Cambodia Essences

Breakfast at the hotel. This morning, we will visit the National Museum of Cambodia, which is a treasure trove of Khmer culture. Its collection of over 14,000 artifacts spans the prehistoric, pre-Angkorian, Angkorian, and post-Angkorian periods, providing a fascinating glimpse into the rich history and culture of this Southeast Asian nation. From the eight-armed statue of Vishnu from the 6th or 7th century to the sublime statue of Jayavarman VII seated in a meditative pose, the museum's exhibits are truly awe-inspiring. Our next stop is the Toul Sleng Genocidal Museum (S-21). The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is the memorial site of the S-21 interrogation and detention center of the Khmer Rouge regime. This afternoon, we will explore the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda, the official residence of the King of Cambodia. Gleaming in gold, the Royal Palace is one of Phnom Penh’s most splendid architectural achievements. The Royal Palace contains some spectacular buildings. Not least of which is the Throne Hall, situated to the left of the main entrance. It boasts a 59-meter tower. The tower roof is beautiful, having been decoratively tiered with golden colored tiles. The Silver Pagoda is located on the south side of the Royal Palace, which is covered with 5 tons of gleaming silver. You can sneak a peek at some of the 5000 tiles near the entrance, but most are covered for protection. Inside is a series of lavish Buddha statues made of precious metals. We pass through the riverfront park where 4 rivers meet at a junction, including the mystical Mekong. Walk up to sacred hill Phnom Daun Penh – also the name of a pagoda and the name of the capital nowadays. Last visit Central Market, a large market constructed in 1937 in the shape of a dome with four arms branching out into vast hallways with countless stalls of goods. Initial design and layouts are from French architect Louis Chauchon. Welcome dinner at a Cambodian Local restaurant.  Overnight in Phnom Penh.

Breakfast at the hotel and check out. You will then be transferred to Shihanoukville. Arrive at the Habour, board the ferry to Koh Rong Island. Make your own transfer to your resort on the island. Overnight in Koh Rong Island.

Breakfast at the hotel. The day is free for you to enjoy the beach or take part in water activities like Scuba Diving, Snorkeling,… (at your own expense). Overnight in Koh Rong.

Breakfast at the hotel. The day is free at your leisure until taking the ferry back to Shihanoukvile. You will then be transferred to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by the local tour guide and transferred to your hotel to check in. The rest of the day is free at your leisure, overnight in Siem Reap.

After breakfast, we explore the South Gate of Angkor Thom, known as Big Angkor, a 3km2 walled and moated royal city, and was the last capital of the Angkorian Empire. The famous Bayon Temple was an architectural muddle, in part because it was constructed in a somewhat piecemeal fashion for over a century. Terrace of the Elephants is an impressive, two-and-a-half-meter-tall, 300-meter-long terrace wall adorned with carved elephants and a gradual slope that spans the heart of Angkor Thom in front of Baphuon, a huge temple mountain in the heart of Angkor Thom, the Royal Palace Area and Phimeanakas - an impressive rite and sandstone pyramid. Terrace of the Leper King is at the north end of the Terrace of the Elephants, a double terrace wall with deeply carved nagas, demons and other mythological beings. Last visit to Ta Prohm temple, which is a wonderful combination of human genius and natural beauty. Giant trees have grown here for centuries. This afternoon we will visit Angkor Wat temple, Cambodia's ancient temple is one of the wonders of the oriental world. Masterpieces of decorative details as well as of architectural style, its awe-inspiring ruins survive as a testament to the spectacular achievements of Southeast Asia's greatest civilization. It is a replica of the universe according to the Hindu mythology. It is composed by Mount Meru, surrounded by the continents and the oceans. Its extraordinary bas-reliefs describe some Khmer epics and myths. Angkor Wat's five famous towers rise into the sky, a geometrical arrangement of numerous galleries, adorned with beliefs and the stone images of celestial Apsara dancers, as well as portals, chambers and courtyards. Enjoy the sunset at Phnom Bakheng, which rises almost 70 meters above the plain where the rest of the temples are located, giving magnificent views of Angkor. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Breakfast at the hotel. Begin your day with a scenic drive to Phnom Kulen National Park, one of Cambodia’s most sacred mountains and the birthplace of the ancient Khmer Empire. Your guide will explain the historical significance of Kulen, where King Jayavarman II declared independence from Java and founded the Khmer kingdom. Visit the famous River of a Thousand Lingas, where intricate carvings lie beneath the clear flowing water, symbolizing prosperity and fertility. Continue to the majestic 1000-year-old reclining Buddha atop the mountain, an important pilgrimage site for locals. You will also have time to enjoy the refreshing natural beauty of the Kulen Waterfall, one of the most beloved waterfalls in Cambodia. Afterward, travel to the exquisitely carved Banteay Srei Temple, often called the “Citadel of Women.” This 10th-century temple is renowned for its pink sandstone and exceptionally detailed bas-reliefs, considered some of the finest in the entire Angkor complex. Your guide will share stories behind the carvings, legends of Hindu mythology, and the architectural uniqueness that makes Banteay Srei one of the most celebrated temples in Cambodia. Return to Siem Reap in the late afternoon, with your guide accompanying you throughout the journey to provide cultural insights, historical context, and assistance as needed. Overnight in Siem Reap.

After breakfast, we visit Chong Kneas Floating Villages, located 10 kilometers south of Siem Reap. Take a ride in a traditional wooden boat on the Tonle Sap, the "Great Lake" of Cambodia and the largest in Asia. Here we will see plenty of examples of the Khmer way of life on the Tonle Sap. Back to Siem Reap, we visit Wat Bo, a highly respected pagoda founded in the 18th century, which contains very unique wall paintings of the Reamker (Ramayana) that are said to be from the late 19th century. We continue to Senteurs D'Angkor New Workshop (open from Monday to Friday, closed on Saturday and Sunday). Discover how the local artisans make by hand: soap with coconut oil, natural cosmetics, subtly scented balms, and aromatic candles. You will also observe the different steps to treat and prepare the local spices (Kampot pepper, lemongrass, chili…), and how people blend them to make the traditional curry or amok. During your visit, you will also be able to taste several of the local creations: flavored coffee, flavored tea, exotic jams… and identify various exotic plants and flowers as lemongrass, chili, pepper plant, coffee tree, frangipani, jasmine… End our visits at one of the city’s lively open markets, Psar Chars, also called the “Old Market”, where anything and everything is for sale. Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant while enjoying the traditional Apsara dance. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Breakfast at the hotel. Time at leisure or shopping until check out time and transfer to the airport for the departure flight back home.