Classic Cambodia – 6 days

Today, we’ll embark on a guided tour of Phnom Penh, beginning with a visit to the National Museum of Fine Arts, renowned for its exceptional collection of Khmer sculptures. Next, we’ll explore the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda, famous for its opulent decor, including floors covered in silver tiles and Buddha statues adorned with thousands of diamonds. Later, we’ll confront the grim realities of the Pol Pot era by visiting Toul Sleng (Security Prison - S21), a former school that was converted into a torture facility by the Khmer Rouge. The tour continues to the infamous Killing Fields, where over 10,000 people were executed.

This morning, we’ll fly to Siem Reap. Upon arrival, we’ll start with a visit to the Angkor National Museum to gain an overview of Khmer civilization. This archaeological museum is focused on preserving and showcasing Angkorian artifacts from the 9th to the 14th centuries. Following that, we’ll explore the iconic Angkor Wat, renowned as the largest religious monument globally, featuring thousands of intricately designed wall carvings and bas-reliefs.

Early this morning, you have the option to witness Angkor Wat bathed in the stunning golden light of sunrise. Afterwards, we’ll drive to visit the well-preserved Banteay Srei temples, making a stop at an exotic butterfly sanctuary and the village of Preak Dak, where you can participate in a local initiative by planting a tree sapling to support low-income farmers. We’ll then return to the Angkor Temple Complex to explore the ancient city of Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Great Khmer Empire. Here, you’ll discover the intriguing Bayon Temple, the Baphuon royal enclosure, and the Terraces of the Elephants and the Leper King. Next, we’ll visit Ta Prohm Temple, which has been left in its original, overgrown state with trees entwined around its ruins. In the evening, enjoy a performance by the Phare NGO circus project, where street children are trained as circus artists. The show features impressive circus acts and creative interpretations of modern life and societal issues in Cambodia.

This morning, we’ll drive to Kampong Phluk, a group of three stilt house villages situated in the floodplain of Tonle Sap Lake, approximately 16 km southeast of Siem Reap. After taking a boat trip on the lake, we’ll return to Siem Reap, where you’ll have some free time. Use this opportunity to pick up any last-minute souvenirs at the central market or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Pub Street.

Following breakfast and check-out from the hotel, you will be provided with a transfer to the airport for your departure.