The Reverse Loop from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh
From the Angkor complex to the wild Mekong, a complete crossing of Cambodge through to the beaches of Koh Rong.
Duration
18 days
From
€1,830/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jan, Feb, Mar, Nov, Dec
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
The towers with faces of Bayon rise through the morning mist while the first rays of sunlight burst over the sacred basins of Angkor Wat. This inverted loop begins with total immersion in the Khmer universe: from the pre-Angkorian temples of Sambor Prei Kuk to the floating villages of Kampong Kleang, where stilt houses sway to the rhythm of the Tonlé Sap.
The journey continues toward the remote lands of Ratanakiri, a mountainous region populated by ethnic minorities, then descends the Mekong to Kratié where the last Irrawaddy dolphins survive. Kampong Cham reveals its rubber plantations and bamboo bridges, before Phnom Penh unfolds its French colonial heritage intertwined with Buddhist pagodas. The Kep archipelago finally offers its turquoise waters and crab markets.
This crossing from west to east and then from north to south reveals all the diversity of the Khmer kingdom: Angkorian heritage, fishing communities, primary forests and paradisiacal beaches. Sixteen days to grasp the deep soul of a country where each province tells a different facet of Southeast Asia.
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Siem Reap
Welcome by our driver upon arrival at the airport.
Transfer and check-in at the hotel. Rest of the day free.
Rooms available from 2:00 PM. If we arrive a little early and our room is not yet ready, we can leave our luggage at the reception desk.
Day without English-speaking guide
The Majestic Temples of Angkor
Day visit by tuk tuk of the magnificent Angkor temples located around and within the Angkor Thom compound. We discover in particular Angkor Wat, symbol of the apex of the Khmer Empire during the Angkorian era.
Within the Angkor Thom compound, 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 us conclude with Ta Prohm famous for its immense trees with sprawling aerial roots. We can finish 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 intentionally skip a few minor temples on 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 do the visits in reverse order to avoid the crowds. Simply inform your guide at the beginning of the day.
The 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 to sit on temple elements.
In Cambodian culture, it is offensive to misbehave inside a sacred place, calm and respect are the watchwords.
It is not recommended to buy items or sweets from child vendors, this only encourages begging and truancy; prefer making a donation to an association if this is close to your heart.
If you wish to photograph the monks (called Bonzes), you must obtain their permission beforehand. Furthermore, you must not touch them, they have the right to touch you but not the other way around.
Day with an English-speaking guide.
The river of 1000 lingas and the pink sandstone citadel
After approximately 45 minutes of driving, we begin the day with a visit to the Angkor Center 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 visit of discovery and awareness.
We then begin the short hiking trail needed to reach the Kbal Spean site nicknamed "the temple under water", 49 km north of Angkor. Temple ruins dating from the 9th century border a river whose bed is scattered with sculpted lingas. A nurturing source for Angkor, the waters of Kbal Spean once irrigated the rice fields of the ancient city. In its bed, the Khmer people sculpted Shivas and stone squares intended to bless the waters before they reached the Royal City. The site was discovered in 1968 by ethnologist Jean Boulbet from Ariège, and following in his footsteps you will be able to wander along the lush banks. A small waterfall near the sacred protected site will allow us to refresh ourselves or even bathe in it (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.
Bring hiking shoes or sneakers as the trail is quite rocky.
After lunch, let's continue with a visit to Banteay Srey, a temple with human proportions 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.
If we have energy left, we can conclude the day with a visit to Banteay Samre temple or return to the hotel directly.
Day spent with an English-speaking guide.
The Immensity of Tonlé Sap Lake and the Roluos Group
This morning, we head towards the village of Kampong Kleang located on Tonlé Sap Lake, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car from Siem Reap. We board a private boat to discover and visit the floating village. We explore the daily life of this community living mainly from fishing and at the rhythm of the lake.
In the afternoon, we return to the Angkor archaeological site, more specifically to the Roluos site, a small Khmer city housing the beginnings of the Angkorian period. Seat of the first capital of the Hariharalaya empire, Roluos marks the beginning of classical Khmer civilization. The buildings are mostly constructed in brick, laterite, or sandstone. Bakong, Lolei, and Preah Ko are the three main temples of the place. All dedicated to the worship of Hinduism, the latter two however today protect Buddhist pagodas. We reserve the visit to Bakong temple for the end as we will be able to take advantage of the viewpoint to admire the sunset from the heights of this temple-mountain.
Day spent with an English-speaking guide.
The temples of Sambor Prei Kuk
Late morning transfer by road towards Kampong Thom, halfway between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.
At the edge of Kampong Thom, we make a small detour to discover the formidable pre-Angkorian temples of Sambor Prei Kuk. This archaeological site has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list since July 2017.
We continue with a village tour by scooter (passenger) lasting approximately 1 hour to discover the countryside of Kampong Thom and its magnificent rural landscapes, and to meet the peasants, their animals and the smiles of the children. The path is lined with small wooden houses with straw or palm leaf roofs. These traditional houses of typical Khmer style are bordered by waterways. Let's especially enjoy the superb sunset over the rice fields.
Excursion accompanied by an English-speaking motorbike guide/driver from the Sambor Prei Kuk community
Sambor Prei Kuk → Kampong Thom
We are settling 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 with an English-speaking guide.
A charming stopover at the Laotian border
Road transfer to Steung Treng, a quiet small town located near the Laotian border on a sandy bank overlooking the Mekong, at the confluence with the Sé Kong river. Check-in to your accommodation.
We settle in at the Mekong Bird Resort, a charming small family establishment in the heart of nature and by the water.
Embark on 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 waterbirds such as the lapwing, the river tern, the great thick-knee or the Mekong wagtail, a species discovered in 2001.
Day with an English-speaking guide.
In Ratanakiri around Banlung
Transfer with guide to Banlung, provincial capital of Ratanakiri. Check-in at the hotel.
Stop at the volcanic lake of Yeak Loam, in the middle of thick jungle. This magnificent lake with its blue waters is believed to have originated from a meteorite impact. It is a sacred place for local ethnic groups. The water's transparency offers perfect visibility (swimming possible)
Continue ladies with a visit to the blue zircon mines, widespread in the region and often associated with rubber plantations. This semi-precious stone has brilliance and sparkle properties very close to diamond.
And finally, a last stop to admire superb waterfalls over seven levels before returning to the hotel. Swimming possible if you wish.
Day with an English-speaking guide.
Guaranteed escape to Koh Trong
Departure with your driver by road to Kratie, a peaceful city-province on the banks of the great Mekong with magnificent rural landscapes.
Upon your arrival, you take a small boat to reach the river island of Koh Trong.
A lunch with a local resident awaits you.
We discover this small island on foot or by bike. The river island is a condensed version of magnificent landscapes and guaranteed to transport you away from everyday life. Let's discover the Khmer village and the inhabitants of a timeless island.
Ferry crossing and return to Kratié to rejoin your hotel.
Day spent with an English-speaking guide.
Kayaking in search of Irrawaddy dolphins
Equipped with a life jacket, a cap and a water bottle, set off kayaking down the river at your own pace, alone (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 Grand Mekong and a river forest. Your efforts will be punctuated by several snack breaks and swimming stops, culminating in a stop to observe the rare Irrawaddy dolphins from your kayak.
Return to the guesthouse around 12:30pm.
After lunch, we take the road for a short journey to Chhlong where you can rest at the hotel.
Day spent with an English-speaking guide.
A Day in Kampong Cham Before Your Arrival in Phnom Penh
After breakfast, transfer by road to Kampong Cham.
Visit the Hanchey Pagoda, at the top of the mountain of the same name. This unique place is home not only to the temple but also to a multitude of other sculptures, including fruits and vegetables.
Furthermore, you will have a magnificent unobstructed view of the Mekong and the surrounding countryside.
The hills of Phnom Bros and Phnom Srei are located in Kampong Cham. Separated from each other by a kilometer of distance, the two peaks offer a magnificent view of the countryside and the Mekong. You can visit modern temples on these hills and take advantage of the place to relax pleasantly. Two locations full of history not to be missed.
Possible activity from late January to late May: to admire an bamboo bridge of the most original kind. Connecting Kampong Cham and the island of Koh Paeng, it is rebuilt every year in January and destroyed at the end of May due to higher water levels during the rainy season.
After these few visits, we head back on the road towards the capital Phnom Penh.
Hotel check-in and free time for the rest of the day.
Day with an English-speaking guide.
Phnom Penh, vibrant capital
Day trip by tuk-tuk
Let's discover the famous Wat Phnom which gave its name to the capital. The "temple 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.
Visit of 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 to us a very painful chapter in Cambodia's history.
Now 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 prisoners of Tuol Sleng prison, and only 7 survived and can today recount 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 into which Cambodia locked itself during these years of terror.
Depending on the remaining time, we can visit the central market and/or the Russian market
Day spent with an English-speaking guide.
On the way to the mild seaside charm of the south
Road transfer to Kep, a charming seaside town renowned for its crab market and national park ideal for a lovely walk.
The Kampot region is internationally recognized for its exceptional pepper. It is therefore impossible to visit Kampot without taking a tour of one of the many pepper plantations in the region!
We then visit the family pepper production farm, La Ferme de Sothy with an English-speaking guide from the plantation who will explain the origin and reasons for the fame of this pepper. We will learn more about the cultivation methods and how to cook this famous pepper.
On the way, near Kep, exploring the caves of Phnom Kampong Trach holds some lovely surprises for us. Considered as natural temples by local Buddhists, they conceal numerous statues and altars. As the highlight of this "speleological" excursion, a beautiful representation of a reclining Buddha awaits us in an open-air clearing created by the collapse of the rock.
Once you arrive at your destination, we will check you in at the hotel; the rest of the day is free for you to enjoy as you wish.
Suggestions for your free time in Kep: there are many restaurants at the crab market, you can also do the short hike of 2-3 hours in Kep National Park (starting from Veranda Natural Resort)
Day without English-speaking guide
Kep Archipelago
After breakfast, we embark on a full-day eco-tour around the islands in Kep Bay.
Aboard a traditional Khmer fishing boat, we will navigate through the Kep archipelago, following the waves and currents, away from any other tourist circuits.
Armed with masks and snorkels, let's discover the depths and reefs of the Kep archipelago where many species of colorful fish, sea urchins, starfish and corals thrive.
Let's relax in the warm and swim-friendly waters of Serpent Island Bay for a fish and seafood barbecue on the boat. We then visit a traditional fishing village where we can soak in the atmosphere and observe the preparation of nets, crab traps and bait while sipping an iced coffee. Finally, we set off to explore a charming little lost and atypical islet.
We may have the rare chance to observe Irrawaddy dolphins in this corner… Keep your eyes peeled!
The boat tour is private and begins around 9am with a return around 4pm.
Vegetarian menu on request
Day without English-speaking guide
Extension to Koh Rong
Road transfer to the Sihanoukville pier, a seaside town in the south with beautiful fine sandy beaches and gateway to the paradisiacal islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem.
Boat transfer to Koh Rong from Sihanoukville pier. Our team on the ground will meet you at the pier to hand over your boat tickets.
Once you arrive at your destination, we will check you in at the hotel; the rest of the day is free.
Day without English-speaking guide
Arrival in Phnom Penh
After lunch and checking out of our room, we return by boat to Sihanoukville.
Sihanoukville → Phnom Penh Airport
Upon our arrival in Sihanoukville, a driver will be waiting for us at the pier for a final transfer to Phnom Penh via the country's only highway.
Once you arrive at your destination, we will check you in to the hotel; The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy as you wish.
Day without English-speaking guide
Good to see you again and see you next time!
Phnom Penh → Phnom Penh Airport
Free program before our transfer to Phnom Penh International Airport.
We will need to vacate our room before noon. If our flight is in the evening, we can leave our luggage at the hotel reception for a last tour of the city.
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.
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 travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland and Canada traveling to Cambodia for a tourist stay. As entry rules may change, we recommend that you verify this information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter Cambodia, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months after the date of entry into the country and contain at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Tourist visa
Unlike some destinations, Cambodia does not grant visa exemptions to nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland and Canada for tourist stays. A visa is therefore mandatory before or upon entry into the country.
Several options are available to obtain it:
the electronic visa (e-Visa), to be requested online before departure on the official Cambodian government portal (evisa.gov.kh), at a cost of 36 USD (30 USD for the visa + 6 USD processing fee), valid for 30 days from the date of entry;
the visa on arrival (Visa on Arrival), available at the main entry points (international airports of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, as well as certain land border crossings), at a cost of 30 USD to be paid in cash, also valid for 30 days;
the 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 from the Cambodian Immigration Department.
The authorities may also request:
an exit ticket from the country (return or onward flight),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay.
e-Arrival declaration (mandatory)
All travelers must complete the e-Arrival declaration before arriving in Cambodia: it is free, is done on the official website arrival.gov.kh and must be completed within 7 days before arrival. It replaces the paper forms distributed on flights. It does not replace the visa: these are two separate procedures. Some airlines refuse to check in travelers who do not have confirmation of their e-Arrival.
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 vaccines
No vaccination is 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 in rural areas),
update of routine vaccinations (diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis, measles).
A preventive antimalarial treatment may be advised depending on the regions visited and the length of stay. It is recommended to consult a doctor or an international vaccination center before departure.
Travel with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay, as well as an individual visa.
In some European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an authorization to leave the country may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travelers concerned should inquire at the Cambodian embassy or consulate in their 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 — Angkor Region
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
