Cambodia beyond the temples: Must-sees off the beaten track

Cambodia’s temples may be iconic, but they are only part of the story. Beyond these ancient wonders lies a country full of history, culture and unexpected natural beauty. From elephant sanctuaries in the cool highlands  to moments of connection that you'll remember long after your flight home, read on to discover a richer picture of this remarkable country.

Siem Reap and the joys beyond the well-known sites

The most memorable days in Siem Reap are not only about ticking off landmarks. They’re about surprising contrasts: coffee down a quiet lane, daily life along the riverside, and the feeling that the jungle starts just beyond the next roundabout.

Inside the Angkor Archaeological Park, the jaw-dropping scale is the first thing that hits you. Moving between the giant complexes of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom you’ll say out loud “I can’t believe people actually built this” on more than one occasion. Then you’ll find yourself in a quiet corner admiring a detailed stone carving that feels like you have it all to yourself. How can you top this?
  
Entertainment for a cause

An evening at Phare, the Cambodian Circus, in Siem Reap, offers a deeper experience than your average show. Powered by purpose, this non-profit enterprise,  supports Cambodian youth through arts education and training. And the show itself is spectacular! It’s high-energy storytelling with contemporary and traditional threads, blended with eye-popping acrobatics and a live band that’s sure to get your heart pumping.

 
Kulen Mountain, rainforest trails, and a waterfall finish

The green jewel in Siem Reap’s crown is Kulen Mountain. Just far enough from the town to feel like you’ve stepped into a well-kept secret. Out here you can live out your Lara Croft, Tomb Raider fantasies, exploring rainforest trails that pass by ancient stone relics, and finish with jungle waterfalls and a well-earned dip.

 
Tonle Sap and life shaped by water

Southeast Asia’s largest lake, expands and contracts dramatically with the seasons, fed by the powerful Mekong River system. This unique rhythm shapes everything here, from the wildlife to the way communities live.

A visit to Kampong Khleang reveals life on the water in real time: towering stilt houses, floating homes, and boats replacing cars as everyday transport. It’s an eye-opening glimpse into a way of life entirely guided by the lake’s rise and fall

Mondulkiri: a cooler, greener Cambodia

From the vast, water-centric life of the Tonle Sap, a new adventure awaits in the country’s east. As you climb up the air shifts, it’s greener, yes even in a land of endless rice fields this is somehow possible. The terrain goes from open flood lands to rolling hills, and the rhythm of life drops a gear as you venture off the beaten path. Welcome to Cambodia’s eastern highlands.

This is the land of coffee and pepper plantations, far from the bustle of the city. A must-see out here is the Elephant Valley Project, where you can observe retired elephants returning to forest behaviours, guided by an approach that respects the elephants welfare. You can also learn about the indigenous Bunong community, while taking in the wide views over Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary
 
Kratie and the Mekong from water level

Kratie is quiet in the best way. Life here revolves around the Mekong, which has spread itself wide, creating a landscape of islands and riverside communities. A standout experience is paddling through flooded forests and alongside sandy river islands. If you’re lucky, you’ll enjoy an encounter with the endangered Irrawaddy dolphin, which is shy but inquisitive, and irresistibly cute.

Phnom Penh and Cambodia’s modern history

While relatively slow-paced in comparison to neighboring cities of Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh, Phnom Penh is still a vibrant hub of commerce that is also home to relics of Cambodia’s more recent and somber history under the Khmer Rouge.

While sobering, a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) is essential to gain a deeper appreciation of this nation’s darker times. You can balance this with a visit to the bustling Central Market which puts the Cambodian people’s resilience into an uplifting perspective. Other highlights include viewing the Royal Palace and a visit to the National Museum of Cambodia, which is a treasure trove of ancient Khmer history.

Coastlines and island time

If you’re not ready to pack your bags just yet, good news. Cambodia has its own seaside playground in the south. A short ferry ride from the port of Sihanoukville, you'll find yourself docking in the tropical island paradise of Koh Rong Samloem.

This is a refreshingly sunny and sandy contrast to the temples, mountains and river towns. Calm white-sand bays, swaying palm trees, cocktails by the ocean, bliss… When you get a restless urge (totally optional of course) take a half-day snorkeling or scuba trip, wander through the island’s laid-back villages, paddle on the kayaks or enjoy a refreshing dip in the ocean.

Your insider connection

See all this, with the added connection of a real insider. Introducing Marie, owner of Adventurous Women. Cambodian born and raised (now based in Australia), and tour leader on our Cambodia Active Adventure tour.

Marie offers a "local's perspective" to Cambodia that you can't substitute with a guidebook. From exploring hidden trails of Angkor, to wandering through bustling fresh markets, and kayaking with rare freshwater dolphins on the Mekong, this is 12 days of discovery and connection that will excite your senses and leave lasting memories in your heart.

Don’t be left wondering!.Join our 2027 trip and see for yourself along with Marie and a small group of fun and supportive women.

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