Day 1: Arrive Siem Reap (D)
Arrive in Siem Reap and transfer to your hotel. Siem Reap is the base for exploring the fabled temples of Angkor, the ancient capital of the Khmer Empire. Start with a visit to the Roluos Group including Preak Ko, Ba Kong and Lo Lei. In the afternoon, depart by Tuk Tuk to visit the magnificent 12th century Angkor Wat. The day ends with a spectacular sunset at Phnom Bakheng.
Day 2: Siem Reap (B, L)
Today there is an early start to catch the sunrise (optional) before returning to the hotel for breakfast. Then depart to visit Angkor Thom's famous South Gate where you will take an elephant ride to Bayon Temple which depicts intricate scenes of traditional Cambodian life. From the Bayon continue on foot to the Baphuon, recently re-opened to the public, where you will pass by the wooden Royal Palace. Then continue to the Terrace of the Elephants where a parade used to be held for the king. In the afternoon continue to Srah Srang, Banteay Kdei, Chau Say Tevoda, Tommanon and the fabulous Ta Prohm Temple, embraced by the roots of enormous fig trees and gigantic creepers.
Day 3: Siem Reap (B, L)
After breakfast, drive to Banteay Srei, Kbal Spean (River of 1,000 Lingas) and Banteay Samre. These temples are amongst the most intricate in all of Cambodia. In the afternoon, continue to Pre Rup, East Mebon, Neak Poan and Preah Khan.
Day 4: Siem Reap - Phnom Penh (B)
After breakfast, and depending on departure flight, visit the Siem Reap market and/or the workshops of Artisans d'Angkor (wood and stone carving) and/or the Landmine Museum of Mr Aki Ra. Then transfer to Phnom Penh by car/van/bus. Check in hotel. Over night in Phnom Penh.
Day 5: Phnom Penh (B, L)
After breakfast, start the morning with a cycle ride to the Silver Pagoda, the Royal Palace and the National Museum. Later in the day you will depart by car to visit Wat Phnom followed by Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, the Russian Market and the infamous Choeung Ek 'Killing Fields'.
Day 6: Phnom Penh - Countryside (B, L)
After breakfast you will have a vehicle and guide at your disposal to partake in any of the options below: Rice planting and harvesting in surrounding rice fields A visit to the silver workshops at Kompong Luong Village Trekking through the nearby forest A visit to a local village A holy water shower from a local monk Having your fortune told A sunset boat cruise on the Mekong river.
Note: Some activities mentioned above depend upon the season.
Day 7: Phnom Penh - Sihanoukville (B)
After breakfast transfer to Cambodia's most famous beach resort, Sihanoukville. Arrive in around midday and transfer to the hotel where you can enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Day 8: Sihanoukville (B)
Today, enjoy more time at leisure with the vehicle and guide also available. There is an optional visit and boat ride to Ream National Park (not included). Over night in Sihanoukville.
Day 9: Sihanoukville - Phnom Penh (B)
As yesterday, you will be able to swim and relax at the resort with a vehicle on standby before the afternoon transfer back to Phnom Penh.
Day 10: Phnom Penh (B)
After breakfast you will be free to explore Phnom Penh at your own leisure before the transfer to Phnom Penh Airport for departure flight.
Note: This tour can also start in Phnom Penh. Vietnam Bamboo Travel can arrange additional customized trips for you if the above itinerary does not match your expectations.
