Ontdek Cambodja 17 daagse privérondreis met gids langs erfgoed, hooglanden en wilde dieren

After breakfast at the hotel, begin your day with a visit to the earliest temples of Angkor, which marked the first capital city of the Khmer Empire in the 9th century. Explore some of the oldest and most historically significant temples at Lo Lei, Preah Ko and Bakong Temples. These temples represent the beginnings of the Angkorian architectural style and are among the richest in historical and cultural value.

Next, continue to Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, and visit Kampong Phluk, considered one of the most beautiful floating villages on the lake.

Take a boat tour to experience the authentic daily life of the local fishing communities. Most homes are built on stilts up to 10 meters high, while others float on bamboo rafts or boats. This unique environment showcases a way of life completely adapted to seasonal water levels.

Tonle Sap Lake is globally unique due to its reversible water flow during the green season, the Mekong River feeds into the lake, while in the high season, the water flows back into the Mekong River.

After exploring the village, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before the afternoon, visit:

• Wat Bo Pagoda, one of the oldest Buddhist pagodas in Siem Reap
• Artisans Angkor, a center dedicated to preserving traditional Khmer arts and crafts
• Royal Residence Park, a peaceful public garden area near the King's residence

Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure. Overnight in Siem Reap.

Your tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel lobby for an unforgettable visit to the Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since December 14, 1992.

Begin your day with the spectacular sunrise at Angkor Wat, where the rising sun casts a golden glow behind the temple’s iconic towers, one of the most iconic views in Southeast Asia. After the sunrise, explore the majestic Angkor Wat complex, the largest religious monument in the world and a masterpiece of Khmer architecture. Return to your hotel for breakfast and a short rest.

Continue your journey to the ancient walled city of Angkor Thom through its impressive South Gate. Inside, visit:

• Bayon Temple, famous for its serene stone faces
• Baphuon Temple, a pyramidal structure symbolizing Mount Meru
• Phimeanakas, the royal temple within the former palace grounds
• Terrace of the Elephants and Terrace of the Leper King, used for royal ceremonies and adorned with intricate carvings

Next, visit Ta Nei, a quiet, jungle-covered temple off the beaten path. Then proceed to the world-famous Ta Prohm, also known as the Tomb Raider Temple. Left in much the same condition as it was found, Ta Prohm is wrapped in massive tree roots, evoking the mystery of Angkor’s hidden past when it lay lost to the jungle for centuries.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near the temple complex.

After lunch, visit Banteay Kdei, a serene temple with Buddhist monastic halls, followed by Srah Srang, once used as a royal bathing pool.

Return to your hotel to relax after a full day of exploration. Overnight in Siem Reap.

After breakfast at your hotel, depart for a full-day adventure to Phnom Kulen National Park, located north of the Angkor temple complex. Phnom Kulen holds great spiritual and historical significance, it was the quarry site for the sandstone used to build many of the Angkor temples during the Khmer Empire.

Your vehicle will drive up to the top of Phnom Kulen Mountain, where you'll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding jungle landscape. Visit several key highlights at the summit:

• Poeng Ta Kho (Amazing Cliff): a dramatic cliffside viewpoint offering stunning vistas
• The Reclining Buddha: the largest reclining Buddha in Cambodia, intricately carved into a massive natural sandstone boulder within a Buddhist monastery

Continue to the River of a Thousand Lingas, where ancient carvings of sacred Hindu symbols have been etched into the riverbed. Nearby, visit Phnom Kulen Waterfall, the largest in the area, and a popular spot for swimming and relaxing in the refreshing waters believed to be sacred.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near the waterfall.

In the afternoon, visit the exquisite Banteay Srei Temple, often called the "Crown Jewel of Khmer Art". Built from pink sandstone, the temple is famed for its detailed and delicate carvings, unique in both style and preservation.

Next, explore a local village, where you can observe traditional rural life and perhaps see the making of palm sugar or handmade crafts.

End the day with a visit to Pre Rup Temple to enjoy a beautiful sunset view over the surrounding plains, a peaceful and atmospheric way to close your day.

Return to your hotel in Siem Reap. Overnight in Siem Reap.

After breakfast at your hotel, depart from Siem Reap for a full-day overland journey to Preah Vihear, with visits to some of Cambodia’s most remarkable and historically significant temples along the way.

Your first stop is the mysterious Beng Mealea Temple, hidden deep in the jungle. Built in the same period and style as Angkor Wat by King Suryavarman II, this temple remains largely unrestored, giving visitors the feeling of a true jungle rediscovery. Its ruined corridors and overgrown towers are reminiscent of how French explorer Henri Mouhot might have felt when he rediscovered Angkor in 1860.

Continue your journey to Koh Ker, a 10th-century capital of the Khmer Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This remote and powerful archaeological site features a series of unique and lesser-known temples, including:

• Prasat Thom: Cambodia’s first pyramid temple, with seven impressive tiers
• Linga Pura: featuring massive lingas symbolizing Shiva
• Prasat Pram: a photogenic temple famously overgrown with giant tree roots

After exploring Koh Ker, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, visit the awe-inspiring Preah Vihear Temple, built in the 10th century on top of the Dangrek Mountain Range, near the Cambodia–Thailand border. This temple was uniquely constructed using the natural mountain as its foundation, offering breathtaking views over both countries.

Preah Vihear was officially inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site on July 7, 2008. The temple’s dramatic location, religious significance, and architecture make it one of Cambodia’s most powerful and sacred sites.

After your visit, continue to the city for hotel check-in. Overnight in Preah Vihear.

After breakfast at the hotel, depart Preah Vihear and travel toward Kampong Thom, stopping along the way to explore two of Cambodia’s most impressive and historically significant temple sites.

Your first visit is to Preah Khan Kampong Svay, the largest temple complex in Cambodia, four times the size of Angkor Wat, covering an area of approximately 5 square kilometers. 

This vast and remote archaeological site includes: Four enclosure walls, a central sanctuary, Ancient barays (water reservoirs), Various ceremonial buildings and basins. 

Despite limited restoration, the temple remains largely in its natural, overgrown state, offering a peaceful and adventurous atmosphere far from the crowds of the main Angkor complex. For those who make the journey, it is a rewarding and unforgettable experience.

After exploring the site, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Continue your journey to visit Sambor Prei Kuk, one of the pre-Angkorian capital cities of the Chenla Kingdom, dating back to the 6th–7th centuries. This ancient city is located deep in the jungle and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017.

The complex consists of three main temple groups, each with its own distinct character: Prasat Sambor Group, Lion Temple Group, Prasat Yeay Poeun Group.

Wander through the forest paths, where towering trees grow through and around the ancient brick structures, creating a mystical atmosphere reminiscent of early Khmer civilization.

After the visit, continue to Kampong Thom city for hotel check-in. Overnight in Kampong Thom.

After breakfast at the hotel, depart Kampong Thom for Kratie, with several cultural and scenic stops along the way.

Begin your journey with a visit to a local stone-cutting village, where skilled artisans craft intricate sculptures, statues, and traditional carvings using ancient techniques passed down through generations.

Continue to Phnom Santuk, one of Kampong Thom’s most significant natural and cultural attractions, located in the heart of Cambodia. Climb the staircase to the top of the hill to enjoy panoramic views and discover sacred shrines, reclining Buddha statues, and colorful pagodas nestled into the landscape.

After the visit, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant along the way.

Resume your journey, passing through Cambodia’s largest rubber tree plantation and vast fruit-growing regions, offering spectacular views of the countryside as you approach the Mekong River.

Visit Wat Rokar Kandal Chas, one of the oldest pagodas in the region. This serene, riverside temple offers a peaceful atmosphere and insights into Khmer religious life and architecture.

Continue onward to Kratie, a quiet and charming town located along the banks of the Mekong River. Known for its laid-back vibe and natural beauty, Kratie is the perfect destination to unwind and connect with local life. Overnight in Kratie.

After breakfast at your hotel, take a ferry across the Mekong River to Koh Trong Island, a peaceful and picturesque island about 7 km long, known for its traditional way of life and lush fruit orchards.

Explore the island by Tuk-Tuk or bicycle, stopping to visit traditional wooden Khmer houses and meet local families. Take the opportunity to chat with residents and gain insight into their daily lives, customs, and livelihoods. Koh Trong is especially known for its grapefruit orchards, and you'll have a chance to taste fresh, juicy grapefruits grown right on the island.

After your tour of the island, return by boat to Kratie city and explore the town's attractions. Visit the local market, the largest in Kratie, surrounded by historic colonial-era buildings. This area is currently under consideration as a future UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its cultural significance and architecture.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then continue your journey with visits to:

• Bamboo Cake Village to see how locals make Krolanh, a traditional Cambodian sticky rice cake cooked in bamboo, and a beloved national symbol
• Wat Sor Sor Moury Rory, an ancient monastery located outside the city, rich with history and peaceful ambiance
• Phnom Sambok, a small hilltop temple overlooking the Mekong River with spiritual significance and panoramic views

In the late afternoon, travel to the famous Irrawaddy dolphin viewing site. These rare freshwater dolphins are found only in the Mekong River, primarily in Cambodia. Take a boat ride at sunset, the best time to watch the dolphins in their natural habitat while enjoying the serene beauty of the Mekong.

After this magical experience, return to your hotel. Overnight in Kratie.

After breakfast at the hotel, depart from Kratie for Krong Banlung, the capital city of Ratanakiri Province, one of Cambodia’s most renowned eco-tourism destinations known for its unspoiled nature, waterfalls, and indigenous culture.

En route, stop in Stung Treng City to visit Sopheakmit Waterfall, the largest waterfall along the Upper Mekong River in Cambodia. Located near the Cambodia–Laos border, this breathtaking natural site offers a chance to relax, breathe in the fresh air, and take in the powerful sounds and sights of cascading water.

Surrounded by natural beauty, Sopheakmit is a popular destination for both local and international visitors and is considered one of the most scenic spots in the region.

After enjoying the waterfall, stop for lunch at a local restaurant nearby.

Continue the journey to Krong Banlung, the provincial capital of Ratanakiri, located in northeastern Cambodia. Known for its dense forests, rolling hills, and vibrant indigenous communities, Ratanakiri offers a peaceful and authentic escape into Cambodia’s wild, natural side. Overnight in Ratanakiri.

After breakfast at your hotel, begin your full-day exploration of Ratanakiri Province, a hidden gem in northeastern Cambodia known for its rugged natural beauty, ethnic diversity, and eco-tourism experiences. This region is ideal for travelers seeking authentic cultural encounters and outdoor adventures.

Start your journey with a visit to Bokheo, a locality famous for its gem mining. Here, you may have the opportunity to watch gem miners in action, digging and sifting for semi-precious stones such as zircon and garnet. This fascinating glimpse into local livelihoods offers insight into one of the province’s traditional industries.

Continue to a nearby ethnic minority village, home to some of Ratanakiri’s diverse indigenous communities. The province is known for its rich tapestry of tribal cultures, including the Tampuan, Kreung, and Jarai peoples. Most cultural festivals and traditions here are celebrated in small village settings and follow deeply rooted ancestral customs. You'll enjoy lunch in the village, providing a rare and intimate opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their daily life, traditions, and beliefs.

Conclude the day with a visit to the local market in Banlung, where you can browse handmade crafts, traditional clothing, and locally produced goods. Unlike larger, tourist-focused markets, Banlung’s market offers an authentic and unfiltered glimpse into the daily commerce of the region. It’s the perfect place to pick up meaningful souvenirs and connect with the local rhythm of life.

After the market visit, return to your hotel. Overnight in Ratanakiri.

After breakfast at your hotel in Krong Banlung (Ratanakiri), depart for Krong Saen Monourom, the capital of Mondulkiri Province, Cambodia’s largest yet most sparsely populated province. This eastern region is renowned for its untouched natural beauty, forested mountains, cascading waterfalls, and rolling green hills.

En route, stop to visit the magnificent Bousra Waterfall, one of the most impressive and iconic waterfalls in Cambodia. This three-tiered cascade features: An upper drop of 12 meters, a powerful middle tier of 20 meters, a lesser-known lower tier of 4 meters.

Surrounded by thick jungle and cliffs, Bousra offers breathtaking views and is a favorite destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.

After enjoying the scenery, continue to a local restaurant for lunch.

In the afternoon, continue your journey to Sen Monorom, the charming and quiet town nestled in the hills of Mondulkiri. Still largely undeveloped and untouched by mass tourism, Sen Monorom is considered an ideal base for eco-tourism and outdoor adventures.

The region is also home to diverse hill tribe communities, whose traditional lifestyles remain preserved and authentic, offering a rare opportunity for cultural immersion far from the crowds.

Arrive in town and check in at your hotel. Overnight in Mondulkiri.

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the trekking area in Mondulkiri, where you will spend the day immersed in nature and wildlife conservation. This experience is part of an Elephant and Wildlife Conservation Project, aimed at protecting Cambodia’s natural heritage and supporting sustainable tourism.

Begin your journey by trekking through the jungle, accompanied by experienced guides. The trail passes through lush forests, remote minority villages, and beautiful waterfalls, offering opportunities to connect with both the environment and local indigenous communities.

During the trek, enjoy a picnic lunch in the heart of the jungle, surrounded by nature. Along the way, you may spot local wildlife and learn about the ongoing efforts to protect wild elephants and their natural habitat through community-based conservation programs.

This unique experience not only provides a deeper appreciation for Cambodia’s rich biodiversity but also supports the well-being of both the wildlife and the local people.

After the trek, transfer back to your hotel. Overnight in Mondulkiri.

After breakfast at your hotel in Krong Saen Monorom, depart for Kampong Cham, one of Cambodia’s most historic and charming provincial capitals. The drive takes you through a scenic countryside dotted with traditional villages, offering glimpses of daily rural life and potential spontaneous stops for photography or cultural interaction.

Kampong Cham, the third-largest city in Cambodia, is set along the banks of the Mekong River. Known for its peaceful atmosphere, wide riverside boulevards, and colonial-era architecture, the city offers a slower pace that highlights authentic Cambodian charm.

Before arriving in Kampong Cham, make a stop at Phnom Han Chey, a sacred hill located along the Mekong River, just north of the city. This site is home to a fascinating blend of ancient pre-Angkorian ruins and modern-day pagodas.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before visiting the main vihara of Wat Han Chey, located at the summit of the hill and offering breathtaking panoramic views over the Mekong.

A highlight here is a unique square sandstone cellar, believed to date back to the 7th century, making it one of the few remaining pre-Angkorian structures in the region. Notable features include: 

• Well-defined carvings around the doorway
• A rare lintel displaying two reclining Vishnu figures, unusually shown without Ananta (the serpent), flanked by three medallion motifs
• Insight into early Khmer religious art and symbolism

After exploring the site, continue your journey to Kampong Cham city and check in to your hotel. Overnight in Kampong Cham.

After breakfast at your hotel, begin your full-day journey with a visit to Koh Pen Island, a picturesque island in the Mekong River just outside Kampong Cham. Known for its natural beauty and cultural authenticity, Koh Pen is surrounded by lush farmland, traditional Khmer villages, and scenic river views.

Explore the village life on the island, where locals continue to practice age-old traditions such as:

• Fishing and crafting traditional fishing tools
• Farming in rich Mekong soil
• Weaving and handicrafts, passed down through generations

This peaceful island offers visitors a glimpse into the real rural lifestyle of Cambodia’s river communities.

Continue your journey with a visit to Dei Dos Monastery, located near the famous bamboo bridge (seasonally accessible). The temple’s peaceful ambiance and beautiful surroundings make it a perfect place for reflection and photography.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, experiencing local Khmer cuisine before afternoon visits:

• Wat Nokor Bachey Temple: A fascinating temple complex that combines pre-Angkorian and later architectural elements, rich with historical significance.
• Phnom Bros and Phnom Srey: Two hills with temples that play a key role in Khmer folklore and are culturally tied to traditional Khmer wedding customs.
• Cheung Kok Eco-Village: A model of sustainable community tourism. This community of farmers and artisans offers visitors a chance to learn about traditional livelihoods, explore eco-friendly practices, and connect with locals. Guests are often invited into traditional Khmer homes, providing a unique and respectful cultural exchange.

After a full day of exploration, return to your hotel. Overnight in Kampong Cham.

After breakfast at your hotel in Kampong Cham, begin your overland journey toward to Phnom Penh. Today’s route offers a wonderful mix of cultural experiences, local flavors, and scenic countryside views.

As you travel, enjoy passing through many traditional Cambodian villages, with opportunities to take in the charming rural landscapes, rice paddies, and local life along the way.

Your first stop will be at the famous spider market in Skun, known for its unusual local delicacy, fried tarantulas. Explore the vibrant market and, if you’re adventurous, try some of the unique snacks that have made Skun internationally known.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant en route, sampling authentic Cambodian cuisine.

After lunch, continue to Oudong, the former royal capital of Cambodia between 1618 and 1866. Climb the hill to explore ancient stupas, Buddhist shrines, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Oudong mountain is a spiritually significant site and a peaceful place to walk and reflect.

Nearby, visit the Sontte Wan Meditation Center, the largest Buddhist meditation center in Cambodia. With its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere, it provides insight into Cambodia’s living Buddhist traditions.

After the visit, continue your journey to Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital city. Overnight in Phnom Penh.

After breakfast at your hotel, begin a full-day guided exploration of Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s vibrant capital city and one of the country’s key economic and political hubs. Known for its blend of French colonial charm, Khmer heritage, and modern urban life, Phnom Penh offers a rich cultural experience.

Start the day by visiting two of the most significant and sobering historical sites related to Cambodia's recent past:

• Choeung Ek Genocide Center (The Killing Fields): Learn about the tragic events of the Khmer Rouge regime (1975–1979) at this deeply moving memorial site located just outside the city.
• Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21 Prison): A former high school turned interrogation and torture center during the Khmer Rouge era. Your professional guide will provide valuable historical insights into one of Cambodia’s darkest chapters.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, offering traditional Cambodian cuisine before afternoon explore Royal and Cultural Highlights

• Royal Palace:  Visit the official residence of the Cambodian royal family, featuring classic Khmer architecture and elegant pavilions.
• Silver Pagoda: Located within the Royal Palace grounds, it is home to priceless national treasures, including the Emerald Buddha and a floor made of over 5,000 silver tiles.
• Independence Monument: Built in 1958 to commemorate Cambodia’s independence from France.
• Statue of King Father Norodom Sihanouk: Honoring the revered former king and father of Cambodian independence.
• Wat Phnom: The spiritual heart of the city, and the historical site where Phnom Penh was founded.
• Wat Ounalom Pagoda: One of the most important pagodas in Cambodia, serving as a center for Cambodian Buddhism.

Explore Phnom Penh’s most famous Central Market (Phsar Thmei) , located in an iconic French Art Deco building from the colonial era. Browse a wide range of goods including local crafts, jewelry, souvenirs, textiles, and more.

Return to your hotel in the late afternoon. Overnight in Phnom Penh.

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy free time at your leisure until your private driver meets you in the hotel lobby for your transfer to Phnom Penh International Airport.

• This is a private transfer without a tour guide.

We hope you had a memorable journey through Cambodia.

Thank you and goodbye - safe travels!