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.
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
Tonle Sap is Southeast Asia’s largest lake, and connected to the wider Mekong River water network. Waters flow from the Tibetan Plateau in China, snaking their way through Myanmar, Laos and Thailand before reaching Cambodia. As the river rises in the wet season it reverses the flow of the Tonle Sap River (the only river in the world to do so) swelling the lake to several times its dry season size. This brings with it mineral-rich water that feeds the surrounding land, boosting aquatic life and attracting migratory birds from across the continent - a scene fit for commentary from David Attenborough.
A visit via the water-based village of Kampong Khleang offers a snapshot into daily life on the lake, only this is life like you’ve never seen it before. Tall stilt houses and floating homes are the norm, boats the only viable means of transport, and a symbiotic existence with the ebb and flow of the lake system and surrounding wetlands. You’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for our comparatively simple land-based existence.
Note: it’s worth choosing experiences that treat communities respectfully and focus on understanding how people live, rather than turning homes into photo stops.
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.
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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