Cambodia Family Tour – 8 Days

Duration: 8 Days
Start/ End: Phnom Penh/ Siem Reap
Tour Type: Family
Tour Route: Phnom Penh – Battambang – Siem Reap
Tour Customizable: Definitely!
Guide: Local experienced English speaking guide
Transportation: Local transport with a skillful driver

Brief Itinerary

Day 1: Phnom Penh
Day 2: Phnom Penh
Day 3: Battambang
Day 4: Battambang
Day 5: Siem Reap
Day 6: Siem Reap
Day 7: Siem Reap
Day 8: Siem Reap

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Phnom Penh

Welcome to bustling Phnom Penh, once dubbed the Paris of the East! This vibrant city blends historic temples with modern developments amidst the buzz of scooters. Emerging from its past struggles, Phnom Penh exudes renewed charm. Our hotel, situated in the city center, awaits your arrival. Join us for a welcome group meeting at 5 pm, followed by an optional group dinner. Enjoy accommodation at a well-located family-style hotel in Phnom Penh.

Day 2: Phnom Penh 

This morning, hop on a Cyclo Centre cyclo (bicycle rickshaw) for a trip exploring historic buildings along the riverfront. Visit the Royal Palace, where the private quarters are off-limits but you can explore the sacred Silver Pagoda within the palace complex. Enjoy free time for further exploration afterward.

Day 3: Battambang

Today, we’ll journey by private bus to Battambang, a picturesque riverside town in Cambodia. The 4.5 to 5-hour journey includes a stop to witness local pottery-making. Battambang, the country’s second-largest city, boasts French colonial architecture, friendly locals, and a tranquil atmosphere.

After settling in, we’ll take a remork (Cambodian tuk-tuk) to a local family’s home for a traditional Cambodian dinner and insights into Cambodian life.

Day 4: Battambang

Embark on a half-day bike tour through Battambang’s stunning countryside. Along the way, explore local cottage industries making sticky rice, rice paper, dried bananas, and fish paste. It’s an easy ride, ideal for exploring the peaceful surroundings. Helmets and smaller bikes, as well as a “tag along” bike attachment for children, are available. For those who can’t ride, a local tuk-tuk, called a remork, is also an option.

Day 5: Siem Reap

After breakfast, depart from your hotel and travel to Siem Reap by private minivan. Siem Reap is the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Angkor Archaeological Park, just 7 kilometers away. Yet, the town itself offers plenty to explore, from day and night markets to Khmer massage and spa treatments, cafes, restaurants, and even fish massage. Upon arrival, check into your hotel, then hop in a Tuk Tuk with your family to visit the Rokkhak Women Handicraft Centre. This center supports sustainable development by connecting socially conscious travelers with traditional local crafts. 

Day 6: Siem Reap

After breakfast, our local guide picks us up to explore the incredible temples of Angkor. Built between the 9th and 12th centuries, these temples symbolize the cosmic world, displaying remarkable balance and symmetry in their design. Along the way, we may encounter monkeys gathering on the temple ruins. Today’s visit includes Angkor Wat, the largest religious site globally, Ta Prohm, known as the jungle temple from “Tomb Raider,” and Bayon, featuring 54 towers adorned with over 200 enigmatic smiling faces.

Day 7: Siem Reap

Today, we explore the exquisite Banteay Srey, also known as the “Citadel of the Women,” renowned for its classical Khmer art carved into pinkish sandstone. Optionally, we can visit the Landmine Museum, founded in 1997 by former child soldier Aki Ra, to learn about Cambodia’s landmine history and inspire positive change.

After lunch at Bong Thom homestay, we head to the Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre, where rural families engage in sustainable butterfly farming. Witness the vibrant variety of Cambodian butterflies and learn about conservation efforts.

Tonight, after dinner, we will enjoy Phare, the Cambodian Circus. Performers, hailing from vulnerable backgrounds, showcase their talents in a show blending theater, music, dance, acrobatics, juggling, aerial acts, and contortion, reminiscent of a Cambodian Cirque Du Soleil.

Day 8: Siem Reap

Today is departure day, and no activities are scheduled.

If you’re still eager to explore, your three-day temple pass grants you access to return to Angkor Archaeological Park independently. Your leader can assist in arranging transportation, such as a remork or car.

Alternatively, if you have extra time, consider booking a Khmer Cooking Class, visiting the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve at Tonle Sap Lake, treating yourself to high tea at Raffles Hotel, or simply unwinding by the hotel pool.