10 Days Authentic Cambodia, history, culture, adventure

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure! Upon your arrival at the airport, our friendly driver will be waiting to whisk you comfortably to your hotel. As you settle in, you'll be greeted by a refreshing welcome drink and a member of our team who's eager to share all the exciting details about your upcoming trip in Cambodia.

This morning, we'll embark on a unique journey through Phnom Penh's history aboard a traditional Khmer cyclo, a bicycle-powered tuk-tuk. Our first stop is the awe-inspiring Royal Palace, a magnificent architectural masterpiece showcasing the grandeur of ancient Khmer architecture. Next, we'll climb the 35-meter hill to Wat Phnom, the namesake of Phnom Penh itself. This tranquil pagoda offers a haven of peace amidst the city bustle. Keep your eyes peeled for playful monkeys swinging in the shade of the surrounding trees. As we continue our journey by tuk-tuk, prepare for a more somber experience. We'll visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former detention and torture center that offers a chilling glimpse into Cambodia's turbulent past. Our final stop will be Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields. This somber memorial site serves as a reminder of the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge regime. While undoubtedly disturbing, these visits are crucial to understanding the resilience of the Cambodian people and their journey towards a brighter future.

After a hearty breakfast, we'll depart from Phnom Penh and embark on a scenic drive to Kampong Cham. Our first stop will be the ancient temple complex of Wat Nokor. Here, we'll explore its intricate carvings and unique blend of architectural styles. Afterward, we'll ascend the nearby hills of Phnom Proh and Phnom Srei, where breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside await. We'll immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the local market in Kampong Cham, sampling local delicacies, browsing colorful handicrafts, and experiencing the daily life of the locals.For lunch, you can have delicious meal at the renowned Smile Restaurant, known for its authentic Cambodian cuisine. (lunch is not included) In the afternoon, we'll continue our journey to Hanchey Pagoda, a serene hilltop sanctuary overlooking the majestic Mekong River. After a climb of 295 steps or you also can take the car, we'll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas and a peaceful ambiance over the Mekong River. We'll conclude our day by checking into our accommodation in Kampong Thom, ready to explore more of the region's historical and cultural treasures.

No guide during this day.

Fuel your day with breakfast and then hop aboard a tuk-tuk, the iconic Cambodian motorcycle taxi! This vibrant open-air ride will whisk you away to Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's largest and most magnificent temple complexes. Dating back to the 12th century, Angkor Wat is a masterpiece of Khmer architecture, adorned with intricate sculptures and exuding a mystical aura. Prepare to be awestruck by the sheer scale and beauty of Angkor Wat itself. After exploring its majesty, we'll take a refreshing break before a short drive to Angkor Thom, another impressive temple complex within Angkor. Here, the Bayon temple awaits, showcasing 54 enigmatic four-headed Buddha statues – a truly unforgettable photo opportunity. Our final stop of the day is Ta Phrom, a captivating temple partially reclaimed by nature. Towering trees and gigantic roots intertwine with the ancient stone blocks, creating a hauntingly beautiful spectacle. After this enriching day filled with awe-inspiring sights, you'll return to your hotel for some well-deserved relaxation

Your day begins with a visit to Theams's Gallery, a captivating haven created by renowned Cambodian artist Lim Muy Theam. Explore his studio and gallery, housed in breathtaking pavilions, and discover a treasure trove of Khmer culture. Immerse yourself in Theam's private collection of local artifacts, gaining a deeper appreciation for Cambodian heritage. Next, embark on a unique mission at Apopo. Witness the incredible work of landmine clearance through their innovative approach – training African Giant Pouched Rats to sniff out these deadly explosives. Learn more about landmines' impact on Cambodia, Apopo's work, and see these "HeroRATs" in action! This is a truly unforgettable experience. Experience Cambodian hospitality firsthand as you join a family for a traditional meal preparation. Unlike a cooking class, this is a collaborative effort – you can choose to actively participate in creating three local dishes alongside your hosts or simply observe the culinary magic unfold. Regardless of your participation level, you'll then enjoy a delicious Cambodian lunch together, forging a connection and sharing stories.The afternoon is yours to explore! Immerse yourself in the vibrant markets or unwind by the pool.
In the evening, prepare to be captivated by Phare, a spellbinding performance that blends modern circus arts and music. Witness stories steeped in Cambodian tradition and spirit unfold through acrobatics, dance, and dazzling displays of virtuosity. This high-energy performance is a must-see in Siem Reap, leaving you breathless and inspired.

Another day at the impressive temples. First stop will be Banteay Srei, the so called Women’s temple. The special charm of this temple lies in its compact size, remarkable state of preservation, and the excellence of its decorative carving.  We continue our way to ACCB. The Angkor Center for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB) is a vital sanctuary for Cambodia's wildlife. Located near the iconic Angkor Wat temples, this non-profit organization is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing injured and orphaned animals. ACCB plays a crucial role in protecting Cambodia's rich biodiversity. They house a variety of species, including primates, birds, reptiles, and mammals. Visitors can learn about the center's conservation efforts through guided tours, which provide insights into the challenges faced by wildlife in Cambodia. Beyond rescue and rehabilitation, ACCB engages in conservation breeding programs for endangered species. This helps to maintain genetic diversity and supports reintroduction efforts into the wild. By visiting ACCB, you contribute to their important work and gain a deeper appreciation for Cambodia's natural heritage.

On the way back to Siem Reap you  will also stop at the small landmine museum. Here you hear the story of former child soldier Aki Ra. The museum strives to educate the visitors of the importance of clearing landmines in Cambodia. With potentially 5,000,000 still in the ground, landmines have immensely impacted the history and culture of this amazing society. Their collection of thousands of landmines is impressive. What is even more impressive is the story of the one Khmer man, Aki Ra, who disarmed the majority of these landmines alone.

If there is time and energy you have the possibility to visit the temples around the Grand circuit like Preah Kahn and Pre Rup.

In the morning we will leave from your accommodation to drive through the Cambodian ‘outback’. About 60 kilometers outside of Siem Reap lies the mysterious 12th century Beng Melea temple which is heavily overrun by trees, vines and moss. Parts of the way to these ‘forgotten’ temples are red colored clay paths with green shrubs along both sides. This jungle like surrounding makes you enjoy your jeep tour even more as we continue our day trip to the largest stilted village of Cambodia, Kampong Kleang named. During the dry season will drive with our car between the stilts on which the houses are built, rising up to 10 metres in the air. In the wet season, the water level reaches its peak and can rise up to 1 or 2 metres above the building floors. On this day you will also offer you a boat ride through the village and have the chance to meet the locals. After this we drive back to your accommodation in Siem Reap

Your Cambodian adventure concludes with a comfortable private transfer to Siem Reap Airport, ensuring a smooth transition back home.

We sincerely hope these past days have been filled with unforgettable experiences, leaving you with a treasure trove of happy memories to cherish for years to come. Cambodia offers a wealth of hidden wonders to explore, and we would be thrilled to welcome you back anytime. Let us be your guide to discover more of this captivating country, its rich culture, and the warmth of its people.