A fascinating and welcoming country of considerable variety and diversity, Cambodia wows visitors with its wonderful blend of culture, history and varying, beautiful scenery.
Often twinned with neighbouring Vietnam, Thailand or Laos, there is more than enough reason as to why Cambodia is a standalone destination. This 11-day holiday is the perfect introductory tour to Cambodia, making it a great option for first time visitors to the region. Combine temple hopping in Angkor Archaeological Park near Siem Reap, relaxing on the tiny tropical island of Koh Rong and exploring the historic sites of capital Phnom Penh and its surrounding area.
Siem Reap – Koh Rong – Phnom Penh
Trip Highlights
- Marvel at Angkor Wat, one of the world’s most spectacular religious monuments
- Snorkel in pristine seas and relax on the soft sand beaches of tropical Koh Rong island
- In Phnom Penh visit the National Museum, Royal Palace complex, Wat Phnom and Toul Sleng Museum
- Visit vine-covered Ta Prohm, arguably the most atmospheric of the Angkor temples
- Board a local boat and cruise Tonle Sap Lake to see colourful stilted ‘floating’ villages
Itinerary
Day 1
Depart the UK
Depart the UK on the Singapore Airlines flight to Singapore.
Day 2
Singapore to Siem Reap – by air
Arrive into Singapore and connect onto a flight to Siem Reap where you will stay for the next three nights. Siem Reap is the gateway to the temples of Angkor – some of the most spectacular religious monuments ever built. Capital of the ancient Khmer Empire, Angkor was abandoned in 1431 and reclaimed by the thick Cambodian jungle only to be rediscovered 400 years later by French naturalist Henri Mouhot.
Sala Lodges
Shinta Mani Angkor
FCC Angkor by Avani
Raffles Grand d’Angkor
Zannier Phum Baitang
Day 3
Siem Reap
This morning head to the Angkor Archaeological Park to visit Angkor Wat, arguably the most spectacular and revered religious monuments ever built. With your guide explore the extraordinary architecture and classical Khmer sculptures and relics that adorn the temple. After visit Satcha, a centre that gives local artists the opportunity to showcase their crafts and skills. After walking through the serene garden, watch the artists at work as they carve wood, weave baskets and paint. Enjoy lunch at a traditional Cambodian restaurant before heading to Tonle Sap Lake, one of Southeast Asia’s largest lakes. Board a local boat and take a cruise to see the colourful floating villages – the houses will either have immediate access to the water or stand perched on stilts high above the ground, a phenomenon caused by the annual rising and receding waters of Tonle Sap.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch
Sala Lodges
Shinta Mani Angkor
FCC Angkor by Avani
Raffles Grand d’Angkor
Zannier Phum Baitang
Day 4
Siem Reap
After breakfast set off on a temple adventure. Travel by remork (Cambodian tuktuk) to Ta Prohm, a more remote temple which is the perfect example of how nature has crept in and reclaimed its land after the fall of the Angkorian Empire. Continue to the city of Ankor Thom built by the last great king, Jayavarman VII. Other temple highlights include the temple ruins of Bayon with its famous huge stone Buddha heads, Baphoun and Phimeanakas and the Elephant Terrace and the 12th century Terrace of the Leper Kind. Enjoy lunch at Fabien’s house, a traditional Khmer home tucked away in the forest north of the Srah Srang Baray. In the afternoon head to APOPO’s visitor centre for an exclusive tour how this life-saving organisation aim to remove the explosives that lie buried in the Cambodian countryside. Just as the sun begins to set enjoy a relaxing cruise in a gondola paddle boar around the moat of Angkor Thom where you will watch a stunning sunset over Prasat Chorung.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch
Sala Lodges
Shinta Mani Angkor
FCC Angkor by Avani
Raffles Grand d’Angkor
Zannier Phum Baitang
Day 5
Siem Reap
This morning visit Kbal Spean, an Angkorian-era archaeological site where you will find 1,000 lingas carved into the riverbed. Take a 3km gentle trek through the jungle to appreciate this landmark that is refreshingly different to other Khmer monuments. After lunch drive to Banteay Srei, a 10th century temple which is much smaller than many of the neighbouring complexes. The site is dedicated to Hindu god of Brahma and contains some of the region's best-preserved decorations and statues including the ‘Citadel of the Women’.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch,
- Dinner
Sala Lodges
Shinta Mani Angkor
FCC Angkor by Avani
Raffles Grand d’Angkor
Zannier Phum Baitang
Day 6
Siem Reap to Koh Rong or Koh Russey – by air
After breakfast transfer to the airport for the morning flight to Sihanoukville. On arrival you will be met and taken to the pier for a shared speedboat ride to Koh Rong or Koh Russey, both are small tropical islands off the coast of Cambodia.
- Breakfast
The Royal Sands
JATI Koh Russey
Six Senses Krabey Island
Song Saa Private Island
Day 7-8
Koh Rong or Koh Russey
Spend the next two days at leisure at the resort. There a few activities on offer including snorkelling or diving, kayaking, jungle trekking and even the opportunity to see bioluminescent plankton in the ocean at night. If you are just looking to relax the beachfront resort offers a swimming pool, spa and beach bar.
- Breakfast
The Royal Sands
JATI Koh Russey
Six Senses Krabey Island
Song Saa Private Island
Day 9
Koh Rong to Phnom Penh – 215kms
Depart the idyllic island of Koh Rong this morning and take the speedboat back to Sihanoukville followed by a private transfer to Phnom Penh. This evening enjoy an exciting food and drink tour of the capital where you will sample traditional dishes and street delicacies.
- Breakfast,
- Dinner
Palace Gate Hotel & Resort
Raffles Hotel Le Royal
Rosewood Phnom Penh
Day 10
Phnom Penh
Today explore this riverside capital and its surrounds with your guide. To understand the country’s harrowing history, travel out of the city to the Choeung Ek killing fields and Toul Sleng Museum which recounts the horrors of the notorious Khmer Rouge regime. Once back in the city visit the National Museum which is home to a fantastic collection of ancient Khmer archaeological, religious, and artistic artefacts. Also make stops at the picturesque French-built Royal Palace complex, the Silver Pagoda and the city's oldest shrine, the mystical Wat Phnom. Finish your holiday off with a Mekong River sunset cruise. Admire the views of the city as the sky dances with the changing colours of gold, orange and pink. Once back on land, enjoy dinner at Sombok, a restaurant that celebrates Khmer cuisine and the creativity of female chefs.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch,
- Dinner
Palace Gate Hotel & Resort
Raffles Hotel Le Royal
Rosewood Phnom Penh
Day 11
Siem Reap to Singapore – by air / Arrive UK
This afternoon transfer to Siem Reap Airport and fly to Singapore. Here connect onto the Singapore Airlines flight non-stop to the UK.
- Breakfast
Extending your stay...
Upgrade your stay in Koh Rong to the exclusive Song Saa Private Island, a luxurious tropical getaway with a pristine private beach and access to a preserved coral reef, thatched wooden villas and a world-class spa sanctuary.
Kampot is home to peach and lemon French-colonial houses and cosy cafes that frame the riverfront. Once the main port in Cambodia, Kampot is better known for its pepper production with Kampot pepper often being described amongst the finest in the world.
Extend your trip into Vietnam by traversing the mighty Mekong on a river cruise between Phnom Penh and Ho Chi Minh City. Encounter scenic rural scenery, bustling river life and remote villages as you sail down one of the most famous and historic waterways of the world, all onboard an elegant boat.
Neighbouring Thailand can be easily combined with your Cambodia holiday. An enchanting Buddhist kingdom with warm and friendly people, Thailand is an exotic country of timeless tradition, ancient rituals and gracious customs with something for everyone.
Guide to Price
11 days from £3600 - £4000 per person
What's Included
- International flights
- Private car and driver
- Sightseeing with accompanying English speaking guide
- Hotel accommodation and taxes
What's Not Included
- Visas
- Travel Insurance
- Expenses of a personal nature
- Meals as specified
from £3600 - £4000
Travel Information
Getting There
There are no direct flights from the UK to Cambodia but a number of airlines offer single-stop options from Heathrow to Phnom Penh, while multiple-stop flights are available nationally. Thai Airways can take you from Heathrow via Bangkok to Phnom Penh. British Airways fly direct to Bangkok and from here and Bangkok Airways connect on to Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. Other airlines including Singapore Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, Malaysian and Qatar Airways travel to Cambodia via their regional hubs.
Flying Times From UK
Flying from the UK to Cambodia will involve one or two stops and will take around 14 to 16 hours.
Time Zone
Cambodia is +7 hours ahead of GMT.
Visa Requirements
UK citizens can obtain a visa upon arrival and will need to present a valid passport, one passport sized photograph and the current visa fee in cash per person. However, we recommend purchasing an e-visa online at www.evisa.gov.kh before you travel. The tourist visa is valid for 30 days from the date you actually enter Cambodia. It is important that you keep your departure form and that you have your passport stamped on arrival.
Do’s & Don’ts
It is illegal to import, transport, use, store or sell vapes or e-cigarettes in Cambodia. This ban applies to both visitors and locals. If found in possession of a vape or e-cigarette the device will be confiscated and a fine, or more significant penalty, enforced. We strongly advise not to bring or use any vape or e-cigarette during your stay in Cambodia.
A respectful way to greet others is to press your hands together at chest level and bow your head. This is known as ‘sampeah’. Public displays of affection should be kept to a minimum as they tend to be frowned upon.
It is polite to ask permission of any local people or monks before taking any photographs.
If you are going to a place of worship such as a pagoda or temple it is customary to remove your shoes, ensure your upper arms and legs are covered and remove your hat. You should not sit higher than a seated monk or touch a Buddha statue. Visitors to Angkor Wat should not wear skirts or shorts above the knee or tops that reveal bare shoulders. Those not following the dress code are liable to be refused admission.
If you are invited to a person’s home, then removing shoes is a sign of respect and you should bring a gift for the host. If you are staying for dinner it is customary not to start eating before the host begins or take your seat until the eldest person has sat down.
When eating, only the right hand should be used. Cambodian culture considers the left hand to be unclean.
Do not to point your feet towards someone, tuck them underneath you when you sit, and do not touch a Cambodian on the head.
Money
The currency used in Cambodia is the ‘riel’, however the US dollar is accepted almost everywhere. Make sure your dollar bills are free of tears as they may not be accepted. In the west of Cambodia, you may also find the Thai baht currency is used. Cards are not widely accepted but larger hotels in all of the main cities do accept card payments. You can use ATM machines, just remember to inform your bank before you travel.
Tipping
In Cambodia salaries are low so tips can top up wages, although tips are not an expectation. If you visit temples, or other places of interest, there are often contribution boxes available for your donations. A guideline for tipping drivers and guides will be advised prior to travel.
Food & Drink
Cambodian cuisine is known as Khmer and it borrows dishes from other South East Asian countries, but with a distinctive twist. Rice and noodles are a staple in Cambodia, along with curries, which are less spicy than those found in Thailand. Black pepper is preferred over chillies, but you may find them served on the side and stir fried vegetables and garlic are often prepared. One of the secret ingredients used in Cambodian food is a paste known as ‘prahok’ which is made from salty fermented fish. Some typical dishes include: Amok – a curry made from fish or other meat cooked in banana leaves and usually served with rice. Bai Chi – a type of fried rice with Chinese sausage and soy sauce Ka Tieu – a noodle soup made with pork broth Babur – a stodgy rice porridge with bite size chunks of chicken or pork and vegetables As for beverages, only drink bottled water. You can find iced coffee made with sweetened condensed milk and iced tea is also popular. Fresh coconuts are available everywhere and you can drink the milk straight from the fruit. Alcohol is widely sold in Cambodia and beer is very popular. Palm wine and rice wine are also available but just be wary of sanitation; you may want to avoid drinking some of the locally produced wines.
Accommodation
Due to its proximity to the temples of Angkor Wat, the town of Siem Reap has the widest range of accommodation available in Cambodia from small boutique properties to leading international luxury hotels. In capital Phnom Penh and Battambang, the Cambodia’s second city, there is also a good selection of places to stay. Cambodia’s coastline is largely undeveloped but Kep has a very good small boutique sea-facing resort. In rural areas, in particular the north and east, accommodation is limited and tends to be clean and comfortable but of a simple standard. There is also a unique floating lodge on the Tatai River which serves as an excellent base for exploring the Cardamom Mountains.
Shopping
Shopping in Cambodia is like walking into a treasure trove of silk, statues, silver work, art, carvings and textiles. From large scale shopping malls to boutiques and specialist shops and interesting markets to street vendors, there is a plethora of scintillating delights to cater for all your shopping needs. You can have tailor-made silk clothing created or look for other hand crafted items like baskets, rice paper prints, a kramer scarf, handbags, clothing and furnishings. The government and other aid organisations are encouraging local people to rediscover their talents as weavers and craftsmen and you should not leave Cambodia without visiting the market where you can find a large selection of souvenirs, curious items, antiques, carvings, Buddha statues and other novel items at excellent prices.
Suggested Reading
The Rough Guide and Footprint are excellent books with information about the basics that every visitor should know. Milton Osborne's ‘Phnom Penh’ gives an insider's view of the sometimes overwhelming capital of Cambodia, from an Australian diplomat who was first posted in the city in 1959.
Health
Your doctor is the best person to advise you on staying healthy whilst abroad but current recommended vaccinations are Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus and Diphtheria. Yellow Fever is compulsory, but only if you have visited an affected Yellow Fever area within 5 days prior to your arrival. In some instances anti-malarial tablets may also be needed. For current information on health advice you may wish to visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) website Travel Health Pro on https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/. The Medical Advisory Services for Travellers Abroad (MASTA) website (www.masta.org) is also a useful resource.
Travel Advice
For current information on Cambodia the best resource is the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice) which is a comprehensive resource and updated regularly. We would also recommend visiting the Safer Tourism Foundation website (safertourism.org.uk) before you travel and will be happy to address any questions or concerns you may have.
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Our Reviews
What our clients say
Thank you for another outstanding organized and beautiful tour
DD - Cambodia - February 2020
I would like to thank you for another outstanding organized and beautiful tour to Cambodia. We did not face any problems over the whole tour and the hotels were excellent choice with very warm, kind and thoughtful staff.
We look forward to travelling with you again in the near future.
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