Day 1: Start of tour in Phnom Penh
Welcome to Phnom Penh and this tour of Cambodia! Check in at the hotel and, if you arrive early enough, take to the streets to drink in the vibrant bustle of the Cambodian capital. Top sights include the Cambodian Landmine Museum, Angkor Silk Farm and the Wat Thmei monastery. Why not relax at a roadside cafe and watch the world go by or simply walk around and absorb the city’s atmosphere? This evening, meet the tour leader and rest of the group at the hotel for an overview of what to look forward to over the next five days!
Day 2: Phnom Penh
Explore Phnom Penh on a city tour today. Start with a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. Once a former school, it was later used to hold many prisoners captive under the merciless Khmer Rouge regime. Follow in their footsteps in the Killing Fields (Choeung Ek Extermination Camp). After a morning of the tumultuous past, experience light and humbling experiences this afternoon. Visit the bustling Toul Tom Poung Market and shop for souvenirs and keepsakes. Then, it’s onto the Royal Compound, where you can encounter the famous Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. Round it all off with a visit to the Wat Phnom Temple perched atop a hill.
Day 3: Siem Reap
Enjoy a local breakfast before travelling to Siem Reap. This resort town is the gateway to the famous ruins of Angkor. Check in at the hotel and kick off with a visit to the friendly and colourful floating village of Chong Kneas. Explore Tonle Sap Lake on a traditional wooden boat, just like locals do! Enjoy the rest of the day at Chantiers Ecoles - Les Artisans d'Angkor, observing how young Cambodians train in the age-old traditions of the Khmer culture.
Day 4: Angkor Wat
Today, it’s time for a highlight of the tour - Angkor Wat! This temple complex is a symbol of Cambodia and one of the country’s most popular travel attractions. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is also the largest monument of its kind in the world. The Angkor temple complex covers over 400 km2 (including the forested area). It's home to the remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire. Take the day to explore the sights, which include the Bayon Temple, Royal Enclosure and more.
Day 5: End of tour in Siem Reap
After a whirlwind five days, this Taste of Cambodia tour comes to an end today. The tour will finish after breakfast this morning. Take some time to exchange contact details with your fellow travellers so you can keep in touch afterward before saying goodbye! Expat Explore hopes to welcome you on another tour again soon!