Southern Cambodia Discovery 10 Days

Today, we'll start early to catch the breathtaking sunrise over the majestic Angkor Wat, with your guide leading you to the best vantage points.

Afterward, you'll explore the Angkor central complex, delving into the rich history and symbolism behind the temple. Feel free to ask your guide any questions to deepen your understanding of this incredible site. Once you've thoroughly explored Angkor Wat and had breakfast, you'll head to the heart of Angkor Thom, entering the ancient city through its impressive Gate, adorned with elephant carvings and four massive faces. Your journey continues to Bayon Temple, renowned for its enigmatic faces representing the 54 provinces of the Great Khmer Empire. The Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King, both known for their detailed bas-reliefs, are also must-see spots.

For lunch, you'll dine at a local restaurant, savoring the unique flavors of Khmer cuisine. In the afternoon, you'll visit Ta Prohm temple, a site that has been left largely untouched, with jungle trees and vines weaving through the ruins, making it one of the most atmospheric and photogenic temples in the Angkor complex.

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, we'll head out to explore the stunning landscape of Tonle Sap Lake. This unique experience offers an outdoor adventure into the countryside of Siem Reap, where you'll explore a floating village and witness the daily lives of the Cambodian people up close.

We’ll venture into the rural areas surrounding Siem Reap to gain insights into the local lifestyle. You’ll be warmly welcomed by the locals, allowing you to gain a deeper appreciation of their traditions and way of life. The journey will culminate at Tonle Sap Lake, where you’ll observe how Cambodian families adapt to life in floating villages, providing a fascinating glimpse into how they live on the water.

We will return to the hotel in the afternoon, leaving the rest of the day for you to enjoy at your own pace.

Today, we'll journey to Phnom Penh by private vehicle, traveling through provincial towns, villages, and roadside hamlets, giving you a glimpse of life outside the bustling cities. We'll make a stop at Skun village, known for its deep-fried tarantulas—an adventurous snack if you're feeling brave! We'll also take a break in Kampong Thom to stretch our legs and enjoy a coffee.

Upon arrival in Phnom Penh, the afternoon is yours to relax or explore at your own pace until 5:00 PM. At that time, your guide will take you on a serene boat cruise along the Tonlé Sap and Mekong rivers, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

As you glide past the opulent Royal Palace, situated at the confluence of the two rivers, you'll also see the contrasting scenes of floating villages alongside the colonial architecture of the city center. Enjoy panoramic views from the upper decks, along with unlimited drinks, including cold beers and other beverages.

Begin your exploration of this remarkable city with a visit to Choeung Ek, famously known as the "Killing Fields," where countless lives were tragically lost during the Khmer Rouge regime. The journey of remembrance continues at the Tuol Sleng S21 Genocide Museum, a haunting reminder of the atrocities committed during that dark period in Cambodian history.

Following these poignant visits, you'll head to the National Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts from both the Angkorian and pre-Angkorian eras, showcasing the rich heritage of the ancient Khmer empire. Adjacent to the museum lies the Royal Palace complex, home to the stunning "Silver Pagoda."

This morning, we’ll depart early for a visit to Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre, a peaceful, forested sanctuary about an hour from Phnom Penh. Upon arrival, you'll meet the local staff who will introduce the day's activities and provide an overview of the center's mission.

The tour of Phnom Tamao begins with a guided walk through the 7-hectare compound alongside a caretaker. You'll encounter over 100 Asian Sun Bears and Black Bears, also known as Moon Bears, all of which have been rescued from poachers, and you'll learn about the challenges of Cambodia’s wildlife trade. In addition to bears, the center is home to over 12,000 animals, including elephants and gibbons, all being rehabilitated and cared for at Phnom Tamao.

Although the animals are kept in enclosures, there are ample opportunities to observe them closely. You’ll join the caretakers in feeding the bears and gain insight into the unique personalities of the Sun and Moon Bears who now reside at the park.

A delightful picnic lunch will be served in a bamboo hut at the center. Afterward, you'll explore the grounds of the Wildlife Rescue Center with wildlife experts, watching gibbons swing through the trees, otters play in the water, and observing a variety of exotic animals from Clouded Leopards to Asian Elephants. These animals have all been rescued from captivity and are now under the care of local wildlife professionals, offering a rare opportunity to see Cambodia’s diverse wildlife up close.

In the afternoon, bid farewell to the staff and animals as you conclude your Phnom Tamao tour and return to Phnom Penh.

Today, we start our journey from the capital city towards Kampot, a charming town nestled by the riverside, offering optional scenic routes. Kampot was once renowned for supplying French restaurants with a prized spice during the colonial era – Kampot pepper. Nowadays, the region is equally famous for its durian plantations, known for the divisive aroma of this spiky fruit that has its enthusiasts and detractors alike!

During your leisure time this afternoon, consider a leisurely stroll along the riverside to admire the remnants of French colonial architecture. Alternatively, relax with a coffee on the veranda of one of the riverside eateries and soak in the picturesque view of the Bokor Mountain Range.

Later in the evening, embark on a tranquil firefly cruise along the river. Witness the sun setting behind the Bokor Mountain Range as we glide upstream, then marvel at the trees adorned with twinkling fireflies on our return journey under the night sky.

This morning, after breakfast, you'll leave Kampot and head to a pepper plantation situated in a serene and safeguarded rural area, offering stunning views and a lush tropical garden. You'll have the opportunity to explore the plantation with a local expert who will guide you through the various growing techniques, explain the origins of the different peppercorn colors, and shed light on the traditional and organic farming methods used here.

Following our visit, we'll proceed to the historic coastal town of Kep, where you'll have the choice to embark on a hike through Kep National Park. The trek will take you along trails that wind over a small mountain range, offering breathtaking views of Kep’s beach.

Spend your day in Kep at your own pace or choose to take a trip to Rabbit Island. While wandering through this charming colonial town, look out for remnants of its former glory as a prestigious seaside destination in the early 1900s and the 1960s, before it was deserted during the Khmer era. You’ll come across intriguing colonial-era buildings—some lovingly restored and others gracefully weathered by time—that provide a historical insight into this picturesque town.

This morning marks the conclusion of your Southern Cambodia Discovery. On your final day, there are no scheduled activities, and the tour wraps up with a transfer to Phnom Penh.

If you wish to extend your time in Phnom Penh and continue exploring, please consult with your tour leader for further arrangements.