- 4.9/5 396 Latest reviews
- Destination: Cambodia
- Duration: 10 Days
- Tour Type: Private & Bespoke
- Tour Style: Cruise
About This Trip
Discover the key attractions of Siem Reap and Phnom Penh while enjoying a memorable 4-day cruise along the Tonle Sap Lake and the Mekong River. On guided city tours, explore the legendary Angkor Wat, admire the iconic smiling faces of the Bayon Temple in Angkor Thom, and gain insight into everyday local life with a visit to Phnom Penh’s Central Market. During the cruise on Tonle Sap Lake and the Mekong River, observe traditional floating villages and meet local artisans, learning firsthand about their skills and craftsmanship.
Summary
DAY
PLACE
HIGHLIGHTS
1 - 3
Siem Reap
Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm, Banteay Srei, Temple Takeo, Angkor Thom Sunset Cruise
4 - 7
Tonle Sap Lake, Mekong River
Tonle Sap Lake Cruise: Floating Villages, Bird Sanctuary
Mekong River Cruise: Dyeing and Weaving of Krama
8 - 10
Phnom Penh
Central Market, Traditional Cambodian Dance, Royal Palace, National Museum, Wat Phnom
Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Siem Reap
Sua s’dei! Welcome to Siem Reap, the gateway to the magnificent Angkor temples. Upon landing, your tour guide will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel by private vehicle. The remainder of the day is yours to unwind or explore the city at your own pace.
- Siem Reap
- Day 2: Exploring Angkor Wat and Surrounding Temples
No visit to Siem Reap is complete without discovering the Angkor temples. Rise early, if you wish, to experience the spectacular sunrise over the famous towers of Angkor Wat. After breakfast at your hotel, return to Cambodia’s most celebrated temple complex for a deeper exploration of its impressive architecture and intricate bas-reliefs. Continue your journey through the UNESCO-listed Angkor Archaeological Park with visits to other remarkable temples, including Ta Prohm, Ta Keo, and Banteay Srei.
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- Siem Reap
- Day 3: Angkor Thom Exploration & Sunset Cruise
After an unforgettable journey into history yesterday, today promises equally inspiring discoveries. Explore the ancient royal city of Angkor Thom, where you will be amazed by the Bayon Temple’s 216 enormous smiling faces, admire historic landmarks such as the Elephant Terrace, and uncover lesser-known ruins hidden among the forest. Enjoy some free time to rest before ending the day with a relaxing sunset cruise around Angkor Thom.
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- Siem Reap
- Day 4: Siem Reap to Tonle Sap Lake Cruise
After checking out this morning, depart Siem Reap and begin a four-night cruise along the scenic waterways of Tonle Sap Lake and the Mekong River, traveling toward Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh. The next few days are yours to fully relax and enjoy the cruise experience at your own pace.
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- Tonle Sap Lake
- Day 5: Exploring Tonle Sap Lake by Cruise
Today’s activities feature a scenic boat excursion on Tonle Sap Lake, recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1997. Visit the Prek Toal bird sanctuary to observe impressive waterbirds such as spot-billed pelicans, milky storks, and black-headed ibises. Continue cruising to the floating village of Moat Khla, where you will take part in a traditional Buddhist blessing ceremony.
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- Tonle Sap Lake
- Day 6: Tonle Sap Lake Village Encounters
Today’s journey takes you to some of the more remote communities around Tonle Sap Lake, offering meaningful opportunities to connect with local residents. Begin with a boat visit to Chhnok Tru village, where homes, monasteries, and even fuel stations float on the water, and discover its fascinating ice factory. After lunch on board, continue to Kampong Chhnang, a riverside town renowned for traditional crafts. Here, meet local potters and palm sugar makers and observe time-honored techniques that have been passed down since the 6th century.
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- Tonle Sap Lake
- Day 7: Tonle Sap & Mekong River Cultural Cruise
This morning, take a small skiff to visit Koh Chen, a silversmith village along the Tonle Sap River, where you will witness skilled artisans crafting exquisite Khmer silverware once favored by royalty. In the afternoon, cruise onward to Koh Oknha Tey, known as “Silk Island,” located on the Mekong River. Here, local craftsmen demonstrate the traditional dyeing and weaving of krama silk scarves cherished by Cambodians. If you wish, enjoy a bicycle ride to further explore the island and its surroundings.
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- Tonle Sap Lake
- Day 8: Phnom Penh City Exploration
This morning, as your cruise docks in Phnom Penh, set out on a guided city tour of Cambodia’s capital by motorized tuk-tuk. Begin with visits to the impressive Royal Palace and the revered Silver Pagoda, followed by the nearby National Museum of Cambodia, home to the world’s finest collection of classical Khmer art. Optional stops include the poignant Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) or the lively Russian Market for local handicrafts and souvenirs. After disembarking, transfer to your hotel for check-in, with the remainder of the day free to unwind.
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- Phnom Penh
- Day 9: Phnom Penh Traditions & Cultural Performance
On your final full day in Cambodia, enjoy a relaxed morning before visiting Wat Phnom, a Buddhist temple perched atop a 27-meter-high man-made hill. Walk up to the summit for city views and join local worshippers as they pray for fortune and well-being. Afterwards, take a leisurely walk through the bustling Central Market, known for its wide range of goods and lively atmosphere, offering a close look at everyday local life. Conclude the day with an enchanting evening of traditional Cambodian dance performed by the Cambodian Living Arts organization.
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- Phnom Penh
- Day 10: Departure from Phnom Penh
Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel as your Cambodia journey comes to an end. Afterwards, transfer to the airport for your onward flight home.
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