- ✓ Explore Phnom Penh’s vibrant streets and tragic history
- ✓ Trek and swim in Cambodia’s remote Cardamom Mountains
- ✓ Unwind on the pristine beaches of Koh Rong
- ✓ Wander the jungle temples of Angkor
If you’ve got two weeks to explore Cambodia this itinerary really packs a punch. From the country’s dark history to the stunning scenery of the Cardamom Mountains. Head to a castaway island for some R&R before ambling through the majestic ruins of Angkor Wat. Finish your stay with a unique homestay experience on the Tonle Sap lake and really get to know Cambodian hospitality.
Days 1 -3 – Past and present in Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is Cambodia’s lively capital, where grand colonial buildings, bustling markets and a fascinating history come together on the banks of the Mekong. On arrival, you’ll be picked up and taken to your charming boutique hotel, with the rest of the day free to settle in and explore at your own pace.
The following day, you’ll explore Phnom Penh with a local guide, visiting the Tuol Sleng Museum and the Killing Fields just outside the city. These moving sites offer a sobering insight into Cambodia’s tragic past, with powerful photographs, stories and memorials helping to bring this difficult period of history to life.
On your final day, it’s time to explore a different side of the city on a food tour. Follow your guide through bustling streets, local markets and pavement cafés, stopping to sample everything from noodle soup and French bread to traditional Khmer dishes. A tasty way to round off your time in the capital.
Days 4 & 5 – Sunrise in the Cardamom Mountains
Today you’ll leave Phnom Penh behind and head deep into the Cardamom Mountains, travelling by bus and boat to the remote village of Chi Phat. The journey takes around four hours, but it’s all part of the adventure. Here, dense jungle, rushing rivers and misty mountains replace the bustle of the city, and you’ll stay in a simple forest lodge surrounded by nature.
Over the next three days, you’ll explore this wild corner of Cambodia with a local guide. Trek through the rainforest, take a refreshing dip in the river and keep an eye out for wildlife, while learning more about the local community and life in the Cardamoms. Rise early one morning to watch the sunrise over the mountains, then enjoy the peace and quiet of this remote part of Cambodia before heading on.
Days 6-8 – Escape to castaway island
After your stay in rural Cambodia you’ll head onwards to Sihanoukville to catch the boat over to Koh Rong for some rest and relaxation. Today’s journey will take about 3 hours. Come over all Robinson Crusoe on this tiny pocket of tropical paradise marooned off the Cambodian coastline, with clear water, soft sand and swaying palms. You’ll spend 3 nights on Koh Rong, staying in a beach bungalow or beachside resort. It’s a brilliant break from reality – trek through the jungle-thick interior or simply collapse onto the sugar-soft sand. It’s utter barefoot bliss.
Days 9-11 – Amazing Angkor!
Today you’ll head back to the mainland and catch a flight from Sihanoukville to Siem Reap, the gateway to Cambodia’s famous Angkor temples. Over the next few days, you’ll explore the impressive ruins with a local guide, wandering among ancient temples, jungle-covered walls and some of the best-known sights in the complex. Along the way, you’ll hear the stories behind these remarkable places and have plenty of time to take it all in.
There’s more to Siem Reap than temples, too. Spend some time exploring the town at your own pace, browsing the markets, grabbing a drink in a local café or soaking up the lively atmosphere. It’s a great mix of ancient history, local life and time to explore without feeling rushed.
Day 12 – Life on the Tonle Sap
Step away from the temples and see a different side of Cambodia on the Tonle Sap, the country’s huge freshwater lake. You’ll travel out from Siem Reap by boat, passing floating villages and getting a glimpse of daily life on the water. It’s a fascinating way to see how local communities have adapted to living with the lake’s changing seasons and water levels.
You’ll spend time exploring the lake and its villages, meeting local people and taking in the peaceful surroundings. As the sun starts to set, watch the colours change across the water before heading back to Siem Reap. It’s a simple but memorable experience that gives you a glimpse into everyday Cambodian life away from the main tourist sights.
Days 13 & 14 - Return to Siem Reap & depart
After a tasty breakfast with your hosts, it’s time to say goodbye and head back to Siem Reap, taking with you a better understanding of life on the lake and the communities who call it home.
You’ll spend one final night in Siem Reap, with time for some last-minute souvenir shopping and, of course, one more bowl of fish amok. The next day, you’ll be transferred to the airport in time for your flight home.
Accommodation
For this itinerary we offer the following options
A Taste of Cambodia - In Style accommodation
For the locations included in this itinerary we have alternative options available in terms of comfort. Our In Style options can be more luxurious, offer something unique or offer a more comfortable transport option – all with that local flavour! If you would like to upgrade your itinerary select our In Style option below.