Phnom Penh – Siem Reap: 8 days Self Drive Jeep Tour

Today is an exceptional day. Somewhere between Kirirom and Aural on a dirt road is a small tattoo shop. The owner is a master of the Yant tattoo. He learned this art in a pagoda in Siem Reap from a monk. To master this art takes years of study and dedication. Yant is a form of tattooing originally introduced by Khmer people of the Khmer Empire These tattoos are believed to give magical powers such as luck, money, good health, family, protection, etc. We continue our way and drive to the Hot Springs. What? are there hot springs in Cambodia? You would hardly believe it, but it is true. Cambodia has 1 hot spring and it is located in Kampong Speu province. Te Teuk Pus as these springs are called is located in the Aural district and the accessibility is not easy. The water temperature is 70 degrees and the people living here believe that this water brings luck and health. It is said to cure various illnesses and skin diseases.

Our accommodation is in Kirirom National Park and hidden between the pine trees. These trees were planted by order of King Sihanouk in the 1960s. Before we check in our accommodation for tonight , first The Coconut School is on the schedule. Not an ordinary school. The school is managed by Mr Vanday. He has an innate passion for education and a skill for innovative and creative construction. The students do not pay for anything, not even for the teachers’ fees. But they are required to bring recyclables and help Mr Vanday in keeping the school intact and orderly.

Leaving the refreshing landscapes of Kirirom National Park behind us, we climb back into our trusty jeeps. Today, an exhilarating journey awaits as we venture towards the majestic Cardamom Mountains, the road ahead winding gracefully through rolling hills. Our adventure will include the unique experience of fording four picturesque rivers, each presenting its own distinct charm and fantastic photo opportunities.

The initial leg of our drive will take us along the smooth expanse of the new Highway 48. However, our true exploration begins at Andeung Tuk, where we'll turn off the highway and delve deep into the heart of the Cardamom Mountains, our destination being the remote village of Chiphat. Before reaching this hidden gem, we'll enjoy a scenic river crossing by ferry boat, adding another layer to our adventure.

Historically, the terrain between Chiphat and Areang was considered impassable, defying even the efforts of motorbikes. But recently, a new dirt road has been carved through this challenging landscape, offering an exciting and exclusive jeep trail. While reaching this area requires a bit of effort, those who are keen can seize the opportunity to trek to a hidden waterfall nestled deep within the lush jungle.

As the late afternoon sun casts long shadows, we'll arrive at the tranquil Kravanh La Vallee. Here, you'll settle into comfortable safari tents, immersing yourselves in the natural surroundings. The inviting restaurant, conveniently located beside the gently flowing river, will be the perfect place to unwind and share stories of our day's discoveries.

We wave goodbye to Kravanh La Vallee, and adventure calls us further into the Cardamom Mountains, where our jeeps feel right at home. Not long ago, this area was impenetrable for regular cars. Since 2013, we've been braving the dusty dirt roads here with our jeeps, with a 150-kilometer journey taking almost a full day – a true expedition!

Now, a brand new, smooth asphalt road winds its way from Koh Kong to Battambang. But don't let that fool you! For us, the thrill of traversing this breathtaking landscape in our jeeps remains as strong as ever. We consider this one of the absolute gems of Cambodia. And believe it or not, we've still discovered some fantastic off-road routes that make our hearts beat faster.

Especially the final leg of the journey to your accommodation is a real treat for the adventurer in us. With our vintage jeeps, we rumble along narrow dirt tracks, past sprawling plantations and through picturesque villages – an authentic experience! Our destination for tonight is a unique place, strategically built on a hilltop. Prepare yourself for a spectacular view of the surroundings, a reward after this exhilarating day.

Embark on an expedition in a vintage jeep. Our vintage jeeps are ready to take you on an unforgettable adventure. Just like Henri Mouhot, who rediscovered the temples of Angkor in 1863, you too can begin your own expedition in a vintage jeep. Leaving Siem Reap, we'll catch a final glimpse of Angkor before venturing off the beaten path. We'll turn onto a tiny, sandy track that's impossible for buses or tuk-tuks to navigate. Our jeeps will carve a path through rice paddies and palm trees. And then, suddenly, a laterite stone wall will appear, revealing a hidden temple deep in the jungle. This temple has stood for over a thousand years, weathering the test of time. Explore its ancient halls and feel like Indiana Jones or Lara Croft.

In the afternoon you will visit the talismanic temple of Angkor Wat, the biggest of all the temples, which has survived the sands of time and remained in marvelous condition. Here you will be able to marvel at its dominating towers and sheer presence, as you take your rime walking around inside. Next you will continue to Angkor Thom, with the spectacular Bayon temple. Here 54 intricate and visually stunning four-headed Buddha statues will eye you as you walk round this quite magnificently preserved temple, truly one of the most impressive sights of the temple complex.

The final journey of your trip in Cambodia will be a private transfer to the airport in Siem Reap to catch your flight. We hope that you have enjoyed a wonderful trip through this truly beautiful country, and that you are leaving with happy memories which will last a lifetime. Cambodia has so much more still to offer, and we would be delighted to welcome you back anytime to show you more of this fantastic country and its charming people. If your flight departs later in the afternoon you will have the opportunity to visit the Angkor National Museum, Theams Gallery or Apopo Hero Rats.