See all the highlights of this exotic country in ten days. Visit the vibrant capital of Phnom Penh and charming Siem Reap, the gateway to the majestic ruins of Angkor. Cambodia Family Vacation is best for family to enjoy Cambodia with relaxation and leisure.
Route:
Day 1: Arrive Siem Reap (D)
Day 2: Siem Reap (B)
Day 3: Siem Reap (B,L)
Day 4: Siem Reap – Battambang (B,L,D)
Day 5: Battambang – Phnom Penh (B)
Day 6: Phnom Penh (B,L)
Day 7: Phnom Penh – Countryside (B,L)
Day 8: Phnom Penh – Sihanoukville (B)
Day 9: Sihanoukville (B)
Day 10: Sihanoukville (B)
Day 11: Sihanoukville – Phnom Penh – Departure (B)
Inclusion:
Exclusion:
Arrive in Siem Reap and transfer to your hotel. Siem Reap is the base for exploring the fabled temples of Angkor, the ancient capital of the Khmer Empire. Start with a visit to the Roluos Group, the oldest temples in the region including Preak Ko, Ba Kong and Lo Lei. While here, receive a private blessing from the resident monk. Explore the Cambodian countryside with an ox cart ride. The day ends with a spectacular sunset ride in a tethered helium balloon for sweeping views of the surrounding temples and countryside. Overnight in Siem Reap.
Today there is an early start to catch the sunrise (optional) before returning to the hotel for breakfast. Then depart to visit Angkor Thom’s famous South Gate where you will take an elephant ride to Bayon Temple which depicts intricate scenes of traditional Cambodian life.
From the Bayon continue on foot to the Baphuon, recently re-opened to the public, where you will pass by the wooden Royal Palace. Then continue to the Terrace of the Elephants where a parade used to be held for the king. . Spend the afternoon exploring Siem Reap’s colorful markets. Overnight in Siem Reap.
Start early to see the sunrise over Angor Wat. After breakfast, drive to Banteay Srei, Kbal Spean (River of 1,000 Lingas) and Banteay Samre. These temples are amongst the most intricate in all of Cambodia. In the afternoon, continue to Pre Rup, East Mebon, Neak Poan and Preah Khan. Overnight Siem Reap.
After breakfast, embark on a private boat ride across the Tonle Sap Lake to Battambang (3-5 hours. Note: only possible in the wet season, alternative option by road). This afternoon explore the cultural villages of the area and taster Khmer treats. Enjoy a packed lunch onboard.
(Note: This boat trip is only possible in the high water period from July to December as water levels are too low during the dry season and transfer times can be extremely long. From January to June alternative transfer by road.) Overnight in Phnom Penh.
After breakfast, enjoy a ride on the Bamboo train, a local form of transport to replace regular trains which no longer operate. Transfer overland to Phnom Penh (4hours) and check into your hotel. Enjoy dinner at a charitable restaurant.
(Note: the train tracks from Battambang to Phnom Penh are currently being rebuilt. The long term future of the bamboo train ride cannot be guaranteed. Should the service stop we will arrange alternative sightseeing). Overnight in Phnom Penh.
Today explore the sights of the capital in a traditional Cyclo. A leisurely tour will take you to Phnom Penh’s main sights including the Royal Palace, National Museum, Wat Phnom and an insightful but moving visit to the Tuol Sleng genocide museum.
For lunch you will be treated to a delicious Khmer meal at Le Lotus Blanc, a lovely charity restaurant where former street children are taught the principles of hospitality. (NOTE: Le Lotus Blanc is usually closed during national holidays and for the entire month of April over the Khmer New Year holiday.)
In the afternoon visit the fascinating Russian Market, where you will have ample opportunity to shop for some souvenirs before heading to the Apsara Arts Association (AAA), a local non-governmental organization created to promote classical and folkloric dance and music. Finish the day at Wat Phnom, the birthplace of the city, located on a small hilltop that forms the highest elevation of Phnom Penh. Overnight in Phnom Penh
After breakfast you will have a vehicle and guide at your disposal to partake in any of the options below:
– Rice planting and harvesting in surrounding rice fields
– A visit to the silver workshops at Kompong Luong Village
– Trekking through the nearby forest
– A visit to a local village
– A holy water shower from a local monk
– Having your fortune told
– A sunset boat cruise on the Mekong river
Note: Some activities mentioned above depend upon the season
Overnight in Phnom Penh
After breakfast transfer to Cambodia’s most famous beach resort, Sihanoukville. Arrive in around midday and transfer to the hotel where you can enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Overnight in Sihanoukville.
Today, enjoy more time at leisure with the vehicle and guide also available. There is an optional visit and boat ride to Ream National Park (not included). Overnight in Sihanoukville.
Breakfast at hotel. Enjoy the day free at leisure. Overnight in Sihanoukville.
Enjoy some time at leisure until your direct transfer to Phnom Penh International Airport for your individual departure flight
