Classic Mekong & Cambodia Tour – 9 Days

Duration: 9 Days
Start/ End: Ho Chi Minh Bangkok
Tour Type: Discovery and Experience
Tour Route: Ho Chi Minh – Phnom Penh – Battambang – Siem Reap – Bangkok
Tour Customizable: Definitely!
Guide: Local experienced English speaking guide
Transportation: Local transport with a skillful driver

Brief Itinerary

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh
Day 2: Ho Chi Minh – Phnom Penh
Day 3: Phnom Penh
Day 4: Phnom Penh – Battambang
Day 5: Battambang – Siem Reap
Day 6: Siem Reap/ Angkor Wat
Day 7: Siem Reap/ Angkor Wat
Day 8: Siem Reap- Bangkok
Day 9: Bangkok

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh

Your adventure starts with a 6 pm meeting in Ho Chi Minh City. Beforehand, explore the city’s mix of old and new at your leisure. Discover historical sites like the Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum. If you arrive early, consider day trips to Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta. After the meeting, gather your group for a dinner outing.

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh – Phnom Penh

Take a public bus across the border, passing through rural Vietnam and Cambodia, to reach Phnom Penh, the capital city. Positioned at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, Phnom Penh showcases stunning French-inspired architecture. Upon arrival, unwind with a mojito on a rooftop or indulge in shopping at the art-deco Psar Thmei (Central Market) or Psar Tuol Tom Pong (the Russian Market) for a diverse range of local souvenirs.

Day 3: Phnom Penh

Today, delve into Cambodia’s history with a guided tour of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21), once a school turned torture center during the Khmer Rouge regime. Visit the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, where a stupa of 8000 human skulls memorializes the victims. Optionally, explore brighter periods of Cambodian history with a visit to the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. Don’t miss Wat Phnom and the National Museum for a deeper understanding of Cambodian culture. Consider a cyclo tour for a unique way to explore the city’s landmarks.

Day 4: Phnom Penh – Battambang

Today, journey to Battambang by private minibus, stopping at a pottery village in Kampong Chhnang to witness traditional pottery making. Explore Cambodia’s second-largest city, known for its charming riverside setting, French-inspired elegance, and well-preserved colonial architecture. Enjoy the freedom to explore on your own, and consider joining an optional cooking class to master local dishes like amok, Khmer curry, and fried spicy chicken.

Day 5: Battambang – Siem Reap

Explore the countryside around Battambang by bike, visiting rural villages to experience authentic Cambodian life. Meet local families who craft traditional agricultural products like rice paper, dried bananas, and bamboo sticky rice. Pause at a Khmer house to enjoy coconut water and chat about their way of life. In the afternoon, travel to Siem Reap by private minibus, arriving in the evening. Relax and prepare for your visit to Angkor tomorrow. Consider trying some delicious street food at the markets for dinner.

Day 6: Siem Reap – Angkor Wat

Witness the breathtaking sunrise at Angkor Wat in the early hours, a truly rewarding experience reminiscent of ancient times (weather permitting). Then, embark on a temple-hopping adventure with your local guide to explore the renowned Angkor complex. While the ruins span 160 square kilometers, the main cluster of temples near Siem Reap includes Angkor Wat, Bayon, and the jungle-covered Ta Prohm, ensuring ample time to fully appreciate these archaeological wonders.

Day 7: Siem Reap – Angkor Wat

Continue your exploration of the Angkor complex this morning. In the afternoon, embark on a private local boat to discover the floating villages and witness local daily life at Chhong Kneas. Situated on the edge of Tonle Sap Lake, also known as the Great Lake of Cambodia, Chhong Kneas is a bustling trading port for agricultural products. Experience the unique lifestyle of the floating communities and gain insight into their daily activities.

Day 8: Siem Reap – Bangkok

Today involves a lengthy drive by private minibus from Siem Reap to Bangkok. Upon arrival in Thailand’s bustling capital, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere filled with tuk tuks, khlong boats, and delectable street food. Consider venturing out to savor some local specialties as a farewell with your fellow travelers.

Day 9: Bangkok

Your journey concludes this morning with no additional activities scheduled. However, if you have extra time, Bangkok offers plenty to explore, such as the Grand Palace, Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and the intriguing Jim Thompson museum. Feel free to contact your booking agent if you wish to extend your stay and discover more of what Bangkok has to offer.