Ancient & Lost Cambodia

Your private driver will meet you upon your arrival to Phnom Penh international airport and take you to your hotel to check-in. He will give you all the information about your tour and answer any questions you may have. According to your arrival time, you can start exploring the city of Phnom Penh with your dedicated driver. He will be happy to take you to the sites according to your interests, help you and give you suggestions. Overnight in Phnom Penh.

Enjoy your breakfast in the morning. Your driver will then meet you and take you for a tour of the capital city of Cambodia. He will take you first to visit the famous Royal Palace. The Palace was built in the 1860’s by monarch King Norodom, at the time when Phnom Penh became the capital of the Kingdom under the French protectorate. Only half of the buildings can be visited as the palace is a residence of the current King of Cambodia. You will have the chance to admire the beautiful details and decoration in the Throne Hall and adjoining Silver Pagoda. After the Palace visit, enjoy the walk along the Tonle Sap river. The river crosses path with the Mekong river just in front of the Royal Palace. Your driver will then take you to visit the Central Market. It is the most famous market in Phnom Penh located in the city center. For lunch time, your driver will be happy to recommend safe restaurants (such as the Lotus Blanc). If you are adventurous you can choose to taste some delicious street food. In the early afternoon, your driver will take you to the S21 museum in Tuol Sleng. This used to be a school turned into one of the prisons and pre-extermination units during the Khmer Rouge regime. Walking through the museum will give you a better understanding of one of the darkest happenings in human history during second half of the 1970s. Your driver will then take you to the Olympic Stadium for a truly authentic local experience. Hundreds of locals gather here around 5PM to practice their daily aerobic and if you wish, you can join the crowd as everybody is welcome (you can simply give a very small tip to the dancing teacher). Your driver will then take you to the night market along the river (if the market is open) to discover the variety of street food offered by Cambodian markets (such as fried tarantulas…) - or to the nearby FCC (the Foreign Correspondents' Club) where you can have a drink while enjoy watching the sunset over the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers. Overnight in Phnom Penh.

This morning, your driver will take you to the city of Kampong Cham, located on the right bank of the Mekong river. On the way you will visit Skun where you will have a chance to taste the fried spiders – a typical Cambodian snack. This is one of the local delicacies but of course if you’d rather to taste some other fried insects, your guide will be glad to help you choose. You will then continue your way to Phnom Srei mountain. It is located a few miles north from Kampong Cham and offers a relaxing environment, beautiful nature and views on the Mekong river. Your driver will then take you to see the Nokor Bachey temple, off the beaten path spot. This is 11th century Angkorian temple and you will see many statues which are surprisingly well maintained. After the visit, enjoy your lunch in Kampong Cham. Your driver will then take you further to the north along the Mekong river to explore the Hanchey temple. You will have the chance to see simple life of this interesting Buddhist temple. Then return to Kampong Cham and discover the Koh Pen, a small island on the Mekong river. Here you can rent a bicycle or a tuktuk (not included in the tour) to go around the island and see daily rural life of its people. Overnight in Kampong Cham.

Enjoy your breakfast at your hotel in the morning before your driver takes you to the city of Kratie. Upon your arrival, you will take a small boat on the Mekong river to try to spot the famous Irrawaddy dolphins, the pride of this region. They resemble to the belugas because of their large and round head. Then your driver will take you further to the north to visit the village of Sambour. You will discover the 100 columns pagoda with a local turtle conservation center. You will see how the Buddhist monks are trying to protect the turtles from being unfortunately used as a gourmet meal. Later, your driver will take you back to Kratie where you can visit the Koh Trung island, on the Mekong river. It is quiet and relaxing island and here you will witness the authentic Cambodian life. You can enjoy the walk to see fishermen or rent a bicycle to go around the island and explore the local farms. Overnight in Kratie.

This morning, your driver will meet you at your hotel and drive you to Sen Monorom in the Mondulkiri province which lies along the Vietnamese border. Many ethnic minorities of Cambodia live here. Upon your arrival to the capital city, your guide will take you to visit one of the minorities and you will see how these people take care of local elephants. They created an elephant sanctuary allowing them to rent large areas of the forest and protect it from logging. That is the main reason for the elephant decrease in this area over the last decades. You can go for an elephant tour through the jungle. On the way you will stop to see a waterfall and help the mahout to bath the elephant, if you wish. After the visit, you will return to the city. Overnight in Sen Monorom.

Enjoy your breakfast in the morning. Your driver will meet you and take you to discover the Mondulkiri coffee grown in this region. You will then explore the areas around Sen Monorom. First stop will be the Bousra waterfall, close to Vietnamese border. Here local people like to gather and enjoy the beautiful nature. Nearby, you will visit a village of an ethnic minority. These minorities have been living in isolation for several centuries. They speak their own language and keep their traditions alive. Your guide will be happy to tell you about the history and culture of these people. You will then enjoy your lunch by the waterfall and if you wish, you can have a swim before returning back to Sen Monorom. On the way you will stop to see one of the pepper plantations before reaching the hill of Phnom Dohkrormom. From here, you will enjoy the panoramic view over the entire city of the Mondulkiri province. Overnight in Sen Monorom.

Your driver will meet you today and take you to Banlung, the capital city of Ratanakiri province. In Khmer, the name means ‘the Mountain of Jewels’ and it is the most remote and isolated part in Cambodia. Here, it seems that the time has stopped and the modern world has barely impacted the province. Usually many families live together in a small village and still follow the ancient traditions. First you will stop to see the beautiful Katieng Waterfall. Then you will explore the beautiful Yeak Laom, Cambodian hidden treasure, formed by a volcanic crater over 4000 years ago. The clear water of this perfectly oval lake and the magnificent landscapes in the surroundings, are certainly going to amaze you. You can enjoy a swim together with the local children and get an idea of how the entire region looked like before. Today this region is also struggling with the forest logging. Upon your arrival to the city of Banlung, you can explore the market or relax at your hotel. Overnight in Banlung.

Enjoy your breakfast at your hotel (that shall also provide you with a take away lunch) before your driver takes you for a tour of the district of Ta Veaeng. You will have the chance to get to know more about the culture of the ethnic minorities that have been living in this region for centuries. You will explore how the ethnic groups have different ways of organizing their villages. Some are made in a circular way such as the villages of the Kreung hill tribe, while the Jarai villages are made of longhouses. Your guide will be happy to share information about their culture and ancient traditions. After the visit, your driver will take you back to the city of Banlung. On the way, your driver will be happy to make stops and show you one of the sapphire or ruby mines. The entrance to the mines is never guaranteed as they are privately owned and usually under high surveillance. Overnight in Banlung.

In the early morning you will leave Banlung to reach one of the most interesting highlights of your trip: the Temple of Preah Vihear. You will stop for lunch in the city of Krong Preah Vihear and then continue the journey to the Temple of Preah Vihear. The temple is located on a nearly 600-metre high cliff and you will board a special jeep to reach this mystic temple. Once you arrive, you will be glad you made the effort to get there. Preah Vihear is an ancient Hindu temple complex. The construction started in the 9th century and was mainly finished by the ruling Kings Suryavarman I and II. Its location on the top of the cliff makes it one of the most spectacular temples built during the 6 centuries long Khmer empire. While reaching the highest part, you will enjoy an amazing view down over Cambodia. You might also have a chance to spot Angkor Wat from there if the sky is clear enough. The temple of Preah Vihear is a sensitive geopolitical topic between Thailand and Cambodia, as Thailand disputes ownership since the International Court of Justice ruled in 1962. After this fantastic temple visit, your driver will take you to Sra’aem. Overnight in Sra’aem.

In the morning, after your breakfast, your driver will take you to Siem Reap, the city of the world-famous Angkor temples. You will stop and visit Koh Ker on the way. At the end of the 10th century, the ancient city of Koh Ker was the capital of the Khmer empire. This abandoned city is surrounded by the jungle and the unusual pyramid. It is less known by the tourist, which makes it even more unique. You will then continue your journey to the Angkorian site - Beng Mealea. This complex of temples dates from the 12th century. It is partially covered by vegetation and its history still remains unclear which makes it unique and interesting site to explore. After the visit, you will continue your way to your final destination: Siem Reap. Your driver will take you to your hotel for a check in. You can then enjoy the walk around the city and explore local market. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Your private driver will meet you after your breakfast and take you to discover one of the most important world-heritage sites: the Angkor temples. You will go for a day tour of so called "Small circle". This city used to be the capital of Khmer Empire and was the biggest metropolis of that time with more than 800,000 inhabitants. Recent NASA studies have found that it had spread over nearly 3000 km2 which resulted in a vast variety of architectural styles that you can explore in several days. First you will explore the biggest and most famous temple of all: Angkor Wat. Built in the 12th century, Angkor Wat (‘Wat’ means temple in Khmer) is dedicated to the Hindu God Vishnu. Next you will visit Angkor Thom (literally “Big Angkor”, or “Big City”). This area is surrounded by a protecting wall and you will access it through one of its gates, made of 4 giant stone heads. Then you will reach one of the most mysterious sites of the Angkor site: Bayon - with 148 giant Buddha faces made of stone, facing the four main directions. Next you will discover the temple of Baphuon, which was one of the biggest temples of the Angkor site. Built as pyramid in the 11th century, Baphuon’s main attraction is the 60 meters long lying Buddha that can be discovered on the south side. Next to the temple, you will discover Phimeanakas, located inside of old Royal Palace. The temple of Phimeanakas (known in English as “celestial palace”) is a 10th century Hindu temple which was covered by a golden roof. You will also discover the Elephants terrace. Then you will finish the tour by exploring Ta Phrom - one of the most iconic temples of Angkor. The famous Hollywood movie ‘Tomb Raider’ gave the temple its fame. As soon as you enter the site you will be amazed by the unique atmosphere of the Angkorian temples half covered by giant trees and vegetation. Then return to Siem Reap to your hotel and relax after this fantastic day of sightseeing. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Today you will continue exploring the ancient capital city of the Khmer empire. During the 13th century, this city ruled over the area which included the current Cambodia, Thailand, Laos and vast part of Vietnam. Your driver will meet you at your hotel and take you for the ‘Big Circle’ tour. First you will discover the lost city of Preah Khan. It used to be an important temple complex that simultaneously served as a city, a temple and a Buddhist university. You will then continue to travel back through time and discover the site of Neak Pean. Built in 12th century, Neak Pean features a temple set in the middle of a small lake made to be a replica of sacred Anavatapta lake located in the Tibetan Himalayas. You will pass along Ta Som, a temple literally swallowed by the nature, before reaching East Mebon. Only the main temple remained from this former city, surrounded by a water tank. As you continue your tour, you will explore the site of Banteay Kdei where 4 giant stone Buddha faces will welcome you at the entrance. This archaeological journey will end with the discovery of Srah Srang (a pool built in 10th century) and Prasat Kravan (a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu). Your driver will then take you back to your hotel for a short rest. In the evening you can explore the night market of Siem Reap if you wish, located right across the river in the city center. The center of Siem Reap is a lively area and can be best explored by foot. Overnight in Siem Reap.

This morning your driver will meet you and take you to explore sites of the greater Angkor area. You will go on a journey through the Cambodian countryside and see the daily life of the Khmer farmers. First you will visit Banteay Samre. This 12th century temple is also called ‘mini Angkor Wat’ and is definitely a hidden treasure. Then your driver will take you to the famous site of Banteay Srei and you will notice how different this site is comparing to the others you have visited so far. Banteay Srei is made of pink sandstones giving the buildings a unique color. The carvings in the temple are extremely precise and well made which has created the popular belief that it must had been done by women (“Srei” meaning “woman” in Cambodian). Then your journey will take you to Roluos, going through typical villages of the Cambodian countryside. The Roluos consists of three interesting sites: Lolei, Preah Ko and Bakong - all built in the 9th century, before the Angkorian area. In the afternoon, your driver will drive you back to Siem Reap and according to your preferences, you can relax at your hotel or explore the city center. You can visit the Old Market at the riverside and enjoy the walk along the vibrant Pub Street. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Today your driver will take you to Battambang. The journey will take you through the Cambodian countryside where you will have the chance to spot Grasshopper traps. Battambang is the second largest city of Cambodia with many French colonial buildings. Upon your arrival, you can check in at your hotel and enjoy your lunch. You can then go for a first city tour to discover the local daily life and the mansions from the colonial history. Your Cambodian driver will then take you to Phnom Sampeau with a quiet Buddhist temple on the top of the hill whereas underneath remains a darker history. The infamous caves of Phnom Sampeau were used as a mass killing site by the Khmer Rouge regime in 1970’s. They are now the memorial of the dark hours of Cambodian past. At sunset, you will witness thousands of bats flying out of the caves in hunt for food. Upon your return to Battambang, enjoy the dinner in one of the many restaurants in the city center. Overnight in Battambang.

After your breakfast, your driver will take you for an extended Battambang tour. You can visit the central market where you will have the chance to discover and taste the variety of local fruits (such as dragon fruits, mangoostens, mangos, maybe even to taste durian if you are adventurous). You will discover iscover the Pagoda and the French colonial buildings. Your driver will then take you to visit the countryside and the small villages close to Battambang. Here you can witness the daily life of the local people. Then continue your trip to Prasat Banan. This beautiful 12th century hilltop temple was built on the top (400 meter high) and from here you can enjoy the amazing view over the entire province. Wat Banan is visited by many locals because of its fresher climate. In the afternoon, you will return to Battambang. In the evening, you can attend an art performance by NGO Phare Ponleu Selpak. This Non-Government Organization founded in 1994, provides social integration for kids through art circus activities. Its reputation extended outside of Cambodia and some members now perform all over the world. Overnight in Battambang.

Your driver will meet you at your hotel. You will leave Battambang and continue your trip to the capital city of Cambodia: Phnom Penh. On the way, you will make a stop in Pursat, a typical Cambodian mid-sized city. Here you can explore the local crafts, such as stone carving. Although agriculture is Cambodia’s main activity, many people still earn their income from small businesses. You will continue your trip towards Phnom Penh and stop near Kampong Chnang. Here you will explore the floating village of Kampong Luong. The village is set on the southern part of the Tonle Sap lake and hosts 7000 people. It resembles a real city with its own temple, market, restaurants, petrol station, karaoke… Then you will continue your journey and visit Oudong. This small village used to be the capital of the country between the 17th to 19th century. You will visit the quiet pagoda at the hilltop with a stunning view over the country. You will have a chance to speak with local monks who would be happy to tell you about their Buddhist rituals. Then you will continue your trip and reach the bustling city of Phnom Penh. Overnight in Phnom Penh.

Your private driver will meet you today at your hotel and you will leave Phnom Penh to reach the coastal city of Kep. On the way, you will make a first stop near the city of Takmao, at the site of Tonle Bati. Tonle Bati is a small lake, very famous among local people. Cambodians like to enjoy picnic in one of the bungalows here by the lake in the shade and to spend time on the fresh air during the hot season. Tonle Bati also hosts the Ta Prohm site built in the 13th century. This unique site is mostly unknown by the tourists. Then you will continue your way towards the city of Takeo, to reach another hidden treasure of Cambodia. Located at the top of a mountain with 461 steps stairway, you will discover Phnom Chisor. This ancient Khmer temple, built in the 11th century, is dedicated to Hindu divinities. From this off the beaten path site, you will be amazed by the panorama view. Then you will continue your trip to Kep and the Gulf of Thailand. Before arriving at destination, you will do another stop at Kampong Trach. There you will visit beautiful caves, carved with the limestone which makes the beauty of this region. In the evening you will arrive in Kep and your driver will take you to your hotel. Overnight in Kep.

In the morning, your driver will take you the Kep Crab Market. This small local market is located right at the seaside and depending on the fisherman schedule, you may see them walking in the sea to pick the crabs they have caught during the day. In the market you will have a chance to discover and taste many Khmer food specialties and your driver will be glad to tell you all about it and advise which one to try. You will then head towards the Kep harbor to embark on a fisherman boat to reach the little island of Koh Tonsay. Koh Tonsay (literally “Rabbit Island”) is located a few miles of the coast. Upon your arrival, you can go for a short walk to explore the island or enjoy a massage in the bungalow at the beach. Enjoy your lunch at the beach (we recommend a grilled fish or other seafood, as you won’t find any fresher than at this place). After lunch, you can relax on the beach until you wish to return to Kep. You will then take the boat back to the coast. Your driver will take you to your hotel. You can relax by the pool or enjoy a walk on the hills of the Kep National Park. Overnight in Kep.

Enjoy your breakfast by the pool at your hotel and the relaxing atmosphere in Kep. Kep (also called Kep-sur-Mer) was highly visited by the French establishment during the French protectorate. Therefore you will be able to still see some abandoned villas from that time. At your desired departure time, your driver will take you to Kampot. On the way, you will get off the main road to visit the Brateak Kola lake (also called ‘sacred lake’) and drive through the typical Cambodian countryside. You will have the chance to witness farmers daily live in so called “the bread basket of Cambodia”, due to many rice fields in the region. Then you will arrive to Kampot and your hotel for lunchtime. After lunch, your driver will take you to the nearby salt marshes which provide a significant income of the province and also beautiful landscapes. In the late afternoon, you can enjoy walking around the city. Kampot is a relatively small and very quiet town where time sometimes seems to stand still. Around the city and at the riverside you will find many options for dinner (from Cambodian to Western cuisine). Overnight in Kampot.

Enjoy the relaxing breakfast at your hotel before your driver take you to see the beautiful countryside and its rice fields. You will explore the caves of Phnom Chhnork. The main highlight is the road to reach the caves, as you will witness authentic rural lifestyle in South Cambodia. Local farmers live in traditional stilt houses in order to deal with high water levels during rainy seasons. While exploring the caves of Phnom Chhnork, you will discover a pre-angkorian temple from the 7th century. It is made of bricks and dedicated to Lord Shiva. Then your driver will transfer you to Phnom Penh. During the trip, you will have many opportunities to stop along the way and taste local fruits or discover local crafts. You will reach Phnom Penh in the afternoon and check in at your hotel. According to your preference, you can explore the Russian Market if you wish to do some shopping (market closes at 5pm) or enjoy a drink on the riverside of the Mekong river. Overnight in Phnom Penh.

In the morning enjoy the breakfast at your hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, your driver will be happy to suggest and take you for the visits according to your wish. You might want to do some shopping before you leave (such as Kampot Pepper, artefacts or other souvenirs). The Russian Market will be a good choice if you look for souvenirs from Cambodia and a tour at Orussey Market would take you off the tourist path. Your driver will then drive you to Phnom Penh International airport for your departure flight.