Cambodia is renowned for the stunning temples of Angkor, but it offers much more, including a rich diversity of wildlife. This unique Cambodia tour combines wildlife and cultural experiences.
Begin in Phnom Penh, exploring its bustling cityscape and visiting landmarks like the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. Then, head to Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre for a hands-on experience as a bear keeper, caring for rescued Sun Bears. Continue to the Elephant Valley Project, where you can engage with rescued elephants through jungle walks and care activities. Journey through the Cambodian countryside, passing rubber plantations and lush landscapes, before embarking on a boat trip to spot the rare Irrawaddy dolphins. Explore the pre-Angkorian temples of Sambor Prei Kuk before concluding the tour in Siem Reap. Here, marvel at the magnificent temples of Angkor, including the Bayon and Angkor Wat, ending with a memorable sunrise visit.
Arrive Phnom Penh and transfer to your hotel where you'll spend the rest of your day at leisure.
Begin your day by heading to the Wildlife Rescue Centre in Phnom Tamao, located just outside Phnom Penh. The first stop is at a local market to select fresh fruits for the animal residents. See the positive reinforcement training techniques used to care for elephants, including the fascinating process of changing Chhouk's prosthetic foot. Take a guided tour of the sanctuary, encountering a diverse range of rescued animals, including clouded leopards, gibbons, otters, and other endangered species. Enjoy exclusive access to the normally closed rehabilitation area, where dedicated staff care for orphaned and injured baby animals. After an enriching day, relax on your return journey to Phnom Penh. (B,L)
Drive to Mondulkiri today stopping en-route to sample (if you dare!) deep fried tarantula, a local delicacy, in the small town of Skuon. The journey snakes through the mountain passes with lush jungle overhanging many of the roads. Arrive at the Elephant Valley Project and check-into the accommodation. (B,D)
Experience a day of "walking with the herd" at the Elephant Valley Project. Learn about the elephants' history, culture, and behaviour as you walk alongside these rescued animals. Participate in feeding and bathing them before enjoying your own lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a jungle walking adventure that concludes at a waterfall, where the elephants can cool off with a refreshing dip before returning to base. (B,L)
Return to the lively Cambodian lowlands and head to Kratie, a charming Mekong port town. Enjoy lunch before ascending Phnom Sambok Mountain for panoramic views. Then, visit Kampi to spot Irrawaddy dolphins on a traditional boat ride. In the late afternoon, explore Koh Trung Island by bicycle, sampling local fruits and witnessing a breathtaking sunset over the Mekong River. (B,L)
This morning explore the pre-Angkorian temples of Sambor Prei Kuk which was the first major temple city in South-East Asia and an important yet rarely visited piece of Cambodian temple history. Continue on to Siem Reap with stops along the way to visit interesting sites. (B)
Drive out to visit Beng Mealea, a giant temple almost entirely lost to the jungles of Cambodia. The temple site is wild, remote and truly fascinating. Continue to Koh Ker, the remote Angkor capital, and Prasat Thom, a seven-storey step pyramid which appears more Mayan than Khmer. There are other temples in the area to visit so the day will be well spent. (B)
Travel to Kbal Spean, an intricately carved riverbed in the foothills of the Cambodian jungle accessed by an easy jungle walk with a steady but scenic climb. Continue to the Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity, a rescue centre for local wildlife before exploring the pink temple of Banteay Srei. The elaborate carvings found here are considered some of the best in the country. (B)
Visit one of Tonle Sap Lake's least-visited villages, heavily reliant on fishing. Depending on the season, explore its canals or streets. Then, venture to Kompong Pluk, a medieval floating village where life thrives on water. On the return journey to Siem Reap, stop at The Peace Museum of Mine Action of CMAC. Established by the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC), this museum highlights the devastating impact of landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Cambodia. Explore halls lined with deactivated mines and bombs, witnessing the ongoing demining efforts. Learn about the various types of mines and UXO still threatening Cambodian communities, and the meticulous demining process working towards a safer future. (B)
Begin your day with a sunrise experience at Angkor Wat, starting with a hotel pickup at a time to be confirmed upon booking. Travel through bustling streets to the Angkor Archeological Park, where you'll join your guide and group to witness the breathtaking dawn behind the iconic spires of Angkor Wat. After the sunrise, embark on a walking tour of Angkor Wat, enjoying the serene atmosphere and optimal temperature. Your guide will provide insights into this ancient wonder before you indulge in breakfast outside the temple area. Next, explore Angkor Archeological Park by bike, cycling along forested trails to discover both famous and hidden temples. Highlights include the Bayon with its many faces and the enchanting Ta Prohm engulfed by jungle. Pause for lunch by the tranquil Sra Srang reservoir before returning to your hotel by van, arriving around 2pm. (B)
After breakfast this morning you’ll check out of your accommodation and be driven to the airport for your flight to the next destination. (B)
Price Includes
Price Excludes
Price Notes