Cambodia Expedition: Bike, Hike, Kayak

Suo Sdei! Welcome to Cambodia. Upon arrival, please look out for the Siem Reaper welcome sign at the arrivals gate. We will transfer you to your hotel, where you can take your time and relax by the pool or venture out for your first exploration of the capital city.

In the early evening, your guide will meet you at the hotel reception where a trip briefing will be held. Then, you will enjoy the creative Cambodian cuisine.

Today we escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and cross the river by ferry boat, making our way towards the north of Phnom Penh and the Silk Islands.

After arriving on the island, we cycle through orchards and vegetable farms, enjoying the peaceful farmland and learning about the lives of the people who call the Silk Islands home.

Along the way, we will take breaks at various points and park our bikes to explore some incredible cultural stops, such as traditional village industries, and get a more profound understanding of the authentic and unique Cambodian life that exists on these islands. Learn more about Cambodia’s silk weaving history, stroll through quiet villages, and take a breathtaking view of the Mekong River.

We will have lunch in the town and then set off to explore the remarkable historical sites in Phnom Penh. Explore the highlights of its turbulent history, from the majestic Royal Palace to the mesmerizing Silver Pagoda. Get a glimpse into Cambodia's past at monuments such as the Genocide Museum and Killing Fields, which provide a powerful reminder of darker times.

This morning, we depart early by private vehicle for Kratie approx. 6 hours. En-route, pass through Skuon, a small town famous for its tasty tarantula, where it’s possible to sample an eight-legged snack.

Onward to the riverside town of Kratie, situated along the banks of the Mekong River. Here, you will take a local boat from Kratie waterfront to Koh Trong and experience a unique homestay with approximately 280 families. This homestay is a wonderful opportunity to witness everyday Cambodian life, and this evening you’ll enjoy a traditional Khmer-style dinner. The facilities are basic and multi-share, with mattresses, bedding, and mosquito nets provided. With hammocks strung up beneath the house, this is a very scenic place to unwind.

Today, we say goodbye to our island hosts and make our way back towards the mainland. Our next journey will take us to the Kampi River Pools in the north of Kratie, where we can marvel at the rare Irrawaddy Dolphins that inhabit the Mekong River and its surrounding areas. There are only around 90 of these rare and endangered creatures living within this particular stretch of the Mekong River.

While taking a guided boat trip, you will have a chance to spot some rare birds that are difficult to find elsewhere. It is an amazing opportunity to get close to nature and experience something unique.

Afterward, we will have lunch in the beautiful town of Kratie before continuing onward upstream to the larger town of Stung Treng. This remarkable town is situated at the confluence of three great rivers—the Sekong, Sesan, and Mekong—and offers a stunning view of the waters from its vantage point.

Today, we start early to make the most of a full day of activities. Travel by private vehicle to the village of Voeun Kham takes approximately 2 hours. From there, catch a local boat to cruise the Mekong River to the famous Sopheak Mitt Waterfall. Situated on the Cambodia-Laos border, the thundering waterfalls crashing over limestone crags and boulders are a spectacular sight. Moor the boat at a local family’s home and hike through the jungle to a lunch spot overlooking the falls.

Then, embark on a kayaking adventure through the stunning scenery of flooded forests to reach Vuen Sien village. Enjoy the peacefulness of paddling through the tranquil waters, taking in the breathtaking views as you pass by. This journey is sure to be a memorable one, with its unique and captivating beauty.

This morning, set out on your journey to Siem Reap, traveling by private vehicle through Cambodia’s countryside and small towns (approximately 4.5 hours). En-route, stop at Beng Mealea, a spectacular hidden jungle temple that was constructed by King Suryavarman II (1113-1150). It preceded and may have served as a prototype of sorts for Angkor Wat. Contrary to Angkor, few carvings or bas-reliefs are evident. Today, the temple is largely overrun by vegetation, and the stone walls are crumbling.

Onward to Siem Reap, this extraordinary destination is the most popular stop for travelers from all over Cambodia, particularly those visiting South East Asia. It boasts a unique mix of culture, history, ancient temples, and natural beauty that excites visitors and makes them want to come back again and again. With plenty of attractions and activities to explore, it's no wonder why Siem Reap is so widely regarded as one of the best destinations in all of Cambodia.

Today, depart early in the morning by a private air-conditioned vehicle from your hotel to Kulen Mountain. The Kulen Mountain range rises from the plains 50 km north of Siem Reap.

On arrival, we’ll trek up the mountain slope, visit the natural water spring from the Buddha’s foot and enjoy the panoramic view, then trek through the thick forest. Enjoy the magnificent waterfall of Kulen Mountain. After that, you will visit the Hindu carving of Kulen’s riverbed where most Khmer people believe is a sacred place on the mountain.

After a refreshing dip in the water and a bite to eat, we trek through fantastic undulating single track, made up mostly of walking trails, guided by a ranger from the National Park. Then, you will hike through the jungle past remote villages and see life-sized stone elephants standing serenely at Srah Damrei. We’ll also visit Cambodia’s largest reclining Buddha before heading to the 20-meter high Kulen Waterfall, where we can enjoy a refreshing dip before returning to town.

Today, we take a short transfer to Angkor Wat in time to see the sunrise. Your guide will take you to the best spots to watch the colorful sunrise. Then, go through the Angkor central complex and learn about the history and symbolism of Angkor Wat.

Once you have discovered Angkor Wat and enjoy a breakfast, just outside the temple area in peaceful surroundings, Afterward, proceed with the bike tour down the trails behind Angkor Park. Follow tracks that take you through small villages and see how the locals go about their daily lives.

As you explore more of the Angkor Archaeological Park, you will continue to uncover a multitude of other sites such as Angkor Thom, Bayon, Ta Prohm temple and many other lesser-known temples embedded deep within the jungle trails. These hidden gems are filled with a rich history that can only be experienced by venturing off the beaten track.

This morning, we are thrilled to embark on our exciting bicycle tour at 9:00 am and explore the stunning Tonle Sap Trail with its unique sights of life on the floating village. Along the way, your knowledgeable guide will take you to explore the local farms and engage in various activities that bring you closer to understanding the everyday lives of Cambodian villagers. You can experience a glimpse into their culture, history, and traditions which is sure to be an unforgettable journey.

Afterward, take a short cruise to Kampong Phluk to see the floating villages, where you have an opportunity to learn about life on the water. Tonle Sap Lake is the largest lake in Southeast Asia and offers a unique way of life for those living on Cambodia’s Tonle Sap Lake, which is recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

At the end of the day, we will watch the sunset on the lake with some snacks and cold beverages. You will return back to the city by private vehicle in the late evening.

Your tour comes to an end this morning. There are no activities on your final day, and you are free to leave at any time. Your time is at leisure until you transfer to Siem Reap International Airport for your onward flight and say goodbye to your tour guide.