Since the 1800’s, the Kingdom of Cambodia has endured French rule, the Lon Nol government, the Khmer Rouge regime and Vietnamese rule. Best known for the magnificent temple complex of Angkor Wat, there is more to this country: endearing Phnom Penh, with its mix of French colonial and Khmer influences, the great lake of Tonle Sap, rural landscapes filled with stilt houses and rice paddies, and a warm, friendly people rebuilding their country and reclaiming their heritage.
Itinerary
Days 1 - 2
Siem Reap and the Glories of Angkor
Arrive in Siem Reap in northern Cambodia, to see the incredible Temples of Angkor, which occupies an area twice as large as Manhattan. Restoration continues everywhere, save for mysterious Ta Prohm, left to be swallowed by the jungle. Hotel de la Paix*
Day 3
Siem Reap to Battambang
Depending on the season and water levels you will travel by boat or by car to Battambang. By boat, cross Tonle Sap Lake, the great lake of Cambodia and visit the floating village of Prek Tuol. Overland, visit the Khmer silk village of Phnom Srok en route. La Villa Hotel
Days 4 - 6
Battambang to Phnom Penh
Along the drive to Phnom Penh, you will visit small villages and see local craft industries. Tour the Royal Palace, built by King Norodom in 1866 on the site of the old town, and the Silver Pagoda with a floor made up of 5,000 silver tiles. Spend two days in the capital, visiting the city’s museums, markets, and surrounding temples. One evening enjoy a cruise on the Mekong and Tonle Sap Rivers. Raffles Le Royal Hotel
Day 7
Steung Treng
Drive to Steung Treng, stopping for temple visits, and lunch in Kratie. Just 31 miles south of Laos, on the banks of the San River, Steung Treng is a very relaxed provincial city, showing you the face of Cambodia untouched by mass tourism. Sok Sambath Hotel
Day 8 - 10
Ratanakiri
Banlung City is the capital of Ratanakiri Province in Cambodia’s mountainous northeastern corner and home to 12 different Khmer Loeu ethnic minority groups. The city will be your base as you make excursions through the jungle to remote villages, waterfalls and the pristine volcanic lake of Yeark Laom. Terres Rouges Lodge
Day 11
Kratie
Early departure by road back to Steung Treng and on to Kratie, stopping to search for river dolphins at Sambo. Oudom Sambath Hotel
Day 12
Kratie to Phnom Penh
Drive to Chhlong, a small and peaceful village on the Mekong River with both typical Khmer and colonial architecture. One unique and beautiful wooden house is supported by 100 columns, dating from the 19th century. Continue to Phnom Penh.
Raffles Le Royal Hotel
Day 13
Farewell to Cambodia
