The Grand Traverse: Cambodia in 8 Days

Adventure Journey : Family Adventure Holidays

Overview

Journey the spine of Cambodia on this immersive 8-day Grand Traverse, connecting the vibrant capital of Phnom Penh with the ancient wonder of Siem Reap. This tour is perfectly balanced, offering a profound exploration of Khmer history, from the poignant sites of the recent past to the millennia-old temples of Angkor. We travel through the heart of the country, stopping to seek out the rare Irrawaddy Dolphins on the Mekong River and wander the serene, pre-Angkorian ruins of Sambor Prei Kuk. Experience the bustling markets of Phnom Penh, the spiritual majesty of Angkor Wat, and the unique floating communities on Tonlé Sap Lake. A perfect package for travelers seeking historical depth and diverse landscapes in a concise week-long adventure.

Highlight

  • Historical Reflections: Visit the essential and moving sites of Choeung Ek (Killing Fields) and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh.
  • Mekong River Wildlife: Undertake a special boat trip on the Mekong River near Kratie to spot the endangered Irrawaddy Freshwater Dolphins.
  • Angkor's Iconography: Explore the magnificent Angkor Wat, the serene faces of Bayon, and the embracing roots of Ta Prohm.
  • Pre-Angkorian Serenity: Wander the ancient, atmospheric brick temples of Sambor Prei Kuk, a peaceful UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Royal & Cultural Core: Discover Phnom Penh's opulent Royal Palace, the glittering Silver Pagoda, and the artifacts of the National Museum.
  • Life on the Water: Experience the unique resilience of the floating communities during a boat trip on Tonlé Sap Lake.

Itinerary

  • Day 1: Phnom Penh – Arrival & Capital Vibes

    Arrive at Airport. Meet your private guide and transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to explore the city's riverside or markets at your leisure.

    included meals :
    Accommodation : Sim Boutique Hotel or similar
  • Day 2: Phnom Penh – History & Majesty
    A profound morning dedicated to history: visit the Choeung Ek Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21). In the afternoon, shift focus to culture, visiting the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, the National Museum, and Wat Phnom.
    included meals : Breakfast, Lunch
    Accommodation : Sim Boutique Hotel or similar
  • Day 3: Phnom Penh to Kratie – Mekong Gateway
    Journey northeast to Kratie. Stop in Kampong Cham, a former French trading post, to visit Wat Nokor, an interesting 11th-century temple structure. Continue to the sleepy riverside town of Kratie for a relaxing evening and a Mekong sunset.
    included meals : Breakfast, Lunch
    Accommodation : Mekong Dolphin Hotel or similar
  • Day 4: Kratie – Dolphin Search & Village Life
    Explore the local Kratie market. In the afternoon, embark on a dedicated Mekong River Cruise at Kampi to search for the elusive Irrawaddy Dolphins. Later, visit Koh Trong Island to experience serene local village life.
    included meals : Breakfast, Lunch
    Accommodation : Mekong Dolphin Hotel or similar
  • Day 5: Kratie to Kampong Thom – Mountain Views
    A scenic drive through Cambodia's grasslands to Kampong Thom. Stop to climb Phnom Santuk Mountain for expansive, panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and rice fields. Afternoon at leisure.
    included meals : Breakfast, Lunch
    Accommodation : Kampong Thom Palace Hotel or similar
  • Day 6: Kampong Thom to Siem Reap – Ancient Passage
    Morning visit to Sambor Prei Kuk (UNESCO), the tranquil, ancient capital of the pre-Angkorian Chenla Kingdom. Continue the drive north to Siem Reap. Check-in and enjoy the evening at leisure.
    included meals : Breakfast, Lunch
    Accommodation : amatak boutique hotel or similar
  • Day 7: Siem Reap – Angkor
    A full day dedicated to the grandeur of the Khmer Empire. Explore Angkor Thom, including the faces of Bayon and the iconic roots of Ta Prohm. Conclude with the incomparable monument of Angkor Wat. Evening features a Khmer Buffet Dinner and Traditional Apsara Dance Show.
    included meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodation : amatak boutique hotel or similar
  • Day 8: Siem Reap – Tonle Sap Lake & Departure
    After breakfast, visit the Angkor National Museum (or Artisan's D'Angkor) for historical context. Take a boat trip on Tonlé Sap Lake to explore the unique floating villages. Transfer to Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI) for your departure flight.
    included meals : Breakfast

Trip Details

  • Guide
    • Escorted by English-speaking Tour guide
  • Transport
    • Private, Air-conditioned Transport, Cruise the Mekong River, Boat trips to the floating village – Tonle Sap tour
  • Entrance
    • Admission fees to sites stated in the itinerary
  • Accommodation
    • 7 nights accommodation in twin shared basis
  • Meal
    • 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 1 dinner with performance

More Information

Includes

  • Accommodation in twin shared basis
  • Private, Air-conditioned Transport
  • English speaking guide
  • Admission fees to sites stated in the itinerary
  • Meals: daily breakfast at hotel, 6 lunches at local restaurant and 1 dinner with performance
  • Cruise the Mekong River to spot the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins.
  • Boat trips to the floating village – Tonle Sap tour
  • Drinking water & Cool Towel served on tour

Not Includes

  • Visas and Immigration fees on arrival
  • Int’l air tickets to/from Cambodia
  • Travel and/or Medical Insurance (Strongly recommended)
  • Lunch or dinner unless stated in the itinerary
  • Single room accommodation (quoted separately)
  • Child or adult in triple share accommodation
  • Peak Season or Special Events Surcharges
  • Tip, drinks and other personal expenses
  • German, French, Spanish, Russian speaking tour guides are subject to availability with surcharge

The Grand Traverse: Cambodia in 8 Days

Cambodia

8 days 7 nights

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