14 Days to Discover the Real Cambodia include a 4 days self drive jeep tour

Step off the plane in Cambodia and breathe in the warm Asian air. Your Cambodian adventure starts now! We'll whisk you away to your hotel, where a refreshing welcome drink awaits, along with a friendly member of our team. Think of them as your personal genie – ready to answer your every question and unlock the magic of Cambodia. The rest of the day is your canvas to paint. Unwind by the pool with a tropical cocktail in hand, letting the Cambodian sunshine melt away any travel blues. Or, if your adventurous spirit is already calling, dive headfirst into the vibrant heart of Siem Reap. The temples, the markets, the bustling streets – it's all waiting to be discovered.

This morning, we prioritize relaxation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and a refreshing dip in the hotel's beautiful swimming pool, the perfect antidote to jetlag. Feeling recharged? Take a stroll through Siem Reap's vibrant city center, soaking up the local atmosphere. After lunch (not included), your friendly guide will whisk you away to the Angkor National Museum. This insightful visit provides the perfect introduction to the incredible temples you'll explore tomorrow. Immerse yourself in Cambodia's rich history and culture through captivating exhibits. Next, we head to a fascinating workshop in Satcha. Witness skilled artisans showcase their traditional Cambodian crafts firsthand. You'll be amazed by the meticulous techniques used to create these beautiful products, many of which will be available for purchase. Afterward, we'll return you to the hotel for a moment of rest before the evening's grand finale. Tonight, you'll be captivated by Phare, a must-see performance in Siem Reap. This vibrant spectacle weaves together traditional and contemporary Cambodian dance, music, and acrobatics for an unforgettable experience.

Start your day fueled by breakfast, then buckle up for an unforgettable ride! Climb aboard a colorful tuk-tuk, Cambodia's iconic open-air taxi. This exhilarating journey will whisk you away to Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of humanity's greatest achievements. Prepare to be speechless. Angkor Wat, dating back to the 12th century, is a masterpiece of Khmer architecture. Intricate sculptures adorn its walls, and a mystical aura hangs in the air. Be awestruck by its sheer scale and captivating beauty. After exploring this wonder, we'll take a refreshing break to recharge. Then, a short drive takes us to Angkor Thom, another impressive temple complex. Here, the Bayon temple awaits, its 54 enigmatic four-headed Buddha statues offering a unique and unforgettable photo opportunity. Our final adventure of the day leads us to Ta Phrom, a captivating temple where nature reigns supreme. Towering trees and gigantic roots intertwine with the ancient stone blocks, creating a hauntingly beautiful scene. This enriching day filled with awe-inspiring sights will leave you breathless. Return to your hotel for some well-deserved relaxation, with memories that will last a lifetime.

Embark on a captivating cultural journey today, starting with a visit to Theams's Gallery. This isn't just a gallery; it's the home and studio of acclaimed Cambodian artist Lim Muy Theam. Step through a series of breathtaking pavilions, each a sanctuary of serenity and a window into Khmer culture at its finest. Immerse yourself in Theam's impressive private collection of local artifacts, each piece a story waiting to be told. Next, prepare to be humbled and inspired by a visit to Apopo. Witness firsthand the extraordinary work they do in humanitarian mine clearing. Learn how these heroes, the African-born HeroRATs, are trained to save lives. See these incredible creatures in action and gain a deeper understanding of Cambodia's struggle with landmines and the remarkable work of Apopo. For your third experience, step into the heart of a Cambodian home. Prepare a delicious meal alongside a local family – a truly immersive experience, this is not a cooking class. Learn the secrets of traditional Cambodian cuisine as you work together, or simply observe the family's culinary magic at work. Afterward, savor your creation together, enjoying an authentic Cambodian lunch and fostering a deeper connection with local culture.
The afternoon is yours to unwind. However, by 5:30 PM, get ready for an unforgettable foodie adventure! Hop aboard a vintage jeep and embark on a guided tour through Siem Reap's vibrant culinary landscape. Sample a mind-boggling array of local delicacies at over 76different venues, immersing yourself in the city's unique flavors and traditions. Raise a toast with the locals and create memories that will linger long after your trip.

We leave Siem Reap town with our vintage jeep and set out to the beautiful countryside . It is going to be a nice and peaceful ride which is flat all throughout. We will stop by the local fish market on the way where you can observe traditional Khmer fish trade, a daily event. After cycling, we take a small break for some cool refreshment before continuing on to the next part of the trip. We then resume our journey with the visit of one of the most impressive floating villages in Cambodia, Kampong Kleang. When we arrive at the village, we will board a boat and head out in exploration of the floating village. At lunch time, we will take you to a stilt house in the village to share a typical Khmer lunch with very friendly locals. In the afternoon we continue our way to Kampong Thom. We will have a stop in Kampong Kdei and you visit an ancient Angkor bridge. In the late afternoon you will check in your hotel.

After a delicious breakfast, we will drive our jeeps through the beautiful Cambodian countryside to our first stop of the day. We will stop to see some truly impressive carvings. From huge blocks of stone, sometimes up to 8 meters tall, the stonemason chisels and carves some extremely impressive sculptures. The sheer amount of detail that goes into some of his work is extraordinary and you will have plenty of time to admire his work. We continue our scenic drive to our second stop for the day and visit a local rubber plantation. Here you will learn more about the workings of the local rubber industry, how the latex is collected, cleaned and dried before being shipped to an outside rubber factory. After this excursion, we will take a ferry north of Stung Trong and cross the mighty Mekong River. It is the twelfth longest river in the world and flows from the heights of the Tibetan Plateau to the South China Sea, some 4,500 km from its source. It is the lifeblood of many people, and its impressive size and power can only be experienced firsthand. On the east side of the Mekong is the old French colonial town of Chloung. In this peaceful and traditional town, we will spend the night in the former governor’s mansion built in 1916, where we can experience Cambodia’s colonial past first hand.

We drive our jeeps along the banks of the Mekong River and pass some of the Muslim Cham villages. These were formed when the Cham fled the Vietnamese conquest and stayed in their new homeland, adding a new dimension to the area. At Kampi, 12 km north of Kratie, we board the boat to try to spot the Irrawaddy Dolphins. These rare, endangered freshwater dolphins live in a beautiful section of the Mekong River near a small rapids. The chance of seeing them playing in the rapids is very high, so have your camera ready. After Kampi, we will head back to Kratie where we will take a ferry to Koh Trong Island. With a local guide, you will explore this island paradise by bike and get explanations about the way of life of the inhabitants and the products that are grown there. Back on the mainland we drive back to Chloung with our jeeps.

Leaving Chloung after breakfast, you will follow the path of the mighty Mekong towards the city of Kampong Cham. If we are lucky we can drive over the Bamboo Bridge to Koh Pen island. In Kampong Cham we visit Wat Nokor. This temple is believed to have been the headquarters of Jayavarman VII for a time, from where he extended his influence over nearby principalities. We continue our way along the mekong and drive through small quaint villages. The last stretch to Phnom Penh is via Highway 4. In the afternoon, you arrive in the capital where you say goodbye to your guide and support team. Being able to drive a jeep through Cambodia for 3 days is quite an experience and an adventure to remember.

Prepare to be transported through Phnom Penh's history this morning. Climb aboard a traditional Khmer cyclo, a bicycle-powered tuk-tuk, and feel the city's vibrant energy thrum beneath you. Our first stop is a dazzling display of Khmer architecture: the awe-inspiring Royal Palace. Marvel at its intricate details and soak in the grandeur of this majestic complex. Next, we embark on a short climb to Wat Phnom, the namesake of Phnom Penh itself. This tranquil pagoda perched atop a 35-meter hill offers a peaceful respite amidst the city's buzz. Keep an eye out for playful monkeys frolicking in the shade of the surrounding trees. As we continue our journey, prepare for a more somber experience. We'll visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former detention and torture center that offers a chilling yet crucial glimpse into Cambodia's turbulent past. Our final stop is Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields. This somber memorial site serves as a powerful reminder of the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge regime. While undoubtedly disturbing, these visits are essential for understanding the resilience of the Cambodian people and their unwavering spirit as they move towards a brighter future.

After breakfast, your driver will whisk you away from Phnom Penh, heading first to the Sihanoukville boat pier. From there, you'll embark on a scenic journey by boat, cruising towards the captivating Koh Rong Island. Prepare to be dazzled as you approach this tropical paradise. Pristine white sand beaches fringed with swaying palm trees and crystal-clear turquoise waters await. This island escape promises endless relaxation under the sun, refreshing dips in the ocean, and unforgettable moments spent soaking up the beauty of your surroundings.

Sink your toes into the warm sand and feel the ocean breeze caress your skin. Let the day unfold at your own pace.

Optional tours: Go snorkeling or diving: The waters around Koh Rong are home to a variety of marine life, making it a great place for snorkeling and diving. You can see coral reefs, tropical fish, and even turtles.

Sink your toes into the warm sand and feel the ocean breeze caress your skin. Let the day unfold at your own pace.

Optional tours: Explore the island: Koh Rong is a relatively small island, but there is still plenty to explore. You can rent a motorbike or scooter and explore the island's interior, or visit some of the villages.

Wave goodbye to your island paradise as you board the scenic ferry back to the mainland. Feel the refreshing sea spray kiss your skin and savor the captivating coastal views one last time. Breathe deeply, capturing the salty essence of the ocean and the swaying palms forever in your memory. Back on land, your driver awaits to whisk you away on a journey through Cambodia's ever-changing tapestry. Lush rice paddies unfurl like emerald carpets, bustling towns thrum with life, and serene countryside vistas soothe the soul. As Phnom Penh, Cambodia's vibrant capital, comes into view, prepare to be energized by its dynamic pulse. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and unwind after your island adventure. The city awaits your exploration! Delve into its rich history, tantalize your taste buds with Cambodian delicacies, or simply wander the bustling streets, soaking up the unique atmosphere. With one final evening in Phnom Penh, the possibilities are endless. Make it yours.

After 14 incredible days, we hope you're brimming with beautiful memories and a heart full of Cambodia's magic. We know this captivating country has left an indelible mark, and we trust you'll carry a piece of it with you wherever you go. Remember, Cambodia's wonders are endless, and we'd be honored to welcome you back for another adventure anytime. Until then... Farewell travelers! A private transfer awaits to whisk you comfortably to Phnom Penh Airport. May your journey home be safe and smooth, filled with the warm glow of your unforgettable Cambodian adventure.