Journey through Cambodia

Discover the heart of Phnom Penh on a guided walking tour that weaves together sustainability, culture, and the city’s vibrant charm. Begin with a short transfer to the iconic Independence Monument. From there, wander along tree-lined boulevards and lively streets as your local guide reveals architectural highlights, from ornate Khmer temples and elegant colonial landmarks to Indochina-inspired facades.

Along the route, explore lush parks, bustling markets, and historic sites such as Wat Phnom, the Central Market, the old railway station, and the classic post office. Stroll the scenic riverside promenade, where street vendors, locals, and sweeping river views create a lively backdrop, before concluding at the Royal Palace Garden, a tranquil space that captures the spirit of the city.

In the evening, unwind on a scenic river cruise as the sun sets over Phnom Penh’s skyline. Glide along the Mekong and enjoy panoramic views of the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and Wat Ounalom. 

After breakfast, begin your morning with a guided visit to the magnificent Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda complex. Explore the beautifully designed palace buildings and see some of the 5,000 gleaming silver tiles that give the Silver Pagoda its name. Marvel at the exquisite gold and jewel-encrusted Buddha statues, treasured as national icons. Continue with a short walk to the nearby National Museum, an elegant sandstone building that houses the world’s largest collection of Khmer art.

For lunch, enjoy a meaningful dining experience at Lotus Blanc Training Restaurant, a social enterprise dedicated to providing vocational training and opportunities in hospitality for underprivileged youth.

In the afternoon, take a short drive to Choeung Ek, one of the infamous Killing Fields, where more than a million people lost their lives between 1975 and 1979. Today, this solemn site is a memorial marked by a Buddhist stupa filled with the remains of victims, serving as a poignant reminder of Cambodia’s history.

After the visit, return to your hotel to refresh and relax. 

This morning, fly from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel before heading to a nearby restaurant for lunch.

In the afternoon, meet one of Cambodia’s most acclaimed contemporary artists, Channy Chhoeun, and hear the remarkable story of his artistic journey. Travel by tuk-tuk to Wat Atvea, a village south of Siem Reap, where you’ll be warmly welcomed into Channy’s home studio and gallery. Discover his inspiring path from growing up in a remote jungle community to studying at the renowned Phare Ponleu Selpak art school.

Deeply passionate about wildlife and environmental conservation, Channy reflects these themes in his striking paintings. As you explore his works, enjoy tea and snacks while gaining personal insight into his creative process.

Begin your morning with an unforgettable tour of the Angkor Wat archaeological park. Explore the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument and the best-preserved temple in the complex. This monumental three-tiered structure, featured on Cambodia’s national flag, is renowned for its grandeur and exquisite bas-relief friezes that vividly depict epic tales.

Continue to the South Gate of Angkor Thom, flanked by imposing statues of gods and demons, before visiting Bayon Temple. Famed for its hundreds of serene, smiling stone faces, Bayon also showcases intricate bas-reliefs portraying daily Khmer life and historic battles with the ancient Thais.

Return to Siem Reap for lunch and a brief rest from the midday sun.

In the afternoon, visit APOPO, a nonprofit organization tackling the deadly legacy of landmines. Here, you’ll witness the remarkable work of trained “hero rats” that safely detect explosives, saving countless lives in rural Cambodia.

Your journey continues to the atmospheric Ta Prohm Temple, one of Cambodia’s most beloved sites. Left largely in its natural state, Ta Prohm is embraced by towering trees and jungle roots, creating a mystical and unforgettable scene.

Conclude the day with a buffet dinner accompanied by a traditional Apsara dance performance, a cultural highlight that brings ancient Khmer legends to life.

After breakfast, depart from your hotel for a day of discovery outside Siem Reap, about 35 km away. Begin with a scenic village walking tour, passing serene rice paddies, vibrant pagodas, vegetable gardens, and a traditional fish farm. Visit a local family who prepares kralan—Cambodia’s delicious bamboo sticky rice, and observe daily village activities such as blacksmithing, which supports farming life, along with traditional craft weaving.

For lunch, enjoy a freshly prepared meal by a women’s association, served in a picturesque lakeside setting surrounded by lush rice fields.

In the afternoon, continue to Wat Lorm Proleung, an ancient pagoda, where you’ll be greeted by local musicians performing the lively Chhai Yam dance. Experience a traditional monk blessing, a meaningful ritual designed to bring good fortune and lifelong memories.

Your journey concludes with a visit to Kampong Khleang, a remarkable stilted village on Tonle Sap Lake. Home to around 10,000 residents, the community depends largely on fishing. The lake’s tidal nature means the landscape transforms dramatically with the seasons, offering a unique perspective on each visit.