From the great rulers of the Angkorian Empire, to the French occupation of Indochina, and on to the devastating Khmer Rouge reign of the 1970s, modern Cambodia has been shaped by the experiences and events of its past. This five day takes you from the epicenter of the country's recent tragedy to the glorious crumbling temples of its ancient empire. 

Arrive in Phnom Penh where French colonial architecture shines through in fleeting glimpses as you drive along the wide boulevards of the capital city. Overlooking the Tonle River stands the grandiose Royal Palace, home to the country's royal family and the stunning Silver Pagoda. Next door is the city's National Museum which contains hundreds of relics and artifacts from ancient times. Your guided tour will be the perfect introduction to the Angkorian era and a preview of what awaits you in Siem Reap. 

Travel west to Siem Reap where you will have plenty of time to explore the Temples of Angkor. With hundreds of temples within a 40 square-kilometer area, your Exotissimo guide will show you all of the highlights, along with some hidden gems rarely seen by other tourists. From the massive Angkor Wat to the petite Banteay Srei, your days will be filled with wonder as you marvel at the sheer scope of the temple complex and at the intricate details of their carvings.

From the country's modern capital to its ancient one, experience the rich cultural heritage of Cambodia.

Arrive in Phnom Penh and transfer to hotel. This city was once considered one of the most beautiful in the Orient, and despite its recent turbulent history it still retains a colonial charm. A city tour by pedal-powered cyclo includes the National Museum, the Royal Palace, Tuol Sleng Prison and Wat Phnom.

Overnight in Phnom Penh.

A short morning flight takes you to Siem Reap, the base for exploring the fabled temples of Angkor and the ancient capital of the Khmer empire. After freshening up, travel to the outskirts of town where the 9^th century temples of Rolous are located. Visit the anceint ruins and travel through the countryside by local ox cart enjoying the peaceful rural scenery and meeting friendly locals along the way.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Enjoy a full morning of temple touring at Angkor Thom City, from the evocative smiling faces of Bayon to the  expansive Terrace of the Elephants. Partake in a special blessing ceremony performed by a monk at a temple, an unforgettable experience. This afternoon, board a boat on the Tonle Sap river to explore the sunken forests and floating houses of a fisherman's village as you motor along Asia's largest freshwater lake

Overnight in Siem Reap.

This morning you’ll delve into the forest on a visit to Banteay Srei, an elaborately carved pink sandstone temple known as the citadel of women. Continue to the Landmine Musuem to learn about this charity’s efforts to rid the country of mines followed by a visit to the enigmatic jungle-covered temple of Ta Phrom. This afternoon, your temple touring is capped off with a visit to Angkor Wat where you will tour the endless hallways of carvings long after the tourist crowds have disappeared

Overnight in Siem Reap.

This morning, visit the workshops of Aritisan’s D’Angkor  where you can observe local aritsans learning traditional crafts which are then sold at their boutique.  Shop for one to take home as a unique reminder of your time in Cambodia.  After lunch, transfer to the airport for your onward flight.