Kensington
9 Day Cambodian Wildlife & Khmer Kingdom
9 Day Cambodian Wildlife & Khmer Kingdom
Yes, Cambodia is home to Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious complex and one of the most impressive structures ever built by human hands. But it is also much, much more; a magical landscape of ancient ruins, fascinating creatures, mist-shrouded mountains, and potent peppers that have become the darling of the culinary world. Venture deep into the dynamic cities and gorgeous countryside of this elusive Southeast Asian country to learn its stories, from the dawn of time through its troubling recent past to today, where the future, finally, looks bright.
This fascinating Explorers Club Collection itinerary tells the tale of Cambodia’s history through the ages, from ancient times through the dark chapters of the recent past and into a bright future that’s still being written. It begins in Phnom Penh, the ever-evolving capital where tradition and modernity collide. Near the banks of the Mekong, you’ll explore the city’s oldest market, marvel at the colonial architecture of French Quarter, and visit the enormous Wat Phnom pagoda before sobering encounters at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek Genocidal Center (the infamous Killing Fields). Beyond the capital, other secrets await. You’ll explore the fascinating islands off the coast of Kep, visit a plantation where Kampot peppers are grown, spend the night high up in the Cardamom Mountains at an exclusive tented camp and learn about the wildlife protection efforts here. The journey concludes in Siem Reap, gateway to Angkor, the Khmer “City of God-Kings.” Here, you’ll walk the grounds of the world’s largest religious complex with a local archaeologist who will merge legend with fact as you visit famous temples like Bayon, Baphuon, Preah Khan, and others. Later, get a glimpse of the massive temple complex from the sky courtesy of a special microflight (subject to local permission), see the staggering collection of statues preserved inside the Angkor Conservation Center, and (of course) capture the postcard-perfect sight of the evening sun setting over the temple’s spires from the quiet confines of Pre Rup.
The Explorers Club Collection by Kensington Tours is an exclusive suite of travel experiences inspired by the expeditions of the world’s foremost society of scientists and adventurers. Each tailor-made Explorers Club trip connects you to the world’s most fascinating people, places, and experiences with expert local guides and award-winning 24/7 service support. On-trip experts and experiences are subject to change depending on availability.
| Day 1 |
Striking pagodas, historic monuments, and bustling markets await you in Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital and former seat of the Khmer Empire on the banks of the Mekong River. South of the country’s iconic Angkor Wat temple, Phnom Penh is the perfect urban center to begin your adventures in Cambodia! Though less frequented than Siem Reap’s Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh boasts beautiful Buddhist temples of its own. From Wat Phnom, the towering pagoda surrounding by an exquisite botanical garden, to the sparkling Silver Pagoda, which lies mere steps from the city’s golden Royal Palace, Phnom Penh offers plenty of spiritual landmarks ideal for reflection and guaranteed to leave you in awe. Travel two blocks from the Silver Pagoda to visit the bright red National Museum of Cambodia, which holds thousands of centuries-old Cambodian artifacts and will immerse you in the history of Khmer culture. Phnom Penh’s dark (and fairly recent) past still haunts some of its most visited landmarks. Choeung Ek Genocidal Center and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum are vital pieces of this city’s history and detail the brutal effects of the Khmer Rouge’s occupation of Phnom Penh after the Cambodian War. These essential monuments will give you a deeper understanding of and appreciation for the city as it stands today. After exploring Phnom Penh’s famous monuments, take time to unwind and savor the city’s vibrant social life! Eat your way through the Phnom Penh Street Market to enjoy amazing street food, browse the Old Market for fresh and local fruits, or sit in one of the city’s many restaurants or distilleries to taste fresh made noodles and sweet rum. |
| Day 2 |
Striking pagodas, historic monuments, and bustling markets await you in Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital and former seat of the Khmer Empire on the banks of the Mekong River. South of the country’s iconic Angkor Wat temple, Phnom Penh is the perfect urban center to begin your adventures in Cambodia! Though less frequented than Siem Reap’s Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh boasts beautiful Buddhist temples of its own. From Wat Phnom, the towering pagoda surrounding by an exquisite botanical garden, to the sparkling Silver Pagoda, which lies mere steps from the city’s golden Royal Palace, Phnom Penh offers plenty of spiritual landmarks ideal for reflection and guaranteed to leave you in awe. Travel two blocks from the Silver Pagoda to visit the bright red National Museum of Cambodia, which holds thousands of centuries-old Cambodian artifacts and will immerse you in the history of Khmer culture. Phnom Penh’s dark (and fairly recent) past still haunts some of its most visited landmarks. Choeung Ek Genocidal Center and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum are vital pieces of this city’s history and detail the brutal effects of the Khmer Rouge’s occupation of Phnom Penh after the Cambodian War. These essential monuments will give you a deeper understanding of and appreciation for the city as it stands today. After exploring Phnom Penh’s famous monuments, take time to unwind and savor the city’s vibrant social life! Eat your way through the Phnom Penh Street Market to enjoy amazing street food, browse the Old Market for fresh and local fruits, or sit in one of the city’s many restaurants or distilleries to taste fresh made noodles and sweet rum. |
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| Day 7 |
This resort town is the gateway to the ruins of Angkor, a complex of stone buildings includes the main temple, Angkor Wat. When you have finished exploring the temples, this chic city has plenty to offer with world-class restaurants, hotels, spas and shopping. |
| Day 8 |
This resort town is the gateway to the ruins of Angkor, a complex of stone buildings includes the main temple, Angkor Wat. When you have finished exploring the temples, this chic city has plenty to offer with world-class restaurants, hotels, spas and shopping. |
| Day 9 |
This resort town is the gateway to the ruins of Angkor, a complex of stone buildings includes the main temple, Angkor Wat. When you have finished exploring the temples, this chic city has plenty to offer with world-class restaurants, hotels, spas and shopping. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
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08/17/18 - 12/31/26 |
Starting At $4,320 |
Get A Quote |
Prices are per person, based on double occupancy. Offer is subject to availability and change without notice. Some restrictions may apply.
