Example Itinerary

A Journey to Cambodia's Heart

Duration
16 days / 15 nights
Price Per Person
Interests
Heritage, UNESCO
Destinations
Cambodia

This 14-day tour highlights the beauty, history, culture and resilience of the Cambodian nation. From the mysterious jungle-tangled temples of Angkor to the mountain-hemmed white-sand beaches of the south, and all the rarely-visited villages of the North, this tour has something for every type of traveller. On your journey from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville and back again, stop at such mesmerizing sites as the Cheung Ek Killing Fields and ancient temples of the Angkor Kingdom.

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

  • Kampong Cham: Charming Kampong Cham, just a short distance from Phnom Penh, feels like a whole world away with its slower pace of life, picturesque villages, and colorful colonial and Chinese buildings.
  • Mekong Dolphins: See the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins in their natural environment, a privilege made possible by the work of environmental NGOs to protect the animals and their habitat.
  • Rustic Living: In the small village of Preah Rumkel, far from the beaten path, get intimate with the rural lifestyle of friendly locals with a homestay. Here, daily routines have persisted without change for generations.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Phnom Penh

A guide will welcome you upon your arrival in Phnom Penh and transfer you to your hotel. Check in and freshen up before an afternoon of sightseeing. Visit the Royal Palace, and the Silver Pagoda, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Marvel at the nearly 200-pound Buddha made of solid gold, made in 1907. The pagoda is filled with fascinating artifacts, each providing a window to the past.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

History: This 1929 hotel has a long distinguished history of hosting VIP guests, from writers to royals.

Services: Having served the likes of Jackie O, this hotel offers only the highest level of discreet, attentive service from a dedicated butler.

Location: This property is only a 30-minute drive from the airport, and a short stroll from cafés, shops and restaurants.

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Raffles Hotel Le Royal Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Heritage: Although the Rosewood Phnom Penh comprises part of the world-renowned Rosewood family, the luxurious hotel is also dotted with aesthetics inspired by local Cambodian culture and roots.

Wellbeing: After a workout in the state-of-the-art gym and dip in the pool, the spa’s treatments, inspired by ancient and modern wellness techniques, are certain to leave the minds and bodies of guests feeling relaxed and healthy.

Cuisine: The exciting mix of interactive and immersive dining experiences offered promises to excite even the most discerning of guests.

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Rosewood Phnom Penh Preferred Hotel

Day 2

Phnom Penh

Today begins with a somber tone as you visit Toul Sleng Genocide Museum and the Cheung Ek Killing Fields. It is in this very space where thousands of civilians were killed and buried in mass graves. You are sure to be moved by the reminders of such atrocious crimes against humanity in this important space honoring the dead. Return to the city for a visit to the market or take a bike and pedal out to the countryside to Silk Island for a peaceful afternoon.

Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh

Day 3

Kampong Cham

After breakfast, travel to Kampong Cham, with a stop or two along the way. Check in to your hotel before enjoying some sightseeing - visit the city’s male and female hills, Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei, respectively, and 12th-century temple, Nokor Bachey. Climb up Han Chey Mountain and take in a sunset view, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.

Hotel Options
About

Well situated to serve as a base for exploring the fascinating historical area of Cambodia’s Kampong Cham, the Monorom VIP Hotel is just one street away from the Mekong river and offers unhindered views of the famous waterway. The hotel is also conveniently located a short drive away from the Kampong Cham Airport and a short walk from K.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 4

Kratie

After checking out of your Kampong Cham hote, explore the rubber plantations, rubber being one of the region’s top exports. Transfer to Kratie and check in to your hotel before taking the unique opportunity to visit the Mekong dolphins on a boat excursion. These rare freshwater dolphins are most active in the early morning and late afternoon hours.

Day 5

Stung Treng

A morning drive will bring you to the province of Stung Treng. Take in the beautiful plateau landscapes along the way. Check in, rest and refresh before an afternoon of teaching English to monks and the local disadvantaged.

Hotel Options
About

Centrally-located on the riverside of the winding Sekong, this Cambodian hotel is the most comfortable option in the area. Near Laos, Stung Treng is a small town in northeastern Cambodia that is considered a hub for many travelers with several visitors stopping through when passing between Laos and Cambodia.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Stung Treng
Stung Treng

Day 6

Preah Rumkel

A scenic boat ride will bring you to the village of Preah Rumkel, where you will meet a homestay family. This is an eco-tourism site hemmed by Mekong River rapids, waterfalls and forested hills, providing a lush verdant vista. Interact and break bread with a local family who will welcome you to spend the night in their traditional wooden home.

Hotel Options
About

Experience a slice of life in a rural community by eating, talking, sharing and stay with the locals. The family-run homestay is a window into the local lifestyle and guests are treated as part of the village, included in activities and festivities and given the opportunity to cook and eat authentic food and sleep in a simple, humble but charming wooden home.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 7

Preah Rumkel

Today you will explore the tropical forests of Preah Rumkel. By mountain bike and foot, make your way to the top of a hillside to fully appreciate the incredible panoramic views of the countryside below. Keep an eye out for wildlife in the RAMSAR flooded forests and conservation area. Enjoy a peaceful sunset over the Mekong and forest landscape, followed by a typical dinner and the region’s famous rice wine.

Day 8

Preah Vihear

Enjoy a three-mile adventure walk with a local guide to breathtaking Sopheakmith waterfall. Take a motorbike transfer to Kompong Simi en route to Preah Vihear, where you will enjoy dinner and spend the night.

Hotel Options
About

Renowned for the incredible Hindu Temple in the area, the Preah Vihear Boutique Hotel is the ideal home base when exploring the area. Modern comfort meets traditional Khmer culture in this unique area just south of the border between Cambodia and Thailand.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Preah Vihear
Preah Vihear

Day 9

Siem Reap

After breakfast, journey to the Thai border to visit the Preah Vihear temple. Climb to the top of Dangrek Mountain to take in the spectacular view of Thailand. Journey to the past on a history-based tour of this pre-Angkorian temple, a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site that is infamous for its border-straddling controversy. Travel to Siem Reap, and check into one of many luxury hotel options.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

History: Amansara is situated on a property that once housed the personal guests of King Sihanouk, revered widely by his subjects as the father of the nation.

Service: Amansara, like all other Aman properties, provides top-notch service in an intimate, atmospheric setting.

Location: Amansara is located within close proximity to Angkor Wat, a short bike ride away.

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Amansara Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: This hotel is ideally and strategically placed in the epicentre of Siem Reap, just a short distance from boutique shops, bars, restaurants and a host of other attractions, as well as the international airport.

History: History is the main draw for visitors to Siem Reap, with the magnificent temples of Angkor being the highlight of any visit to this charming ancient city.

Service: The Park Hyatt prides itself on its flawless 24-hour concierge service, allowing guests to have their desires fulfilled at any time, day or night.

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Park Hyatt Siem Reap Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Comfort: Rooms are spacious, spa treatments are extensive, and the pool is inviting – a perfect recipe for a relaxing getaway.

Aesthetics: The resort is designed by the Parisian-based architecture firm AW2 to produce the authentic feel of a Khmer village while also seamlessly blending the structures with their natural surroundings.

Location: This boutique resort is located near the Angkor World Heritage Site, Siem Reap, and a host of natural wonders.

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Phum Baitang Preferred Hotel

Day 10

Siem Reap

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before a tour of the area’s ancient temples. Visit the 12th-century sites of Angkor Thom, Angkor Wat, and Bayon. Take in the sights of the South Gate with its massive statues depicting the churning of the Ocean of Milk. Continue on to the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, Elephant Terrace, and Ta Prohm, one of the region’s most incredible sights. Hop on an Angkor Gondola at Angkor Thom, and travel from the south gate to the west gate. Round off the day with a climb to the top of Bakheng Hill for a spectacular sunset view over the ancient city.

Day 11

Siem Reap

Today, visit Koh Ker temple, built by king Jayavarman IV, and dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Next stop is Beng Melea Temple, which, covered in a thick layer of lush moss, resembles a blue sandstone façade. Take the time to observe the locals making joss sticks – traditional incense – and other everyday activities that can be seen along the roadways.

Siem Reap
Siem Reap

Day 12

Southern Islands

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before transferring to Sihanoukville. Relish in the beauty of the mountainous countryscape before checking into an island resort. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Villas: 27 palm-roofed villas, all with private pools and sun decks.

Extra Special: The stunning Overwater Villas have an area of glass floor where you can watch exotic fish swimming in the water below.

Location: Exclusive private location situated on two immaculate islands in Cambodia’s remote Koh Rong Archipelago. The islands Song Saa are known in Khmer as ‘The Sweethearts’.

Environment: Rich in marine life, discover turtles, seahorses and plentiful species of tropical fish.

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Song Saa Preferred Hotel

Day 13

Southern Islands

The last few days of your tour should be spent relaxing on the beach and enjoying the sights and activities around the island and Sihanoukville. The area boasts fantastic and varied dive sites, with two shipwrecks. Sihanoukville is also known for its many architectural splendors; visit a number of pagodas, temples and cathedrals. Wat Chotyniec, located in the heart of the city, is a definite highlight.

Day 14

Southern Islands

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before exploring Ream National Park. Just east of Sihanoukville, the park showcases Cambodia’s diverse wildlife. Featuring dolphins, monkeys, and mangrove forests teeming with diverse bird species, there is much to see. The choice is yours - either spend the rest of your day lounging by the pool or take in more of the area’s attractions.

Southern Islands
Southern Islands

Day 15

Southern Islands

On this, your last full day in the warm tropics of coastal Cambodia, enjoy free time.

Day 16

Departure

After breakfast at the hotel, say goodbye to this Cambodia and the little piece of paradise you have been enjoying. Transfer to Phnom Penh airport for the next leg of your travels, either home or to your next destination.

Why Remote Lands?

Exclusively Asia

With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.

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