule.
Possibility to visit in reverse order to avoid crowds. Just mention it to your guide at the start of the day.
Temples are sacred places, avoid short clothing, you must cover your shoulders and wear long pants or a long skirt.
In order to preserve these fragile monuments, it is forbidden to touch sculptures or sit on temple elements.
In Cambodian culture, it is offensive to behave rowdily inside a sacred place, calm and respect are key.
It is discouraged to buy items or sweets from child vendors, this only encourages begging and truancy, prefer a donation to an association if you wish.
If you wish to photograph the monks (called Bonzes), you must obtain their permission beforehand. Furthermore, you must definitely not touch them, they have the right to touch you but not the other way around.
The River of 1000 Lingas and the Pink Sandstone Citadel
We then begin the short hike necessary to reach the site of Kbal Spean nicknamed "the temple under water". Temple ruins dating from the 9th century border a river whose bed is scattered with sculpted lingas. A small waterfall near the sacred site will allow us to cool off or even swim (bring a small towel).
Very accessible hike of approximately 1.5 km (or 3 km round trip) with a slight elevation gain over the last 700 meters. Wear hiking shoes/sneakers as the trail is quite rocky.
After approximately 45 minutes of driving, we start the day by visiting the Angkor Centre for Biodiversity Protection. We will be able to see the efforts made by local and international teams to protect threatened local species: turtles and other reptiles, birds and rare mammals. Children and animal lovers will be delighted by this discovery and awareness-raising visit.
After lunch, continue with a visit to Banteay Srey, a human-sized temple compared to the gigantic Angkor Wat or Bayon. This pink sandstone temple nicknamed "The Citadel of Women" is known for the refinement of the bas-reliefs and sculptures that adorn its walls and columns. Your discovery continues with a visit to the Banteay Samre temple.
Arrival in Battambang
After lunch, transfer by road to Battambang.
On the way, discover the pagoda Wat Slaket and Ek Phnom, a Brahmanical sandstone temple from the 11th century now in ruins. It was ransacked by the Khmer Rouge under Pol Pot, and looted by the Vietnamese at liberation. A place steeped in history.
South of Battambang, a visit to the Banon temple erected at the top of a hill offers you, after climbing the 358 steps, a lovely panorama of the Cambodian countryside.
After checking in at the hotel, head off to discover the temple of Phnom Sampov, "the ship-hill". You stay there until sunset to observe the flight of bats and their incredible choreography towards the sky.
Day without English-speaking guide.
Battambang by bicycle
Traveling by bike being an excellent way to meet local communities, our morning will be dedicated to a great guided bicycle ride through the beautiful Cambodian countryside. This authentic immersion in a rural setting will allow us to visit a Buddhist temple with a dark history, to observe the daily life of villagers and to discover some of the region's artisanal products (bamboo cake, rice wine, banana chips, fish paste, rice paper…). Rich exchanges full of smiles await us during this itinerary.
Half-day bike tour accompanied by an English-speaking local tour leader; the total route is 20km on flat terrain at a very leisurely pace.
We meet up with our driver for a few visits in the afternoon. We first head to one of the last houses with traditional Khmer architecture in Battambang. Built with three different types of wood, it houses numerous period utensils, trompe-l'œils, and massive furniture. The rich history of this charming building, which was built in 1920, will be told to you by the great-grandson of its first owner. A passionate storyteller of historical tales.
Visit to the Battambang Provincial Museum. Small in size, this museum will surprise us with the unlikely interest of its collection, starting from prehistoric times and ending with pottery from the Battambang province of the 19th century, passing through stelae and statues from the Angkorian period. All housed in a gracious and imposing colonial-era building.
Note: The museum is closed on Mondays, and open the rest of the week in the morning and afternoon.
We conclude this day with the famous bamboo train. This activity is ideal for beginning or ending the day. The fresh air will pleasantly tickle your face as your eyes admire the rice fields painted in the landscape.
Day without English-speaking guide-accompanying
Route to Tatai / Koh Kong
After breakfast, we depart by road towards Koh Kong province, in the west of the country.
The region is still very wild and underdeveloped. Ideal for getting off the beaten path!
Once we arrive at our destination, we settle into the hotel; the rest of the day is free.
Day without an English-speaking guide
Jungle, hiking and waterfalls in Koh Kong
In the morning, we meet our local guide and set off to explore the jungle around our resort. Hiking for approximately 3 hours (4-5 km walk), fairly easy with some elevation gain. Bring good hiking shoes as the trails are sometimes difficult to navigate in places.
At the end of our morning walk, we take a boat to the Tatai Falls and admire the beautiful stepped waterfall; swimming possible!
Return to the resort and free time. Day without English-speaking guide
The wild island of Koh Rong Samloem
Next, transfer by road to Sihanoukville, a southern beach resort town with beautiful fine sandy beaches and gateway to the paradisiacal islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem.
Once you arrive at the pier, if you have time, take the opportunity to grab a quick lunch (and keep it light as the sea can be rough!).
Sihanoukville → Koh Rong Samloem
Around 2:30 PM departure by boat to the paradisiacal island of Koh Rong Samloem. Day without an English-speaking guide
Day without English-speaking guide
On the white sand of Koh Rong Samloem
Free days at your convenience.
On the white sand of Koh Rong Samloem
Free days at your convenience.
Return to Phnom Penh
After breakfast and checking out of our room, we return by boat to Sihanoukville.
The boat departure is scheduled for 9:30 a.m.
Sihanoukville → Phnom Penh Airport
Upon arrival at the Sihanoukville pier, a driver will be waiting for a final transfer via the country's only highway (to date) which will take us directly to Phnom Penh International Airport (KTI) for our return flight.
The driver will wait for you at the Buva Sea office, a few dozen meters away. Vehicles cannot always access the boat dock directly.
Please note: this itinerary is only possible with a return flight at the earliest in the mid-afternoon (i.e. from 4:30 PM onwards). If the flight is in the morning, we will need to arrange a final night in the capital.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International Transport
- Tips
- Travel insurance/cancellation/repatriation
- Visa fees
- Extra drinks / alcohols
- Hotel Consumptions
- Meals not mentioned
- Phone calls
- Any excursion not mentioned in the program
- Late room checkout
Included
- Transfers to and from the airport
- Transport to activities and program stages
- Land transfers indicated in the itinerary
- Hotels and Accommodations
- Breakfasts at the hotel
- I need to translate the text "Repas mentionnés" to English. Meals Mentioned
- English-speaking guide for activities when indicated
- Entry fees for activities
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- More than 60 days before departure: 40% of the total price (deposit retained)
- Between 60 and 30 days before departure: 50% of the total price
- Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of the total price
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travellers entering Cambodia for a tourist stay. Entry requirements may change, and we recommend that you verify the information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter Cambodia, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months after your date of entry into the country and must contain at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Tourist visa
Entry requirements for Cambodia depend on your nationality. A visa may be required. You should verify the specific conditions with the embassy or consulate of Cambodia in your country of residence, as well as with the authorities of your own country.
The following options are generally available for obtaining a visa:
an electronic visa (e-Visa), which can be requested online before departure through the official Cambodian government portal, valid for 30 days from your date of entry;
a visa on arrival, available at major entry points (international airports in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, as well as certain land border crossings), also valid for 30 days;
a visa obtained from the Cambodian embassy or consulate in your country of residence before departure.
An extension of an additional 30 days can generally be requested on site with the Cambodian Immigration Department.
The authorities may also request:
an outbound travel ticket (return flight or onward journey),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay.
Arrival form
Travellers may be asked to complete an arrival form provided by the Cambodian authorities, either online before departure or upon arrival depending on the entry point. This form collects information such as:
passport details,
flight or transport details,
the address of your first accommodation in Cambodia.
It is advisable to keep a digital confirmation or printed copy of any document submitted online, which may be requested when passing through immigration.
Health and vaccinations
No vaccinations are officially required to enter Cambodia. However, certain vaccinations are recommended by health authorities:
hepatitis A and hepatitis B,
typhoid,
rabies (in case of prolonged stay or travel to rural areas),
update of routine vaccinations (diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis, measles).
Antimalarial preventive treatment may be advised depending on the regions you plan to visit and the length of your stay. It is recommended that you consult a doctor or international vaccination centre before departure.
Travel with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay, as well as an individual visa.
Depending on your country of residence, a parental authorization for exit from the territory may be required when a minor travels without one of their parents.
Other nationalities
Entry requirements may vary depending on your nationality. You should verify the specific conditions with the embassy or consulate of Cambodia in your country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended that you have travel assistance and medical expense coverage abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to familiarize yourself with the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To purchase insurance, find out about coverage and rates, please follow the link below.
Choose the plan that best suits you:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and claim procedures is available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of this, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the claim declaration procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
A tourist visa is required. You can obtain it online (e-visa, approximately 36 USD) before departure or upon arrival at the airport (Visa on Arrival, approximately 30 USD). Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry. The conditions for length of stay and visa extension vary depending on your nationality: we recommend that you check with the consular authorities of your destination for the specific rules that apply to you before booking.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a quality tailor-made trip, budget between 120 and 200 euros per day per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transportation and activities. International flights (700-1000 euros return) are additional. Cambodia offers excellent value for money, often combined with Vietnam or Thailand.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to match your travel profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed pacing, family-friendly accommodations, engaging and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until it's perfect. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — South Phnom Penh
Travel Advisor and Cambodia Enthusiast, based in Phnom Penh
The most beautiful journeys are those that resemble the people living them. My role is simply to open the right doors of Cambodia for them.
— Cyrille
