This Cambodia Highlights tour takes you into the beating heart of Khmer culture, showing the best the country has to offer, without you having to take a single internal flight. It is ideal for families or couples who may wish to add some beach time onto the end as well as those who are short on time, or wish to combine Cambodia with a trip to Vietnam. It takes in everything from Cambodia’s evocative capital and recent tragic history to the gorgeous countryside and majestic temples of Angkor.
Welcome to Cambodia! Enjoy a private transfer to Phnom Penh where you will embark on a traditional cyclo tour through the heart of the city and along the river where you will stop at the Royal Palace before visiting the National Museum. Enjoy a sunset river cruise before staying at Villa Langka, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. (Superior Room, B&B)
Begin the day with a food walking tour and trip to the market to gain an insight to the local cuisine. This afternoon will be more sombre as with a visit to Tuol Sleng, a school that was used as a prison by the Khmer Rouge, and Choeng Ek, also known as the “killing fields”, where many were left to perish. Later, visit the Apsara Arts Association, which teaches Cambodian dance and music to disadvantaged and orphaned children.
Today you will be driven to Battambang by a private driver, which will take about six hours, including a stop at Udong, the former capital of Cambodia. This afternoon take the legendary “bamboo train” in Battambang, which is little more than a bamboo raft that hurtles down a dis-used railway track in the countryside. Tonight, attend an incredible performance by young Cambodians, before checking into your new home ‘Bambu’. (Superior Room, B&B).
Enjoy a half-day bike tour this morning through the gorgeous countryside and rice paddies surrounding Battambang. You will meet local families along the way who will teach you about traditional industries such as rice paper making, rice wine and Battambang’s famous bamboo rice cakes. It is a wonderful opportunity to see ‘real Cambodia’. Enjoy the rest of the day and evening at your leisure.
This morning you will be driven to Siem Reap in a private car, which takes about four hours. Spend the best part of the day exploring the largest religious structure in the world; Angkor Wat. Constructed in the jungle in the early 12th century, it lay hidden until being discovered in 1861. After, visit the magnificent temple of Ta Prohm, which was the setting for Tomb raider.
We recommend sunset at Pre Rup Temple before resting at one of the exquisite hotels in the area – we’re recommending Shinta Mani for this one…
Visit Bantrey Srei temple this morning, which for many years was off limits due to its remote location and Khmer Rouge activity. You may also visit the Cambodian Landmine Museum, Prevention and Rehabilitation Center before lunch (included). This afternoon board a local boat to visit a floating village at nearby Tonle Sap Lake. Finish the day by visiting Artisans D’Angkor, a handicraft centre that trains locals in valuable skills.
This morning our driver and guide will take you back to Phnom Penh to catch your flight home. On the way you will visit Sambor Prei Kuk, which has ruins that pre-date Angkor by several centuries. Tourists seldom visit so you can enjoy the beautiful ruins in peace and quiet. You can enjoy a traditional Khmer picnic lunch in front of the temple, before continuing your journey to Phnom Penh Airport.
(You can also fly home from Siem Reap international airport)
This itinerary costs from £1,400 per person B&B based on 2 sharing and including all private transfers but not international flights.
You can get flights from as little as £600 per person return and do ask us for advice. Alternatively we can book the flights for you but a booking fee may apply.
Do you fancy having a chat about Cambodia Highlights? Personally, it's one of our favourite things to talk about.