Cambodia Highlights 10-Day Cultural & Scenic Adventures
Overview
Embark on a 10-day journey through Cambodia, beginning in Phnom Penh with visits to the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and important historical sites. Continue to Kampong Cham for its peaceful riverside charm and cultural highlights, then travel to Kratie to spot the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins on the Mekong River.
Head onward to Kampong Thom to explore pre-Angkorian temples and quiet countryside before arriving in Siem Reap for the grand finale, the Angkor temples. Witness sunrise at Angkor Wat, marvel at the serene faces of Bayon, wander through the jungle-covered Ta Prohm, and enjoy a boat trip to the floating villages of Tonlé Sap Lake.
Conclude in Battambang, where colonial charm, fertile landscapes, and the iconic Bamboo Train showcase authentic Cambodian life. On your final day, enjoy a seamless airport transfer from Siem Reap, ensuring a smooth and memorable end to your journey.
Tour Highlights
- Seamless Start & Finish: Enjoy a smooth pick-up in Phnom Penh to begin your journey and conclude with a stress-free private transfer to Siem Reap Airport.
- Phnom Penh Highlights: Visit the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum, and learn Cambodia’s history at Tuol Sleng and the Killing Fields.
- Kampong Cham: Explore its riverside charm, colonial architecture, and the legendary hills of Phnom Bros & Phnom Srei.
- Kratie: Travel along the Mekong to spot Irrawaddy dolphins and relax with a peaceful Koh Trong Island homestay.
- Kampong Thom: Discover the ancient pre-Angkorian temples of Sambor Prei Kuk, a tranquil UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Siem Reap: Witness sunrise at Angkor Wat, explore Angkor Thom, Bayon, Ta Prohm, and cruise to the floating villages of Tonlé Sap.
- Battambang: Enjoy colonial streets, local arts, countryside life, the Bamboo Train, and Phnom Sampeau’s hilltop views.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1 | Arrival in Phnom Penh
Upon arrival at Techo International Airport in Phnom Penh, you will be warmly welcomed by our driver holding a personalized sign at the exit hall. You’ll then be transferred to your hotel in the city for check-in.
Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Overnight in Phnom Pen!
Day 2 | Full-Day Phnom Penh City Tour
After breakfast at your hotel, meet your guide and driver at 8:30 AM to begin a full day exploring Cambodia’s complex history.
Start with a visit to Choeung Ek Genocidal Center (The Killing Fields), where more than 20,000 civilians lost their lives during the Khmer Rouge regime. Continue to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21), a former high school turned into a notorious prison.
Lunch at a local restaurant (at your own expense).
In the afternoon, explore the Royal Palace, the official residence of Cambodia’s royal family. Admire the grandeur of the Silver Pagoda, with over 5,000 silver floor tiles, and view royal stupas, shrines, and monuments.
Overnight in Phnom Penh
Day 3| Journey to Kratie via Kampong Cham
After breakfast at your hotel, embark on an adventure to Kratie, En route, make a stop at Skun Market, one of Cambodia’s most unusual and famous roadside attractions. At first glance, it may seem like a typical local market, but Skun has gained international fame as the “Spider Market” known for its unique delicacy of deep-fried tarantulas.
Adventurous travelers can sample a variety of insect snacks or simply observe this curious part of Cambodian food culture.
After your visit to Skun, continue your journey to Phnom Bros (Man Hill) and Phnom Srei (Woman Hill), twin hills surrounded by legends of love and rivalry. These sites not only offer scenic views of the countryside but also carry deep cultural and spiritual significance in Cambodian folklore.
Next, take another drive to Kratie, upon arrival you will check in to your homestay.
Overnight on Koh Trong Island!
Day 4| Witness the Irrawaddy Dolphin and Explore Koh Trong Island
In the morning, after breakfast, your guide will take you to Kratie Town and head along the river for an unforgettable experience. You’ll hop into a boat and quietly wait as the rare Irrawaddy dolphins emerge from the water’s surface. It’s a peaceful and magical moment, perfect for taking photos and learning how these endangered dolphins have adapted to life in the Mekong River.
After this exciting tour, you’ll continue to another cultural highlight: the 100-Column Pagoda. Here, your guide will share fascinating local legends and the historical significance of the site.
You might be interested in enjoying a picnic lunch at Kampi River, a popular local gathering spot. It’s especially lively on weekends, offering a great chance to mingle with the locals and enjoy authentic Cambodian picnic culture.
In the afternoon, you’ll return to your homestay to relax before heading out again for a charming oxcart ride around the island at sunset. This is a great opportunity to connect with local life and soak in the tranquil countryside. Don’t forget to pick up some of the island’s famous pomelos, often sold along the route.
After the ride, you’ll return to your homestay. Enjoy a home-cooked dinner, and then wind down for the evening, whether that’s relaxing or chatting with your homestay hosts to learn more about island life.
Day 5| Journey to Kampong Thom
In the morning at 7:30 AM, you will begin another journey, this time to Kampong Thom Province. The drive will take you through scenic countryside, offering a glimpse of rural Cambodian life along the way.
Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and continue to the pre-Angkorian temple complex of Sambor Prei Kuk, one of Cambodia’s most important archaeological sites. After exploring its ancient ruins and tranquil forest setting, return to your hotel.
Overnight in Kampong Thom!
Day 6| The Journey to Angkor
After your breakfast at your hotel begin your journey to Siem Reap home of the iconic temples. En route we will catch a glimpse at an ancient bridge known as Spean Kampong Kdei then continue to Kampong Kleang Floating Village, one of the largest floating villages nestle on the Tonle Sap Shore.
Witness the stilt and floating houses, learn how those people adapted to their daily lives between the wet and dry season. After exploring Kampong Kleang, we continue to Siem Reap, upon arrival, check in to your hotel and overnight in Siem Reap.
Day 7| Angkor Wat Sunrise – Majestic Temples Tour and Apsara Dance
Get up early to witness the wonderful sunrise at Angkor Wat, after sunrise explore this largest religious monument in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in the early 12th century for the Hindu god Vishnu.
Continue to the South Gate of Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire (12th century), and explore the iconic Bayon Temple, famous for its serene, smiling stone faces. Visit the Elephant Terrace and the Terrace of the Leper King, known for their intricate carvings.
Afterward, explore the hauntingly beautiful Ta Prohm Temple, famously featured in the Tomb Raider movie. The temple is left largely unrestored, with giant trees growing out of the ruins offering an incredible, jungle-merged atmosphere.
Lunch inside the Angkor Archaeological Park (at your own expense).
Return to your hotel in the late afternoon. In the evening you will be transferred for a buffet and Apsara Dance in a theater.
Overnight in Siem Reap
Day 8| Phnom Kulen Waterfall
Discover the spiritual heart and natural beauty of Phnom Kulen Mountain, Cambodia’s most sacred site located just 50 km from Siem Reap. This revered mountain is a pilgrimage destination for both Hindus and Buddhists.
Visit the famous Temple of the Reclining Buddha, marvel at the River of 1,000 Lingas with its intricate carvings on the riverbed, and refresh yourself at the stunning Phnom Kulen Waterfalls.
Along the way, enjoy scenic views of traditional villages and lush landscapes, making this journey both a cultural and natural delight.
After exploring Phnom Kulen return back to your hotel, you are free at your own leisure.
Overnight in Siem Reap!
Day 9| Day Trip to Battambang
At 7:00AM start your day by a scenic drive to Battambang the drive will take 3 hours. Upon arrival, start with the famous Bamboo Train Ride, a fun and scenic journey through the countryside. Visit Phsar Nat Market and admire the town’s French colonial architecture, including a stop at the Former Governor’s House.
Sample freshly made rice paper and explore the Prahoc Market, known for its fermented fish paste, a Cambodian culinary staple.
Lunch at a local restaurant (own expense).
In the afternoon, head to Phnom Sampov, a hilltop site known for its tragic Killing Caves and beautiful natural cave systems.
End the day with a unique experience, watching thousands of bats fly out of the cave at sunset while enjoying a cold drink or local beer.
Return back to Siem Reap in the evening, you will get back to Siem Reap late.
Overnight in Siem Reap!
Day 10| Siem Reap Departure
In the morning or afternoon, depending on your flight schedule, your driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the airport for your onward journey.
We sincerely hope you had an unforgettable experience in Cambodia, filled with rich history, vibrant culture, and meaningful connections.
Information
- Duration 10 days
- Experienced Tour Guide (English)
- Instant Confirmation
- Free Cancellation in 48h
Booking Tour
Contact US
Pricing
- 1 Pax: 1449USD
- 2 Pax: 799USD/Person
- 3 Pax: 659USD/Person
- 4 Pax: 559USD/Person
- 5 Pax: 459USD/Person
- 6 Pax: 399USD/Person
- 7 Pax: 359USD/Person
- 8 Pax: 339USD/Person
Pickup Time
Pick up at 8 am from your hotel in Siem Reap
Pickup Point
From your hotel in Siem Reap
Return Details
Drop off at your hotel in Siem Reap or a requested drop off point within the city
Additional Info
Please dress to cover your shoulders and knees with good walking shoes.
What to Bring:
Camera, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent and small backpack etc.
What's Included
- English speaking tour guide
- All entrance fees
- Hotel pick up & drop off
- Air-port pick up and transfer
- 2-nights’ accommodation on Koh Trong Island (homestay)
- Cold bottle of water during the tour
- Private air-conditioned vehicle
- 1 dinner at Apsara dance and 2 dinners at Koh Trong Island
What's Not Included
- Travel Insurance
- Meals (lunch & dinner)
- Accommodations (that are not mentioned)
- Gratuities (Recommended)
- Personal expenses
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