Classic Cambodia

All content by Intrepid

6 days (ex Phnom Penh)

Destinations visited: Cambodia, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, World

Physical rating:
Culture shock rating:

Physical Ratings

The physical rating gives you an idea of how much huffing and puffing you can expect on the trip. While generalisations are always tricky, a summary of our ratings follows:

Rating 1

These trips are a relaxing break. You don't have to worry about doing anything physically demanding unless you want to.

Rating 2

Some easy physical activities included in your trip. No physical preparation is required to make the most of the journey.

Rating 3

This trip will raise your heartbeat. Moderate physical activities are included and a good level of fitness is required.

Rating 4

Be prepared for some serious physical activity. The majority of activities included on this trip will be challenging. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy your holiday.

Rating 5

Intrepid’s highest physical rating. Get ready for a heart-pumping adventure with plenty of challenges and some extreme conditions. You will be required to be seriously fit for this trip as difficult activities are included.

Culture Shock Ratings

The culture shock rating considers the level of development in the location, the area's infrastructure and how easy it is to access services. It also takes into consideration how different the food and customs are and whether English is widely spoken. While generalisations are always tricky, here’s a summary of the ratings:

Rating 1

This is the least confronting of Intrepid's product range. English is the native language and the food, customs and access to services will be familiar to you.

Rating 2

You will probably have experienced food like this in restaurants back home and English is commonly spoken. Services are available most of the time but there may be some cultural differences.

Rating 3

Expect some culture shock. You will be exposed to signs of poverty and access to services may be sporadic. The food will be quite different to home and English speakers harder to find. Respecting the local culture will make it easier to fit in and really experience the location.

Rating 4

The comforts of home are more of a rarity. English is not common and the food will be quite different to what you are used to. It is important to observe some of the local customs to not cause offence. Many of the locals' standard of living may be confronting.

Rating 5

You're really out there! You'll need to pay specific attention to health and hygiene. A large proportion of locals' living conditions are a world away from standards you are used to. You may have difficulty finding an English speaker and there is little or no access to services. Paying heed to local customs is essential.

from USD$965

Book now

Description

Combining the magnificence of the Khmer Empire with lively Phnom Penh, this introduction to Cambodia is the perfect way to get acquainted with this captivating nation. Witness the grandeur of ancient Angkor Wat, see the enigmatic faces of the Bayon, confront the tragedy of the recent past and delight in the hopes for the future on this classic Cambodian adventure.

Highlights

Bask in the serene beauty of the Royal Palace.
Reflect on Cambodia's tragic history at Tuol Sleng.
Explore the incredible Angkor Wat temples.
Learn about Hindu epics and Cambodian myths.
Wander among Ta Prohm's vine-covered ruins.

Itinerary

Days 1-2 Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh is a friendly riverside city with loads of Khmer charm and faded French-colonial style. And while it's very much a place on the move, Phnom Penh retains a distinct and at times quite complex personality. Confront the tragic history of Cambodia on a visit to the Tuol Sleng Museum, before paying respects to the thousands of Cambodians who died during the Pol Pot regime at the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. Then, take the opportunity to wander through the serene Royal Palace with its spectacular Silver Pagoda. During free time, delve deeper into Khmer history at the National Museum, hunt for silver and local crafts in the Russian Market or mosey along Sisowath Quay at sunset. Indulging in some strong local coffee is highly recommended - and the caffeine hit certainly helps to fuel some independent explorations.

Days 3-6 Siem Reap/Angkor Wat

Fly to Siem Reap, gateway to one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world. Built between the 9th and 13th centuries when the Khmer Empire was the pre-eminent influence in South East Asia, the temples at Angkor were believed to represent the cosmic world and as such, were created in perfect balance, symmetry and composition. Join forces with a local guide and discover the fascinating history and mythology of Angkor Wat, the Bayon and the jungle-clad Ta Prohm. Fall in love with the resident wildlife on a visit to the Intrepid Foundation-supported Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity. Perhaps ease away any temple-fatigue with a massage back in Siem Reap or travel further afield to Banteay Srei, containing the most detailed carvings of all the temples. End this short-but-sweet experience by tucking into a sumptuous Khmer feast.

Group Size

Maximum of 12 travellers per group

Accommodation

Hotel (5 nts)

Transport

Private minibus, Plane

Budget

Allow USD $120 for meals not included.

Check dates and prices
Book this trip with Intrepid Travel on their site

from USD$965

Book now

Traveller reviews for Classic Cambodia (0)

To write a review sign in, register or

Recommend

Add your experience Your experience “ ”
Say more…
Write your review Your review

Tags

Good for…

Not good for…

Photo Upload

Add a photo

Note: when you submit posts to our site (including images), you’re giving us permission to reuse your material elsewhere and also to pass it to others for use. Full website terms here.