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Day 1
Phnom Penh -
Upon arrival at Phnom Penh airport, transfer at your own to hotel and balance the day at leisure. In the late afternoon, your guide will meet the group at hotel lobby, travel to the local restaurant for dinner and trip orientation.
Meal included: Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Phnom Penh
Note: Check-in at the hotel from 14:00
Arrival flight:
Arrival flight needs to land before 15:00. Departure flight needs to take off after 17:00.
Hotel: Lavanya Boutique Hotel 3* (or similar) -
Day 2
Phnom Penh - Koh Dach Biking Tour
n the morning, enjoy Mekong Island bicycleTour: Koh Dach Island - Return by local ferry: This morning, you will explore Koh Dach island by bikes. Upon arrival at the pier, you will start your journey to Koh Dach Island by embarking a local, private boat or local ferry. On this 7-kilometer long island, disembark and continue your journey by bike. You get to see how quickly the landscape and environment shift from an energetic city to peaceful, rural life of farms, wooden houses and small, charming pagodas. You will start the tour right at the pier, and you can take your time - feel free to stop at any time to take pictures or explore for a while. After around 6, easy-going kilometers without any elevation, you will reach a traditional stilt house that serves as a small restaurant and have a nice lunch break in a relaxed and jovial atmosphere. Here, you can also rest for a while before continuing your journey slowly towards the pier where you will start your return journey back by boat into the vibrant Phnom Penh. In the afternoon, visit Phnom Penh city: The capital city of Cambodia is located at the meeting point of three rivers: the Bassac, the massive Tonle and the impressive Mekong. Phnom Penh owes its difference to other Asian capitals, thanks to the modernity coupled with provincial charm and the French-colonial touches set amongst Angkorian monuments. Your eyes won't ever get bored during a leisurely tour around the different streets. The journey through the bustling capital will begin with a visit to the National Museum. It is the largest of the country as it showcases the world's greatest collections of Khmer sculptures, ceramics and ethnographics. The last stop is at the Royal Palace which strikingly dominates the skyline of the city. Previously, the complex of 4 main areas functioned as the Royal Residence of the King of Cambodia. Then, continue on to Phnom Penh Central market for some shopping time at your leisure. After the tour, head back to the hotel.
Meal included : Breakfast, Lunch at a local house Accommodation: Hotel in Phnom Penh
Distance and duration of cycling: 12 kilometers - 1 to 2 hours
Level: 0
Notes: the tour can combine bikes and tuk tuk for a family.
Hotel: Lavanya Boutique Hotel 3* (or similar) -
Day 3
Phnom Penh - Kratie
After breakfast, continue your adventure on the road, between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, you will stop at Skun, famous for its grilled spider brochettes. Some sellers will definitely do their utmost to encourage you: “try it, it’s crispy!” they’ll say. Then, continue to Phnom Pros (the Hill of Men) & Phnom Srey (the Hill of Women). While Phnom Srey remains undeveloped and covered with vegetation, Phnom Pros is known for its collection of modern pagodas and stupas memorializing the thousands of victims murdered during the Khmer Rouge regime. Back on the road, your last stop will be at Wat Nokor Bachey, a rather unusual temple with distinctive architecture. After crossing the bridge, you will arrive in Kompong Cham City. Travel to Kratie through the city of Kampong Cham. Upon arrival in Kratie, you will cross the Mekong by ferry to reach the local island of Koh Trong: it is a small island on the Mekong river, characterized by fine sandy beaches (during the dry season) and reachable only by ferry from the city of Kratie. After checking in the homestay, you can take a walk to explore the surroundings: no noisy cars, a peaceful atmosphere, hospitable inhabitants, busy fishermen, lush orchards - a true paradise for the senses. For those who want, it will be possible to experience the experience of a ride on a typical cart pulled by an ox.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Accommodation: Overnight in the homestay on Koh Trong island
Distance of transfer: 290 kilometers - 5.5hrs
Note: Hotel check-in is from 14:00. Kratie is not yet very developed as a tourist area, so the quality of restaurants, hotels and general services is based on the standard of the place.
Hotel: Local homestay at the village (or similar) -
Day 4
Kratie - Banlung
Enjoy the transquil of Koh Trong island, travel by ferry back to Kratie for the journey to Ratanakiri. Along the way, a stop in Kampi is a must, where you will board a boat to try to spot the very rare freshwater dolphins (Orcella): these dolphins are at risk of extinction throughout Asia and Cambodia is one of the few countries where they are still present.
Upon arrival in Banlung, you will check-in the hotel. At good time, enjoy the sunset on top of Banlung. Located in the middle of the city center, set out for one of the best panoramic views in all of Banlung. Start strolling from the bottom of the hill, then explore the beautiful Pagoda of Wat Rahtanharanm and its reclining Buddha. Continue on up the hill to catch a great opportunity to relax with drinks in a traditional hut and to watch the stunning sunset.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Banlung
Distance: 250 kilometers – 4h 30min
Hotel check-in time: 14:00
Hotel: Ratanakiri Boutique Hotel 4*(or similar) -
Day 5
Banlung
Leave your hotel at 8:00 for a full day tour to visit a local village tribe. Today, you’ll take quite a few different types of transport: local ferry, a local boat, a walk, and the local motorized tractor, giving you a great mix of forest and jungle to observe. Head North in your car to reach a small village, then cross the river by the local ferry and prepare yourself for a journey to the local village tribe. The village’s chief will be waiting for you on the other side of the river, and he’ll take you on his motorized tractor, named “Koyoun.” Along the way, you will pass by some pretty villages, as well as rice and casava plantations, until you reach the hike starting point. The hike is about 7 kilometers, after which you’ll finally reach the local tribe village located on the bank of a small river. Upon arriving, you will meet the villagers and enjoy a refreshing drink with them, learning about their culture, lifestyle, and if you like, you can even have a taste of their traditional rice wine, Srah Thnam. Meanwhile, lunch will be cooked using traditional methods and using seasonal ingredients - something you may want to check out! After the delicious lunch and a short rest, continue your hike for another 1.5 kilometers, when you’ll reach a stunning, panoramic viewpoint. During the hike, the villagers will show you some edible plants (be brave and try some, if you’d like!) and some jungle survival techniques, before heading back to the starting point. Arriving back at the village, make your way back to town by traditional boat, following the river downstream. Along the way, take a dip in the crystal-clear water, if you’d like. When you make landfall, ride back on the tractor to the local ferry, and then finally to your private vehicle, which will take you back to your hotel. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: Hotel in Banlung
Distance & duration of hiking: 10 kilometers – 3 hours (full-day including the visits)
Level: 2
Net elevation gain: + 300 meters
Terrain: mainly jungle trails, through forest Transportation: Full-day vehicle support / 30 kilometers – 1 hour - (From Hotel to starting point) / 30 kilometers – 1 hour - (From ending point to hotel)
Note: possibility to reduce the kilometers hiking extending the transfer by motorized tractor.
Hotel: Ratanakiri Boutique Hotel 4* (or similar) -
Day 6
Banlung - Preah Vihear
In the morning, you will visit Ban Lung Market where the ethnic people come in traditional baskets with local items to sell at the market. It can be an interesting and photogenic scene. Then continue the transfer to Preah Viheah, bordering Thailand and Laos to the North. Preah Vihear is a vast province located 185 kilometers to the Northeast of Siem Reap. This place is home to many other temples, which earns it the title “mother of the mountain temples”. Upon arrival, you will check into the hotel and have free time at your leisure.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Preah Viheah Distance: 320km - 4.5 hours Hotel check-in: 14:00
Hotel: Preah Vihear Boutique 4* (or similar) -
Day 7
Preah Vihear - Siem Reap
After breakfast, you will visit Preah Vihear Mountain Temple, built to worship Shiva and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Located on a hilltop, it offers a spectacular view of the Cambodian plains. After the visit, travel to Siem Reap and on the way visit the temples of Koh Ker, the former capital of the Angkorian Empire, which has more than a hundred buildings including the Prasat Thom (7-level sandstone pyramid) and the Linga temple. Arrival in Siem Reap about mid-afternoon, balance the day at leisure.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap Distance: 230 kilometers - 4 hours
Hotel: Amber Angkor Villa Hotel & Spa 3* (or similar) -
Day 8
Siem Reap
Start your day by visiting Angkor Wat, the largest religious structure in the world, and one of the top UNESCO World Heritage sites world-wide. After the visit, your walking tour will start, taking you around the moat of this enormous temple, and entering on a tiny trail, passing by a small local village.
Continue crossing through the Angkor Thom South Gate, climb up on its ancient wall, and walk along the shadowy path covered by ancient trees. You will reach a small temple, and then you will finally arrive right at the center of the Khmer capital, where the majestic Bayon Temple stands before you.
Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant and then continue your visit of Angkor Thom, exploring the Royal Palace, the Elephant terrace, and the other incredible temples located in the area. Finally, end your visit at the Bayon Temple, and travel back to your hotel.
Option for the evening: enjoy A Taste of Cambodian Cuisine (every day except Monday) - no tour guide needed, the tuk-tuk takes you to the relevant restaurant & the information letter in English language. Starting time: 18:30:
It's not always easy to choose the best place to dine in a foreign city, so we have a "three in one" solution. In the evening, enjoy a multi-stage dinner with starter, main course, and dessert in three different restaurants, carefully chosen for their flavors and atmosphere. One evening, the curious traveler will discover a selection of our favorite dishes and addresses in Siem Reap including:
1. Pou - starter and one drink per person
2. The Sugar Palm - main course and one drink per person
3. Malis - dessert and one drink per person
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap
Level: 1
Distance & duration of hiking: 14 kilometers – 3 hours (full day including the visits)
Total elevation gain: + 150 meters / - 120 meters
Terrain: mainly jungle trails, through forest
Transportation: full day vehicle support - 8 kilometers – 15 minutes (From Hotel to starting point) / 10 kilometers – 20 minutes (From ending point to hotel)
Hotel: Amber Angkor Villa Hotel & Spa 3* (or similar) -
Day 9
Siem Reap - Phnom Kulen
In the morning, around 7:00, travel from Siem Reap to Phnom Kulen, the largest forested area in the Siem Reap province. Arriving at the National Park, you will be welcomed by the local ranger who will accompany you, along with your professional guide, over the course of the hike. After a short briefing, begin your hike along a diverse mix of trails, through the deep jungle and the rocky Kulen Plateau, which takes you by some hidden temples dated to the 10th century, religious sites, and a charming river. Today’s morning highlight is surely the famous Sra Damrei site, which houses a holy elephant statue shrine carved in sandstone, representing the mountain's guardian together with the other nearby statues. After the visit, continue along the trail where you will visit some other important sites, until you reach the local tractor, named guyun in Cambodian language, and travel to a scenic lunch spot along the small river. There you can enjoy a local picnic lunch and if you like you can relax and take a swim. After lunch, start your second part of the hike and embark on a single trail, plunging into the deep forest and indulge in the natural surroundings as you try to spot some of the Cambodian wildlife. Along the way you will reach the main area of Kulen Mountain, to firstly visit the golden reclining Buddha situated at Preah Ang Thom, then stop at the Phnom Kulen Waterfall. There, if you’d like, refresh yourself with a swim. Around late afternoon, you will travel back to Siem Reap in your private vehicle. Meal: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap Physical Level: 2 Distance & duration of hiking: • Option 1: 15 kilometers – 4 hours (Excluding site visits) • Option 2: 10 kilometers – 3 hours (excluding site visits) Net Elevation Gain: 250 meters ascent / 215 meters descent Terrain: mainly jungle trails, through forest and the rocky Kulen Plateau Transportation: full day vehicle support – 60 kilometers – 2 hours (From hotel to starting) – 50 kilometers – 1 hour 30 minutes - Emergency vehicle available Note: On the option 2, the last part of the trail to reach waterfall will be done by vehicle
Hotel: Amber Angkor Villa Hotel & Spa 3* (or similar) - Day 10 Return Your final day in Cambodia starts with breakfast before checking out and setting off on a morning excursion to Komgpong Khleang. From Kompong Kleang you will board a local boat led by a captain from the village. The craft will criss-cross Tonlé Sap at a leisurely pace, giving you the opportunity to observe some of the small floating villages. The small local boat is equipped with an engine, which allows you to move easily from the village and along the various canals leading to the Great Lake. Once you reach the end of the canal, you will realize the immensity of this lake, where the horizon stretches as far as the eye can see. During the dry season, a walk to meet the locals is offered before you set out for the cruise. After visit, you will head to Siem Reap airport for your outbound flight. Meals included: Breakfast Distance: Siem Reap / Kompong Khleang - 52 kilometers (1 hour 30 minute drive), each way Note: From the 15th of February, due to low water levels, the boat trip cannot be operated with big boats from 10 pax up, only small boats are available (1-9 pax). So for groups from 10 pax up we will do the boat trip at Chong Kneas instead. - Komgpong Khleang - Siem Reap airport: 42 kilometers (1hour) Please book your flight out of Siem Reap after 17:00
Included
- Accommodation in the category chosen or similar (subject to availability).
- Meals as mentioned in the program.
- All local boat rental and cycling as mentioned in the program.
- Transportation by private vehicle with A/C as per mentioned program.
- All entrance fees and sightseeing as mentioned in the program.
- Local English speaking guide(s) as mentioned. National English speaking guides is at supplement cost.
Exclusions
- Meals and drinks which are not mentioned in the program.
- International flight tickets and airport taxes.
- Visa fees upon arrival in Cambodia.
- Tips & personal expenses. Personal insurance. Any services not clearly mentioned in the program.
Cambodia – At a Glance
Cambodia is a Southeast Asian country with a strong and contrasting identity. Its landscapes range from vast fertile plains and rice fields dotted with sugar palms to forest-covered mountains, the Mekong Delta, and a peaceful coastline along the Gulf of Thailand. The country is deeply shaped by the legacy of the Khmer Empire, whose monumental remains still testify to its former grandeur. Phnom Penh, the capital, concentrates much of this historical and cultural wealth, while the northwest of the country is home to the extraordinary Angkor complex, one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world.
General Information
The capital of Cambodia is Phnom Penh. The country covers an area of 181,035 km², and the official language is Khmer. The national currency is the riel, although in everyday life the US dollar is widely used and often more practical for travelers. Bargaining is an integral part of local culture, especially in markets. Prices quoted to visitors are often higher than those charged to locals, making negotiation almost unavoidable. This is generally done in a friendly spirit, with patience, smiles, and good humor. The international dialing code is +855. Cambodia is 12 hours ahead of Montreal, and the electrical voltage is 230 volts.
Did You Know…
Cambodia is often associated with two contrasting images: the extraordinary splendor of Angkor and the trauma left by the Khmer Rouge regime. Today, the country has regained long-term stability and is gradually opening up to the world, thanks in part to improved infrastructure. Beyond Angkor, the Cambodian countryside reveals an authentic beauty, with peaceful villages, endless rice fields, and almost hypnotic landscapes. Coconut trees and sugar palms shape the horizon, while a few isolated hills break the monotony of the plains. Many travelers fall in love with this atmosphere and with the local population, known for its gentleness and warm smiles. Certain regions, such as the Cardamom Mountains and Mondulkiri Province, are still home to wild elephants, a powerful symbol of Cambodia’s preserved natural heritage.
Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, was once known as the “Pearl of Southeast Asia.” During the French colonial period, the city developed around wide boulevards lined with elegant buildings that highlighted pagodas and the Royal Palace. After independence, King Norodom Sihanouk continued this vision of urban refinement, giving the city its distinctive charm. Today, despite heavy traffic, Phnom Penh captivates visitors with the golden silhouette of the Royal Palace, the colonial façades along Sisowath Quay, and the constant bustle of its markets. Key attractions include Wat Phnom, the Independence Monument, the Silver Pagoda, and the Cambodia–Vietnam Friendship Monument.
Angkor Wat
Located in Siem Reap Province, Angkor Wat is the largest and most iconic temple within the Angkor complex, which spans nearly 400 km². Built in the early 12th century during the reign of King Suryavarman II, it served both as a state temple and an imperial capital. Initially dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, it later became an important Buddhist center. Remarkably well preserved, Angkor Wat impresses with the richness of its bas-reliefs and the harmony of its architecture. Its scale and beauty often lead it to be considered a true wonder of the world. The site is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Angkor Thom
Angkor Thom, meaning “the Great City,” was built by King Jayavarman VII. This former royal capital forms a vast square approximately three kilometers on each side, surrounded by ramparts and moats. Each of its monumental gates is adorned with sculpted faces symbolizing royal power. Inside the city walls lie the ruins of ancient palaces, temples, and the famous Terrace of the Elephants, once used for royal ceremonies and processions.
Siem Reap
Located about 314 kilometers northwest of Phnom Penh, Siem Reap is today the main gateway to the Angkor temples. Its name, derived from an ancient conflict with the Siamese kingdom, literally means “Defeat of the Siamese.” Since the early 2000s, the city has experienced significant tourism development. Visitors find a harmonious blend of temples, pagodas, lively districts, French colonial influences, and traditional markets, particularly the bustling Old Market.
Cuisine
Cambodian cuisine is the result of many influences, notably Vietnamese, Thai, Chinese, and French. Rice plays a central role, accompanied by soups, vegetables, noodles, and especially freshwater fish, which is a staple of the local diet. Dishes are flavored with lemongrass, ginger, coriander, and prahok, a traditional fermented fish paste. One of the most famous specialties is amok, made with fish or chicken, coconut milk, and spices, steamed in a banana leaf. Marinated beef, grilled or fried fish, sweet-and-sour soups, and local hot pots are also part of everyday cuisine. More adventurous travelers may sample unusual delicacies such as grilled insects or stuffed frogs. Abundant and flavorful tropical fruits complete the meals.
Drinks
As tap water is not drinkable, bottled water is essential. Local beers, particularly Angkor and Cambodia, are light and very popular. Imported wine is available in higher-end restaurants. Palm wine and rice alcohol, often produced artisanally, are commonly consumed locally. Green tea is widespread, while coffee tends to be quite strong. Teukolok, a traditional Khmer drink made from blended fruit, ice, and milk, is very popular, though travelers should pay attention to hygiene conditions.
Shopping and Souvenirs
Cambodian craftsmanship is gradually being revived after nearly disappearing during the war years. Markets in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap are filled with souvenirs such as the krama, a traditional checkered scarf, sampot textiles, wooden carvings, and copper objects. Kampot pepper, considered one of the finest in the world, is a highly sought-after souvenir. Exporting any Khmer antiquities or ancient temple objects is strictly prohibited, and customs controls are very strict.
Safety
Since the end of fighting in 1998, Cambodia has entered a period of stability. Phnom Penh has undergone major transformation and is no longer considered one of the most dangerous capitals in Southeast Asia. Basic vigilance remains necessary, particularly regarding bag snatching and petty theft. It is advisable to carry limited cash and keep passports in a secure place. The Canadian Embassy is located in Phnom Penh.
Health Advice
The hot and humid climate requires proper sun protection and regular hydration. Effective sunscreen and headwear are strongly recommended, especially when visiting Angkor. Medical facilities are limited, so it is advisable to consult practitioners recommended by local guides and to review Health Canada’s travel health recommendations before departure.
Climate
Cambodia has a tropical climate with two main seasons. The dry season, from November to March, offers more comfortable temperatures ranging between 25 and 30°C. The monsoon season, from May to October, is hotter and very humid, with heavy but usually short-lived rainfall. April and May are among the hottest months of the year. The best time to visit is between November and March, when weather conditions are most pleasant.
Religions and Beliefs
Buddhism is the dominant religion in Cambodia and plays a central role in daily life. Introduced after Hinduism, it became predominant from the 13th century onward. Monks hold an essential spiritual role and live on offerings from the population, a tradition deeply rooted in Khmer culture.
Etiquette and Customs
In Cambodia, restraint and respect are essential. Losing one’s temper or raising one’s voice is very poorly perceived, as it causes loss of face. Politeness, discretion, and modest dress are highly valued, particularly in public and religious spaces. Greetings are expressed with hands pressed together, with the height of the gesture varying according to the status of the person addressed. Criticizing the royal family is strictly frowned upon, as the king embodies national unity and tradition. Acts of generosity toward the elderly or war-disabled are common, reflecting the strong sense of solidarity within Cambodian society.
Name: The Active Way from the Capital to Angkor Wat
Brand: Pathways of the World
Quality: First Class
Tour Type: Escorted
Start City: Phnom Penh
End City: Siem Reap
Vacation Overview:
HIGHLIGHTS
- Visit Phnom Penh: Cambodia’s capital; exploring the main cultural sights and Silk Island
- Experience a night in a local homestay on a peaceful island in the Mekong River where time stands still
- Discover Cambodia’s lesser-seen eastern region; visiting Ratanakiri Province and its hidden treasures
- Hike to a local village located in a remote area outside Ban Lung at the border with Virachey National Park and meet with residents to discover their culture; traditions and way of life
- Visit Preah Vihear Temple & Angor Wat: UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Discover the Angkor Archaeological Park on foot; following an ancient jungle trail; stopping to visit some of the most significant temples
- Visit Phnom Kulen National Park and learn the history of the Khmer Empire
- Explore Kompong Khleang; one of the largest floating village on Tonle Sap Lake; and enjoy a local lunch in a homestay.
