Discover Cambodia
11 Day Discover Cambodia
Beyond Angkor lies a country of dense forests, remote wildlife sanctuaries, floating villages, river islands, and welcoming communities that offer a deeper connection to local life.
This unique journey takes you beyond the usual tourist route, combining Cambodia’s natural wonders with meaningful cultural experiences. From spending time with rescued elephants in Mondulkiri and searching for endangered Irrawaddy dolphins on the Mekong River, to cycling through the temples of Angkor and exploring remote jungle trails on Kulen Mountain, this itinerary showcases a different side of Cambodia.
Perfect for travellers who enjoy nature, wildlife, and authentic local experiences, this is a rewarding journey through one of Southeast Asia’s most fascinating destinations.
Cambodia Wildlife & Conservation Highlights
- Phnom Tamao Wildlife Sanctuary: Observe and learn about sun bears and moon bears rescued from the illegal wildlife trade, supported by Free the Bears.
- Elephant Valley Project: Walk with and observe retired working elephants in a strictly ethical, non-riding sanctuary setting in Mondulkiri.
- Mekong Irrawaddy Dolphins: Search for the rare, endangered freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins on a private boat excursion in Kratie.
- Visit Phnom Tamao Wildlife Sanctuary, home to rescued sun & moon bears (Free the Bears)
- Immersive ethical day at the Elephant Valley Project in Mondulkiri
- Boat excursion on the Mekong River to spot endangered Irrawaddy dolphins
- Explore Koh Trong peaceful river island by bicycle & plant a tree for conservation
- Unforgettable cycling expedition through the majestic temples of Angkor
- Adventure into Phnom Kulen National Park jungle trails & floating village of Kompong Kleang
- VIP seats at the world-famous Phare Cambodian Circus show
Included
- 10 nights premium twin share accommodation (Hotels listed or similar)
- Daily breakfast, 1 picnic lunch
- Elephant Valley Project experience
- Phare Cambodian Circus performance
- Boat trips on the Mekong River, Koh Trong Island and Tonle Sap Lake
- Angkor temple cycling experience
- Private air-conditioned transportation throughout
- Professional English-speaking local guides
- Airport transfers
- All monument entrance fees and sightseeing as per the itinerary
Not Included
- Return international flights
- Visa fees
- Tipping for guides and drivers
- Travel Insurance (compulsory)
- Optional recommended programs & tour extensions
- Personal expenditure
Day to Day Itinerary
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Day 01Arrive Phnom Penh
Welcome to Cambodia. Upon arrival in Phnom Penh, you'll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Known as the "Pearl of Asia", Cambodia’s capital combines French colonial architecture, riverside boulevards, bustling markets, and centuries of history. Remainder of the day is at leisure. Hotel: Anik Palace Hotel or similar.
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Day 02Phnom Penh & Phnom Tamao Wildlife Sanctuary (B)
Travel to Phnom Tamao Wildlife Sanctuary, home to rescued sun and moon bears supported by Free the Bears. Learn about rescue and rehabilitation. In the afternoon, return to Phnom Penh and discover the city’s highlights by cyclo: National Museum, Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and Wat Phnom. Hotel: Anik Palace Hotel or similar.
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Day 03Phnom Penh to Mondulkiri (B)
Journey east towards the remote province of Mondulkiri, passing rural villages and farmlands. Visit Bou Sra Waterfall, one of Cambodia's largest. Enjoy panoramic views from the "Sea Forest" viewpoint before heading to Phnom Dak Reimon for sunset. Hotel: KNN Resort or similar.
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Day 04Elephant Valley Project (B)
Spend a rewarding day observing retired working elephants as they roam freely through the forest at the ethical Elephant Valley Project sanctuary. Riding and bathing are strictly prohibited. Learn about behavior and conservation challenges accompanied by local mahouts. Hotel: KNN Resort or similar.
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Day 05Mondulkiri to Kratie & Koh Trong Island (B)
Travel to Kratie on the banks of the Mekong River. Cross to Koh Trong Island, a peaceful river community. Explore by bicycle or horse cart, passing traditional homes, temples, and quiet village roads. Participate in a community tree-planting initiative. Hotel: Rajabori Resort or similar.
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Day 06Kratie to Kampong Cham via Irrawaddy Dolphin Spotting (B)
Embark on a boat excursion at Kampi in search of the endangered freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins. Continue to Kampong Cham, visiting rubber plantations, Wat Nokor, and Wat Han Chey with stunning Mekong views. Hotel: LBN Asian Hotel or similar.
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Day 07Kampong Cham to Siem Reap via Sambor Prei Kuk (B)
Travel to Siem Reap, stopping en route to explore the UNESCO-listed Sambor Prei Kuk, an ancient pre-Angkorian capital of the Chenla Kingdom hidden in forested surroundings. Continue to Siem Reap. Hotel: Memoire d'Angkor Hotel or similar.
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Day 08Angkor Temples by Bicycle (B)
Cycle along quiet forested paths to discover the world-famous Angkor temple complex. Explore the magnificent Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, the smiling stone faces of Bayon, and the iconic jungle-strangled Ta Prohm temple. Hotel: Memoire d'Angkor Hotel or similar.
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Day 09Kulen Mountain Adventure (B)
Venture into Phnom Kulen National Park, the birthplace of the Khmer Empire. See the giant reclining Buddha, the River of a Thousand Lingas under flowing water, and trek through jungle tracks to hidden waterfalls. Hotel: Memoire d'Angkor Hotel or similar.
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Day 10Floating Village of Tonle Sap & Beng Mealea (B, L)
Visit Kompong Kleang, a massive floating village on Tonle Sap Lake. Enjoy a picnic lunch before exploring the wild, vegetation-covered jungle temple of Beng Mealea. In the evening, enjoy a VIP performance by the acclaimed Phare Cambodian Circus. Hotel: Memoire d'Angkor Hotel or similar.
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Day 11Depart Siem Reap (B)
Enjoy some leisure time before transferring to the airport for your onward departure journey. (Meal: Breakfast)
The Elephant Valley Project is a highly respected ethical sanctuary in Mondulkiri. Riding and bathing are strictly prohibited. The program is focused on providing retired and rescued working elephants with a natural habitat where they can rest and roam. You will walk alongside them, observe their natural behaviors, and learn from local mahouts.
Accommodation consists of premium, handpicked 4-star hotels and resort lodges that reflect local style and comfort. Examples include Anik Palace Hotel in Phnom Penh, the boutique KNN Resort in Mondulkiri, the traditional Rajabori Resort on Koh Trong Island, and Memoire d Angkor in Siem Reap.