Jungle & temple
From the pristine jungle of Ratanakiri to the ancient temples of Angkor, an immersive journey through authentic Cambodge
Duration
15 days
From
€1,410/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jan, Feb, Mar, Nov, Dec
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
At dawn, the sounds of the Ratanakiri primary forest wake you in your camp by the riverbank. The elephants of the Sen Monorom sanctuary welcome you to their natural refuge, while Irrawaddy dolphins emerge from the brown waters of the Mekong near Kratié.
This journey crosses the remote provinces of Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri, home to the Bunong and Kreung ethnic minorities who preserve their ancestral traditions. The Bousra Falls cascade down their three tiers in a deafening roar, the volcanic lake of Yeak Loam reveals its supernatural blue waters, and trekking trails wind through still-untouched jungle. At Sambor Prei Kuk, seventh-century brick towers emerge from lush vegetation, bearing witness to the pre-Angkorian empire of Chenla.
The adventure culminates at the temples of Angkor, where pink sandstone bas-reliefs tell the epic of Khmer kings who dominated Southeast Asia for six centuries. Between wild jungle and millennial heritage, this circuit reveals a Cambodge where nature and history blend in a striking balance.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh Airport → Phnom Penh
Welcome by your driver upon arrival at Phnom Penh airport.
Transfer and check-in at your hotel.
Rest. Rooms available from 2:00 PM. You can drop off your luggage at reception before going for a stroll around the city.
Day without an English-speaking guide
Phnom Penh, vibrant capital
Let's discover the famous Wat Phnom which gave its name to the capital. The "pagoda of the hill" is the highest point in Phnom Penh.
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.
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.
Day tour by tuk-tuk
Visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21), a former high school in Phnom Penh 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 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 abuses they suffered. A visit to S21 can be a disturbing and poignant experience that some will not be able to endure. However, it is one of the keys to understanding the hell and madness in which Cambodia locked itself during these years of terror.
Day with an English-speaking guide.
Kampong Cham and Kratié
In the morning, transfer to Kampong Cham, along the way, let's be bold to fully enjoy a "gastronomic" stop in the city of Skun, famous for its spiders and grilled insects
The hills of Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei are located in Kampong Cham. Separated by approximately one kilometer from each other, these two hilltops offer magnificent views of the countryside and the Mekong River. We can visit modern temples on these hills and take advantage of the location to relax pleasantly. Two historically rich places not to be missed.
We then drive to Kampi. We board a boat on the Mekong River to search for Irrawaddy dolphins, one of the rare freshwater dolphin species that is on the verge of extinction.
Return to the city of Kratie, where we check in.
Day without English-speaking guide-companion
On the way to Mondulkiri
In the morning, depart by road with your driver to Mondulkiri province, one of the most natural and remote provinces of Cambodge where many minorities live. Upon arrival in Sen Monorom, the provincial capital, check-in at your hotel and rest. The rest of the day is free.
In the afternoon, we head towards the Bousra waterfalls, the largest and most beautiful in Cambodge. Cascading over 3 levels, they offer a magnificent spectacle and a natural pool where you can swim.
Day without English-speaking guide
The elephant sanctuary
Spend an exceptional morning in one of Cambodia's most biodiverse forests and observe some of our resident retired elephants! This is a totally unique experience that allows you to spend time in nature and watch former working elephants return to the forest and rediscover their natural behaviors.
During your guided hike, you will discover the story of the elephants and their welfare, as well as the traditions and culture of the local indigenous Bunong people. Your morning hike will end at our forest base camp, located on the side of a valley overlooking the Keo Seima wildlife sanctuary. Savor a delicious buffet lunch prepared by our local Bunong team, relax in a hammock and enjoy total immersion in nature.
After lunch, head back into the forest for the afternoon to explore the community forest on a hike. Walk through lush jungle, admire ancient trees, discover rivers and waterfalls and, if you're lucky, perhaps catch a glimpse of other wildlife!
Day with local sanctuary guide-companion
In Ratanakiri around Banlung
Transfer to Banlung, provincial capital of Ratanakiri.
Stop at the volcanic lake of Yeak Loam, in the middle of dense jungle. This magnificent lake with its blue waters is said to have originated from a meteorite fall. It is a sacred place for local ethnic groups. The water's transparency offers perfect visibility (swimming possible)
And finally, a last stop to admire superb waterfalls on seven levels before returning to the hotel. Swimming possible if you wish.
Day without English-speaking guide
Forest trekking
Car transfer to the Sesan River. You will board a boat to reach a small village of a local minority, where your trek begins in Virachey National Park accompanied by your guide. You follow a trail to a small wooden shelter where you will have your lunch break. You then resume walking for about an hour until you reach the Lalai River, which you will cross on foot (approximately 30m). Continue trekking to a small waterfall suitable for swimming. There, you will set up camp for the night. Dinner will allow you to taste the cuisine of the local minority. If you still have the energy and courage, there is an opportunity for a short night hike.
Note: a relatively accessible trekking day with approximately 6.5 km of walking and 100 m of elevation gain. Day with an English-speaking local guide.
2nd day of trekking
After breakfast prepared by your guides and a good coffee in a bamboo cup, resume your hike through the still pristine primary forest of Virachey National Park. Plan for approximately 5 to 6 hours of walking with a lunch break by a small stream. It is by bamboo raft that you reach the site of your second night in the forest; you set up camp on the banks of the Ohnangkry River where the weak current allows
Day with an English-speaking local guide during the trek
Rafting adventure
After breakfast, you will hike for about 4-5 hours back towards an indigenous village where you will also have lunch. From there, you will take a small boat to return to the starting point.
Arrival in Banlung expected around 4-5 PM.
Day with an English-speaking local guide during the trek
On the banks of the Mekong near the Laotian border
In the morning, transfer to Steung Treng.
From the resort's pier, we embark on a approximately 1-hour boat ride to discover the Mekong and its trees with gigantic aerial roots. You may want to bring earplugs if you can, as the engine is quite loud. You may have the chance to spot its many water birds such as the lapwing, the river tern, the great stone-curlew or the Mekong wagtail, a species discovered in 2001.
Possibility to return by kayak; inform the resort and they will attach kayaks to the boat with ropes
We settle at the Mekong Bird Resort, a small family-run establishment full of charm in the heart of nature and on the water's edge.
Sambor Prei Kuk, "the temple of the lush forest"
We continue on the road today to head to Kampong Thom province. We will 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 a former capital during the period preceding the rise of the Khmer empire, which would later settle in Angkor a few centuries later.
Sambor Prei Kuk → Kampong Thom
We settle in Steung Sen the capital of Kampong Thom province crossed by a river of the same name. Here, with a touch of irony, the inhabitants like to remind us that they too have their Seine.
Day without English-speaking local guide - Local guide at Sambor Prei kuk
Day without English-speaking guide
Arrival in Siem Reap
Road transfer to Siem Reap via a detour to visit two sites well worth the stop:
Discover Koh Ker, capital of Cambodge for a short period in the 10th century. You will visit notably the Prasat Thom, a temple-mountain standing 30 m high.
Visit the Beng Mealea temple devoured by the roots of strangler fig trees. It served as a set for the film (Two Brothers) shot in 2004 by Jean-Jacques Annaud.
Once you arrive at your destination, we check in to the hotel; the rest of the day is free.
Day without English-speaking guide
The majestic temples of Angkor
Day tour by tuk tuk of the wonderful Angkor temples located around and inside the Angkor Thom enclosure. We discover in particular Angkor Wat, symbol of the peak of the Khmer Empire during the Angkorian era.
Within the Angkor Thom enclosure, discover Bayon and its numerous towers with gigantic faces, Baphuon and its gigantic 40m reclining Buddha statue, 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 tentacular aerial roots. We can end this day with a sunset either at Srah Srang, or from the heights of Pre Rup or Phnom Bakheng if you are ready to brave the crowds (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 a few 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.
It is possible to visit the temples in reverse order to avoid crowds. Simply indicate this to your guide at the beginning 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 be rowdy inside a sacred place; calm and respect are the guiding principles.
It is not recommended to buy items or sweets from child vendors, as this only encourages begging and truancy. Instead, consider donating to an association if you wish to help.
If you wish to photograph the monks (called Bonzes), you must obtain their permission beforehand. Moreover, you must not touch them; they have the right to touch you but not the other way around.
Day spent with an English-speaking guide.
The River of 1000 Lingams and the Pink Sandstone Citadel
After approximately 45 minutes of driving, we begin the day with a visit to 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.
We then begin a short hiking excursion needed to reach the Kbal Spean site, 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 and 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 or sneakers as the trail is quite rocky.
After lunch, continue with a visit to Banteay Srey, a temple of human scale 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 Banteay Samre temple. Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide. After lunch, continue with a visit to Banteay Srey, a temple of human scale 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 Banteay Samre temple. Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide
Your discovery continues with a visit to Banteay Samre temple.
Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide
Day with an English-speaking guide.
Floating Village of Kampong Kleang & the Sacred Mountain of Phnom Santuk
In the morning, transfer by road to Phnom Penh, capital of Cambodge.
We first head towards Kampong Thom, halfway between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.
On the way, we make a detour towards the village of Kampong Kleang located on Tonlé Sap Lake approximately 1 hour 30 minutes drive from Siem Reap. We board a private boat to discover and visit this floating village which lives primarily from fishing.
We then head to visit Phnom Santuk mountain, the sacred mountain that brings together pagodas and large reclining Buddhas; the oldest ones were carved into the rock over time and other more recent ones are simply made of cement. You must climb more than 800 steps in the middle of the forest to reach the summit of this popular pilgrimage site in the region. We will probably be accompanied by bands of monkeys.
On the way after getting back on the road, be bold to fully enjoy a brief "gastronomic" stop in the town of Skun, famous for its spiders and grilled insects.
Upon our arrival in Phnom Penh, our driver drops us off at the hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is free.
Day without an English-speaking guide
Thank you and safe travels back!
Phnom Penh → Phnom Penh Airport
Free program before our transfer to Phnom Penh International Airport.
Day without English-speaking guide
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
- Passport & Visa Fees
- Repatriation insurance
- Travel Insurance
- Extra drinks / alcohols
- Meals not mentioned
- Phone calls
- Any excursion not mentioned in the itinerary
Included
- Transfers to and from the airport
- City transports (tuk tuk or car)
- Hotels & Accommodations
- Hotel breakfasts
- Repas mentionnés
- English-speaking guide for activities
- Entrance 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.
— Alexandre
