Every day on this itinerary offers something special, blending iconic landmarks, authentic local experiences, and the freedom to travel through Cambodia at your own pace. This route is perfect if you’re planning to rent a tuktuk or even drive your own tuktuk through lively cities, tranquil riverside towns, lush jungles, and peaceful villages. From majestic temples and cascading waterfalls to cultural crafts and serene island escapes, traveling by tuk tuk allows you to experience the heart of Cambodia in a truly unique way—making it an adventure you’ll never forget!.
Day 1: Arrival and Royal Sights
Overnight: Phnom Penh
- Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda: Start your tuk tuk journey with tuktukrental.com in the lively capital, Phnom Penh. Begin with the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, admiring their opulent designs and learning about Cambodia’s monarchy. (Both are within 2 km of each other.)
- National Museum: Uncover Cambodia’s rich cultural history through its impressive collection of Khmer art and artifacts.
Optional Evening Activity
- Riverside Walk and Local Markets: Enjoy a leisurely walk along Sisowath Quay by the Mekong River and browse the night markets for unique local souvenirs.
Day 2: Reflect on Cambodia’s Past
Overnight: Phnom Penh
- Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: Located 3km southwest of the city center. Gain insight into Cambodia’s turbulent history with a visit to this former school turned museum.
- Choeung Ek Killing Fields: A 15km drive from Phnom Penh – A moving historical site that offers further understanding of Cambodia’s past.
- Tonle Sap River Sunset Cruise: End the day with a tranquil sunset cruise on the Tonle Sap River, taking in the city’s skyline and scenic views.
Optional Activity
- Phnom Penh’s Street Food Tour: Sample local street foods like lok lak, fried noodles, and grilled fish to taste authentic Khmer flavors.
Day 3: Scenic Drive to Kampong Cham
Overnight: Kampong Cham
- Wat Nokor Temple: 125km ~ Drive your own tuk tuk from Phnom Penh to Kampong Cham, stopping at Wat Nokor Temple, a beautiful blend of ancient and modern architecture.
Day 4: Explore Kampong Cham Countryside
Overnight: Kampong Cham or nearby village homestay
Countryside Exploration and
- Local Markets: Discover the Kampong Cham countryside, including visits to traditional villages and bustling local markets.
- Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei Hills: A 7 km drive from the town – Drive your tuk tuk to Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei Hills to hike up these two hilltops for panoramic views of the Mekong and surrounding landscapes.
- Bamboo Bridge at Tbung Khmum: A 15-minute tuk tuk ride; Visit this seasonal bamboo bridge that connects Kampong Cham with the nearby island of Koh Paen.
- Mekong River Picnic: Enjoy a riverside picnic lunch by the Mekong, with views of the river and the bridge.
Optional Evening Activity
- Homestay Experience: For an authentic local experience, spend the night in a homestay, embedding yourself in traditional Cambodian culture and cuisine.
Day 5: Journey to Mondulkiri and Bunong Villages
Overnight: Mondulkiri
- Bunong Ethnic Villages: Drive your tuk tuk up to Mondulkiri, a serene region known for its scenic beauty. Visit Bunong ethnic villages to learn about the indigenous community’s unique traditions.
Optional Activity
- Coffee Plantations Tour: Mondulkiri is known for its coffee plantations; take a tour and enjoy a fresh cup brewed locally
Day 6: Chase Waterfalls in Mondulkiri
Overnight: Mondulkiri
- Bou Sra Waterfall: A 40km round trip from Sen Monorom, Visit Mondulkiri’s famous two-tiered Bou Sra Waterfall, a stunning spot for photos and relaxation.
- Sen Monorom Waterfall: Just 8km away, A smaller waterfall perfect for a refreshing swim or a picnic.
Optional Activity
- Elephant Conservation Project Visit: Learn about the conservation efforts for Cambodia’s elephants and experience an up-close, ethical encounter.
Day 7: Jungle Trek and Adventure
Overnight: Mondulkiri
- Jungle Trekking: Explore Mondulkiri’s lush forests with a guided jungle trek, observing local wildlife and the region’s diverse plant life. (10–20km)
- Elephant Sanctuary Experience (optional): Spend time at an ethical elephant sanctuary where you can learn more about elephant rehabilitation and protection.
Day 8: From Mondulkiri to Ban Lung – A Nature Lover’s Paradise
Overnight: Ban Lung, Ratanakiri
- Morning Drive to Ban Lung: ~200km, Begin your scenic drive through Cambodia’s countryside to reach Ban Lung.
- Ka Tieng Waterfall: Located 7km outside Ban Lung, Stop at this hidden jungle gem, perfect for a refreshing break.
- Yeak Laom Volcanic Lake: A 5km drive from Ban Lung, spend the afternoon exploring this stunning crater lake, surrounded by lush forests, ideal for a peaceful walk or swim.
Day 9: Stung Treng – Riverside Charm
Overnight: Stung Treng
- Morning Exploration in Ban Lung: Enjoy a relaxed start before heading to Stung Treng.
- Afternoon 140km Drive to Stung Treng: Travel north to this tranquil riverside town.
Mekong Riverfront: Stroll along the scenic riverfront, explore local markets, and visit nearby craft villages. Enjoy a laid-back evening at one of the riverside cafes.
Day 10: Kayaking the Mekong River
Overnight: Stung Treng
- Kayaking on the Mekong River: Paddle through the serene waters of the Mekong River, surrounded by lush greenery and traditional villages.
Local Crafts and Handicrafts Village: Visit the weaving and handicraft villages to learn about traditional Cambodian crafts.
Optional Evening Activity:
Stung Treng Night Market: Sample local dishes and buy unique souvenirs from the night market stalls.
Day 11: 130km Drive to Kratie
Overnight: Kratie
- Koh Trong Island: Take a ferry to this quiet island on the Mekong River, perfect for a bike ride around the peaceful countryside and orchards.
Day 12: Dolphin Spotting and Local Culture
Overnight: Kratie
- Irrawaddy Dolphin Watching: Another chance to spot dolphins on the Mekong. (10 km from Kratie town).
- Kratie Countryside Tour: Visit nearby villages and local temples to get a deeper understanding of rural Cambodian life.
Optional Activity
- Sunset at Phnom Sambok: Hike up to Phnom Sambok for panoramic views of the Mekong River and a serene sunset.
Day 13: Relax and Explore in Kratie
Overnight: Kratie
- Local Village Tour: Visit nearby villages to learn about traditional Khmer farming practices and taste fresh produce.
- Cycling on Koh Trong: Return to Koh Trong for a more in-depth exploration of the island, including visits to floating villages, local temples, and small community projects.
Optional Activity
- Take a cooking class in town to learn how to prepare authentic Khmer dishes.
- Evening: Enjoy a relaxing dinner by the riverside and reflect on the peaceful vibes of Kratie.
Day 14: Scenic Drive to Krong Stueng Saen
Overnight: Krong Stueng Saen
- Morning Drive: Begin your journey through Cambodia’s scenic countryside, passing rice fields, small villages, and rivers.
- Phnom Santuk: Stop at this hilltop temple with stunning views and serene Buddha statues. The climb is rewarding and peaceful.
- Sambor Prei Kuk: Explore this ancient pre-Angkorian temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with intricately carved brick structures.
Day 15: Drive to Preah Vihear
Overnight: Preah Vihear
- Morning Exploration: Spend some more time in Krong Stueng Saen or Sambor Prei Kuk if needed before heading to Preah Vihear.
- Relaxation in Preah Vihear: After arriving, take the evening to rest and explore the area.
Day 16: Explore Preah Vihear Temple and Surroundings
Overnight: Preah Vihear
- Preah Vihear Temple: Dedicate the morning to exploring this breathtaking mountaintop temple. Its dramatic location and stunning Khmer architecture make it a must-visit.
- Koh Ker (Optional): If time permits, drive to Koh Ker, an ancient city with the iconic pyramid-shaped Prasat Thom.
Day 17: Journey to Siem Reap via Koh Ker and Beng Mealea
Overnight: Siem Reap
- Koh Ker: Visit this forested temple complex en route to Siem Reap.
- Beng Mealea: Explore this hidden jungle temple for a mysterious and adventurous vibe.
- Arrival in Siem Reap: Settle in and enjoy the evening in this lively town.
Day 18: Discover Angkor Wat
Overnight: Siem Reap
- Angkor Wat: Start the day with a stunning sunrise (optional but highly recommended) and spend the rest of the day exploring the temple complex.
- Lotus Farm: Take a relaxing trip to the Lotus Farm to learn about local flower cultivation.
- APOPO Visit: Meet the HeroRATS who detect landmines and learn about their life-saving work.
Day 19: More Temples and Local Adventures
Overnight: Siem Reap
- Bayon, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Srei: Explore these iconic temples, each offering unique beauty and history.
- Floating Villages or Museums: Dive into the local culture by visiting traditional floating villages or museums.
- Wake Park Siem Reap (Optional): Add a splash of adventure with water sports.
Day 20: Farewell from Siem Reap
Final Day: Enjoy a relaxed morning, return your tuk tuk, and savor your final moments in Cambodia.
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