10-Day Discovery Classic Tour

10-Day Discovery Classic Tour

Discover Cambodia’s timeless treasures—from the ancient temples of Angkor to the serene beauty of its lakes and the thrill of jungle treks. Our 10-Day Discovery Classic Tour offers an immersive experience across cultural landmarks and natural wonders. Below is a detailed look at the first portion of your journey:

Detailed Itinerary:

Day 1: Welcome to Siem Reap

• Arrival & Transfer: Your driver meets you at Siem Reap International Airport and transfers you to your hotel.
• Check-In: Rooms are available from 2:00 p.m. If you arrive early, drop off your luggage at reception and then explore town or relax by the pool.
• Free Time: Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

Day 2: The Majestic Angkor Temples

• Morning Pickup: Depart from your hotel at 8:30 a.m.
• Temple Tour Highlights:
  • Angkor Wat: Admire the iconic temple symbolizing the zenith of the Khmer Empire.
  • Angkor Thom: Visit Bayon with its giant stone faces, Baphuon featuring a 40‑meter reclining Buddha, Phimeanakas, the Terrace of the Elephants, and the Terrace of the Leper King.
  • Ta Prohm & Banteay Srei: Explore Ta Prohm, famous for its entwined tree roots, and Banteay Srei, known as the “Citadel of Women.”
• Sunset at Phnom Bakheng: Enjoy a breathtaking sunset (note: Phnom Bakheng is not accessible for children under 12, and access is limited to 300 visitors at sunset, so plan accordingly).
• Visitor Tips: Dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees, refrain from touching sculptures or temple structures, and show respect for sacred sites. Avoid purchasing items or sweets from child vendors—consider donating to charity instead. Always ask permission before photographing monks.

Day 3: Discovering Tonle Sap Lake

• Floating Villages: Depart early for Kampong Kleang, located about 1.5 hours from Siem Reap. Embark on a private boat tour to visit the vibrant floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake.
• Lunch in Town: Return to Siem Reap for lunch.
• Lotus Farm by Samatoa: Visit this unique eco-friendly workshop to see how lotus fiber fabric is crafted. Learn about the sacred lotus flower’s significance in Asian culture and witness each step—from harvesting and spinning to weaving and recycling for medicinal and nutritional uses.
• Phnom Krom Mountain: Continue your journey to Phnom Krom Mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding rice fields. Visit the temple and pagoda atop the mountain and enjoy a stunning sunset.

Day 4: Preah Vihear & Koh Ker Temple

• Morning Transfer: Head north to the province of Preah Vihear. Stop in the town of Sra’ Em, located just a few kilometers from the famous temple.
• Archaeological Site Visit: In the afternoon, change to a 4×4 vehicle and explore the archaeological site of Preah Vihear—a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008 and a masterpiece of Khmer architecture on the Thai border. This site is an integral part of the historic Royal Route popularized by André Malraux.
• Return & Free Evening: After your visit, return to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Day 5: Transfer to Ratanakiri (Banlung)

• Morning Transfer: Journey with your guide to Banlung, the provincial capital of Ratanakiri, and check into your hotel.
• Volcanic Lake – Yeak Loam: Visit the mesmerizing Yeak Loam, a volcanic lake with crystal clear bluish waters formed by a meteorite impact. This sacred site offers excellent swimming opportunities.
• Blue Zircon Mines: Explore the local blue zircon mines—discover this semi-precious stone known for its diamond-like brilliance.
• Waterfall Visit: End your day with a visit to a stunning, seven-tiered waterfall. Enjoy a refreshing swim before returning to the hotel.

Day 6-7-8 : Jungle Trekking in Ratanakiri (Virachey National Park)

• Early Morning Departure: After breakfast at your hotel, set out at 8:30 a.m. via tuk-tuk, motorbike, or car toward northern Banlung.
• Journey & Trek Start: Reach the Se-San River by 9:30 a.m. and take a short ferry crossing. Continue riding for about 30 minutes to arrive at Rokk’s Village, home to the Kavet ethnic community.
• Guided Jungle Trek: Begin a 4- to 5-hour trek (approximately 15 km) through a national park. Your tour guide and indigenous ranger will share insights on the jungle’s diverse flora and fauna, including edible fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants. Trek your way through dense jungle to reach the Chhay Chhaynang waterfall.
• Overnight Camp: Set up camp with a tire hammock by the waterfall. Enjoy a refreshing swim, and later, gather around a wood fire for a traditional bamboo soup dinner.                                                                                                                                                                .

Day 6: Trek Day 1 – From Banlung to Chhay Chhaynang Waterfall

• 8:30 AM: After breakfast at your hotel, pack your backpack and set off by tuk-tuk or car.
• Journey to Rokk’s Village:
  • Drive for about one hour north of Banlung until you reach the Se-San River (arrival around 9:30 AM).
  • Take a short 10-minute ferry crossing, then continue by motor for 25 minutes to arrive at Rokk’s Village (home to the Kavet ethnic community).
• Trekking Begins:
  • Start your trek from Rokk’s Village towards the O’Lalai River, crossing into the national park.
  • Trek for 4–5 hours covering approximately 15 km (optional longer treks available on request).
  • Your tour guide and local indigenous ranger will share insights on jungle flora and fauna along the beaten trail.
• Destination:
  • Arrive at the stunning Chhay Chhaynang Waterfall, where tire hammocks are set up for an overnight camp.
  • Enjoy a refreshing swim and a communal dinner featuring traditional bamboo tube soup cooked over a wood fire.

Note: During the rainy season (July–early October), leeches may be present. Bug spray is provided for your protection.

Day 7: Trek Day 2 – Deep into the Lush Jungle

• Morning:
  • Awaken to the sounds of birds and enjoy a hot coffee or tea.
  • Savor a hearty breakfast prepared over a wood fire by your guide and ranger.
• Trekking:
  • Embark on a 5–6 hour trek covering roughly 15–20 km through dense, evergreen jungle.
  • The trail is a well-trodden path, cleared by your ranger’s machete, offering panoramic views and a rich encounter with nature.
• Lunch & Break:
  • Take a one-hour lunch break with a meal freshly cooked over a wood fire.
  • Enjoy a refreshing stop by a small river where you can bathe and relax.
• Evening:
  • Arrive at a campsite near a gentle stream.
  • Share a delicious traditional bamboo soup dinner and learn local cooking tips from your guide and ranger.

Day 8: Trek Day 3 – Wildlife Encounters and Bamboo Rafting

• Early Morning:
  • Start your day with another hot beverage and breakfast prepared over a wood fire by your team.
• Jungle Trek:
  • Continue trekking through the dense jungle, where you may spot wildlife such as gibbon herds, a variety of bird species (e.g., peacock pheasant, woodpecker, sunbirds, flowerpecker), and perhaps even a hornbill or wild dhole.
  • Your knowledgeable guide will help you identify unique flora, including towering Dipterocarps, Sidora, and Lagerstroemia trees.
• Midday Break:
  • Enjoy a one-hour break by a nearby stream to relax and refresh.
• Optional Night Trek:
  • For those interested, optional nighttime wildlife observation (with flashlights) around the campsite is available.
• Final Descent:
  • On the last day of your trek, construct a bamboo raft and paddle for 2–3 hours along the O’Lalai River back to Rokk’s Village—the starting point of your trek.
  • After a brief ferry crossing of the Se-San River and a one-hour drive, return to Banlung by approximately 4–5 PM.

What to Bring:

• Essentials: Mosquito repellent, long-sleeve shirts, long pants, and sturdy sports shoes.
  Extras: A flashlight/torch, swimwear, towels, and a small backpack.
  Optional: Personal hammock for extra comfort.
• Important Note: Cambodia experiences a tropical climate with a dry season (October–April) and a rainy season (July–early October). This itinerary is based on our expedition research and may be adjusted due to weather or terrain conditions. Any itinerary changes per customer request that incur additional costs will be communicated directly.

Each day is designed to immerse you in Cambodia’s rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural scenery. Contact us to learn more about the complete experience and to customize your adventure.

Day 9: Transfer to Kratie – Exploring the Mekong

• 8:00 AM Departure:
  • Travel to Kratie, a tranquil city on the banks of the mighty Mekong River, known for its peaceful ambiance and scenic rural landscapes.
• Kratie Promenade:
  • Upon arrival, stretch your legs with a leisurely walk along the Mekong promenade.
• Dolphin Excursion:
  • Take a short trip to Kampi where you’ll board a small boat in search of the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins.
  • For a more active option, choose a kayaking tour on the Mekong River (available November–May).
• River Island Stay:
  • Return to Kratie and board another boat to reach Koh Trong, a charming river island where your accommodation is located.

Day 10: Departure – Transfer to Phnom Penh or Siem Reap

• 8:00 AM Start:
  Enjoy a free morning to explore your surroundings.
  Airport Transfer:
  Your transfer is arranged according to your flight schedule to either Phnom Penh International Airport or Siem Reap. If your flight is later in the day, you may store your luggage at the hotel and enjoy a final stroll.
  Extension Option:
  Should you wish to extend your stay in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, please contact us.