22 Days - Cambodia In Depth

Welcome to Cambodia! Upon arrival at Phnom Penh International Airport, proceed through immigration and customs before meeting your private guide and driver in the arrivals hall. From here, enjoy a comfortable transfer to your hotel, where you can check in and take some time to relax after your journey. Settle into your room, refresh, and begin to absorb the energy of the capital. With its riverside charm, colonial-era architecture, and street-side cafés, Phnom Penh is the perfect place to ease into your travels.

Later this afternoon, head out for your first deep dive into Cambodian culture through its food. This evening’s guided street food safari is not just a meal but a full experience. Visit tucked-away eateries, night markets, and hidden cocktail bars as you taste your way through the city’s bold flavours and regional specialities. With seven stops and more than 20 dishes to sample, from sizzling barbecued meats to rich noodle soups and Khmer desserts, this is an ideal introduction to the country’s cuisine. Paired with unlimited local beer or soft drinks and stories from your local guide, it’s a fun and flavourful way to begin your journey.

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and meet your private driver for the journey east to Mondulkiri, one of Cambodia’s most remote and scenic provinces. The drive to Krong Senmonorom covers approximately 370km and takes around 6 to 7 hours, with the changing landscape offering a glimpse into the country’s diverse terrain and stops along the way available.

As you leave the bustle of Phnom Penh behind, the surroundings gradually shift from flat lowlands to rolling hills, forests, and open plateaus. Along the way, you may notice fewer travellers on the road - this is a part of Cambodia that remains largely untouched by mass tourism. Look out for local markets, roadside stalls, and traditional stilt houses as you pass through small towns and rural villages.

Upon arrival in Senmonorom, the provincial capital of Mondulkiri, check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your leisure. You may wish to stretch your legs with a walk around town or simply relax ahead of tomorrow’s immersive wildlife experiences.

Today promises one of the most meaningful and memorable experiences of your journey - a full day spent with Cambodia’s rescued elephants in the rolling forested hills of Mondulkiri. After breakfast, you’ll travel to the Elephant Valley Project, a ground breaking sanctuary that was the first of its kind in Cambodia, founded with the goal of giving captive elephants a better life. Here, the focus is on observation rather than interaction, and no riding or performances are involved.

Upon arrival, you’ll meet the team of dedicated conservationists and local mahouts from the Bunong indigenous community, who act as caretakers and forest guides. The Bunong people have lived in harmony with this land for generations and share a unique spiritual connection with the elephants. Throughout the day, you’ll learn about the elephants’ histories - many rescued from logging or tourism - and witness how they’ve regained trust and freedom in this protected environment.

Spend the day walking alongside two elephant families as they move through the forest at their own pace - foraging, bathing in streams, and socialising. With no fences in sight and minimal human interference, the elephants live as naturally as possible, providing visitors a rare opportunity to see their true behaviours in a safe and respectful setting.

A local lunch is served at the sanctuary’s base camp, surrounded by forest views. There’s time to relax and absorb the tranquil atmosphere before continuing your observations in the afternoon. Your guides will also explain the wider conservation efforts taking place in Mondulkiri, including habitat protection and education programs for surrounding communities.

This experience is not just about seeing elephants - it’s about understanding the importance of ethical wildlife tourism, and the powerful impact of long-term, community-driven conservation. Return to your accommodation in the late afternoon with a deeper appreciation for these magnificent animals and the people working tirelessly to protect them.

Rise before dawn for an extraordinary day of wildlife tracking and conservation learning in the heart of Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary, one of Cambodia’s most important and biodiverse protected areas. At 4:30am, meet your guide for the transfer to Bamboo Camp, where you’ll receive a short briefing before joining the Gibbon Research Team for a guided trek into the forest.

As the sun rises, listen for the distinctive call of the Yellow-cheeked Crested Gibbons, one of the sanctuary’s rarest and most elusive primates. With luck, you’ll spot them moving through the trees as your guide helps interpret their behaviour and shares insights into ongoing conservation work. The quiet of the early morning adds to the magic of this special experience.

Return to camp around 8:00am for a hearty breakfast and an introduction to the wider conservation projects underway in the sanctuary. After a short break, head deeper into the jungle with your indigenous guide. This part of the walk offers the chance to see more of the region’s incredible wildlife, including Northern Pig-tailed Macaques, giant Black Squirrels and a wide range of tropical birds.

By midday, you’ll reach a secluded waterfall hidden deep in the forest. Enjoy a traditional Khmer lunch surrounded by nature, with time to swim or relax by the water. In the afternoon, continue trekking through the forest in search of more primates, such as the striking Black-shanked Douc Langur, before making your way back to Bamboo Camp.

You’ll return to your guesthouse around 5:00pm with a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s unique ecosystems and the people protecting them. This day is not only an opportunity to encounter rare wildlife in their natural habitat, but also a way to support community-led conservation efforts in one of the country’s most fragile environments.

This morning, meet your driver in the hotel lobby for your overland journey from Senmonorom to Stung Treng. The drive takes around five hours, covering a distance of approximately 310 kilometres. Along the way, you’ll pass through peaceful countryside, forested hills, and rural villages, offering a glimpse into Cambodia’s more remote regions.

There’s time to stop for refreshments or a photo break if you wish, making the drive as comfortable and unhurried as possible. Upon arrival in Stung Treng, check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. You might choose to relax after the drive, take a short walk around the area, or simply enjoy the quiet pace of this riverside town ahead of tomorrow’s exploration of the Mekong.

Begin your day at Mekong Bird Resort with a friendly welcome and a refreshing drink, followed by a short introduction to the day’s experiences. After a safety briefing and getting equipped with life jackets and kayaking gear, board a private boat and set off along the Mekong River. Cruise past peaceful mangrove forests, floating homes, and narrow waterways where local life unfolds along the banks. Your guide will offer insights into the region’s unique culture and natural surroundings, and you’ll have the chance to spot birdlife with binoculars provided - from resident kingfishers to migratory species.

Later in the morning, switch to kayaks and paddle through quiet channels lined with lush greenery. This part of the journey offers a close-up view of the region’s plant and animal life, with plenty of time to pause and take in the stillness of the river.

At midday, arrive at a river island where a traditional Mekong-style lunch is served. Enjoy freshly prepared fish, seasonal vegetables, and tropical fruit in a rustic, open-air setting. After lunch, take a short walk through the island’s village to meet local artisans and learn more about the area’s craft traditions.

In the afternoon, rejoin your boat for a journey to a protected bird sanctuary, where you’ll observe rare species and learn about their fragile habitats. The trip also includes a visit to a floating fishing farm, giving you a glimpse into the traditional techniques used by riverside communities. If you're keen to learn more, opt for a short nature walk to discover local plants and conservation work, or simply relax back at the resort.

As the day draws to a close, head out on the water once again for an evening kayak session. Paddle through golden reflections as the sun sets across the river, capturing the stillness and beauty of the Mekong at dusk. End the day with a candlelit dinner on a quiet river island, enjoying a multi-course meal under the stars before returning to the resort with lasting memories of a truly immersive day.

After breakfast, meet your driver for the journey to Siem Reap, a scenic drive of approximately 270 kilometres taking around four to four and a half hours. The road winds through quiet countryside and small rural communities, offering a glimpse into everyday life beyond Cambodia’s cities.

Partway through the journey, stop to explore Koh Ker, a striking pyramid-style temple complex hidden deep in the forest. Once the capital of the Khmer Empire for a brief period in the 10th century, this remote site feels far removed from the more visited temples of Angkor. Surrounded by jungle and relatively untouched by mass tourism, Koh Ker’s towering central shrine and scattered ruins offer a quiet and atmospheric insight into Cambodia’s ancient past.

Continue on to Siem Reap, where you’ll be dropped at your hotel for check-in. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax, explore the town, or enjoy some downtime ahead of your Angkor discoveries in the days to come.

Today offers a rich insight into daily life on Cambodia’s great lake, Tonle Sap. Depart Siem Reap around 10:00am for the one-hour drive to Kampong Khleang, a stilted village located on the northern edge of the lake. Along the way, stop at Phsar Thnal Chek, a lively local market where villagers shop for fresh produce, herbs, and household essentials. It’s a great introduction to the rhythms of rural Cambodian life.

Kampong Khleang remains one of the more authentic communities on Tonle Sap, with wooden homes perched on 10-metre stilts to accommodate the lake’s rising and falling waters. In the wet season, the village appears to float, while in the dry months it towers above the floodplains. On arrival, you’ll visit a local family’s home for a hands-on cooking experience, learning to prepare simple Khmer dishes before sharing lunch together on their open-air terrace.

In the afternoon, set off by wooden boat through the narrow canals that lead to Tonle Sap Lake. The riverbanks are lined with floating homes, schools, and shops, offering a fascinating glimpse into a way of life shaped entirely by water. Enjoy soft drinks or a cold local beer as you cruise, soaking in the stillness and photographing the striking scenery.

As the sun begins to lower, return to the village and transfer back to Siem Reap, bringing with you a deeper appreciation for Cambodia’s floating communities and their enduring connection to the lake.

Please note that in accordance with government regulations, visitors are not permitted to participate in fishing or join local fishermen aboard their boats.

Begin your day with one of Cambodia’s most unforgettable moments - watching the sun rise over the towers of Angkor Wat. Depart your hotel at 5:00am by remork (Cambodian tuk tuk) to arrive in time for dawn. As the first light breaks behind the temple’s iconic silhouette, you’ll witness why this UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the world’s great architectural wonders. Built in the 12th century as the funeral temple of King Suryavarman II, Angkor Wat impresses with its vast scale, intricate carvings and remarkable symmetry.

Entering through the quieter east gate to avoid the morning crowds, spend time exploring the temple’s galleries and bas-reliefs with your guide before returning to your hotel for a late breakfast.

After a short break, continue your exploration of the Angkor complex. Travel again by remork to the South Gate of Angkor Thom and visit Bayon Temple, known for its serene stone faces carved into towering pillars. Walk through the former royal city to see the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King, then finish your morning at Ta Prohm - the atmospheric jungle temple where tree roots twist dramatically through ancient stone.

Return to your hotel around midday for an afternoon of rest or further exploration at your own pace.

Please note that modest clothing is required for temple visits. Shoulders must be covered, and trousers or skirts should fall below the knees.

This evening, enjoy a memorable dining experience that goes beyond the meal itself, set in the peaceful Cambodian countryside just outside Siem Reap. A blend of elegance and authenticity, dinner at Villa Chandara is designed to immerse you in local culture, flavours, and atmosphere.

Your experience begins with a 4:00pm pick-up from your hotel in a private air-conditioned vehicle, accompanied by an English-speaking host. Travel into the countryside and, depending on water levels, cross the Western Baray by boat - a scenic start to the evening. On arrival at the villa, you’ll be welcomed with a glass of Prosecco before strolling through a nearby village as the late afternoon light softens over the rice fields.

At Villa Chandara, settle in for a beautifully presented five-course meal, featuring either Khmer or western dishes. Live traditional Khmer music sets the tone, while house wines, cocktails, beer and soft drinks are served freely throughout the evening. The setting is intimate, candlelit, and surrounded by nature - a fitting celebration of Cambodia’s rich hospitality and rural charm.

Available on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Today is yours to enjoy at leisure in the lively yet laid-back town of Siem Reap. After several days of exploring temples and countryside, this is the perfect opportunity to slow the pace and recharge.

You might choose to begin the day with a traditional Khmer massage or spa treatment, ideal for soothing tired muscles after temple touring. Siem Reap’s boutique shops and artisan markets offer plenty of opportunities to pick up unique souvenirs, from handwoven textiles to locally crafted jewellery and homewares.

If relaxation is the priority, spend a few quiet hours by the pool at your hotel or enjoy a long lunch at one of the town’s many excellent cafés or restaurants. In the afternoon, take a walk through the Old Market or along the riverside to soak in the town’s vibrant atmosphere.

Whether you explore or simply unwind, today is all about enjoying Siem Reap in your own time and in your own way.

This morning, meet your driver for the journey from Siem Reap to Battambang, a relaxed and scenic drive of around three hours through the Cambodian countryside. Upon arrival, you’ll be dropped at your hotel for check-in, with time to settle in and enjoy the slower pace of this charming provincial town.

In the evening, head out to experience one of Battambang’s cultural highlights - the Phare Ponleu Selpak Circus. Far from a traditional circus, this inspiring performance blends acrobatics, theatre, live music and dance to tell uniquely Cambodian stories. Each show is brought to life by young performers trained at a local arts school, where creative expression is used to empower and uplift youth from underprivileged backgrounds.

Expect an evening of emotion, humour and impressive talent as the students bring their energy and imagination to the stage. The show is both entertaining and deeply meaningful - a celebration of resilience, culture, and the transformative power of the arts.

This morning, your driver will meet you for the transfer from Siem Reap to Battambang, a journey of around three hours through scenic countryside and small farming villages. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take a short break before heading out to explore the area.

In the afternoon, meet your local guide and hop into a private remork (Cambodian tuk tuk) for a memorable ride through Battambang’s rural outskirts. Your first stop is the Bamboo Train - a uniquely Cambodian experience where you'll ride a simple bamboo platform powered by a small engine along disused railway tracks. Originally used to move goods and people, this quirky ride offers a fun and bumpy way to see the countryside.

Continue to Ek Phnom, a peaceful and rarely visited 11th-century temple surrounded by rice fields. Along the way, pass through small villages where locals prepare traditional foods like bamboo sticky rice, fish paste, rice paper and banana snacks. Stop for lunch at a scenic restaurant by the river, where you can enjoy Khmer dishes in a quiet setting.

In the afternoon, visit Phnom Sampeou, a limestone hill steeped in both beauty and history. Climb to the top to see the temple and visit the Killing Caves, a memorial site from the Khmer Rouge era. The views from the summit stretch across the surrounding plains and are especially striking in the soft afternoon light.

Stay a little longer to witness a fascinating natural spectacle as thousands of bats stream from the cave at sunset, creating a dramatic display against the evening sky. Enjoy a cold drink at one of the simple roadside setups before returning to your hotel for a well-earned rest.

This morning, depart Battambang with your private driver for the journey south to the Tatai area in Koh Kong province. The drive takes around five hours and offers a cross-section of Cambodia’s shifting landscapes - from expansive rice paddies and quiet rural villages to lowland forests and gently rising hills as you near the Cardamom Mountains. There will be time along the way for a rest stop, with the option to enjoy a coffee or light meal at your own pace.

Upon reaching the Trapeang Rung or Tatai pier, you’ll transfer to a local boat for the final leg of your journey. This scenic river ride carries you deep into a peaceful section of the Tatai River, surrounded by jungle and mangrove forests. Your destination is Canvas & Orchids Retreat - a secluded riverside hideaway where floating luxury tents and nature go hand in hand. Check in, settle into your tented accommodation, and relax into the stillness of this remote setting.

Today is yours to enjoy at your own pace in the serene setting of Canvas & Orchids Retreat, nestled along the quiet waters of the Tatai River. Wake to the sounds of the forest and enjoy a slow breakfast on your private deck, watching the river drift gently past.

You might choose to spend the day unwinding - read a book by the water, take a dip, or simply enjoy the calm of your floating tent surrounded by nature. For those feeling more active, the retreat offers optional activities such as kayaking through nearby mangroves, short jungle walks, or boat excursions to nearby waterfalls.

After breakfast, begin your journey from the Tatai River with a scenic boat transfer, gliding through the quiet waterways of the Cardamom Mountains. This peaceful stretch of river offers a final glimpse of the lush rainforest and still waters before you rejoin your driver on land.

From the riverside, continue by road to Kampot, a relaxed town on the southern coast known for its colonial charm and fertile farmlands. The drive takes approximately four hours, winding through forested hills, remote villages, and open countryside - a beautiful transition from jungle to coast.

On arrival in Kampot, check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at your leisure. You might choose to explore the riverside promenade, wander through the town’s faded French architecture, or simply unwind. As evening falls, don’t miss the chance to try one of Kampot’s signature seafood dishes, flavoured with the region’s famous pepper.

After breakfast, depart at 8:00am with your local guide for a full-day exploration of Kampot and its surrounding countryside. This region is known for its natural beauty, fertile farmland and quiet villages, offering a slower-paced and authentic glimpse into rural Cambodian life.

Begin with a visit to Phnom Kampong Trach, a limestone cave system located about 35 kilometres east of town. These atmospheric caves are home to pre-Angkorian ruins and natural wells that continue to serve as places of worship for local Cambodian, Chinese and Vietnamese communities. The site offers a unique blend of spirituality, history and geology, all surrounded by scenic karst formations.

Continue through the countryside to visit a pepper plantation, where you’ll learn about the cultivation of Kampot pepper - prized globally for its complex flavour and once a staple on the tables of French restaurants. From here, stop by the salt fields, shimmering expanses where salt is harvested by hand using traditional techniques.

Back in town, take a short walk to see Kampot’s colonial architecture and visit the local fish market, followed by a stop at a riverside café to enjoy a strong cup of traditional Khmer coffee with views across the water.

In the afternoon, head to the Teuk Chhou rapids, a popular local spot for picnicking and swimming. Enjoy a simple home-cooked Khmer lunch in a thatched cottage overlooking the water. On the way, visit fruit orchards growing durian and rambutan, and stop at a nearby village known for crafting bamboo baskets, a skill passed down through generations.

After lunch, take some time to cool off in the river if you like, or simply relax before returning to your hotel in Kampot by late afternoon.

Today in Kampot, you have the freedom to shape your experience with two distinct options, each offering a different way to explore the region’s beauty and character.

Option 1: Kayaking the Mangroves

For a more active morning, set out on a peaceful kayaking journey through Kampot’s calm rivers and quiet mangrove forests. Paddle downstream toward the sea, taking in the untouched natural surroundings. Along the way, your guide will share insights into local fishing practices and the importance of the nearby salt fields. As you reach the mouth of the river, glide through the shaded waters of Trapeang Sangkae - a protected mangrove area home to diverse plant and animal life. After your paddle, enjoy a relaxed lunch at a rustic riverside bungalow before returning upstream by motorboat. This is a gentle and scenic way to connect with the rhythms of coastal Cambodia.

Option 2: Cultural Discovery

If you’re more interested in Kampot’s cultural and historical roots, start your day with a visit to Phnom Chhnork, a cave temple carved into limestone cliffs that was once used by monks for meditation and later served as a hideout during the Khmer Rouge period. From there, travel through the countryside to Bokor Mountain, a misty plateau once developed by the French as a colonial retreat. Explore its eerie, abandoned buildings - including a church, old hotel and royal residence - now slowly being reclaimed by nature. The summit offers sweeping views of the Cambodian coastline and even across the water to Vietnam’s Phu Quoc Island.

Return to Kampot in the afternoon for a relaxed walk through the town’s historic centre. Your guide will highlight Kampot’s multicultural layers, from well-preserved French colonial buildings to Chinese shophouses and traditional Khmer temples, offering a rich perspective on how the town’s past continues to shape its present.

This morning, your driver will transfer you to the pier for the final leg of your journey to Cambodia’s southern islands. From the dock, board a ferry for a two-hour crossing over open water, offering views of the coast and scattered islets. The boats are simple and sometimes a little loud, so packing earplugs is a good idea for a more comfortable ride.

On arrival, check in to your island accommodation and settle in. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish - take a walk along the beach, go for a swim, or simply sit back and absorb the laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for gentle adventure or total relaxation, this is the perfect place to slow down and let the pace of island life take over.

Enjoy your time on Koh Rong at your own pace, with no fixed plans - just the freedom to relax or explore as you like. Spend the day swimming in clear turquoise waters, sunbathing on quiet white-sand beaches, or walking along forested trails that reveal hidden coves and viewpoints. For those seeking more activities, snorkelling and kayaking are easy to arrange, or you might join a local boat tour to visit nearby bays and beaches. In the evening, sample fresh seafood at casual beachfront restaurants or watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand.

This morning, say farewell to the island as you board a speedboat for the return journey to Sihanoukville. The short 40-minute ride offers one last look at the turquoise waters and palm-fringed coastline of Koh Rong. Upon arrival at the mainland pier, you’ll be met by your private driver for the road transfer to Phnom Penh.

The journey to the capital takes approximately three and a half hours, passing through changing landscapes of rural Cambodia, from rice paddies and roadside markets to the more developed outskirts of the city. You may wish to stop en route for a coffee or snack at your own expense.

Arriving in Phnom Penh by late afternoon, check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure. Depending on your interests and energy levels, you might choose to explore the riverside promenade, visit a nearby market, or relax at a rooftop bar as you ease back into city life.

Start your morning with an immersive introduction to Phnom Penh’s street food, local markets, and architectural heritage. At 8:00am, your guide will meet you at your hotel to begin this guided walk-and-ride experience by foot and tuk-tuk. Your first stop is Psar Kandal, one of the city’s oldest and most authentic markets, where you’ll sample a variety of Cambodian favourites such as Mi Char (fried noodles), Lort Char, BBQ beef skewers with green papaya salad, and small clay-pot snacks called Nom Krok made from rice flour and coconut milk. You'll also try Khmer noodle soup and sweet treats like Chek Ktis.

Continue to Psar Chas, the Old Market, to enjoy Banh Srung - a light noodle dish with spring rolls and coconut milk. After these local tastes, you’ll begin your walk through Phnom Penh’s French Quarter, where grand colonial-era buildings still stand. Admire the architecture of the old Post Office and the now-abandoned French administration building, and then pass the National Library, Raffles Hotel Le Royal (which once hosted Jacqueline Kennedy), and the recently reactivated railway station.

Your cultural discovery continues with a stop at Wat Phnom, a revered Buddhist pagoda said to be the origin of the city’s name. Built in 1373, the temple sits atop a small hill and offers insight into both spiritual life and local legend. From here, travel on to Psar Thmei - the iconic Central Market. Designed by French architect Louis Chauchon and opened in 1937, its art deco dome shelters hundreds of stalls selling everything from gold and electronics to textiles and street food. You may choose to meet a traditional Cambodian fortune teller for a brief reading (optional, USD 5), or simply enjoy more local snacks and a refreshing Teuk Ampil - freshly pressed sugarcane juice over ice.

After the tour, return to your hotel by tuk-tuk and enjoy a relaxed afternoon at your leisure, still full of local flavours and fresh impressions from the city’s vibrant streets.

In the evening, end your day with a peaceful sunset cruise on the Mekong, offering a unique perspective of Phnom Penh from the water. In the late afternoon, your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the riverfront, where your boat will be waiting. Once aboard, set out on a scenic journey along the Tonle Sap and Mekong Rivers, with your guide sharing insights into the landmarks and contrasts visible along the banks.

As you cruise past the city skyline, witness the striking blend of Phnom Penh’s heritage and modernity - golden pagodas standing beside high-rise buildings, riverside villages facing urban developments. On one side of the river, you’ll see the activity of the capital, while on the other, traditional rural life unfolds with floating homes, small gardens, fishing boats, and riverbank markets. This peaceful ride offers a slow-paced glimpse into everyday life and a chance to reflect on the city’s evolving identity.

As the sky turns golden and then fades into dusk, enjoy the cooling breeze and take advantage of several photo opportunities from the boat. After sunset, the boat will return to shore, and your driver will transfer you back to your hotel to conclude your evening.

Today, you will be met at your hotel by your private driver for your transfer to Phnom Penh International Airport. Depending on your flight time, enjoy a final glimpse of the city before heading to the airport for your onward journey. Safe travels!