Cambodia is a country that was devastated by a regime that tore through its heart and wiped out almost an entire generation. Today it is a destination filled with pride and a people that welcome visitors with warm smiles and a boundless enthusiasm to show off their national treasures. It isn't just about the wondrous Angkor temples, which should be on everyone's bucket list, but now it is a one-stop destination for history, culture, adventure and beach - with a world-class dining scene that melds Michelin starred restaurants with training kitchens for street kids.
ESSENTIAL CAMBODIA
HIGHLIGHTS
- Witnessing the horrors of the Khmer Rouge regime at Tuol Sleng and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek.
- Visiting the most extraordinary of all Angkor temples, Preah Khan, and the less visited Phnom Bakheng.
- Lunch at a traditional Khmer house that others won't find.
- Relax and unwind beside your private pool in the peaceful riverside town of Kampot.
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Arrive
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Day 1 Arrive Phnom Penh
On arrival in Phnom Penh you will be met and privately transferred to your central hotel situated in the heart of Cambodia's buzzing capital city. The hotel is positioned within a stone's throw of the Royal Palace and within easy walking distance of the bustling riverside area of Sisowath Quay. Once you have had time to refresh, your private guide will take you for an afternoon's sightseeing to include the former Royal Palace and time to browse the treasures of the National Museum.
Overnight: Palace Gate Hotel
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Day 2 Tuol Sleng and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek
Though deeply upsetting, the terrifying reign of the Khmer Rouge should not be ignored. The former high school of Tuol Sleng and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek lay bare the reality of Cambodia's recent past, allowing a far greater appreciation of this fascinating country. Tonight dine in one of Phnom Penh's many great restaurants as the city has earned its reputation as the foodie capital of Cambodia.
Overnight: Palace Gate Hotel
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Day 3 Fly to Siem Reap
After breakfast, fly north to Siem Reap; the home of the awe-inspiring Angkor Temples. Once settled in at your hotel, join your private guide for an afternoon's exploration of Bayon with its 216 enigmatic faces overlooking the immense walled city of Angkor Thom; home to the Terrace of the Leper King and Terrace of Elephants. End the day with a private boat trip on Angkor Thom's moat and enjoy cocktails as the sun sets.
Overnight: Montra Nivesha
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Day 4 Jungle Temples and Waterfalls
Your time will be carefully planned to avoid the crowds where possible whilst capturing key images in their best light. Experience Ta Prohm in the early hours, climbing through the tree roots which are reclaiming a beautiful temple, made famous by the film Tomb Raider. Venture on to see the most elaborate carvings found at Banteay Srei. So fine is the detail here that it is assumed to have been made by women rather than men! Variety is added with a short trek to the fascinating carved riverbank of Kbal Spean where you can cool off in the waterfall's pool.
Overnight: Montra Nivesha
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Day 5 Angkor's Temples and the Phare Circus
Lasting memories will include a dramatic sunrise over the majestic Angkor Wat with a picnic breakfast before exploring the temple once the crowds have dispersed. Head on to the mighty Tonle Sap Lake and board a local boat to cruise the canals (streets in dry season) of Kompong Pluk, a stilted village that appears to float in wet season. Return to Siem Reap by road in time for lunch in the shaded garden of a traditional Khmer house, Sala Kdei, on the banks of the Royal bathing pool at Sra Srang. Move on to arguably the most extraordinary of all temples, Preah Khan, ending at Phnom Bakheng where limited numbers are allowed to view sunset from the top floor. Finish today with an evening performance of the Phare Circus - a magical spectacle in which the performers are street kids who have been given the opportunity to train to be incredible acrobats.
Overnight: Montra Nivesha
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Day 6 Cambodia's Coast
Fly south to Sihanoukville and be driven two hours to the charming riverside town of Kampot. Set alongside the emerald waters of the Kampot River, Amber Kampot is a serene resort of just 25 air-conditioned villas, each with outdoor terraces and private pools.
Check into your hotel where the balance of the day is at leisure.
Overnight: Amber Resort Kampot
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Day 7 Kep National Park
This morning your guide will collect you from the hotel and drive you 30 minutes to Kep; renowned for its fresh crab specialities and nearby Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island). However, it is also home to one of the smallest protected areas in the country, Kep National Park. Visible from all over Kep, these forested hills are home to varied birdlife and some primates. It is possible to explore the national park on well-marked trails that take a few hours to complete. Highlights include Little Buddha, a local shrine amid the roots of a strangler fig, and Sunset Rock, the best place to see a dramatic sunset in the park. An early morning trek avoids the heat of the day while an afternoon trek offers the option of a panoramic sunset. We have suggested early morning, but just let us know if you prefer to shift to the afternoon.
After your trek, visit La Plantation Pepper Farm to learn about this famous Kampot spice. Tour the farm to learn more about pepper and have the chance to take part in a pepper tasting session to learn about the different types of pepper. You can then enjoy a pepper-themed Cambodian lunch at the restaurant before being returned to your hotel.
Overnight: Amber Resort Kampot
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Day 8 Kampot at Leisure
Enjoy a free day to relax or organise activities of your choosing at Amber Kampot. Your hotel is positioned on a quiet stretch of the Preaek Tuek Chhu River just outside Kampot, meaning you can enjoy this lovely riverside setting at a leisurely pace. Unwind by the pool overlooking the river, recline on a sun lounger beneath the trees, or stroll through the gardens where the water moves slowly past. Kayaks and paddle boards are available should you wish to head out onto the river for a gentle paddle. The resort's complimentary shuttle also runs into Kampot town. Here you may wish to wander through the atmospheric streets, pausing at riverside cafés and browsing local shops before returning to the peace of the riverbank.
Overnight: Amber Resort Kampot
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Depart
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Addition to Day 5
Extend by a night to enjoy a full day exploring the surrounding countryside riding pillion on motorbikes - each with a professional driver/guide. Enjoy Khmer cuisine as you interact with farmers and locals in rural villages.
GUIDELINE PRICES - Per Person
| High | $ 5,634 |
| Low | $ 4,832 |
BOOKING NOTES
- Price is per person based on two people sharing a room.
- If you are interested in adding any of the optional enhancements listed, please speak to your specialist about prices and how best to fit them into the itinerary.
INCLUSIONS
- All accommodation as detailed in the itinerary.
- Daily breakfast.
- Lunch at Sala Kdei (shared).
- Private transfers throughout in an air-conditioned vehicle.
- All sightseeing, entrance fees and guide services as detailed in the itinerary.
- Angkor Pass.
- Private English-speaking guide for all sightseeing.
- Internal flights from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap and on to Sihanoukville in Economy.
- Phare Circus (front row seats).
- Private local boat at Tonle Sap Lake.
EXTRAS
- International flights.
- Meals not indicated in the itinerary.
- Items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks, gratuities (discretionary).
- Entrance fees and excursions not specifically mentioned as included.
- Travel insurance or visa fees.
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REASONS TO BOOK
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