Angkor Wat

Day 1: Siem Reap – Arrival

Welcome to Siem Reap. Siem Reap is a sleepy backwater serving as a gateway to the ancient capital of Angkor. It is hard to believe that at its peak in the 12th century, this was one of the most advanced civilizations in the world and home to more than 1 million inhabitants.

Upon arrival at Siem Reap International Airport, look for our tour guide at the arrival counter holding a sign with your name. You will be transferred to your hotel for check-in (early check-in is subject to availability). Our Siem Reap orientation begins with a remorque (tuk-tuk) ride to visit Preah Ang Chheck and Preah Ang Chhom, important local shrines deeply rooted in Cambodian culture and religion. Next, we visit Wat Damnak for a meaningful interaction with a monk and participate in a blessing. Afterwards, enjoy a boat ride on Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, which connects to the Mekong River, providing vital resources and livelihoods for local communities. You’ll explore a floating village where residents live, work, and go to school on houses and structures built on stilts, adapting to the lake’s seasonal fluctuations. Witness their unique lifestyle and charming community life, all against the backdrop of a stunning sunset over the lake. Finally, return to Siem Reap for dinner at a local restaurant and overnight at the hotel.

Included for the day:
Transport: Private vehicle and driver
Tour guide: English-speaking guide
Meals: Welcome dinner
Accommodation: Lynnaya Urban River Resort (deluxe garden view) or a similar standard hotel

Day 2: Siem Reap – Sunrise & Angkor Temples

At 5:00 am, our guide and driver will pick you up to drive to the main artificial lake of Srah Srang to watch the sunrise. Your guide will find the perfect spot for you to wait and witness the sun rising on the other side of the lake, creating a stunning and tranquil scene reflected in the water. After sunrise, beat the crowds early at 7:00 am with a visit to the picturesque Ta Prohm, a temple nearly swallowed by the jungle, overgrown with roots that create an eerily haunting and exotic scene. The magnificent roots of ancient trees pushing between the massive stone blocks evoke feelings that may stay with you forever. Your breakfast box from the hotel will be arranged at a local cafe, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee before we continue to explore the intricately carved Khmer ruins at Angkor Wat, one of the world’s most impressive archaeological sites. The temple is renowned for its exquisite Apsara carvings and detailed Angkorian-era art. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, explore the mysterious Royal City of Angkor Thom. Highlights include the Bayon Temple, with its 54 towers and massive stone faces. At first glance, it appears as a shapeless mass of stone, but upon closer inspection, you’ll notice the serene faces gazing out with half-closed eyes, conveying a silent, enigmatic presence from a primitive and remote era. Next, visit the surrounding complex, including Baphuon Temple, Elephant Terraces, Lepper King Terrace, and the Royal Palace area, offering a deeper insight into the grandeur of Angkor’s ancient civilization. Return to the hotel in town at about 3.30 pm

Included for the day:
Transport: Private vehicle and driver
Tour guide: English-speaking guide
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Lynnaya Urban River Resort (deluxe garden view) or a similar standard hotel

Day 3: Siem Reap – Village Cooking Class – Departure

Our guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you to a remote village, where villagers will warmly welcome you. Enjoy a scenic ox-cart ride around the village for about 10-20 minutes. Walk through the village to observe daily activities such as weaving, rice farming, and vegetable gardening. Then, visit a traditional Khmer house, where the hosts will teach you how to cook three authentic Cambodian dishes, which you’ll get to enjoy. In the afternoon, return to Siem Reap after lunch. If time permits, explore the vibrant Old Market (Psar Chas), a bustling hub filled with local crafts, souvenirs, textiles, and street food, offering a glimpse into local life. Finally, transfer to the airport for your departure.

Included for the day:
Transport: Private vehicle and driver
Tour guide: English-speaking guide
Meals: Breakfast, lunch (cooking class)