A land of ancient dynasties, sacred rivers, and enigmatic jungle trails, Cambodia is a destination that rewards those who travel thoughtfully. Beyond the buzz of tuk-tuks and the well-trodden paths of Angkor, a more refined Cambodia reveals itself. Here, it’s possible to witness the sun rise over Angkor Wat from a quiet vantage point known only to insiders, sip cocktails by the river in the Cardamom Rainforest, and savour Michelin-starred cuisine as you drift down the Mekong. Read on to discover how our longstanding partnerships in Cambodia ensure you experience the country in the most authentic and exclusive way, opening doors that remain closed to the average visitor.
ANGKOR WAT FROM A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE
One of the largest religious monuments in the world, ensconced in an unforgettable setting of pristine jungle, a visit to Angkor Wat is often the focal point of any trip to Cambodia. Despite the site’s perennial popularity, our expert team have designed plenty of ways for you to experience the wonders of Angkor in a more intimate and personal way. Our exclusive Angkor Wat tours steer you further away from the well-trodden tourist trail, allowing you to experience the iconic site with fewer interruptions, and offering new perspective on one of South East Asia’s most majestic historic sites.
Exclusive experiences at Angkor Wat
- Privacy for sunrise – an expert private guide will navigate you to a discreet viewpoint across the moat from Angkor Wat as the sun rises. Here you can observe the mists rise from the temples at dawn with only the sound of birdsong for company, and linger longer at the site after the early-morning rush.
- Archaeological insights & VIP access – gain privileged access to areas of Angkor Wat closed to general visitors, following the fascinating work of the conservationists and archaeologists restoring this ancient site.
- Angkor Wat helicopter flight - take to the skies for an unforgettable bird’s eye view over Angkor Wat. A thrilling helicopter flight offers an unrivalled viewpoint over the vast, lotus-shaped towers and their spectacular forested setting.
- Angkor Thom private sunset cruise - take in the vistas of the last capital of the Khmer empire on a leisurely sunset cruise in an Angkor gondola. Observe the warm glow of sunset on the temple-studded horizon, and perhaps explore the crumbling ruins of Prasat Chrung on your way back.
- Angkor Wat photography walk - wander the sacred corridors of Angkor Wat, guided by a seasoned travel photographer who knows where the light falls best. With their expert eye, frame the temple’s worn carvings, reflecting pools, and atmospheric colonnades in a way that creates beautifully artistic photographs.
- Angkor temples by e-bike - explore some of the most impressive temples at Angkor on two wheels, taking advantage of quieter jungle paths away from the crowds. Discover the abandoned temple of Ta Prohm, and then follow a serene jungle trail to Angkor Thom and its lesser visited temples such as Preah Palilay and Preah Pithu.
CAMBODIA BY HELICOPTER
In addition to the spectacle of seeing Angkor Wat from the skies, there are further helicopter adventures to be had in Cambodia. You could soar over remote jungle temples such as Banteay Chhmar, Preah Khan, or mountaintop Preah Vihear. You may also wish to avoid long journeys by road and skip airport delays by choosing helicopter flights to take you from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh, and from Phnom Penh to a beach hideaway on Koh Rong.
LUXURY MEKONG CRUISE
The Mekong River is Cambodia’s quiet pulse—winding through the landscape with a grace that belies its power. For centuries, it has sustained the rhythms of rural life: feeding rice paddies, floating villages and sacred festivals with its seasonal rise and fall. It is possible to cruise the Mekong from a base of supreme comfort, on board the Aqua Mekong for example. This elegant river cruiser offers generous suites, an indulgent spa, and fine dining with menus overseen by a Michelin-starred chef.
On a three-night cruise on the Aqua Mekong, sail along the mighty river from Phnom Penh, disembarking to cycle through lush rice paddies, visit serene temples, and kayak along the fabled Tonle Sap River. During the high water months of August to November, it is possible to sail from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh on an extended five-night itinerary that includes a crossing of Tonle Sap Lake. Alternatively, continue your cruise into neighbouring Vietnam.
CULINARY CAMBODIA
Photo credit Zannier Phum Baitang, Siem Reap
Modern Cambodia is home to a thriving culinary scene, and one that is gaining increasing acclaim. While the country’s traditional flavours remain rooted in simplicity and seasonality, a new wave of chefs in Phnom Penh is elevating Khmer cuisine to fine-dining heights. Some examples include Embassy restaurant, in the city centre, which offers elegant tasting menus curated by the Kimsan twins, both classically trained and passionately committed to reviving ancient royal recipes with modern finesse. Lum Orng pushes boundaries further with its ‘New Mekong Cuisine,’ blending foraged herbs and wild honey with farm-fresh produce for a hyper-local, sustainable menu.
To delve deeper into Khmer cuisine, we can organise a number of carefully curated culinary experiences – many of which take you away from the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh. Visit a local market with a top chef from the Siem Reap region, then head to a beautiful wooden house within the Angkor Wat temple complex to learn how to prepare some of Cambodia’s best-loved dishes such as fish amok. You will then be able to enjoy your creations in a memorable setting next to the royal bathing pool of Sra Srang. Alternatively, follow in the footsteps of Gordon Ramsay by visiting a local market in rural Roluos with a top chef, returning to the kitchen to recreate dishes prepared Anthony Bourdain or Gordon Ramsay on their respective visits to Cambodia.
A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE
The cultural attractions of Cambodia are well-documented, but many visitors may not be aware of the rich nature experiences the country has to offer – nor that they can once again be experienced from a base of supreme luxury. The long-awaited arrival of Bill Bensley’s second Cambodian project, Shinta Mani Wild, has elevated the country’s eco-lodge offering to entirely new heights. Ensconced in the soothing setting of the Cardamom Rainforest, the camp's 15 tented suites transport you to another world; one of gentle soaks in your outdoor tub, listening to the sounds of birdsong and the gushing river. Tear yourself away from your suite to enjoy sundowners by a hidden waterfall, or allow your ever-attentive ‘Bensley Butler’ to arrange anything from kayaking along jungle waterways to restorative massages at the river’s edge.
CAMBODIAN BEACHES IN STYLE
While the beaches of Cambodia may not be as well known as neighbouring Thailand, there are still dazzling white sands and turquoise waters awaiting to be discovered by those in the know. Located 15 miles from shore in the Gulf of Thailand, the island of Koh Rong is the place to head to experience Cambodia’s best beaches – and the country’s finest luxury resort. The Royal Sands Koh Rong offers the most glorious stretches of sand, spacious villas, and the most polished service to be found far and wide. There really is no better place to round off your Cambodian adventures.
