8 NIGHTS: CLASSIC CAMBODIA
Phnom Penh, Kep, Kampot and Siem Reap
DAY 1 PHNOM PENH
Arrival in Phnom Penh
Arrival in Phnom Penh and check-in to the hotel. This afternoon, with your expert local guide, visit the Tuol Sleng Museum S21 as well the Killing Fields - solemn reminders of the Khmer Rouge regime of the 1970’s and important in understanding the recent history of Cambodia.
DAY 2 PHNOM PENH
City by Cyclo and Phnom Udong
Today, discover the sights of Phnom Penh by traditional cyclo. Visit the National Museum and the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, local cafes and some hidden gems along the way. After lunch, travel out of the city to the ancient capital of Phnom Udong, with its impressive chedis and temples.
DAY 3 KEP
To the Coast: Kep and Kampot
Travel to the sleepy seaside town of Kep. This area is well known for its crab, fresh seafood dishes and locally grown Kampot pepper. Explore the town with French and Khmer architecture in various states of disrepair and visit the local fish market. After lunch, travel along the coast to the charming town of Kampot then visit a pepper plantation. Return to the hotel in Kep.
DAY 4 KEP
Koh Ton Say: Rabbit Island
After breakfast, take a private long tail boat for a 20-minute ride to Koh Ton Say, known as Rabbit Island. Spend the day at your leisure on its un-crowded beaches. You can snorkel in the shallow waters and enjoy a fresh seafood BBQ served on the beach.
DAY 5 SIEM REAP
To Siem Reap
Transfer to the airport in Sihanoukville and take a flight to Siem Reap. Settle into the luxury hotel on arrival, then we travel to Banteay Srei, a structure similar in style to Angkor. Continue to Beng Mealea, one of the empire’s largest temples. Then head to Koh Ker, a sprawling sanctuary surrounded by dense jungle with a Mayan-style pyramid.
DAY 6 SIEM REAP
Temples of Angkor
Explore the magnificent temples and avoid the crowds with your expert local guide. Enjoy breakfast in a secluded area within the temples. Visit the most spectacular structures including Ta Prohm, well known from ‘Tomb Raider’, Angkor Thom, known as Terrace of the Elephants, Terrace of the Leper King, Preah Palilay, Phimeanakas, Baphuon, and Bayon Thom. Admore the intricate detailing and elaborate architecture that went into the construction of these temples. This evening, experience the Phare circus, where artists perform stories about life experiences and recent Cambodian history,
DAY 7 SIEM REAP
Tonle Sap Communities
This morning, visit Phnom Bakheng, a hilltop temple that provides stunning views over the temple complex. Then enjoy a tranquil cruise on Tonle Sap, a large freshwater lake. Gain an insight into the riverside Khmer communities’ way of life at the stilted villages of Kompong Kleang or Kompong Phluk. After a picnic lunch, head to the jungle clad Beng Mealea temple.
DAY 8 SIEM REAP
Sunrise over Angkor and Rural Villages
Depart the hotel early to experience the sunrise over Angkor Wat. Your expert local guide will show you the best photo spots. Explore the temple complex at your leisure after sunrise to avoid the crowds. After lunch at a local restaurant, explore some local villages in the area. Later in the afternoon explore the Old Market and the Artisans D´Angkor workshop to see how local handicrafts are made.
DAY 9 SIEM REAP
Departure
After breakfast, spend the morning at your leisure. Private transfer to the Siem Reap Airport for your onward flight.