Meal: not included | Accommodation: in Phnom Penh

Upon arrival in Phnom Penh, you will be met and greeted by our driver and get a private transfer to your hotel for check-in.

With time permitting, in the late afternoon, you’ll embark on a traditional Khmer boat for a sunset cruise along the Mekong River. As the boat glides along the river, you begin to marvel at the stunning views that unfold before you. The setting sun casts a golden glow over the city, illuminating the majestic Royal Palace and the glittering spires of the pagodas that dot the skyline. The shimmering reflection of the city lights on the water adds a touch of magic to the scene.

Overnight in Phnom Penh.

Meal: breakfast, lunch | Accommodation: in Phnom Penh

Embark on an enriching full-day tour of Phnom Penh. Begin your journey at the majestic Royal Palace, a stunning complex adorned with gilded spires and intricate Khmer architecture. Admire the intricate architecture and explore the opulent Silver Pagoda, home to precious Buddha statues and dazzling silver tiles. We’ll also spend time at the National Museum, housing a remarkable collection of Khmer artifacts and ancient treasures.

After a delicious local lunch, delve into Cambodia's painful past at the haunting Tuol Sleng Prison (S-21) and the nearby Killing Fields at Choeung Ek. Reflect on the country's tragic history and pay tribute to the victims. Visit the sacred Wat Phnom pagoda for panoramic views over the city.

Overnight in Phnom Penh.

Meal: breakfast | Accommodation: in Siem Reap

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for the flight from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. On arrival in Siem Reap, be greeted and transferred to the hotel for check-in.

In the afternoon we will head to Tonle Sap and visit one of its floating communities - the Chong Kneas Village. Upon reaching the boat dock, you'll board a traditional long-tail boat, which is a common mode of transportation in the area. These boats are equipped to navigate through the intricate waterways and provide an authentic experience.  We explore the village built on stilts and rafts, witnessing the daily lives of the locals engaged in fishing and aquaculture. Discover floating houses, markets, and even a basketball court. Sail through the beautiful mangrove forests and learn about their ecological importance. Afterward, we will return to Siem Reap by road.

In the evening we’ll enjoy the Phare circus show. This unique circus combines acrobatics, theater, music, and storytelling to create a captivating cultural experience. The talented performers, trained by Phare Ponleu Selpak, showcase traditional Cambodian arts with a modern twist. The show's high energy, spectacular acts, and engaging storytelling keep audiences enthralled. 

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Meal: breakfast | Accommodation: in Siem Reap

We begin our day by rising early to visit Ta Prohm, an abandoned temple overtaken by nature. As we explore its unique atmosphere, we witness the tree roots slowly engulfing the surviving stones, symbolizing the clash between human creations and the relentless forces of nature. Next, we continue to the impressive pyramid of Takeo, one of the tallest temples in Angkor. Though construction was never completed, speculation surrounds the reasons, ranging from a lightning strike during its building to the challenging task of carving durable sandstone. We also have the option to see the remnants of an ancient Angkorian bridge and visit the smaller temples of Chau Sey Devada and Thommanon.

In the afternoon, we travel through the traditional village of Preah Dak to the restored 12th-century temple of Banteay Samre. Noteworthy for its use of laterite in the roofed corridors due to limited sandstone availability, this temple showcases exceptional carvings above the inner doors. Continuing north, we reach Banteay Srei, an exquisite pink temple renowned as Angkor's ultimate art gallery. Its elaborate carvings, considered too fine for male craftsmanship, have captivated visitors for centuries. While its origins were thought to be from a later period, inscriptions suggest it was built in 967 by a Brahman, representing a pinnacle in Khmer sculpture.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Meal: breakfast | Accommodation: in Siem Reap

We rise at dawn to embark on our journey to the majestic Angkor Wat, the largest religious building in the world. This 12th-century temple, a symbol of Khmer pride and strength, captivates with its perfect blend of symbolism and symmetry. Exploring the intricate bas-reliefs that stretch for nearly a kilometer, we unravel the tales of Hindu mythology and the glories of the Khmer empire. Ascending to the upper levels of the sanctuary, we experience the steep final steps leading to the sacred heart of Angkor Wat, where spirituality and symmetry converge in an awe-inspiring manner.

In the afternoon, we venture into the immense walled city of Angkor Thom, an architectural masterpiece by King Jayavarman VII. With its staggering scale, the city leaves us in awe as we approach its gates. The causeway adorned with a captivating bridge depicting the Churning of the Ocean of Milk sets the stage for our exploration. We begin at the Terrace of the Leper King, originally thought to represent a leprous ruler but now believed to depict Yama, the god of death. Continuing along the Terrace of Elephants, once a grand viewing gallery, we reach the resplendent Baphuon temple, meticulously restored and open to visitors. Our ultimate highlight is the enchanting Bayon temple, located at the center of Angkor Thom. Its iconic 54 towers, crowned with the serene faces of Avalokiteshvara, exude both power and compassion. We unravel the mysteries of the bas-reliefs, portraying ancient battles and snapshots of everyday life during the Angkor period, before embarking on a climb upward.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Meal: breakfast | Accommodation: not included

Enjoy your time at leisure until our driver arrives to transfer to the airport for your onward departure flight.

If you're seeking a delightful beach break from Siem Reap, there are several enticing options available within a reasonable distance. One option is to head to Sihanoukville, a popular coastal town located about 230 kilometers southwest of Siem Reap. Sihanoukville offers a range of beautiful beaches, such as Ochheuteal Beach, Sokha Beach, and Independence Beach, where you can relax on the golden sands, swim in the turquoise waters, and indulge in various water sports. Another alternative is Koh Rong, a stunning island situated off the coast of Sihanoukville. Known for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life, Koh Rong is a paradise for beach lovers and snorkeling enthusiasts. If you're looking for a more tranquil escape, consider visiting Kep, a charming seaside town famous for its fresh seafood and picturesque sunsets. Kep Beach is an idyllic spot to unwind and enjoy the serene surroundings. Please contact our Handspan Travel Consultant for better planning.