Siem Reap – Phnom Penh
Explore the fascinating city of Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, visiting the attractions that explain the history and culture of Cambodia such as the National Museum, the Silver Pagoda, the Royal Palace and Wat Phnom hill, before entering into the great Khmer Empire and the overwhelming beauty of the Temples of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, to explore the ancient ruins such as the Roluos Group, Preah Ko, Ba Kong and Lo Lei, Banteay Kdei, Ta Prohm Temple, the Bayon and Banteay Srei, plus a visit to the large lake in Cambodia, the Tonle Sap.

Tour Highlights

• Delving into the history of the Khmer Empire, once the greatest power in South east Asia
• Witnessing the architectural legacy of the mighty Khmer Empire - once the greatest power in South East Asia
• Absorbing the beauty of the temples of Angkor
• Feeling welcomed by the smiles and hospitality of the Khmer people
• Riding into the depths of the jungle
• Walking alongside the Mekong River in sleepy Phnom Penh.

Detailed Tour Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrive Phnom Penh
Arrive in Phnom Penh and transfer to hotel. This city was once considered one of the most beautiful in the Orient, and despite its recent turbulent history it still retains a colonial charm. In the afternoon visit the National Museum, the Silver Pagoda, the Royal Palace and Wat Phnom hill, founding place of the city. Overnight in Phnom Penh.

Day 2 : Phnom Penh - Siem Reap
Transfer to Pochentong Airport after breakfast for the morning flight to Siem Reap. Alternatively take the new speed boats to Siem Reap leaving Phnom Penh at 08:00 and arriving in Siem Reap around 12:30. Siem Reap is the base for exploring the fabled temples of Angkor, the ancient capital of the Khmer empire. On arrival begin a tour of the temples that includes the early-Angkor era temples of the Roluos Group - Preah Ko, Ba Kong and Lo Lei. In the afternoon continue to Srah Srang, Banteay Kdei, Chau Say Tevoda, Thommanon, and the fabulous Ta Prohm Temple, embraced by the roots of enormous fig trees and gigantic creepers. Overnight in Siem Reap. (B) Note: If travelling by boat the morning tour in Siem Reap will not be possible.

Day 3 : Siem Reap
After breakfast depart for a full day excursion to overgrown and rarely visited Beng Mealea Temple, which served as a model for the more famous Angkor Wat. Continue to the unique riverbed carvings at Kbal Spean (River of 1000 Lingas) for a picnic lunch. On the way back to Siem Reap visit the Citadel of Women, Banteay Srei and finally Banteay Samre. Overnight in Siem Reap. (B,L)

Day 4 : Siem Reap
After breakfast depart for a visit to Banteay Srei, Kbal Spean (River of 1000 Lingas) and Banteay Samre. In the afternoon, visit the Grand Circuit taking in Pre Rup, Neak Poan and Preah Khan. Overnight in Siem Reap. (B)

Day 5 : Depart Siem Reap
After breakfast take a boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake (best from July to February) and afterwards visit the Siem Reap market and the workshops of Artisans d’Angkor (wood and stone carving) and/or visit the Landmine Museum of Mr Aki Ra before transferring to Siem Reap Airport for departure flight. (B) Note: This tour includes a 3-day Angkor Temple Pass.