13 days, 12 nights
Phnom Penh - Kratie - Sen Monorom - Banlung - Stoeng Treng - Siem Reap
This journey through Cambodia blends history and authenticity, from the royal palaces of Phnom Penh to the traditional villages along the Mekong River. You'll explore the tranquil island of Koh Trong and the town of Kratie, amidst Irrawaddy dolphins and colonial charm. In Mondulkiri, you'll meet the Bunong and Kroeung ethnic groups, discover waterfalls and lush forests, before continuing on to Banlung and its vibrant markets. The trip concludes with a visit to the perched temple of Preah Vihear and an unforgettable exploration of the wonders of Angkor by bicycle.
Ethical Getaways
Family
What makes this experience unforgettable
Phnom Penh: Heritage and Emotions
Phnom Penh reveals its contrasts between royal splendor, Khmer art, and painful memories, before an ascent to Wat Phnom, the founding symbol of the capital.
Craftsmen's Villages and Khmer Countryside
From Koh Chen and its copper artisans to the unusual market of Skun, the road to Kompong Cham and Kratie reveals temples, traditions, and rural landscapes dotted with stilt houses.
Kho Trong and Mekong Dolphins
Between a bike ride on the unspoiled island of Koh Trong and a boat trip to observe Irrawaddy dolphins, discover the colonial charm of Kratie.
Wild Mondulkiri and Bunong Encounters
Immerse yourself in the unspoiled nature of Mondulkiri, exploring Bunong villages with their vibrant traditions and the majestic Busra waterfall, a wild gem perfect for swimming.
Volunteering at the Elephant Sanctuary
Experience an immersive day at the Elephant Valley Project, Cambodia's first sanctuary, observing the pachyderms, hiking in the forest, and discovering a project dedicated to their well-being and the local communities.
Precious Stones and Jarai Villages
On the edge of Cambodia, explore zircon mines and travel through rubber plantations before taking a dugout canoe to Jarai villages, rich in traditions and unique funeral rites.
Ratanakiri: Between Nature and Traditions
In the heart of Ratanakiri, discover volcanic lakes, waterfalls, and forests dotted with plantations before encountering the Kroeung villages, whose bachelor houses perpetuate unique animist traditions.
From Banlung to the Mekong
A stroll through the lively market of Banlung, a meeting place with the hill tribes, before crossing through Stung Treng with its colorful stalls and enjoying the night on the banks of the Mekong.
Koh Ker, Forgotten Citadel of Kings
The former Angkorian capital, Koh Ker, reveals its isolated temples in the heart of the jungle. Still untouched by mass tourism, this site offers a unique immersion into Khmer history before continuing on to Siem Reap.
Angkor, Eternal Temples by Bike
Explore Angkor by bike: from Angkor Wat, the symbol of Cambodia, to the faces of the Bayon, from the royal terraces to the Baphuon, and on to the mysterious Ta Prohm embraced by giant roots.
Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh, a vibrant capital at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, blends Khmer heritage, colonial traces and modern energy in an atmosphere that is both lively and authentic.
Day 1: Arrival in Phnom Penh
“We are beginning our descent into Phnom Penh. Please return to your seat and fasten your seatbelt,” announces the cabin crew chief. In less than 30 minutes, your plane will land in Phnom Penh, the capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia. Upon exiting the airport, you will be transferred to your vehicle for your hotel transfer. Your room will be available from 2:00 PM. Dinner is at your leisure, and you will spend the night at the hotel.
- Airport pick-up and private driver to your hotel
- G Mekong Hotel
Day 2: Phnom Penh
Explore Phnom Penh, a vibrant capital steeped in history. Begin with the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda, true gems housing frescoes, treasures, and Khmer symbols. Continue with the National Museum, rich in art collections. After lunch on your own, the S21 Center will immerse you in the country’s painful past. End the day on Wat Phnom Hill, the city’s founding site and a haven of tranquility overlooking the urban bustle.
- Breakfast, typical private transport and guide
- G Mekong Hotel
Koh Chen - Koh Trong - Kratie
In Koh Chen, discover the ancestral craftsmanship of copper before a stop at the Skun market. Then, between authentic countryside and the Nokor Banchey temple, the road leads you to Kratie, on the banks of the Mekong.
Day 3: Phnom Penh - Kratie
The road leads you to Koh Chen, a village renowned for its skilled copper artisans. After a stop at Skun Market and its amazing specialties, travel through the countryside dotted with stilt houses to Kompong Cham. Then discover the Nokor Banchey Temple, fascinating for its unique architectural blend, before reaching Kratie, on the banks of the Mekong River.
- Breakfast, guide, private transportation
- Mekong Dolphin Hotel
Day 4: Koh Trong - Kratie
You’ll cross the Mekong River by local boat to reach Koh Trong Island, a true reflection of rural Cambodia, nestled between fertile rice paddies and lush orchards. Explore the island by bicycle and meet the locals in a timeless atmosphere. Later, embark on a boat trip in search of Irrawaddy dolphins before strolling through Kratie, where colonial architecture evokes a bygone era.
- Breakfast, guide, private transportation
- Mekong Dolphin Hotel
Sen Monorom - Mondulkiri
Sen Monorom, in the heart of Mondulkiri, reveals a wild and untouched Cambodia, where rolling hills, forests and ethnic villages shape a deeply authentic escape.
Day 5: Kratie - Sen Monorom
Head to Mondulkiri, the wildest region of Cambodia. In Putang, meet the Bunong tribe and discover their still vibrant traditions. After lunch on your own, visit the Busra waterfall, a natural gem with three impressive tiers where swimming is possible. The day ends in Sen Monorom, for an immersion in the heart of unspoiled nature.
- Breakfast, guide, private transportation
- Pida Coffee Farm
Day 6: Mondulkiri
An early start awaits you for a unique experience at the Elephant Valley Project, a sanctuary dedicated to the well-being of elephants and supporting local communities. The day alternates between exploration, explanations, and a hike through the forest to the waterholes where the pachyderms bathe. After a simple lunch at the camp, the afternoon continues on the trails, guided by elephant tracks in a pristine environment.
- Breakfast, guide, private transportation
- Pida Coffee Farm
Ratanakiri - Banlung
Explore the Bokeo stone mines before an immersion in a dugout canoe among the Jarai, between encounters and mysterious cemeteries with funerary statues.
Day 7: Sen Monorom - Banlung
On the edge of Cambodia, near the Vietnamese border, discover the semi-precious stone mines of Bokeo. As you wander through rubber plantations, observe the miners extracting zircon under rudimentary conditions. After lunch, head to the Se San River: a dugout canoe will take you to the Jarai villages, where traditions and animist beliefs are expressed even in their cemeteries with mysterious funerary statues, abandoned to the jungle to accompany the ancestors on their final journey.
- Breakfast, guide, private transportation
- Terres Rouges Lodge
Day 8: Ratanakiri
Head towards Ratanakiri, a wild province in northeastern Cambodia. First stop: the volcanic lake Yeak Laom, then the Kachanh waterfall, reached via a suspension bridge. After lunch, drive to Ta Veaeng. A walk through forests and plantations of cashew, cassava, or rubber trees leads to the Kroeung villages. There, the inhabitants share their animist beliefs and unique traditions, such as the striking bachelor houses, symbols of transition and custom.
- Breakfast, guide, private transportation
- Terres Rouges Lodge
Stung Treng - Koh Ker - Siem Reap
From Stung Treng, a peaceful river crossroads with authentic markets, to Siem Reap and the majestic temples of Angkor, this journey traverses traditions, local encounters and timeless Khmer splendor, offering a unique cultural and spiritual immersion.
Day 9: Banlung - Stung Treng
Morning at the Banlung market, a meeting place for the Khmer Loeu minority, where fruits, vegetables, and herbs brighten the stalls. Then drive to Stung Treng, a peaceful town on the banks of the Mekong River. Explore its local market before an overnight stay in this authentic town.
- Breakfast, guide, private transportation
- Four Rivers Hotel
Day 10: Stung Treng - Koh Ker - Siem Reap
Explore the exceptional site of Koh Ker, the ancient Khmer capital with its majestic temples rising from the jungle. Its impressive 36-meter-high stepped pyramid dominates the surrounding forest and offers a mystical atmosphere, still untouched by mass tourism. Continue the journey to Siem Reap.
- Breakfast, guide, private transportation
- Mekong Angkor Palace
Siem Reap - Angkor
Two days in Siem Reap between exploring the mythical temples of Angkor by bike and free time of your choice: excursion, discovery of the Tonlé Sap or relaxation in the lively atmosphere of the city.
Day 11: Angkor
Explore Angkor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, by bicycle. The morning begins with the iconic Angkor Wat, a sacred mountain and symbol of Cambodia. After lunch (not included), explore the Bayon with its enigmatic faces, the Terrace of the Leper King, and the Terrace of the Elephants. The day concludes with the Baphuon, a majestic restored temple, followed by Ta Prohm, mysteriously entwined by its roots.
- Breakfast, guide, private transportation
- Mekong Angkor Palace
Day 12: Siem Reap
A free day in Siem Reap, to be enjoyed as you wish. You can extend the adventure with a second exploration of Angkor, take an excursion to Phnom Kulen National Park in the north, discover the lake life of Tonlé Sap or simply enjoy a moment of rest at your hotel and stroll in the lively atmosphere of Siem Reap.
- Breakfast
- Mekong Angkor Palace
Day 13: End of your trip… but perhaps not the adventure
A final morning in Siem Reap awaits you before your return flight. Perhaps you’ll continue your journey to Koh Rong or other destinations in Southeast Asia, or perhaps you’ll entrust us with a new trip, designed to be even more authentic and emotionally resonant. What’s certain is that the memory of this journey will stay with you long after you return.
- Breakfast and private transfer to the airport
Interested in this travel inspiration?
We create personalized estimates based on duration, season and your preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I need to take my outbound and return flight?
Arrival is in Phnom Penh and departure is from Siem Reap. We can, of course, arrange your international return flights.
What is the best time for this trip?
The best time to travel to Cambodia is from November to March, during the dry season, when temperatures remain pleasant and sightseeing is comfortable. The hot season from April to mai can be challenging but often offers unique cultural festivals. From June to October, the monsoon brings short showers in the late afternoon, but it also reveals lush landscapes, spectacular waterfalls, and vibrant rice paddies, with fewer tourists, ideal for those seeking a more authentic experience.
Are the accommodations suitable for a wellness retreat?
No, the accommodations selected for this tour are not specifically geared towards wellness. They prioritize authenticity, comfort, and local immersion. However, some establishments do offer pleasant spaces conducive to relaxation.
Is it possible to change hotels in certain destinations?
Of course. Each step is customizable and it is entirely possible to adapt or replace a hotel with another address according to your wishes and criteria.
Are all forms of transport private ?
Ground transfers are made in private vehicles, for optimal comfort.
Is this suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for a family trip. The activities are flexible and the accommodations are suitable for children, with a pace that remains flexible.
Can I make any changes to this trip?
Absolutely. This itinerary is a customizable base: you can modify the duration, the hotels, or add excursions to create a trip that fully suits you.
Hidden Treasures of Eternal Cambodia
- Traveling to Cambodia with our two children was a delightful and enriching experience. From the moment we arrived in Siem Reap, the magic began: between majestic temples and leisurely bike rides bathed in golden light, everyone found something to enjoy. Our guide captivated both young and old with his warmth and generosity. Then, on Koh Trong, time seemed to slow down. We will be back!
Family Lepic
- A perfectly balanced trip between exploration and relaxation. The temples of Angkor at sunrise are simply magical, especially with a fantastic guide who brings each site to life. After the cultural intensity of Siem Reap, Koh Rong was an idyllic interlude: sublime beaches, turquoise waters, and a peaceful atmosphere. A wonderful way to discover Cambodia in all its facets.
Elodie & Alexandre
- A perfectly balanced trip between exploration and relaxation. The temples of Angkor at sunrise are simply magical, especially with a fantastic guide who brings each site to life. After the cultural intensity of Siem Reap, Koh Rong was an idyllic interlude: sublime beaches, turquoise waters, and a peaceful atmosphere. A wonderful way to discover Cambodia in all its facets.
Family Mincent
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