Day-By-Day Breakdown
Day 1: Shadows & Splendor (Phnom Penh)
• Morning (08:00 AM): A reflective start exploring Cambodia’s recent history at the Tuol Sleng Genocidal Museum and the Choeung Ek Killing Fields.
• Afternoon: Contrast the morning with the golden spires of the Royal Palace and the rich heritage of the National Museum.
Day 2: The Road to the Empire (Phnom Penh – Siem Reap)
• The Silk Road: Depart at 07:30 AM. Stop at Skun Market to see (or taste!) the famous crispy tarantulas.
• Ancient Ruins: Deep in the forest, explore Sambor Prey Kuk, a pre-Angkorian complex and UNESCO World Heritage site.
• The Bridge: Cross the historic Spean Praptos, a massive ancient masonry bridge.
Day 3: The Ultimate Bucket List (Siem Reap)
• The Main Event (05:00 AM): Witness a breathtaking sunrise at Angkor Wat, followed by an in-depth tour of its intricate galleries.
• The Great City: Enter Angkor Thom to see the 216 giant faces of the Bayon Temple.
• The Jungle: Finish at Ta Prohm, where giant tree roots embrace ancient stone.
Day 4: Pink Sandstone & Hidden Moats (Siem Reap)
• Exquisite Detail: Visit Banteay Srey, a boutique temple carved from pink sandstone, known for the finest carvings in the world.
• The Circuit: Explore the sprawling monastic complex of Preah Khan and the island temple of Neak Pean, ending with a golden view at Pre Rup.
Day 5: Water Life & Lost Cities (Siem Reap)
• Living Culture: Boat through a Floating Village on the Tonle Sap, witnessing a unique way of life on the water.
• The Indiana Jones Experience: Explore Beng Mealea, a sprawling temple left largely to the reclamation of nature.
• Optional: Conclude with the mountain temple of Bakong if time permits.