Cambodia

Cambodia has gone through turbulent times, but once again is at peace and is set to take its place as one of the most fascinating destinations in South East Asia. The once mighty Khmer Empire flourished during the Angkorian period between the 9th and 14th centuries when it was the cultural center of the region and exerted its influence over Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand. Today the incredible legacy is with the temples of Angkor. Siem Reap is the base for exploring Angkor. Phnom Penh, the capitol of Cambodia, once considered one of the most beautiful cities in the Orient, still retains much of its colonial charm.

Sihanoukville, also known as Kompong Som, is Cambodia's only maritime port, located 230km to the south of Phnom Penh and accessible via one of the best roads in the country. Sihanoukville however, is not just a seaport, but also an area famous for its picture postcard tropical beaches. Boats can be chartered from local fisherman to the nearby islands where the coral, teeming with tropical fish, is perfect for snorkelling and scuba diving. The white sands, warm waters, blue skies and delicious fresh seafood of Sihanoukville can be experienced and savoured all year round. The attractive riverside town of Kampot was once a fashionable haunt of the French colonial elite, and has stunning offshore islands and a beautiful bay. The ruins of the luxurious mansions, destroyed by the Khmer Rouge, can be seen all along the coast.

The independent programs here are the more popular ones for two to five days. If you have more days, there are many off the beaten track programs in Cambodia that are also available; please contact us for details.

Cambodia photograph Prices for programs listed below include:

Accommodations with daily breakfast
Land transportation by air conditioned private vehicles with driver and English speaking guide
Entrance fees for mentioned visits (please bring 1 photo for Visit-Angkor Pass)

Hotels used fall into the following classes:

Deluxe: Sofitel Angkor
Superior: Sunway
First Class: Day Inn Angkor
Standard: Salina.

Please note that hotels of similar category will be used if the above is not available.

ESSENTIAL ANGKOR 3 DAYS/2 NIGHTS (ECAM/EA)

Day 1: Arrive Siem Reap
Cambodia photograph Arrive Siem Reap. Meet your guide and transfer to hotel. Siem Reap is the base for exploring the fabled temples of Angkor, the ancient capital of the Khmer empire. A tour of the temples includes the South Gate of Angkor Thom, the famous Bayon, Baphoun, the Terrace of Elephants, and Terrace of the Leper King. In the afternoon visit the magnificent 12th century Angkor Wat. Return to hotel after watching the sun set at Phnom Bakheng. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Day 2: Siem Reap (B)
After breakfast spend the morning on an extensive tour of the magnificent 12thcentury Angkor Wat. In the afternoon continue to Srah Srang, Banteay Kdei, the fabulous Ta Prohm Temple, embraced by the roots of enormous fig trees and gigantic creepers and the small twin temples of Chau Say Tevoda and Thommanon. Overnight in Siem Reap. (B)

Day 3: Depart Siem Reap (B)
After breakfast depending on departure flight time choose between a tour of the Big Circuit comprising Pre Rup, East Mebon, Neak Poan and Preah Khan or a visit to the workshops of Artisans d'Angkor to see wood and stone carving or shop for souvenirs or take a boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake (best from July to February) before transferring to Siem Reap Airport for departure flight. (B) .

Rates range from $275.00 (standard class hotels) to $400.00 (deluxe class hotels) per person based on double occupancy basis.

Note: This tour includes a 3-day Angkor Temple Pass.

ANGKOR DISCOVERY 4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS (ECAM/AD)

Day 1: Arrive Siem Reap (B)
Cambodia photograph Arrive Siem Reap. Meet your guide and transfer to hotel. Siem Reap is the base for exploring the fabled temples of Angkor, the ancient capital of the Khmer empire. Transfer to hotel on arrival before visiting the Roluos Group of temples including Preah Ko, Ba Kong, and Lo Lei. In the afternoon visit the magnificent 12th century Angkor Wat. Return to hotel after watching the sun set over Angkor Wat. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Day 2: Siem Reap (B)
An early start to catch the sunrise (optional). Return to the hotel for breakfast. A morning tour of the temples includes the South Gate of Angkor Thom, the famous Bayon, Baphoun, the Terrace of Elephants, and Terrace of the Leper King. 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. The day ends with a sunset at Phnom Bakheng. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Day 3: Siem Reap (B)
After breakfast visit Banteay Srei, Kbal Spean (River of 1000 Lingas) and Banteay Samre. In the afternoon continue with Pre Rup, East Mebon, Ta Som, Neak Poan and Preah Khan. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Day 4: Depart Siem Reap (B)
After breakfast visit the workshops of Artisans d'Angkor to see wood and stone carving or shop for souvenirs or take a boat trip on the great lake, Tonle Sap, (July-February only) before transferring to Siem Reap Airport for onward departure flight.

Rates range from $325.00 (standard class hotels) to $505.00 (deluxe class hotels) per person based on double occupancy basis.

Note: This tour includes a 3-day Angkor Temple Pass

HIGHLIGHTS OF CAMBODIA 4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS (ECAM/HOC)

Day 1: Arrive Phnom Penh
Cambodia photograph 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. A city tour includes the National Museum, the Silver Pagoda, the Royal Palace and Wat Phnom. Overnight in Phnom Penh.

Day 2: Phnom Penh-Siem Reap
Transfer to Pochentong Airport after breakfast for the morning flight to Siem Reap. Siem Reap is the base for exploring the fabled temples of Angkor, the ancient capital of the Khmer empire. A tour of the temples includes the South Gate of Angkor Thom, the famous Bayon, Baphoun, the Terrace of Elephants, Terrace of the Leper King, and Phimean Akas. In the afternoon visit the magnificent 12th century Angkor Wat. Return to hotel after watching the sun set over Angkor Wat. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Day 3: Siem Reap
A second day to explore the wondrous ancient ruins starting with the "Grand Circuit" in the morning taking in Prasat Kravan, Pre Rup, East Mebon, Ta Som, Neak Poan and Preah Khan. In the afternoon continue to Srah Srang, Bantey Kdei, Ta Keo, Chau Say Tevoda, Thammanon, and the fabulous Ta Prohm Temple, embraced by the roots of enormous fig trees and gigantic creepers. The day ends with a spectacular sunset at Phnom Bakheng. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Day 4: Depart Siem Reap
An early start to catch the sunrise at Angkor Wat. Return to the hotel for breakfast. Choice of additional temple sightseeing, visiting the workshops of Artisans d'Angkor to see wood and stone carving or shop for souvenirs before transferring to Siem Reap Airport for onward departure flight.

Rates range from $430.00 (standard class hotels) to $575.00 (deluxe class hotels) per person based on double occupancy basis.

Sihanoukville Beach Break 4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS

A wonderful way to unwind after Angkor.

'The beach was pristine, with not many people (yet)."
— K. Secka, Jan 2005.

Rates starting from $265.00 (standard) to $375.00 (superior) that includes 3 nights hotel accommodation based on double occupancy basis, round trip transfers from Phnom Penh (#3.50 hr drive each way).