Glamping Expedition Cambodia

ARRIVAL

Upon arrival at Siem Reap Airport you will be met by our representative at your arrival gate and whisked through customs. Your expert guide will be awaiting you outside, ready to take you on your adventure off the beaten path across Cambodia.

ANCIENT SUNSET CRUISE

Next you will be driven to the hidden banks of the moat to explore Angkor Thom, where you will board a VIP Gondola boat to cruise the serene waters on a sunset experience. The evening includes wine/ beer and Asian canapés. The boat captain will steer by hand as you sail the ancient waters, viewing the walled temple from afar. A most relaxing and enjoyable experience, you can choose to dock the boat for a prime sunset position, or alternatively disembark and walk up the iron steps to the beautiful ‘corner temple,’ Prasat Chhrung. Gaze at the vista of Cambodian countryside and watch the most stunning sunset in all of Angkor (weather permitting). Walk around this tiny, yet intricate, temple that is almost free of any other people, creating the perfect atmosphere for a romantic and beautiful evening. Sail back slowly to the banks, where you will meet your guide for your journey to your luxury tented glamping lodge for the night.

Accommodation – The Beige

ANGKOR SUNRISE AND TEMPLE EXPLORATION

This morning, depart early with your guide to the majestic west gate of Angkor Wat for sunrise. Angkor Wat (early 12th century) which is surrounded by a 190 metre wide moat 1.5 kilometres by 1.3 kilometres and is claimed to be the largest religious building in the world and is certainly one of the wonders of the ancient world. You will be amazed by the sheer size of the temple, which took 30 years to construct & used the labour of up to 300,000 workers. Angkor Wat was built as the earthly representation of the universe with its’ central tower symbolising Mt Meru which, Hindus believe, is at the centre of the Universe.

As crowds gather, your guide will lead you to the less visited temples of nearby Srah Srang and Ta Prohm. Ta Prohm is one of Angkor’s jewels and is overgrown with fig trees, giving a haunting yet exotic atmosphere. The magnificent roots of the trees have merged over the centuries with the temple’s huge stone blocks, emphasizing a ‘Tomb Raider’ feeling.

This Afternoon, head out by Tuk Tuk to visit the Royal city and former capital of the Khmer Empire; Angkor Thom which consists of several temples. Enter the city through the impressive South Gate and drive towards the Bayon temple. At first glance the temple may seem like a shapeless mass of stone, but further scrutiny reveals enigmatic faces looking into every direction. Continue your exploration with a visit to the Terrace of the Elephants, which served as a platform from where the King viewed the victorious return of his army.

After, visit the Terrace of the Leper King with detailed carvings winding along a narrow passageway that leads to the Baphuon. Slow down the pace mid afternoon and enter a cool Wat to receive a traditional Monk blessing. Later, visit the picturesque Preah Palilay and Pimeanakas.

End the day with an optional visit to see sunset at a special place suggested by your guide

Accommodation – The Beige

BANTEAY CHHMAR TEMPLE, DINNER AND CAMPING

This morning after breakfast we take a scenic road to our destination for today, Banteay Chhmar. Travel along the ancient highway through charming villages past temples and lakes, stopping at points of interest along the way.

Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by the community before starting your exploration of the temple ruins of Banteay Chhmar on foot. Although the temple is being gradually reclaimed by nature, the size and minute details remain incredibly impressive.

A picnic lunch will be served at the west gallery close to one of the Angkor era’s most amazing carvings, the Avalokitesvara which depicts a 32 armed figure.

After lunch, take a short trip to the other side of the village where you can observe another astonishing temple. Children play among the ruins and local villagers come to wash their clothes and bathe in the reservoir surrounding the temple.

Returning to your camp you can refresh yourself with a glass of cold bubbles while watching the sun go down over the temple.

As dusk falls, settle into your accommodation for the night – a safari-style tent. The custom-designed tents are high quality Gore-Tex and allow substantial comfort, including toilet facilities. There are two tents. Each tent can sleep two people in comfort.

The local community will prepare a meal for you onsite using as many local ingredients as possible. You’ll dig into your exquisite local meal overlooking the temple facade in a clearing lit by torches (weather permitting). A traditional band from the local village will serenade you with traditional Khmer tunes.

When the musicians depart, you’ll be able to settle into your tent and enjoy some free time before falling asleep in comfort.

Accommodation -Banteay Chhmar Tented Camp

BATTAMBANG HIGHLIGHTS EXPLORATION

Early this morning, before breakfast, you have the option to follow your hosts to the temple and join the monks in their morning prayer. In return for giving alms they will offer you their blessing. Head back to the camp to enjoy your breakfast before departing on a short trip South to Cambodia’s third largest city of Battambang. 

Battambang is a bustling little city oozing with colonial charm set along the banks of the Sangkar River. In recent years it has become a hub of art and creativity with various artists having their studios here. The art deco Central Market and old french quarter is a reminder of days gone by and well worth a stroll around.

Upon arrival we will go to visit the infamous Bamboo train, locally named the Nori. This is a thrilling ride on a unique mode of transport that is used by locals to transport goods and people during the period when the railways in Cambodia were no longer being used. Speed along the tracks, just inches from the ground taking in the countryside on this truly exhilarating local experience.

We will then have lunch at a famous local restaurant before heading to your hotel to check-in and freshen up. After a short rest, with the option to visit a local art gallery or simply relax at your hotel, your guide will pick you up for this afternoon’s visits. We will first visit the hill temple of Banan. This Angkor era temple is set atop a rocky outcrop affording wonderful views of the extensive rice fields in the surrounding area. Be prepared to climb some steep steps to the top, however the reward is well worth it. 

From Banan we continue to explore the mountain of Phnom Sampov, here you experience a working pagoda on the top of the hill and there are still signs that it was occupied during the war years. Reminders of more terrible times are evident during a visit to the killing caves where your guide will explain the atrocities that occured here during the Khmer 

Rouge genocide. We head down the mountain to await the nightly spectacle as thousands of bats exit their bat cave in waves at dusk to go and feed. Take a seat and a cold drink to watch the phenomenon, you might also want to try one of the local snacks that are readily available. 

 You will be dropped off at your hotel where you are free to explore the town this evening. A stroll along the riverside and through the french quarter is a great way to spend some time.

Accommodation – Bambu Hotel

A JOURNEY THROUGH THE CARDAMOM MOUNTAINS

We have a lot of ground to cover today so we keep moving along after an early breakfast.. Passing sites along the way we continue into the northern reaches of the Cardamom Mountains, this is where you will notice a dramatic change in the scenery. The roads are developing fast in this area and can change regularly. After ascending the hills and gaining altitude through beautiful countryside, we reach the hill town of Pramaoy, after a short break we continue on to O’Som community centre, where we will go on foot for a brief walk to try and spot some rare Siamese Crocodiles that are being slowly reintroduced. Onward through this pretty village our next stop is a stunning hidden waterfall and a quirky drink stop.

After this we continue on along a good concrete topped dam road through stunning scenery to Koh Kong town (we can stop as required for photo opportunities) depending on the time we might visit Koh Kong and have a refreshing drink on the riverfront before continuing to our destination of 4 Rivers Floating Lodge, your accommodation for the night.

Accommodation – 4 Rivers Floating Lodge

EXPERIENCE THE WILDERNESS

For those with a sense of adventure but who still enjoy all the comforts of home this is a great chance for you to get away from it all during your time in Cambodia and still enjoy your evenings being pampered. There are a number of exciting activities on offer for those who love to be out in nature and equally for those who are happy to stay in the camps vicinity. There are the options of trekking through the nearby mangroves and jungle trails. Or you might wish to take a boat ride to nature’s spa at Tatai waterfall. Follow the ranger guides through the dense jungle on a bird / wildlife survey, using their expert knowledge you will be able to witness all kinds of bird life.

At the end of the day relax on a sunset cruise or kayak up the river and enjoy a sundowner as night descends. Alternatively relax and unwind and enjoy the easy life from the comfort of your floating tented lodge, with beautiful views of the serene Tatai River and attentive staff service, there will be little to do but kickback and soak up the atmosphere of this stunning location.

Accommodation – 4 Rivers Floating Lodge

SCENIC VISIT WITH WILDLIFE ALLIANCE

This morning, after a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a cool dip in the river we head back upstream by boat to meet your guide and driver. Who will take you on a short transfer to your next wild experience.

Arrive with your guide and driver at the Trapeang Rung Pier. From here you will board your boat for the scenic 1 hour trip down the Preak Tachan River to the secluded luxury tented camp. Upon arrival you will receive a brief introduction on the conservation and protection work the Wildlife Alliance undertakes alongside the camp. After you will have a chance to settle into your new surroundings and be introduced to your Luxury Safari style tent. With your expert guide you are invited to go on a short exploratory hike in the jungle surrounding the camp, alternatively relax with a cold drink by the riverside as the sun descends over Botum Sakor. Enjoy an alfresco dinner before retiring to your comfortable tent.

Accommodation – Cardamom Tented Camp

JUNGLE TREKKING

Awake to an early breakfast, before meeting with the Wildlife Alliance Rangers and your guide to embark on a patrol through dense forest utilizing a network of abandoned poaching and logging trails. Along the way keep a lookout for wildlife such as gibbons, hornbills and macaques. You will stop by a ranger station where you can witness the amount of confiscated snares, traps and rifles on display. After a hearty lunch at the station you have the option of hiking back to camp or taking a beautifully scenic Kayak along the river. Return in time for sunset and a delightful dinner by the river.

Accommodation – Cardamom Tented Camp

BOAT TRIP TO ISLAND PARADISE

Today, enjoy breakfast at your leisure. If you arise early you will have the chance to take an early morning wildlife boat ride or a self-guided trail hike around the camp. Mid-morning we say our farewells and hop on the boat upstream back to the pier, where your driver will be waiting to take you to your next adventure.

We Transfer to Sihanoukville which is now a vibrant modern city, having undergone many changes in recent years. We head to the port where your boat will be waiting to transfer you to you across azure seas to the beautiful picture book island of Koh Rong, where you can settle in and relax in your authentic yet modern tented accommodation directly on the white sandy beach.

Accommodation – Tamu Koh Rong Island

ISLAND EXPLORATION

Pagoda Beach is a white sand, palm fringed topical Paradise and a great place to escape for a short while. You may wish to soak up the sun, however if you still have itchy feet there are plenty of activities on offer to keep you busy. Snorkeling in the pristine clear water is a popular pastime right off the beach, for the more adventurous, Scuba diving can be arranged at your convenience. 

You could also spend the day exploring the island’s jungle clad interior and visit the walking trails and scenic waterfalls. After dinner on the beach you might wish to take a boat our into the bay and discover the beautifully radiant, neon, bioluminescence, depending on sea conditions. 

Accommodation – Tamu Koh Rong Island

ISLAND HOPPING

Awake today to another stunning day in paradise, after a leisurely breakfast and morning swim you could indulge in a spa treatment provided by the resort or for those with a thirst for more, you could take a private speedboat to the nearby island of Koh Rong Samloem and discover the beautiful Saracen Bay or Lonely beach. Alternatively take a trip to the different bays around the island including the famous “survivor” bay where the popular TV series was filmed. A visit to the rustic village of Koh Touch is also a great way to spend the afternoon. You can be back in time to soak up your last Island sunset. 

Accommodation – Tamu Koh Rong Island

LUXURY IMMERSIVE JUNGLE EXPERIENCE

This morning you will leave your island paradise and hop on the boat back to the mainland where your guide will be waiting for you. We head back inland and back into the jungle to experience possibly one of the most exclusive tented lodges in the region. 

Upon arrival you will be greeted with vintage ex military jeeps which will take you into the forest. You have the choice to Zipline directly into the lodge only to be welcomed with a glass of bubbles! This is the start of a very special experience. You can relax this afternoon and enjoy some of the facilities on offer such as a spa treatment or a dip in the wonderful steampunk styled swimming pool set amongst huge trees. Chill on the terrace this evening with a delightful meal and a selection of drinks that would make Hemmingway weep.

Accommodation – Shinta Mani Wild

EXPLORE OR RELAX, THE CHOICE IS YOURS

Arise to the sounds of the forest. From your luxury tented headquarters you will have a range of options included where you can head out with highly skilled rangers and explore the local area and assist them in their work or simply get out of your comfort zone and try something new. You can head up a remote river away from civilisation in your expedition boat and spot rare bird species whilst enjoying morning coffee and delicacies before having the chance to explore by kayak and even have a swim in the cooling waters if you are feeling brave. How about a foraging and cooking class? Where you will learn about how to live off the natural resources around you, it’s surprising what is available in this rich habitat. Alternatively take a hike out of camp with the rangers on their anti poaching patrols, placing camera traps, gaining an insight into how the lodge works alongside the local communities to preserve the forest.

At the end of a long day let’s not forget a stunning hosted cocktail evening on a remote riverbed, where the champagne will be on ice waiting to invite you in, the fully stocked pop up bar will conjure images of old explorers of days gone by.

Accommodation – Shinta Mani Wild

DEPARTURE DAY

This morning we say goodbye to Shinta Mani Wild and our glamping expedition and return to the city of Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s Capital. Here you can return to the airport for your onward journey or you can have the option to extend your stay with us and take in the city’s highlights.