Temples & Jungle Escape

10 Days from US$2,236 per person

PRIVATE TOUR - NOT A JOIN-IN TOUR

This 10 day tour visits the main Angkor temples the ABOUTAsia way - without the crowds -, then takes you to bustling Phnom Penh and ends with a stay at the unique and tranquil 4 Rivers Floating Lodge, a tented camp actually set on a river. In Siem Reap visit one of the stilted villages on the Tonle Sap and head into a countryside little changed since the days of Jayavarman VII. In Phnom Penh visit the key Khmer Rouge sites and take a cyclo ride through the streets to soak up the city's modern architectural heritage. Then, relax in the natural surroundings of the Cardamom Mountains, swim in waterfalls, paddle a kayak or visit a local fishing community.

ITINERARY DETAILS

day 1Arrive in Siem Reap where you will be met by your expert ABOUTAsia guide and transferred to your hotel. This afternoon enjoy your first taste of Angkor with a visit to Banteay Kdei temple followed by sunset drinks on the moat of Angkor Thom, a world away from the tourist crowds.

day 2A single, magical day at the temples following our well researched crowd avoidance itinerary, including Ta Prohm of ‘Tomb Raider’ fame, Angkor Thom: Terrace of the Elephants, Terrace of the Leper King, Preah Palilay, Phimeanakas, Baphuon, and the Bayon with its captivating stone faces. During your tour enjoy a wonderful tuk tuk breakfast in the secluded forest temple of Ta Nei. (B)

day 3Take a private boat onto the Tonle Sap lake, the richest freshwater fishing ground in the world, to visit one of the authentic stilted villages (either Kompong Kleang or Kompong Phluk depending on water levels). A picnic lunch is included. In the afternoon head into the countryside to jungle-clad Beng Mealea temple which, in a much collapsed state, retains a very atmospheric feel. (B, L)

day 4Motor through the pre-dawn darkness to see the sunrise over Angkor Wat as we guide you to the best photo vantage points. Explore in the hours immediately after sunrise when the temple is at its quietest. This afternoon take a journey of discovery by boat, ox-cart and on foot to visit villages little changed since the days of Jayavarman VII. End the day with a cocktail at ABOUTAsia´s country villa overlooking the paddy fields with the option of adding on dinner. (B)

day 5Fly to Phnom Penh, Cambodia´s bustling capital and once called the ‘Pearl of Asia’. This afternoon we endeavour to provide some insights into Cambodia´s tragic history under the Khmer Rouge with visits to the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng (S-21) Prison. (B)

day 6Weaving through Phnom Penh’s colourful streets, explore some of our favourite hidden gems by traditional transportation method: the cyclo. In the afternoon take in the shimmering spires of the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. (B)

day 7Private transfer by road and boat to the 4 Rivers Floating Lodge, a tented camp set on the Tatai River in the Cardamom Mountains. Here, you´ll enjoy rivers, waterfalls and jungle areas full with native trees and wildlife. Take your time this afternoon - relax kayaking on the river, watch the emerald jungle drift by and listen to the sounds of the wilderness. (B)

day 8 & 92 full days to relax or enjoy some of the fun activities offered by 4 Rivers including swimming in waterfalls and trekking in the jungles of the Cardamom Mountains (additional charges apply for 4 River activities). (B)

day 10Transfer by road to Phnom Penh international airport for your departure flight. (B)