Cambodia
The Grand Tour of Cambodia
Réf : ACAM23X
In summary
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Sports
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Duration23 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationAsia / Cambodia
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AgeFrom the age of 18
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CO₂-Emissions4523.75 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
English
In a few words
This journey takes us to a unique Cambodia. We discover, on foot, by dugout canoe, canoe, and bicycle, the wildest regions of Cambodia where nature is exuberant, untamed, and pristine. And of course, we'll visit the unmissable Angkorian sites. This captivating adventure begins in the heart of the jungle, amidst picturesque villages and the enchanting countryside of the Angkor region, where Jayavarman II shaped the Khmer Empire in the early 9th century. Our exploration guides us through the magnificent temples of Angkor, some meticulously restored, others preserved in their original state, with the roots of kapok trees intertwining among the temple stones. This quest also extends to the temples of Beng Mealea and Banteay Samré, as well as the pre-Angkorian monoliths of the Phnom Kulen mountains, during a trek that promises enriching discoveries. The second highlight of our adventure takes us to the little-known region of Mondulkiri, a still-wild land covered in primeval forests and inhabited by the Phnong people. On foot, we venture into the jungle, observing the wildlife and refreshing ourselves at the numerous waterfalls. Encounters with the locals, who open their doors to us, mark this authentic moment. After observing the Mekong River's freshwater dolphins and a descent along this legendary river, our journey makes a stop in Phnom Penh.
The highlights
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Cambodian nature in all its splendor with the main national parks
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Wildlife observations: birds, hornbills, deer, gibbons...
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The must-see Khmer temples: Angkor, Chao Srei Vibol, Beng Mealea, Banteay Samré...
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Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
For those wishing to hike for 4 to 5 hours a day, covering an elevation gain of around 600m on trails. You hike occasionally and are in good physical condition.
The expert's opinion
Level 2 tour : This trip is suitable for anyone in good physical condition. The hikes are moderate. To fully enjoy the trip, we recommend engaging in regular physical activity in the weeks leading up to departure (walking, cycling, etc.).
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 2h30
- Average daily elevation gain: 8 m
Management
During this stay, a supervisor will be present to guide and assist you.
Languages spoken:
French
English
French
English
Supervisor
Supervisor
Based in Cambodia for many years, our local agency guarantees a successful active travel experience, thanks to our guides and logistical infrastructure. During your trip, you will be accompanied by our adventure guides, fully committed to helping you discover unique places in the heart of nature.
Upon your arrival in Siem Reap, you will be greeted by your French-speaking tour guide. He is assisted by a local, non-French-speaking team:
- local guides for certain hikes
- drivers for transfers.
- boatmen for transfers/excursions by dugout canoe.
Program
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Flight to Siem Reap
- Transportation Plane - 15h - 7003km
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
International flight on a scheduled airline with a stopover.Day 1 -
Arrival in Siem Reap
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Airport pick-up followed by transfer to the hotel to enjoy the pool and take a short walk around town.Day 2 -
Siem Reap - Day trip hiking at the Angkor site
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h30
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
This morning, we'll take a tuk-tuk to Banteay Samre, one of the most remote and least visited temples on the site. Next, we'll hike along the East Mebon dike, a massive reservoir that once irrigated this ancient city. We'll explore the villages and rice paddies leading to Pre Rup. Afterward, we'll visit Banteay Kdei and Srah Srang. Lunch will be at a local restaurant. Following lunch, we'll hike through the sparse forest to Angkor Wat. We'll return to Siem Reap in the late afternoon and spend the night at a hotel.Day 3 -
Siem Reap - Angkor Thom by Bike
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
This morning, we set off early to enjoy the cool morning air. Our driver dropped us off at the gates of Angkor Thom, where we explored the walls of this ancient city, still nestled in the forest. We began with a bicycle ride along the wall of the royal city, Angkor Thom. Then, we arrived at the Bayon, the temple of the four-faced towers. We visited Angkor Thom, the great royal city, and discovered a surprising temple with a thousand faces (216 to be exact). We continued towards the Baphuon, the Royal Palace, followed by the Terrace of the Elephants. A final, isolated temple, Wat Tep Pranom, awaited us. After lunch, we departed for the temples of Preah Khan, Ta Nei, and then Ta Prohm, traveling through the forest. It is a magnificent temple where nature reclaims its place. The kapok trees seem to be swallowing the temple stones. This is where the film Tomb Raider was filmed. We returned to Siem Reap by vehicle. Overnight at the hotel. (10-20 km by bike, a support vehicle is available). Optional: upon request and subject to availability, the mountain bike can be replaced with an electric mountain bike (e-MTB). Supplement of €25 per e-bike.Day 4 -
Siem Reap - Tonle Sap - Fishing Village
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We travel by vehicle towards the lake to observe daily life in the idyllic villages. Every year, the water level of Tonlé Sap, Cambodia's Great Lake, fluctuates between 4 and 8 meters, flooding all the land and forests in this region from August to January. We explore the floating villages and travel up the Sangker River, passing the Prek Toal bird sanctuary. We visit other lakeside villages, learning about their fishing techniques, fishponds, and private crocodile farms. We spend the night in a lakeside village with a local family, including a one-hour walk and a two-hour boat trip. (The day's program may be modified depending on water conditions).Day 5 -
Tonle Sap - Roulos
- Transportation Minibus - 01h - 50km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h30
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We return by boat to Siem Reap before continuing our journey into the countryside to discover its traditional crafts. We reach a small, secluded temple in the countryside, Chao Srei Vibol, located on the ancient royal road. After visiting the site, we head towards a major temple, the magnificent Bakong. Finally, we hike through the countryside and villages to reach our host family and their wooden stilt house. We spend the night with them.Day 6 -
Roulos - Siem Reap
- Transportation Minibus - 01h - 50km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h30
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, we set off on foot into the countryside, passing through villages to discover local life and foster connections and sharing. Along the way, we stop at a pagoda to receive the monks' blessing. We return to Siem Reap by vehicle, where we explore the city. We visit Wat Bo Pagoda and take a stroll along the river. Afterwards, we discover the local markets, including Psar Leu. For ultimate relaxation, enjoy a massage at the renowned Frangipani Spa. The day ends with some rest and relaxation by the pool in the afternoon. Overnight at the hotel.Day 7 -
Siem Reap - Koh Ker - Stung Treng
- Transportation Minibus - 06h - 300km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Today is dedicated to the transfer to northern Cambodia, reaching the banks of the Mekong River. En route, we visit the temple-mountain of the ancient Khmer city of Koh Ker. This remote site allows us to discover the tallest temple-mountain in the Kingdom, Koh Ker, and its satellite temples, recently designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the 10th century, a usurper left Angkor to build a new capital 100 kilometers to the northeast, the present-day site of Koh Ker, deep in the bush. The reign of this usurper is characterized by its gigantism, both in construction and sculpture. However, twenty years after its construction, Koh Ker was abandoned, and the king's successors returned to Angkor, leaving the bush to reclaim its domain. We explore on foot the temples scattered across the site, nestled in the light forests of Koh Ker, including the famous Prasat Thom, the tallest temple-mountain in the Kingdom, rising 35 meters high and spread over seven levels. We also discover a gigantic baray, a water reservoir that once irrigated this ancient city. In the early afternoon, we continue by vehicle to Stung Treng. We visit the town on the banks of the Mekong River and enjoy a short cruise on a local boat upriver, observing the lake life and admiring the stunning scenery. Overnight stay at a hotel in Stung Treng. Travel time by vehicle: 5-6 hours, walking time: 2 hours, boat cruise: 1-2 hours.Day 8 -
Stung Treng - Mondulkiri
- Transportation Minibus - 05h - 200km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We set off towards Sen Monorom in Mondulkiri province. Upon arriving in the village of Putang, we have the opportunity to experience the local life of the Phnong minority. Afterwards, we travel by vehicle to the starting point of our trek to explore the mountainous region of Mondulkiri. We reach a sala, a wooden structure on stilts, on the riverbank in the valley. We meet our Phnong hosts, who prepare a traditional dinner for us (with ingredients cooked in bamboo) and offer us a traditional drink from their village (a jar of alcohol). We spend the night at the sala.Day 9 -
Mondulkiri - Meeting the Elephants
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h30
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
This day promises to be more relaxed, dedicated to exploring the valley. After breakfast by the river, the mahout will head out into the forest to fetch his elephants and return with them to spend time with these magnificent creatures. We'll observe them, swim in the river with them, and share some special moments with them. In the afternoon, we'll take a walk in the surrounding area to explore the rainforest, its valleys, and its rivers. We'll return in the late afternoon to swim at the waterfall and shower before nightfall. Dinner and overnight stay will be at the sala (traditional Tahitian lodge).Day 10 -
Mondulkiri - Dak Dam - Mondulkiri
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h30
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We pack our bags and prepare to leave this peaceful haven. We drive up the valleys and reach the village of Putang. The vehicle is waiting for us and takes us to a different region of Mondulkiri, with its coffee plantations. We reach Dak Dam, a typical Phnong minority village, and explore it. We hike in the hills overlooking the province and reach another waterfall. In the late afternoon, we arrive in Sen Monorom, the main town of Mondulkiri, and spend the night in a hotel.Day 11 -
Mondulkiri - Kratie & Irrawaddy Dolphins
- Transportation Minibus - 04h - 200km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 1h30
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We depart for Kratie, the former colonial city on the Mekong River. Next, we travel to Kampi, where dramatic rock formations rise from the Mekong's waters. From a longboat, we have the opportunity to observe Irrawaddy dolphins, an endangered species. We visit a pagoda perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the Mekong's floodplains. We then take a public ferry to a stunning island in the Mekong, where we enjoy a stroll. We embark on a walking excursion to explore the villages of the Vietnamese and Cambodian communities living on the island. A short walk through the village allows us to meet the local people and learn about their daily lives.Day 12 -
Kratie - Phnom Penh
- Transportation Minibus - 06h - 300km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
After breakfast, departure by private vehicle to Phnom Penh, visit to the National Museum and the Royal Palace with the Silver Pagoda. Boat trip on the Mekong River for sunset. Overnight at the hotel.Day 13 -
Phnom Penh - Chi Phat in the heart of the cardamom groves
- Transportation Minibus - 04h - 200km
- Activity Hiking
- Positive elevation gain 40 m
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We depart by private vehicle towards the Cardamom Mountains and the village of Chi Phat. Upon arrival, we are welcomed by the CBET (Community Project Team). We attend a presentation about the project before settling in. We explore the village of Chi Phat and its community projects, then enjoy a bicycle ride to discover the surrounding area and watch the sunset over the hills. Overnight in a bungalow in the village.Day 14 -
Chi Pat - Trek in the Cardamom Forest
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Positive elevation gain 80 m
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
This morning, we set off by motorbike taxi through the forest. They dropped us off, and we began our hike. Our steps led us to a large clearing, Veal Ta Prak, an observation point where we might spot a deer or a wild boar. We were in luck; the gibbons were there, and we could hear them from afar. We continued our adventure to a river where we had lunch. A short break and relaxation in this natural setting before continuing our trek. We reached the most challenging part of the day: a short climb (8 meters of elevation gain), but the terrain was sometimes a little slippery. Our hike continued as we explored the flora of this forest with our local guide. In the mid-afternoon, we arrived at Damnak Kos, our campsite. We pitched our tents and took advantage of the late afternoon to swim in the river; some relaxed, others read. This late afternoon excursion in the heart of nature, isolated from everything, takes place in the Elephant Corridor. A truly unique location. Overnight stay in an igloo tent. *Chiphat excursions may be modified depending on local conditions (rainy season, road closures, slippery terrain).Day 15 -
Chi Pat - Koh Kong
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
At dawn, we'll canoe through the heart of the rainforest on a tributary of the river, observing the local wildlife. We'll then return to our boat. Breakfast will be served on board. We'll continue to Chi Phat, where our vehicle will be waiting (30 minutes to 1 hour by dugout canoe and approximately 2 hours by boat). From there, we'll depart for southwestern Cambodia, to the charming and peaceful town of Koh Kong (3 hours by road). Lunch will be at a local restaurant along the way. Afterward, we'll continue to explore the Peam Krasop Wildlife Sanctuary, home to some of the largest mangrove forests in Southeast Asia. We'll hike through this vast mangrove, discovering its diverse flora and fauna (1-2 hours on foot). Check-in at the hotel.Day 16 -
Discovering Koh Kong between forest and mangrove
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h30
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Today, we embark on an in-depth exploration of the river, mangroves, and jungle. Nature lovers will be in their element here, and we'll begin our exploration of a true paradise, starting by boat. We'll travel upriver, discovering idyllic landscapes before beginning our hike through the rainforest to reach a splendid panoramic view of the Koh Kong estuary at the summit. There, we'll cool off in a waterfall before enjoying lunch. Afterward, we'll descend back to our boat and continue toward the impressive Koh Kong mangrove forest, one of the largest in Southeast Asia, which we'll explore on foot.Day 17 -
A relaxing day on Koh Kong Island
- Transportation Boat - 03h - 200km
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Early in the morning, we set sail for a two-hour journey to reach the unspoiled island of Koh Kong. A white sand beach unfolds before us, and we have ample time to enjoy this idyllic spot, swimming, relaxing, and contemplating the surroundings—a pure moment of bliss. For those who wish, a two-hour walk is possible to explore this unique place and reach another beach. Depending on sea conditions, we can also explore the underwater world while snorkeling. In this sublime setting of Koh Kong Island, we set up camp for the night.Day 18 -
Koh Kong - Tatai - Kampot
- Transportation Boat - 06h - 300km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h30
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
Back on the boat, we set sail for Koh Kong, from where we continue our journey by road towards Kampot. Along the way, we stop in Tatai to explore the river and enjoy a short walk to the waterfall. Traveling through southern Cambodia, we reach the charming and unique town of Kampot, located on the banks of the river of the same name. We spend the night in a bungalow.Day 19 -
Kampot River and Village
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h30
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
Today, we depart for the surrounding countryside, where rice paddies and fruit orchards form part of the landscape. We visit the small town of Kampot and then head to a Kampot green pepper farm for a tasting. We return to Kampot to embark on a boat trip, a cruise on the Kampot River. We'll discover the Nipa Palm by kayak in the "green loop." Return to the bungalow. Overnight stay in a riverside bungalow. (1.5 hours by boat, 1 hour by kayak).Day 20 -
Kampot - Phnom Penh
- Transportation Minibus - 04h - 200km
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Departure in the mid-afternoon, or as you prefer, towards Phnom Penh. Lunch at your leisure. Check-in at your hotel, followed by free time to explore the capital. Dinner at your leisure. Overnight at the hotel.Day 21 -
Phnom Penh
- Transportation 01h
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Free time and transfer to the airport for the international flight back to France.Day 22 -
France
- Transportation Plane - 15h - 7000km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Arrived during the dayDay 23
Note
Depending on weather and operational conditions, the guide reserves the right to modify this itinerary for your safety and that of the group. Excursions to Chipat and Tonle Sap may be modified according to weather and water conditions.
Accommodation
During this stay, you will sleep in several different accommodations.
Access
Departure
Siem Reap, Cambodge
Day 1
: 00h00
End of stay
Siem Reap, Cambodge
Day 23
- 00h00
Go to the starting point
The nearest airport isREP - SIEM REAP
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Price details
The price includes
- International flights departing from Paris.
- Air taxes.
- Local transfers.
- Accommodation.
- Full board except for the free meals mentioned in the program.
- Supervision by a French-speaking tour guide (from day 2 to day 20) and a local team.
- Entrance fees to the sites and museums included in the program (122 USD including 62 USD for the Angkor temples pass).
The price does not include
- Visa fees.
- The drinks.
- Personal expenses.
- Tips.
- The free meals mentioned in the program (approximately €10 / meal).
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
- a lightweight sleeping bag for December and January + pillowcase (mattress, pillows and double mosquito nets provided)
- a fitted sheet for one person or a sleeping bag sheet for nights spent at someone's home.
- a toiletry bag and bath towel
- sunscreen (face and lips)
- swimsuit
- headlamp, with spare batteries
- lightweight and insulated water bottle
- pocket knife, preferably a multi-purpose one
- toilet paper + lighter (in checked baggage)
- moistened towels, "Calinette" type
- plastic bags for waterproofing your belongings
- Earplugs
- notepad
Please note: the mattresses provided are quite basic. To improve your comfort, you can bring an extra mattress such as a Thermarest or equivalent.
Clothing to bring
Clothing, from head to toe:
- lightweight walking shoes
- a pair of sandals and a pair of plastic flip-flops to put on during stops in towns and villages.
- socks
- trekking pants
- breathable t-shirts
- light and comfortable clothes for the evening
- Lightweight fleece or a light sweater for the evening
- rain cape
- hat
- sarong for showering
- sunglasses
Please note that for visits to the temples of Angkor, it is mandatory to wear clothing that covers the shoulders and legs. Therefore, shorts, short skirts, sleeveless t-shirts, or Bermuda shorts should be avoided.
Quick tip: Avoid cotton clothing as it's difficult to dry due to humidity. Opt instead for technical hiking clothes that dry quickly and have the added benefits of being lightweight and breathable.
Decathlon Travel Partner
The Paulin team
4.4/5
(1437 reviews)
• 436 stays
For over 30 years, our local partner has been designing adventure walking trips around the world. Specializing in small-group treks, they cater to both casual hikers and seasoned trekkers seeking unspoiled natural environments and a return to the essentials. Their key strength? They own their own agencies in over 30 countries, guaranteeing complete trip creation from start to finish, without intermediaries. This direct, on-the-ground expertise ensures memorable active experiences and total freedom amidst breathtaking landscapes.
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