Cambodia: Hike, Bike & Kayak 9 Days

Embark on an exciting mountain biking adventure, beginning with a local boat ride to cross the river. Pedal through charming villages on an island in the Mekong River, renowned for silk weaving, agriculture, and aquaculture. Observe the locals at work in the village and cycle along tranquil roads that wind through orchards and rice paddies. Return to Phnom Penh in the afternoon, where you have free time to explore at your own pace or participate in optional activities. Phnom Penh preserves the echoes of its tumultuous past, with the somber Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek bearing witness to the harrowing legacy of the Khmer Rouge regime. Alternatively, visit Wat Phnom, the temple that gave birth to the city in the 15th century, or the Silver Pagoda within the Royal Palace complex, Cambodia's holiest temple. Accommodation: Hotel

Set off early this morning and journey to Kratie (approximately 6 hours). Along the way, pass through Skuon, a small town renowned for its unique delicacy of delectable spiders. For the adventurous, seize the opportunity to try this local specialty! Continue your travels to Kratie, a charming town nestled along the Mekong River. From Kratie waterfront, board a local boat that will take you to Koh Trong, a 6-kilometer island where approximately 280 families call home. Koh Trong is famous for its succulent pomelo citrus fruit, considered some of the finest in Cambodia, as well as its rice and other agricultural produce. Embrace the authentic Cambodian lifestyle with a homestay experience, savoring a traditional Khmer dinner. Relax in hammocks suspended beneath the house, creating an ideal setting for unwinding. Take a leisurely bike ride around the island's perimeter, passing through traditional Khmer villages, fruit orchards, and rice fields. Observe the daily rituals and routines of traditional village life. Accommodation: Homestay

After breakfast, embark on a guided one-hour walk, immersing yourself in the local culture and gaining insights into the way of life in this region of Cambodia. In the past, much of the island's forested interior was cleared during the Khmer Rouge era. In response, villagers initiated a reforestation project at Wat Ty Pram Kbal Koh Trong. You'll have the opportunity to contribute to this project by planting a tree within the pagoda grounds. Bid farewell to your island hosts and return to the mainland. Before reaching Stung Treng, take a moment to explore the river boulevard and browse the local market in Kratie. Continue your journey for 2.5 hours, with a stop at Wat Phnom Sambok, an 18th-century Buddhist monastery perched atop a hill. Climb to the summit for panoramic views of the lush surrounding forest. Optionally, enjoy lunch at Kampi Creek, where you may spot dolphins frolicking in the waters, before arriving in Stung Treng. Accommodation: Hotel

Rise early and make the most of a full day packed with adventure. Hop into a private minibus and head to the village of Voeun Kham (approximately 2 hours). From there, board a local boat and cruise along the majestic Mekong River to witness the impressive Sopheakmit Waterfall. Located on the Cambodia-Laos border, the cascading waters crashing over limestone cliffs and boulders create a mesmerizing spectacle. Dock the boat at a local family's home and embark on a jungle hike to a scenic lunch spot with a panoramic view of the falls (approximately 2 hours). Return to the boat and continue your journey through a breathtaking stretch of the Mekong River, teeming with diverse bird species and passing by the village of Osvay (approximately 1-hour cruise). As you traverse the Anlong Cheuteal Irrawaddy dolphin pool, keep an eye out for the rare freshwater dolphins. Then, embark on a kayaking adventure, gliding through the enchanting flooded forests to reach Vuen Sien village (approximately 2 hours). After an exhilarating day exploring this natural wonder, return to Stung Treng by private minibus for the evening (approximately 1 hour). Accommodation: Hotel

This morning, embark on a scenic journey to Siem Reap in a private minibus, traversing Cambodia's picturesque countryside and small towns (approximately 4.5 hours). Along the way, make a stop at the awe-inspiring Beng Mealea temple, hidden within the jungle. Take your time to wander through the temple's captivating ruins, channeling your inner Indiana Jones. Continue the drive to Siem Reap, one of Cambodia's most popular destinations and the gateway to the renowned Angkor complex. Siem Reap offers a plethora of cafes, bars, restaurants, and local food stands to satisfy all tastes. A visit to the old market is highly recommended, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and admiring the vibrant array of silk, cotton, sarongs, silverware, and statues. Upon arrival, your guide will lead an orientation walk to help you familiarize yourself with this bustling town. Accommodation: Hotel

Embark on a temple-hopping adventure today alongside your knowledgeable local guide, maximizing your exploration of the world-renowned Angkor complex. Built during the Khmer empire's reign in the 9th to 13th centuries, these ancient ruins include iconic sites such as Angkor Wat, Bayon, and the captivating Ta Prohm enveloped by the jungle. As part of today's itinerary, you'll also visit Phnom Bok, one of the lesser-known gems within the Angkor complex. Ascend 633 steps to reach the temple ruins atop the hill, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Explore the small temple and marvel at the remains of a 5-meter-long sandstone fertility symbol. After immersing yourself in the wonders of the temples, return to Siem Reap for a free evening. Consider catching a performance by Phare, the Cambodian Circus. Emerging from disadvantaged backgrounds, these talented performers have garnered international acclaim through their artistry. Combining elements of theatre, music, dance, acrobatics, juggling, aerial acts, and contortion, their modern Khmer tales create an unforgettable spectacle reminiscent of a Cambodian Cirque Du Soleil. Accommodation: Hotel

This morning, gear up for a memorable cycling experience through the Angkorian ruins. By opting for bicycles, you'll bypass much of the pedestrian crowds and gain a unique perspective of this remarkable site. Traverse the backroads that wind along the river, passing through local villages before reaching the Angkor complex. On your return journey to Siem Reap, pedal alongside the ancient walls of Angkor Thom. With the moat on one side and dense jungle on the other, you'll feel like an explorer discovering untouched ruins away from the tourist masses. In the evening, gather with your fellow travelers and venture to a local restaurant for an optional group dinner, celebrating the culmination of your active adventure. Accommodation: Hotel

With no planned activities for today, you are free to check out of your accommodation at any time. If you have extra time, you can consider engaging in an exhilarating Angkor zip-line and canopy walk adventure, join a delightful Khmer cooking class, indulge in a luxurious high tea experience at Raffles Hotel, or simply unwind by the pool. Should you wish to extend your stay in Siem Reap, we'll gladly assist in arranging additional accommodation (subject to availability).