Cambodia Explorer

Cambodia Explorer

165 Views
14 Days From

$4718

Cambodia Explorer

14 Days Starting in PHNOM PENH and ending in SIEM REAP

Visiting: Phnom Penh, Krong Saen Monourom, Krong Kracheh, Preah Vihear Province, Krong Battambang, Srah Chak, Banteay Chhmar, Krong Siem Reap

Tour operator:

Wild Frontiers

Tour code:

CAM

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

4 - 12

Physical rating:

Low, Low / Moderate

Age range:

1-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Please contact Wild Frontiers with any specific dietary requirements

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

Private Available:

Request A Private Tour

From: $4718

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

While Cambodia may be most famous for the Angkor Temples at Siem Reap, there is lots more to explore in this endlessly fascinating country. This comprehensive tour starts in Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s riverside capital and travels lesser known routes out to the jungles of Mondulkiri to spend time at an elephant rescue project, and then on to Kratie on the mighty Mekong River to see the rare Irrawaddy dolphins.



During the trip we’ll take in remote Preah Vihear, off limits for years and easily the most dramatically located temple in Cambodia. And we also visit colonial Battambang, and the ruins of Angkor Wat (of course). There will be a number of walking opportunities and lots of chances to interact with the wonderful people of Cambodia, all of whom will have their own unique story to tell about life under the Khmer Rouge.



This trip offers the best opportunity to get under the skin of this amazing country and see a wide variety of its landscapes, wildlife and ancient monuments, as well as experience daily life and one of Asia’s most exotic cuisines.

Highlights

  • Escape the crowds and discover the ancient myths and legends of Angkor’s more remote jungle temples

  • Navigate paddy fields and palm trees as you explore local villages and visit a coffee plantation

  • Cycle along the banks of the Mekong river and go in search of the illusive Irrawaddy dolphins

  • Delve into the art and soul of Cambodia as you get off the beaten track and visit Battambang

  • Experience conservation at its best as you spend time with the elephants and mahouts of Sen Monorom

  • Enjoy waterfall picnics in the lush forest of Kulen Mountain and discover the floating villages of the Tonle Sap lake

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Tour Begins In Phnom Penh

Location: Phnom Penh

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Palace Gate Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Dinner

After meeting at our hotel in Phnom Penh this evening, we will have time to enjoy dinner at a traditional Cambodian restaurant in this wonderful riverside destination.

Day 2: In Phnom Penh

Location: Phnom Penh

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Palace Gate Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After being destroyed by the Khmer Rouge in the 1970s, Cambodia’s capital city is now a thriving epicentre. Sitting on the banks of the Tonle Sap and Mekong rivers with wonderful crumbling colonial architecture, it’s a city spinning into the future. We hit the ground running this morning, exploring the highlights of this truly fascinating city, including the National Museum and the Royal Palace. After lunch, head to the Tuol Sleng Prison Museum where our guide will explain the history of the Khmer Rouge and walk us through the different museum displays. We then continue on to the Choeung Ek Memorial, the site of one of the country’s many killing fields. This sobering visit offers an important insight into Cambodia’s tragic and very recent history. After returning to the hotel to freshen up we will then head out for dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 3: Phnom Penh - Sen Monorom

Location: Krong Saen Monourom, Phnom Penh

Accommodation: Resort

Accommodation Name: Mayura Hill Resort or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast we depart Phnom Penh and travel northeast, pausing at Skuon, affectionately known as 'Spiderville', where it is possible to sample the local delicacy of deep-fried tarantula! We will have lunch beside the Mekong River in the bustling provincial city of Kompong Cham, where we will also visit the interesting Hindu/Buddhist temple of Wat Nokor. After lunch we continue east towards the small junction town of Snuol, our gateway to the wilds of Mondulkiri Province. The first half of the journey from Snuol is flat, passing through patches of lush forest and areas of cultivation and plantations. After Khau Si Ma district, the road begins to snake up through the mountains that give Mondulkiri its name of 'where the mountains meet'. Nearing Sen Monorom, the provincial capital, the scenery changes again, jungle giving way to clusters of pine trees and rolling grasslands. The scenery is unique for Cambodia and dotted with traditional Bunong villages, the main minority group in Mondulkiri.

Day 4: Around Sen Monorom

Location: Krong Saen Monourom

Accommodation: Resort

Accommodation Name: Mayura Hill Resort or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we experience responsible tourism at its best as we spend the day at the Elephant Valley Project which, with the support of the local Bunong villagers, rescues and treats domestic elephants who have suffered injury and abuse. To enjoy a unique 'Walking with the Herd for a day' experience, we will be introduced to the herd of elephants and get to know more about their history, character, behaviour, body language while walking alongside them in their natural environment.

Day 5: Sen Monorom - Kratie

Location: Krong Kracheh, Krong Saen Monourom

Accommodation: Resort

Accommodation Name: Soriyabori Resort or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we start the day with a visit to Bousra Waterfall. Mondulkiri's rolling green scenery marks it out as a special destination within Cambodia and the Bousra Waterfall is a hidden gem amongst the greenery. Set in Bousra Eco Park, a beautiful protected forest that is home to diverse wildlife, the waterfall has dramatic upper and lower sections with spectacular views. Take a dip in the fresh cold water or simply enjoy the view! There are also market vendors selling local products, food and drinks. After taking in the scenery and Bousra Waterfall, we will continue on to a local village and coffee plantation where we can learn more about the local industries and communities in this area. After lunch we drive on to Kratie, a journey that will take around 3 hours.

Day 6: Kratie

Location: Krong Kracheh

Accommodation: Resort

Accommodation Name: Soriyabori Resort or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We set off by bicycle this morning as we explore local villages which dot the banks of the Mekong River. Enjoying the beautiful scenery and meeting friendly villagers, we can learn a little about the islanders lives - and maybe sample some of their famous pomelos, before finishing the morning with lunch at a local house. Later today we will travel out of town to Kampi, where the rare Irrawaddy dolphins gather to feed in the deep Mekong pools in this part of the river. We board a local boat and cruise out into the mighty Mekong for a chance encounter with these gentle creatures. On our way back this evening we can enjoy sunset over the Mekong.

Day 7: Kratie - Preah Vihear

Location: Krong Kracheh, Preah Vihear Province

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Preah Vihear Boutique Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we travel north towards Stung Treng, where we stop for a short walk around the colourful vegetable market. We then continue towards Preah Vihear, home to the famed ruins. On arrival at the base of this sacred mountain, we change into 4WD vehicles to take a final steep ascent up the mountain to the second enclosure of this incredibly impressive temple. Exploring the temple on foot we continue to the final level, which clings to a cliff face in the Dangrek Mountains, towering hundreds of metres above lowland Cambodia. The view from this temple is simply breath-taking, with the foundation stones stretching to the edge of the cliff as it plunges precipitously away to the plains of Preah Vihear province below. In the late afternoon we check into our boutique hotel.

Day 8: Srah Emm – Banteay Chhmar - Battambang

Location: Krong Battambang, Srah Chak, Banteay Chhmar

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Bambu Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast we head west towards Samrong, deeper into Oudor Meanchey province and our destination, the incredible jungle temple of Banteay Chhmar. We’ll travel through some beautiful stretches of Cambodian countryside to arrive at the main temple, famous for its signature faces of Jayavarman VII, and take the opportunity to explore the site. Amongst other things we see the magnificent carvings of Lokesvara with 32 arms, nicknamed lok sam-pee (Mr 32) by Khmers, as well as the beautiful Hall of Dancers. The outer complex has impressive gates and is protected by a moat and the jungle-clad towers of Yeay Chy and Samnang Tasok. There’ll be plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere of this enchanting place, after which we’ll then enjoy lunch with a local family. This afternoon we drive the scenic route on to Battambang, where we spend the next two nights.

Day 9: Around Battambang

Location: Krong Battambang

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Bambu Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Heading out into the countryside today we learn more about life in one of the local villages with a days cycling. Here we can learn about local industries, such as the methods of making jars, rice paper, and spring rolls, and visit one of the markets where we can try some local delicacies. Stopping at Wat Ek Phnom, a dilapidated 11th Century temple that some say was the example for Angkor Wat, we can then enjoy a well-earned lunch at a family home. In the afternoon, we journey upwards to Phnom Sampeau Mountain to visit the somber killing fields and mountaintop temple which offers spectacular views stretching across miles and miles of rice paddies. Around 5:30pm we will move onto the Bat Caves and perch ourselves at the ready for the spectacular sunset display of hundreds of bats flying away from the cave. After sunset we return to town for the evening.

Day 10: Battambang - Siem Reap

Location: Krong Battambang, Krong Siem Reap

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: The Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we set off on our last leg of the journey as we drive to Siem Reap, a journey which takes around 3 hours. Having settled into our hotel and enjoying some lunch, this afternoon we will begin our exploration of Siem Reap as we really go behind the scenes of this fascinating and growing city. Beyond the typical tourist trail lies a fiery town full of inspiring people, doing unique work with the goal of giving back to Cambodia. This tour gives us an insider’s look into the network of social enterprises and non-profits in Siem Reap who are slowly but surely bringing new light and new skills into the bustling and ever-expanding tourist town. We'll have the chance to learn, get hands-on and pick up a few take-home gifts along the tour, all whilst knowing in our own way we are giving back to the community as a responsible traveller. This evening you experience a very special dinner, we head to the Apsara Theatre where a delicate Khmer dinner is followed by a show of traditional Apsara dances.

Day 11: Around Siem Reap

Location: Krong Siem Reap

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: The Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Waking up early this morning we head to the magnificent Angkor Wat for sunrise after which we can enjoy a morning tour of the temple before the worst of the crowds arrive. Mid-morning we return to the hotel for breakfast and some free time. In the early afternoon we return to the temple complex, this time visiting Angkor Thom, the famous walled city and home to the fascinating Bayon temple with its many magnificent faces smiling out. We also pay a visit to Ta Prohm and Banteay Kdei, two of the more unique temples in the complex. There are several beautiful spots from which to watch the sunset, which we can decide on the day. Discuss with your guide where you would like to be and then relax and enjoy a memorable end to your day at the temples. Return to our hotel we will then have the evening free to explore at leisure.

Day 12: Around Siem Reap

Location: Krong Siem Reap

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: The Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Setting out once again to the temples, we spend the morning exploring this magical area by bicycle, Following hidden routes and pathways, we will access the lesser-known temples and venture through the jungle and along the ancient wall of Angkor Thom. After a delicious lunch overlooking the royal bathing pool of Sra Srang, we return to our hotel for some free time to explore or relax. This evening we will be treated to a unique performance by the Cambodian Circus, also known as the hugely talented Phare Ponleu Selpak from our VIP seats. Literally translated as ‘’the brightness of the arts’’, this Artistic and Social Center has been running as a non-profit association since 1994, and was founded by a group of young ex-refugees from Battambang Province. Sitting in the centre of the big top tent, we will witness some remarkable acrobatics and visual arts while supporting one of Cambodia’s most inspiring projects.

*see the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below for more information on cycling in Cambodia

Day 13: Around Siem Reap

Location: Krong Siem Reap

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: The Lynnaya Urban River Resort & Spa or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we drive for about an hour to a local village and visit a market. Following this we head to the Bakong temple and receive a buddist blessing from the local monks. After lunch we board a boat for a 40-minute ride to one of the lake villages on the vast Tonle Sap Lake. The homes are built on stilts here because this area floods in the rainy season. Venturing through waterways, flooded forests and out into the lake, we make our way back through the village experiencing how the locals live in this watery environment. On our final afternoon we head to the beautiful Kompheim village, located just outside Siem Reap. Here we can enjoy a short walk through a traditional village with one of the local guides, who will give us an introduction to the daily lives of the villagers. We will be transferred back to our hotel ready for our final meal all together in Siem Reap later this evening.

Day 14: Tour Ends In Siem Reap

Location: Krong Siem Reap

Meals Included: Breakfast

The tour ends today after breakfast at our hotel.

What's Included

  • MEALS

    13 x Breakfasts11 x Lunches11 x Dinners

  • TRANSPORT

    On this tour we will use minibuses, boats, bicycle and foot.

  • GROUP SIZE

    Maximum: 12

  • CARBON CONTRIBUTIONS

    Contributions to climate and community projects for all bookings

  • EXPERT TEAM

    The full services of a Wild Frontiers Tour Leader with local guides where appropriate

  • ACCOMMODATION

    2 nights x Premium
    11 nights x Superior

  • ENTRANCE FEES

    All entrance fees for sights mentioned in the itinerary

  • FITNESS RATING

    Low / Moderate

What's Not Included

  • We believe in a completely transparent approach to pricing with no hidden extras. As such, please note that the following are not included in the cost of the tour.Visas & Travel Insurance: Visas will always be tourationality dependent but travel insurance is mandatoryTips: Always optional but some guidance will be given in the pre-departure information documentsInternational .Flights: Please ask us for an obligation-free quote for flights which originate in the UKAirport .Transfers: We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights.Beverages & any costs of a personal nature: This will include items such as laundry and souvenirs

  • ExcludedItem

    We believe in a completely transparent approach to pricing with no hidden extras.

    As such, please note that the following are not included in the cost of the tour.



    Visas & Travel Insurance: Visas will always be tour
    ationality dependent but travel insurance is mandatory
    Tips: Always optional but some guidance will be given in the pre-departure information documents
    International Flights: Please ask us for an obligation-free quote for flights which originate in the UK
    Airport Transfers: We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights
    Beverages & any costs of a personal nature: This will include items such as laundry and souvenirs

Visas

Visas are necessary for many of the destinations we travel to and while we aim to provide you with the most up-to-date information, requirements frequently change and as such for the latest advice we advise that you check with the relevant embassies or contact our recommended visa agency, Travcour www.travcour.com 

For this tour UK passport holders currently require a visa for Cambodia.

Non-UK passport holders or non-UK residents should contact the relevant embassies for individual requirements.

Further details will be sent out to you on booking, however ensuring that correct and valid visas are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client.

Key Aspects to Consider

Anyone in a reasonable state of health, with an open mind and a sense of adventure should be perfectly able to cope with this tour, as many of the activities are optional. However, please note that on the morning of Day 6 of this tour there is a cycle ride included on mud tracks around villages and farms, however you can opt out of this activity if you wish.

Responsible Travel

With local people, culture and eco-systems in mind, responsible travel and sustainable tourism are at the core of Wild Frontiers. We believe that a successful trip not only delivers a unique and unsurpassable journey for our travellers but also benefits the people and places we visit.

When designing our tours, we actively seek out experiences that have a positive impact on the communities and precious environments we visit - from supporting social enterprises; resting our heads in rural homestays; and eating at locally owned restaurants; to helping fund conservation projects that protect wildlife and their habitats. 

Visit the Responsible Travel area of our website to read more, including the work of the Wild Frontiers Foundation through which we fundraise to aid community empowerment and education projects.

Travelling Solo

As a company approximately 70% of our clients are solo travellers, so it’s very unlikely you’ll be alone!




Our prices are typically based on twin-share accommodation, but single supplements are not compulsory for any Wild Frontiers tour. If you prefer not to pay a single supplement, we’ll pair you with someone else of the same sex for you to share with throughout the trip.



On this trip, if you do opt to pay for a single supplement then please note that it will cover you for all nights of the tour.




Please note that paying a single supplement entitles you to lone occupancy of a single room. In many cases these rooms will be of the same size as a double/twin room, but in some cases they may be smaller.

 

Insurance

Insurance that provides cover for emergency repatriation in case of a medical emergency is compulsory for all tours. You should be aware that due to some of the geographical areas visited and some of the activities included on certain of our trips some standard insurance policies may not always provide adequate cover. As such we strongly recommend that you purchase a policy that adequately covers your trip. Please see the Insurance section for more details.

Check out our Q&As

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes

  • Are airport transfers included in this tour?

    We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights

  • Do you require a visa for this holiday?

    For this tour UK passport holders currently require a visa for Cambodia.

    Non-UK passport holders or non-UK residents should contact the relevant embassies for individual requirements.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    12

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    We have a complete Covid-19 hub here: https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/en_GB/covid-hub

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 70% of passengers on our group tours are solo adventurers. Unlike many tour operators, we don’t believe in charging solo travellers a premium, so if you are happy to share a room with a fellow traveller of the same sex, you will pay exactly the same as a couple..Occasionally you may even end up with your own room. You can travel as a single traveller on any of our holidays, from our escorte

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 2002

  • Do I need to be double-vaccinated against Covid-19 to travel with you?

    In most cases, yes. Not only are many destinations making double-vaccination a requirement of entry to the country and/or access to restaurants, museums etc., but additionally on all our group tours for the foreseeable future, for everyone’s peace of mind, we are asking that all clients be double vaccinated.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Rob Walker  

Rob Walker

A truly memorable trip that showed us many aspects of fascinating Cambodia, visiting its wonderful historical sites as well as providing an understanding of its terrifying recent past.

Want a private tour?

  • Personalise your trip

    Make changes to the itinerary, accommodation, or transport method

  • Travel more exclusively

    Your tour guide can focus all their attention on your group

  • Travel for a special occasion

    Celebrate an important event by only travelling with your friends or family

1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Saturday

Nov 23, 2025 - Dec 06, 2025
$4718

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Wild Frontiers requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

Similar Tours