Temples of Angkor Wat and Beaches Tour

For decades restricted, prohibited to all but the most brave and courageous backpackers. Today thanks to the stunning temples of Angkor, Cambodia is now firmly established on the tourist map of Southeast Asia. A little less touristy then it’s neighbour Thailand. Cambodia has many hidden gems besides the temples. Cambodia has more rustic travel experience one you might have received fifteen years ago in Thailand. Every year that goes by this country because more and more popular for good reason. The southern beaches and islands are incredible with warm waters and pristine beaches. These islands with their popularity still have the Robinson Crusoe feel though.

There are two distinct seasons in Cambodia. The hot dry season and the hot wet monsoon season. Both you’ll find are extremely hot if you’re from North America or Europe. For how poor a country Cambodia is it is relatively safe traveling but like most places you still have to have your wits about you and make smart decisions when out and about especially at night. Another thing to keep in mind because of the infrastructure getting around takes a lot of patience. Don’t expect anything to leave on time. Buses only leave when they are full. Expect a bumpy ride on the way with lots of stops, distractions, live animals and many things to buy including deep fried spiders.

If you’re looking for off the beaten path destinations and places then look no further then most parts of this country besides your main tourist attractions of Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville and surrounding islands. Battambang between Siem Reap and the capital is a very laid back, sleepy feel type of place that you could spend days exploring. It has temples just like Angkor without all the tourists. The people are very friendly and kind. You’ll find yourself chillin out at a restaurant on the riverfront and be in total relaxation mode. Kratie is another quaint town with the opportunity to see the Irrawady dolphins. For those that really want to get adventurous we encourage and will be offering trips to both Mondulkiri and Rattakanari which are excellent destinations worth exploring. Mondulkiri is known for its elephant trekking, waterfalls and trekking potential. While Rattakanari is known for its remote crater lake, national park, trekking, and boat trips. Both these destinations are worth the effort to get to as you will now be off the beaten path and fully immersed in your own adventure.

Traveling in Cambodia can be a truly amazing experience, but it can also be very thought provoking. Behind the pristine landscapes and friendly citizens, the country still remains a spot where the political landscape is often volatile. Poverty is still an issue facing the country, and the war wounds brought to the region by the Khmer Rouge are still fresh in people’s minds. The temples of Angkor are symbolic of the country to most people, but they’re just the tip of the iceberg. Beyond that area waits a country that is slowly opening up to the world – white-sand beaches and relaxed off-shore islands in the south, forest and tree-lined hills and impenetrable jungle in the northeast, a dynamic chic capital Phnom Penh and sleepy shanty towns scattered throughout.

Check out this great video by National Geographic on Angkor Wat and it’s history.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Siem Reap
Fly to Siem Reap, CAMBODIA

Day 2: Siem Reap                                                                                                    
Ride from Siem Reap to Angkor Wat (Cycling distance 28-38 km), following the countryside trails first and then the paved roads of the small circuit. Explore Angkor Wat, the largest and most breathtaking monument at Angkor.

Day 3: Siem Reap                                                                                              
This morning, rise early for sunrise at Angkor Wat (optional, but we highly recommend it). You can position yourself for an incredible picture as the sun rises directly over Angkor Wat’s central spire. Enjoy an excursion to Mechrey Village on Tonle Sap Lake. Tonle Sap, meaning “Great Lake” is in fact a combined lake and river system. Learn about how its flow changes direction twice a year, depending on the season. It has been declared a UNESCO biosphere, recognizing its great importance to the surrounding eco-system. This evening enjoy a delicious dinner with a traditional Cambodia cultural dance performance.

Day 4: Siem Reap                                                                                              
This morning go for one and a half hours through the local market and learn about Cambodian vegetables, herbs, spices and other ingredients, before returning to the school where you will learn new skills and tantalize your taste buds. Learn how to prepare five authentic, delicious Khmer dishes during two hours of close tutelage by professional English – speaking culinary instructors. Following the lesson, enjoy the meal you have prepared in the training restaurant Le Jardin des Délices.

This afternoon we enjoy half day volunteer at ACODO. Volunteering is a two way process and each volunteer leaves us richer for the experience. Our children learn to trust others and have confidence in themselves. As we have only been operating since 2008 volunteering at ACODO means you can quickly make a meaningful difference and reach out to our desperately poor children.

Day 5: Battambang
Travel by private boat to Battambang across the Tonle Sap Lake to Chhong Khneas floating village and along the Sangker River: Enjoy unspoiled landscapes and traditional daily-life scenes.

Day 6: Battambang / Phnom Penh
Take the time to explore Phare Ponleu Selpak, this amazing place is home to around 30 young orphans and human trafficking victims. It is also responsible for schooling over 1000 pupils, of which approximately 400 study a combination of music, drama, visual arts, circus, dance, or vocational training. Enjoy Battambang’s very unique mode of local transportation as you go for an entertaining ride on what is known as the Bamboo Train, it takes you through the stunning rural countryside.

Day 7: Phnom Penh
After breakfast, you’ll head out with your guide and spend the morning visiting the Royal Palace built all the way back in 1866 by King Norodom. Visit the Silver Pagoda, given this name because of its unique floor that is comprised of 5,000 silver tiles. This afternoon, visit S21 Prison then make the ominous drive to the killing fields located at Choeung Ek (approximately 16 kilometers south of Phnom Penh). In the time between 1975 and 1978 almost 17,000 people were prisoned and suffered tortur before being sentenced to death at this extermination camp.

Day 8: Phnom Penh – Sihanoukville
Sihanoukville, Cambodia’s major beach resort. There are 4 main beaches to explore around here and some fantastic trips to islands just off shore. There is also fantastic seafood to be had. In season, diving is also possible. On arrival check into your beachside accommodations and enjoy the remainder of the day and evening at leisure.

Day 9: Sihanoukville
Go on a full day boat adventure to the stunning islands a short distance off the shore of the area’s beautiful beaches. Relax and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze while exploring these amazing islands that are home to stretches of coral as well as untouched and spectacular white sandy beaches. Have a tasty seafood barbeque while relaxing on the beach for lunch. Enjoy your time by snorkeling or perhaps going a little further and putting on some scuba gear, or just take your time and swim in the crystal, warm water.

Day 10: Sihanoukville – Kep
This morning drive to Kampot, situated on the south bank of the Teuk Chhou River, Kampot is one of the most charming places to visit in Cambodia. It was once a bustling trading port, populated mostly by Chinese merchants, the relatives of whom still live there today. In town, there are colonial shop houses whose architecture is characteristic of the 1900s. Visit the colorful and lively market where many bargains are to be found. Discover the French colonial and post colonial Kampot, Chinese way of life, architecture and institutions. Continue to Kep.

Day 11: Kep
This morning enjoy a half-day boat trip to Rabbit Island (Koh Tunsay) and discover the beautiful and pristine scenery. Enjoy beautiful nature, white sand beaches and excellent swimming conditions. Unwind yourself at the beach.

Day 12: Kep to Phnom Penh to Siem Reap
After a leisurely morning, we’ll drive from Kep to Phnom Penh 3hours and transfer you and the rest of our group to Phnom Penh Airport to meet up with our departure flight to Siem Reap.

Day 13: Depart Siem Reap
Today free at leisure or volunteer for full day until your guide and driver transfer you to the Siem Reap Airport in time for your international flight. We wish you a safe and pleasant journey.