Cambodia: Hike, Bike & Kayak 9 Days

Begin your adventure with a mountain bike ride, crossing the river by a local boat before cycling through the villages on a Mekong River island. Known for its silk weaving, agriculture, and aquaculture, the island offers a chance to see local craftsmanship and enjoy cycling on peaceful roads amidst orchards and rice paddies. Afterward, return to Phnom Penh for a free afternoon. You can either explore the city on your own or get assistance from your guide to arrange optional activities. Phnom Penh, with its historical sites like the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, provides insight into Cambodia’s past. Alternatively, visit Wat Phnom, the temple central to the city's origins in the 15th century, or the Royal Palace complex’s Silver Pagoda, Cambodia’s most revered temple.

Accommodation: Hotel

This morning, set off early for a drive to Kratie, which takes about 6 hours. Along the way, you'll pass through Skuon, a small town renowned for its unique local delicacy: fried spiders. If you're feeling adventurous, give it a try! Continue on to Kratie, situated along the Mekong River. From the Kratie waterfront, board a local boat to reach Koh Trong, where you'll experience a homestay. This 6-kilometer island, home to around 280 families, is known for its high-quality pomelo, as well as rice and other crops. Your stay here offers a genuine glimpse into Cambodian daily life, and you'll savor a traditional Khmer meal this evening. With hammocks available for relaxation, it's the perfect spot to unwind. Enjoy a leisurely bike ride around the island, passing through traditional villages, fruit orchards, and rice fields, and witness the local customs and daily activities.

Accommodation: Homestay

After breakfast, embark on a 1-hour guided walk to experience local life and gain insight into the regional culture of Cambodia. During the Khmer Rouge era, much of the island's forest was destroyed. In response, the villagers initiated a reforestation project at Wat Ty Pram Kbal Koh Trong. You’ll have the chance to participate in this effort by planting a tree within the pagoda grounds. Following this, bid farewell to your island hosts and return to the mainland. You’ll have some time to explore the riverfront and visit the local market in Kratie before heading to Stung Treng, a 2.5-hour drive away. Along the way, stop at Wat Phnom Sambok, an 18th-century Buddhist monastery perched on a hill. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the surrounding lush forest. Optionally, you can have lunch at Kampi Creek, where there’s a chance to see dolphins, before continuing on to Stung Treng.

Accommodation: Hotel

Begin your day early to fully enjoy the day's activities. Travel by private minibus to the village of Voeun Kham, which takes about 2 hours. From there, board a local boat for a scenic cruise along the Mekong River to the impressive Sopheakmit Waterfall. Located on the Cambodia–Laos border, these powerful falls crashing over limestone formations offer a breathtaking view. Dock the boat at a local family's home and embark on a jungle hike to a lunch spot with a view of the falls. The hike will last approximately 2 hours. After lunch, return to the boat and continue navigating through a beautiful section of the Mekong River, known for its diverse birdlife and the village of Osvay, with about an hour of cruising. Pass through the Anlong Cheuteal Irrawaddy dolphin pool, where, though rare, you might spot some freshwater dolphins. Then, swap the boat for a kayak and paddle through the flooded forests to Vuen Sien village, a journey of about 2 hours. After a day of exploring this stunning natural landscape, head back to Stung Treng by private minibus for the night, which takes roughly 1 hour.

Accommodation: Hotel

This morning, embark on your journey to Siem Reap, traveling by private minibus through the picturesque Cambodian countryside and charming small towns (approximately 4.5 hours). Along the way, make a stop at Beng Mealea, an impressive hidden temple enveloped by jungle. Continue your drive to Siem Reap, a vibrant hub and gateway to the renowned Angkor complex. Known for its array of cafes, bars, restaurants, and food stalls, Siem Reap offers something for everyone. A visit to the old market is highly recommended, even if you're not in search of souvenirs—exploring the stalls and nearby shops reveals a vivid display of silks, cottons, sarongs, silver, and statues, creating a visual feast. Once you arrive, your guide will lead an orientation walk to help you get familiar with this lively town.

Accommodation: Hotel

Today, explore the renowned Angkor complex with your local guide, taking full advantage of this historical treasure. The complex, constructed between the 9th and 13th centuries when the Khmer Empire dominated Southeast Asia, features iconic ruins such as Angkor Wat, Bayon, and the jungle-clad Ta Prohm. You'll also visit Phnom Bok, one of the lesser-known sites within Angkor. Climb the 633 steps leading to the temple ruins on the hilltop for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and discover a small temple and the remnants of a 5-meter-long sandstone fertility symbol. After a day of temple exploration, return to Siem Reap for an evening at leisure. Consider visiting Phare, the Cambodian Circus, where performers from disadvantaged backgrounds have achieved international acclaim. This vibrant show, reminiscent of Cirque du Soleil, combines modern Khmer stories with theater, music, dance, acrobatics, juggling, aerial acts, and contortion.

Accommodation: Hotel

This morning, set off on mountain bikes for a unique exploration of the Angkor ruins. Cycling allows you to bypass the crowds and experience this extraordinary site from a different angle. Pedal along scenic backroads by the river, passing through local villages and entering the Angkor complex. As you return to Siem Reap, cycle beside the ancient walls of Angkor Thom, where the moat and dense jungle create a sense of unspoiled discovery. In the evening, join your fellow travelers at a local restaurant for an optional group dinner to celebrate your active adventure.

Accommodation: Hotel

With no scheduled activities for today, you are free to check out of your accommodation at your convenience. If you have some extra time, consider an Angkor zip-line and canopy walk adventure, join a Khmer cooking class, indulge in high tea at Raffles Hotel, or unwind by the pool. Should you wish to extend your stay in Siem Reap, we’d be delighted to arrange additional accommodation for you, subject to availability.