22-Day Ultimate Cambodian Adventure

Upon arrival at Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, you’ll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel for check-in.

Optional: Sunset on Paddy Fields (1 hour, start @ 5.00 PM)
Navigate through traditional villages and narrow paths, enjoying the serene late afternoon light. The tour culminates with a stunning sunset over the fields, providing a blend of adventure, relaxation, and picturesque scenery, perfect for ending your day.

Overnight at a hotel in Siem Reap

Begin your day with a stunning sunrise at Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument, admiring its five towers, intricate bas-reliefs, and numerous Khmer figures. Enjoy the golden light and explore the temple’s details with a guide before a light breakfast at a local restaurant. Afterward, visit Angkor Thom, starting at the southern gateway and exploring Bayon Temple, known for its serene faces and detailed bas-reliefs. Continue to the Baphuon and the Terraces of the Elephant and the Leper King, renowned for their exquisite stone carvings.

In the late afternoon, embark on a cultural guided tour of Siem Reap’s Old Town. Begin at the Royal Independence Gardens and visit the Shrine of Preah Ang Chek Preah Ang Chorm, where you’ll learn its legend and see bats roosting nearby. Continue along the Siem Reap River to Wat Bo, one of the city’s oldest pagodas with 19th-century murals. Offer alms and receive a blessing from a monk before exploring the Cambodian Made Market, Old Market, and Pub Street. These lively areas offer a vibrant mix of shops, eateries, and bars, perfect for street food tasting and a drink before returning to your hotel.

Overnight at a hotel in Siem Reap

Breakfast at the hotel.

Today, take a respite from temple tours and discover the vibrant fishing communities on the shores of Tonlé Sap Lake, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake. These communities rely on fishing and produce a variety of fish-based products, including fermented fish, smoked fish, and dried prawns. Set out on an engaging boat trip to explore the floating villages and flooded forests, marveling at how residents have adapted to this ever-changing environment. Experience the resilience and ingenuity of the Tonlé Sap Lake inhabitants while enjoying the serene beauty of the lake’s tranquil waters and picturesque landscape.

*Remark: During the dry season (Feb – May) the water levels of Tonle Sap Lake drop dramatically, causing boat tours may be limited, and some areas may become inaccessible.

Enjoy a delightful lunch in a village home before embarking on a scenic ox cart ride through the charming rural village of Roluos. Next, explore Bakong Temple, Angkor’s first mountain temple from the 8th and 9th centuries, which remains remarkably well-preserved and is the most impressive of the Roluos group.

Return to your hotel for some free time, or continue exploring Siem Reap with your vehicle and tour guide at your disposal.

Overnight at a hotel in Siem Reap

Breakfast at the hotel.

Today, embark on an off-the-beaten-path journey through Angkor Park with your tour guide to uncover hidden gems beyond the main Angkor temples that most tourists overlook. This journey offers a unique perspective on Angkor Park, highlighting lesser-known yet equally magnificent sites.

Begin exploring Preah Khan, a 12th-century temple complex renowned for its rich religious diversity, featuring sections dedicated to Buddhism, Hinduism, and ancestor worship. Admire its exquisite apsara friezes in the Hall of Dancers. Next, visit Neak Pean, a unique temple with intricate serpent carvings set in a central fountain within a pool, reflecting Khmer art’s symbolic depth. Continue to Ta Som, where a massive tree entwines with the ruins, offering a striking blend of nature and architecture reminiscent of Ta Prohm. Discover the Eastern Mebon Temple, once set on an artificial lake, known for its detailed stone elephant guardians. Conclude your tour at Srah Srang, a picturesque royal bathing pool surrounded by serene temples, providing a tranquil finish to your journey. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

After lunch, explore Banteay Srei, known as the “Citadel of Women.” This temple is renowned for its exquisite pink sandstone carvings, which are among the finest examples of Khmer art. The intricate and delicate carvings on the temple’s walls showcase the artistic prowess of the Khmer Empire and make Banteay Srei a must-visit for those interested in historical art and architecture. Along the way, immerse yourself in traditional Cambodian village life at Preah Dak Village. Here, you’ll have the chance to interact with local artisans and witness traditional crafts such as basket making and palm sugar production.

Overnight at a hotel in Siem Reap

Breakfast at the hotel.

This morning, set off to discover Sambor Prei Kuk – the Archaeological Site of Ancient Ishanapura in Kampong Thom province. Sambor Prei Kuk, a vast complex of over 100 Hindu temples that predate Angkor, became Cambodia’s third UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017. Located about 170 kilometers from Siem Reap (a 3-hour drive), this majestic temple site was once known as Isanapura and served as the capital of the ancient kingdom of Upper Chenla in the early 7th century. Later, it became the capital of the Khmer Empire before Angkor.

Upon arrival, enjoy a Khmer lunch at a local restaurant. Afterward, take a leisurely bike ride through the ancient temples and ruins of Sambor Prei Kuk, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its intricate carvings and historical importance. Explore the surrounding countryside, enjoy the scenic beauty, and experience local life with interactions with residents.

Overnight at a community homestay or a hotel in Kampong Thom

After breakfast, drive to Kratie (180 km, 4 hours), famous for its rare Irrawaddy dolphins in the Mekong River. Try the local delicacy, bamboo sticky rice known as “Kralan,” and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Kratie.

As you travel, admire the picturesque rice fields, buffaloes being washed, the land being plowed, and the daily life of local villages, along with rubber plantations. Feel free to stop for photos at any time!

Upon arrival, proceed to check in at your hotel and enjoy free time at leisure.

Overnight at a hotel in Kratie

Breakfast at the hotel.

This morning, begin with a visit to a vibrant local market in Kratie. After crossing the Mekong River by boat, enjoy a relaxing bicycle tour of Koh Trong Island. Discover lush rice paddies, traditional Khmer homes, and scenic waterways, while immersing yourself in local life. Interact with residents and taste local specialties such as bamboo sticky rice (Kralan).

In the afternoon, visit the village of Sambo to explore Wat Sorsor Mouy Roy, or the 100 Pillars Pagoda, known for its legend involving a princess and a crocodile. Continue to Kampi village, a prime location for observing Mekong Irrawaddy dolphins. Board a local boat for a serene 1 to 1.5-hour cruise in their natural habitat, turning off the engine when dolphins are spotted to ensure a tranquil experience.

Overnight at a hotel in Kratie

After breakfast, embark on a 4-hour drive (205 Km) to Senmonorom in Mondulkiri. Senmonorom, the vibrant center of this remote and captivating province, offers proximity to the breathtaking Bou Sra Waterfalls, diverse ethnic minority villages, the inspiring Elephant Valley Project, and adventures like forest hiking and gibbon watching.

In the late afternoon, make your way to a hilltop with stunning views of Samot Cheur, or the “Sea Forest”, where the lush greenery stretches out like rolling waves. Conclude your day with a sunset at Wat Phnom Doh Kromom, renowned as the best spot in Mondulkiri for sunset vistas. From its wooden platform, take in sweeping views over Sen Monorom.

Overnight at a hotel in Mondulkiri

The Elephant Valley Project (ELIE) offers a unique opportunity to trek into the natural jungle habitat of elephants and observe their behavior in a stress-free environment. There are no rides, tricks, or shows—just hours spent walking with these magnificent animals and learning about their individual stories. If you are passionate about elephant welfare and their future, ELIE is the ideal destination.

At 7:30 a.m., you’ll embark on a 30-minute drive to ELIE, a sanctuary within a 1,500-hectare reserve where elephants roam freely and rediscover their semi-wild instincts. Spend the day hiking through the Cambodian jungle, observing two different herds as they graze, play, and explore their forest home. In the afternoon, you may choose to volunteer on various projects, such as planting trees, building bridges, or preparing food for the elephants. Enjoy the buffet lunch in the base camp at midday. Return to your hotel at 5.00 p.m.

*Note: ELIE is open to visitors Monday through Friday. On weekends, the elephants are moved to a remote location to relax and feed on bamboo, and visits are not permitted.

Overnight at a hotel in Mondulkiri

Breakfast at the hotel.

Begin your day early with a visit to a local market, then travel to Pou Lung village, home to the Phnong indigenous community. A local Phnong guide will share insights into their culture and way of life, facilitating interactions with the community.

Continue your journey to Bou Sra Waterfall, Cambodia’s most scenic two-tiered waterfall, with a 10m cascade on the first tier and 25m on the second. This popular spot offers opportunities for a refreshing swim or a thrilling zipline ride through Bousra Ecopark, providing stunning views of the waterfall and surrounding jungle.

After a swim in the natural pool at the base of the waterfall, enjoy a simple local picnic lunch with beautiful views.

In the afternoon, visit a coffee plantation to taste freshly brewed coffee and learn about coffee cultivation. Return to your hotel and enjoy free time at leisure.

Overnight at a hotel in Mondulkiri

Breakfast at the hotel.

This morning, continue on a scenic drive to Phnom Penh (377 Km, 7 hours). Along the way, stop in Kampong Cham to explore Nokor Bachey Temple, a distinctive site where a modern Buddhist pagoda stands amidst the ruins of an Angkor-era temple, adorned with beautiful wall paintings. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Kampong Cham before continuing your journey to Phnom Penh.

Overnight at a hotel in Phnom Penh

Today is a full day dedicated to exploring Phnom Penh’s highlights. Begin with a visit to the glittering Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda, renowned for its floor covered in over 5,000 silver tiles and its collection of golden Buddha statues. Then, take a short walk to the National Museum, which houses Cambodia’s most significant collection of ancient artifacts. Built in 1917 in the traditional Khmer style, the museum is surrounded by a tranquil, palm-shaded courtyard and lotus ponds, perfect for reflecting on Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage.

In the afternoon, delve into Cambodia’s recent history at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former school converted into the S-21 prison by the Khmer Rouge, and the Choeung Ek Killing Fields, where approximately 17,000 people were executed. While these sites are somber, they provide crucial insights into the country’s past and its ongoing development.

*Special note: If you prefer to avoid these historical sites, you may explore Wat Phnom, the iconic landmark for which the capital is named and a popular place for worship, and visit the Central Market (Phsar Thmei), a striking colonial-style building from 1937. Originally a swamp area with a lake known as Beng Decho, this market is now a notable Phnom Penh landmark.

Overnight at a hotel in Phnom Penh

This morning, depart Phnom Penh for Cardamom Tented Camp (240 Km – 4 hours), where you’ll spend the next two days exploring the lush Cardamom rainforest surrounding the camp.

Cardamom Tented Camp is a trailblazing conservation project dedicated to protecting Botum Sakor National Park. Nestled in the heart of the Cardamom forests, this eco-lodge features nine luxurious safari-style glamping tents. Committed to minimizing human impact on nature, the lodge serves as a model for sustainable ecotourism in Cambodia. From your tent, embark on a range of nature adventures, including trekking, wildlife observation, and kayaking.

Disembark from Trapeang Rung Resort Pier at 2:00 PM for a 30-minute boat ride down the Preak Tachan River to Cardamom Tented Camp.

Upon arrival, receive an introduction to Wildlife Alliance’s conservation and protection efforts, including how guest funds are used to safeguard the area from logging and hunting.

Settle into your safari-style tent and embark on an exploratory hike through the jungle, kayak, or swim in the pristine river, or experience our zip-line across the river. Unwind at the riverside restaurant as the sun sets over Botum Sakor, and enjoy your dinner.

Overnight stay at Cardamom Tented Camp.

Over these two days, we’ll start each morning with a kayak journey to the old ranger station, venturing into a more secluded part of the forest. Here, we’ll explore the trails before walking back to camp for lunch. The entire excursion lasts approximately 3.5 to 4 hours.

In the afternoon, enjoy your free time by zip-lining, exploring nearby trails, swimming in our beautiful river, or kayaking along shady tributaries in search of wildlife, such as Pileated Gibbons and Smooth-Coated Otters.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Overnight at Cardamom Tented Camp

Enjoy breakfast at your own pace. Early risers can embark on a self-guided hike along the trails around the camp or savor a coffee while taking a tranquil morning kayak through the mist.

Around 10 AM., board the boat back to Trapeang Rung, where a private vehicle will be ready to take you to Kampot (196 Km, 4 hours). Kampot, famous for producing some of the world’s finest black, red, and white pepper, offers a unique experience with its pepper farms, complemented by charming French colonial architecture and picturesque river cruises. 

After checking in at your hotel, enjoy some free time at your leisure.

Overnight at a hotel in Kampot

This morning, drive to Kep to explore the vibrant crab market, where you can watch crabs being stored in baskets and cooked on-site. Next, visit La Plantation, a family-owned pepper farm, stopping at salt farms en route. At La Plantation, learn about the different pepper varieties—green, black, white, and red—and enjoy lunch at the farm’s restaurant, where fresh green peppercorns are a highlight.

Later in the afternoon, discover the charming town of Kampot, celebrated for its French colonial architecture and serene riverside. Stroll through the town, enjoy a drink at a riverside restaurant (at your own expense), or opt for a peaceful sunset cruise along the Kampot River (shared experience).

Overnight at a hotel in Kampot

This morning, set out on a scenic 2.5-hour coastal drive to Sihanoukville (110 km), the gateway to the stunning island of Koh Rong. Upon arrival, board a shared speedboat to the serene shores of Koh Rong, where you’ll spend four tranquil nights, completely apart from the bustle of the world.

You might think that Thailand or Indonesia are the only places to find tropical beaches with white sand and crystal-clear waters, but Cambodia also boasts some of Southeast Asia’s finest beaches. Just an hour’s ferry ride from the bustling coastal city of Sihanoukville, Cambodia’s tropical islands offer an easily accessible paradise. These islands are renowned for their stunning natural beauty and tranquil settings, making them perfect for a luxurious getaway. Whether you’re seeking a serene escape or adventure, our recommendations for luxury retreats on Cambodia’s picturesque islands promise an unforgettable experience in a tropical haven.

Luxury Resorts:

• Song Saa Private Island is a premier luxury retreat on the twin ‘sweetheart’ islands, located just 35 minutes from Sihanoukville port. The resort features over-water villas, winding pathways, private pools, exquisite cuisine, and stunning ocean views, all set in a pristine natural landscape.
• Six Senses Krabey Island is a 15-minute speedboat ride from the mainland and offers a comprehensive island experience with 40 pool villas, an extensive spa, multiple dining options, a sunset bar, an ice cream parlor, a horizon lap pool, fitness facilities, and unique amenities like an outdoor cinema and sky observatory.
• Koh Russey Resort is a modern island retreat on Cambodia’s “Riviera,” known for its relaxed elegance. It features a private beach, wellness and dining options, and is accessible by a 20-minute drive from the airport and a 10-minute boat ride.
• The Royal Sands Koh Rong provides a regal island villa experience on the largest island in Cambodia’s Gulf of Thailand. While not a private island, Koh Rong offers a largely undeveloped setting with rustic fishing villages and coconut palms, offering a tranquil escape with a touch of local charm.

Popular 4-Star Hotels on Koh Rong Island:

• Anaya Koh Rong offers a serene beachfront experience with stylish, modern bungalows. The resort features a relaxed atmosphere, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant serving fresh, local cuisine.
• Long Set Resort is set on a beautiful stretch of beach and provides traditional Khmer-style bungalows with modern amenities, including an outdoor pool and beachfront dining options.
• Sok San Beach Resort is located on a pristine beach and offers a range of comfortable accommodations, from beachfront bungalows to garden-view rooms, along with a restaurant, bar, and water sports activities.
• BeachWalk Koh Rong offers a relaxed, beachfront stay with comfortable rooms and easy access to the sand and sea. The resort provides a laid-back atmosphere, with on-site dining and various water activities for guests.

Popular 4-Star Hotels on Koh Rong Sanloem Island:

• Pearl Beach Resort offers a tranquil escape with white sandy beaches and clear waters. Ideal for relaxation, the resort provides luxury accommodations in a serene, less developed setting, perfect for unwinding and exploring natural beauty.
•  offers tranquil beachfront accommodations with modern amenities. Guests can unwind on pristine white sand beaches, explore lush surroundings, and enjoy on-site dining and wellness facilities, making it an ideal tropical retreat.

Overnight at a hotel on Koh Rong Island

Enjoy free days at your leisure, or take advantage of hotel services and activities at your own expense.

Overnight at a hotel on Koh Rong Island

Breakfast at the hotel.

Today, you’ll begin with a shared speedboat transfer to the mainland, followed by a private car journey to Phnom Penh International Airport (230 km, 3 hours), where you’ll catch your onward flight.