Heart of Cambodia

13 days
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4.6/5 Excellent
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Small Group Tour
This is an exploratory trip that delves deep into Cambodia, a country rarely explored outside of the iconic temples of Angkor. On this journey we meet locals in our village homestay in the countryside, motor upriver through steamy jungles and relax on deserted white-sand beaches. Siem Reap - Get lost amongst the incredible jungle-consumed temples of Angk...
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$2,042
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Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate

Highlights

    • Delve deeper into Cambodia, a country rarely explored beyond the iconic temples of Angkor
    • Enjoy laid-back country towns, idyllic beaches and super-friendly and welcoming locals
    • Cruise along jungle-lined rivers in search of birds and wildlife in the Cardamom Mountains

What's this trip about?

    This is an exploratory trip that delves deep into Cambodia, a country rarely explored outside of the iconic temples of Angkor. On this journey we meet locals in our village homestay in the countryside, motor upriver through steamy jungles and relax on deserted white-sand beaches. Siem Reap - Get lost amongst the incredible jungle-consumed temples of Angkor Phnom Penh - Learn about the dark history of the Khmer Rouge and sample tasty street food Chi Phat - Cruise along jungle-lined rivers in search of birds and wildlife in the Cardamom Mountains.

Details

Itinerary focusOff the Beaten Path
Group sizeSmall Group - max of 20 people
Age range16 to 85 years
Flights and transport
Start CitySiem Reap
End CityPhnom Penh

Travel Themes

  • Cultural
  • Hiking & Walking

Destinations

Attractions

  • Angkor Wat
  • Killing Fields
  • Phnom Penh
  • Phnom Penh
  • Siem Reap
  • Silver Pagoda

Activities

  • Hiking

Min Group Size

  • Min Group Size: 20

Max Group Size

  • Max Group Size: 20

Itinerary

Travel Map

Day 1 Join trip in Siem Reap, the gateway to the iconic Angkor temple complex

Arrive in Siem Reap, the modern gateway to the ancient temples of Angkor. Just a small village when the French 're-discovered' Angkor in the 19th century, Siem Reap has now ballooned in size to cater for every type of tourist and their budget. An evening stroll along ...

Day 2 Explore the jungle temples of Angkor, watch the sunset at Pre Rup

This morning we visit the beautiful Angkor Wat - the best known and most breathtaking of all the sights and a highlight of any visit to Angkor. Originally built as a funerary temple for Suryavarman ll in honour of Vishnu, the temple is unique as it faces west - symbol...

Day 3 Morning cycle to Hero Rats project and Khmer Ceramics Centre. Free afternoon for further exploration

A change of pace this morning sees us setting off on two wheels, leisurely cruising along the quiet back streets and having a chance to witness the daily life of the locals, as we cycle away from the main tourist areas. Our first stop on this morning's cycle is the AP...

Day 4 Free morning in Siem Reap. Afternoon drive to Sambor Prei Kuk homestay

We have another free morning to explore some more of Angkor's extensive temples, or perhaps experience a Khmer massage, partake in a monk's blessing or just sip a French coffee whilst soaking up Siem Reap's infectious atmosphere. After lunch we leave the city behind,...

Day 5 Visit the ruins of Sambor Prei Kuk before driving to Phnom Penh

After a freshly prepared breakfast we bid goodbye to our hosts to explore the nearby ruins of Sambor Prei Kuk. This UNESCO World Heritage Site pre-dates the Angkor period, it is thought that some of the earliest buildings were constructed in the 7th century during the...

Day 6 Explore Phnom Penh's Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. Afternoon visit to the Killing Fields

We spend the morning visiting the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, a palace as equally impressive yet far quieter than its namesake in Bangkok. We continue onto Wat Phnom, the city's glittering centre piece and then the National Museum, a beautifully ornate building th...

Day 7 Morning exploration of Koh Dach island by rickshaw, then drive to our Eco lodge in Chi Phat, Cardamom Mountains

After a short drive up river we the Mekong ferry across to the peaceful Koh Dach Island which we will explore by local rickshaw. Our route takes us through weaving villages and past stilted houses. This charming, secluded and sleepy island is small at just 30 square k...

Day 8 Sunrise river cruise to spot birds and wildlife. Optional walking and swimming in the afternoon

Rising early this morning we take a motorised sampan (a type of hollowed-out canoe) down the Piphot River toward the Stung Prat tributary. Enjoying our packed-breakfasts as the sun rises, we cut the engines and climb into traditional row boats to start our bird watchi...

Day 9 Leave Koh Kong Province and drive to Sihanoukville. Ferry to Koh Rong Island

Departing the wilds of the Cardamoms this morning, we leave the jungle by river before driving to the lively coastal town of Sihanoukville. From here we board a public ferry to take the 45 minute transfer to the idyllic Koh Rong Island. We aim to arrive on the island ...

Day 10 A free day to relax on the beaches of Koh Rong Island

Located 25 kilometres off of Cambodia's coastline, the sleepy island of Koh Rong feels far further away from the high rise hotels and lively nightclubs of Sihanoukville. By contrast, Koh Rong has no cars, no roads and just four villages, with the island comprising of ...

Day 11 A further free day on Koh Rong. Optional snorkelling or boat trip

Today is another free day. There are a number of excursions available including a hike to the nearby village, a boat trip around the island with opportunities to swim and snorkel, or a fishing trip. Alternatively snorkels and masks are available to hire should you wish to snorkel in the tropical waters in front of the resort.

Meals Provided : Breakfast

Day 12 Ferry and drive back to Phnom Penh. Free afternoon in the capital

We leave Koh Rong this morning as we travel back to the capital, Phnom Penh. We catch a morning ferry back to the mainland before continuing by road, where we hope to arrive in the capital just after lunchtime. The remainder of the day is free, perhaps stocking up some last minute souvenirs at the eclectic 'Central Market'.

Meals Provided : Breakfast

Day 13 Trip ends in Phnom Penh

The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Phnom Penh. There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart from Phnom Penh at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel. If you would ...

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Dates & Availability

Price From $2,030
Price per day$156
Last Updated: 3/14/2025
Departure Date
Finish Date
Base Price
Single Room (Optional)
Availability
16 Nov 2025
28 Nov 2025
$2,310
$550
23 Nov 2025
05 Dec 2025
$2,150
$550
14 Dec 2025
26 Dec 2025
$2,350
$620
11 Jan 2026
23 Jan 2026
$2,070
$550
25 Jan 2026
06 Feb 2026
$2,070
$550
08 Feb 2026
20 Feb 2026
$2,070
$550
15 Mar 2026
27 Mar 2026
$2,070
$550
19 Jul 2026
31 Jul 2026
$2,030
$500
25 Oct 2026
06 Nov 2026
$2,070
$550
08 Nov 2026
20 Nov 2026
$2,070
$550

Check current availability, prices, specials & more.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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Explore! Reviews & Ratings

4.6/5  Excellent
Excellent
10,321
Great
3,322
Average
522
Disappointing
158
Terrible
79
G

Graham David

Mar 2025

Written on

Heart of Cambodia

The spectacular trip was completely enhanced by our most excelle...

T

Trusted Customer

Mar 2025

Written on

Heart of Cambodia

Quite full-on, you need to be active but a few “rest” days too. Our guide, Try, was available 24/7 and full of information and advice and a great sense of humour. H...

R

Richie

Mar 2025

Written on

Heart of Cambodia

A well balanced, fascinating trip. An excellent tour leader, Try,, who went above and beyond on several occasions. There was lots of variety. Whilst not a negative c...

J

James

Feb 2025

Written on

Heart of Cambodia

Everything went very smoothly. The leader, Tre, was always organised and knowledgeable about the different visits. His English was a little difficult to understand a...

Write a Review

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T

Trusted Customer

Mar 2025

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We had a fantastic trip with explore! Starting with a brief intro to Thailand with professional friendly experienced guides Koi, Tri and the fab support Team (Bus dr...

M

Mel

Mar 2025

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Walking in Madeira

Great tour - everything was well organised but offered enough flexibility for people wanting to do their own thing in the evenings after the guided tours. Most of th...

D

Darren

Mar 2025

Written on

Efficient and easy to navigate online booking

Booked online. Very easy to do with full information abou...

Write a Review

Tour Operator

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Logistics

Accommodation

Transportation & Flights

Bus, Boat,

Transportation & flights

Bus, Boat
Guides
Explore Tour Leader, Boat Crew, Driver(s), Local Guide(s)
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
A single visa is required by UK, New Zealand, Australian, USA & Canadian citizens. All arrivals into Cambodia will be required to complete the e-immigration application prior to proceeding to the immigration counter upon arrival. No paper immigration documents will be accepted. The registration needs to be completed within 7 days of arrival via the official app or website \ul www.arrival.gov.kh \ulnone We would recommend paying for the visa on arrival but alternatively, you can also obtain it online prior to arrival. At present, this process is applicable to travelers who arrive by flights into Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville airports. Those entering Cambodia by land crossing or boat will still use the traditional paper-based immigration forms at this time. All visa related issues including information for other nationalities should be confirmed with the relevant Embassy prior to departure. Please note that it is a pre-requisite for entry into Vietnam and Cambodia that your passport is valid for a minimum of 6 months from your date of entry.
Health & Safety
Nothing compulsory, but we recommend protection against malaria, infectious hepatitis, tetanus, typhoid, diphtheria and polio. Consult your GP regarding tablets advised for malaria. Though not compulsory, travellers may wish to immunise themselves against japanese encephalitis. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS and NaTHNaC links at <a href="https://www.explore.co.uk/essential-information/know-before-you-go/travel-health">Explore Travel Health</a> and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast : 12
  • Dinner : 3
  • Lunch : 2
Age Requirements
16 to 85 years
Additional Information
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Trip ID
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