Cambodia
From the glorious jungle-tangled temples at Angkor to the lush mountain-fringed white sand beaches of the south and the little-visited villages of the north, Cambodia has a lot to offer the international traveller.
The central hub of the Khmers, one of the greatest ancient kingdoms of this region, Cambodia is a land of contrasts. Magnificent ruins stand beside reminders of years when the country was savaged by war. Mellow town centres bestowed by the French colonists are poignant remnants of a generation lost to Pol Pot. Yet these influences from the mighty Angkor Empire combine with Siamese and French flavours to create an exhilarating roller coaster of emotions and experiences for visitors today.
Cambodia is rich with breathtaking scenery, fascinating ancient cultures, a dark recent past and cuisine that is second to none in Southeast Asia. The focal point for any visit is in the incomparable Ankor WatTemple Complex, which is spread over 300km of the country's North West and surrounded by dense rainforest. Power oozes from the weathered stone structures here which, quite frankly, sit in a category of their own.
But the temples of Siem Reap are far from all this diverse country has to offer. The beaches of the south, central the Cardamom Hills and labyrinthine waterways of the Tonle Sap, all conspire to make Cambodia one of the best travel destinations in South East Asia.
Wild Frontiers offers unique Small Group Tours, Private Journeys, Family Adventures and Tailor Made Holidays to Cambodia.
How to book a trip
What to do in Cambodia
Angkor Wat Sunset
Siem Reap (Angkor)
Battambang City Walk
Battambang
Take a walk through colonial Battambang as you discover the rich cultural heritage including a wide variety of interesting historical architecture representing the different phases of the city's history.
Bike the Cardamin Hills
Chi Phat
The Cardamom Mountain Range, is a wild and remote part of Cambodia containing impenetrable jungle, which is said to be the most pristine forest left in Southeast Asia. Starting in Chi Phat village you can cycle through forest trails stopping to see the birdlife along the way such as hornbills, rachet tailed drongos and sunbirds. There will be an opportunity to visit the picturesque 'hidden' waterfall, Chruos Chhay Ospoat, which you can walk behind. This waterfall is perfect for taking a refreshing shower!
Twitch at Prek Toal Biosphere
Siem Reap (Angkor)
Visit the bird sanctuary at Prek Toal, arguably billed as the premier birdwatching destination in all of Southeast Asia. Located on the northwestern shore of the Tonle Sap Lake, it is home to some of the world's most endandgered birdlife where you may be lucky enough to see rare birds such as storks, adjutants, pelicans and ibis. Don't forget your binoculars!
Cook Like A Local
Siem Reap (Angkor)
Experience what it will be like to cook some traditional Khymer cuisine with a much loved chef in Siem Reap. Katana is well known for her culinary expertise and recently mentored chef Gordon Ramsay in cooking typical local recipes, such as fish amok or prahoc. At her own restaurant, join Katana for a private lesson as she demonstrates her passion for Cambodian food and teaches you how to prepare, cook and present mouth watering dishes.
Forage with Elephants
Mondulkiri
Travel to the nearby Elephant Valley Project which, with the support of the Bunong villagers, rescues and treats domestic elephants who have suffered injury and abuse. To enjoy a unique 'Walking with the Herd for a day' experience, you will be introduced to the herd of elephants and get to know more about their history, character, behaviour, body language while walking alongside them in their natural environment. After lunch, you will undertake a walking trek with the elephants through the stunning Mondulkiri countryside to a waterfall for a refreshing swim and elephant bath.
'Glamp' at Remote Temples
Siem Reap (Angkor)
Embark on a two day one night temple safari, camping in stylish tents. There is a choice of two safaris, but either will provide a unique camping experience within a jungle environment and near the temples. You will venture to less visited temples such as the incredible pyramid temple of Koh Ker or to Banteay Chhmar where you can find the signature faces of Jayavarman VII. Dinner will be served al fresco in camp as you listen to the hypnotic sounds of the jungle.
Kompong Luong Floating Village
Phnom Penh
Visit the incredible floating town of Kompong Luong, the largest floating community on the Tonle Sap Lake, where there are almost 10,000 inhabitants living here. All aspects of life floats on water, including schools, the local clinic, shops and the petrol station!
Microlite Over Angkor
Siem Reap (Angkor)
A unique way to see Angkor is by microlight where you can spend up to an hour getting an amazing bird's-eye perspective and the only way to appreciate the full magnitude of the mighty Kingdom of Angkor. This is a real adrenaline rush for those that have never experienced this particular kind of adventure!
Jungle Trekking in Rattanakiri
Rattanakiri
Travel by jeep to the remote district of Andong Meas, about 80km from Banlung (the provinical capital). From Andong Meas, you will continue on foot to nearby Jarai villages, one of Cambodia's least known tribal peoples, to learn about their lifestyle and traditions. Walking along the banks of the San River, you will come across a Jarai cemetery in the forest complete with many ancestral tombs and then towards the end of the day, take a boat across the river to a small, isolated Jarai community before continuing downstream back to Andong Meas.
Stay at Secret Beaches
Ream National Park
Travel to Ream National Park to camp ovenight on pristine white sand beaches which you can enjoy in peace and quiet. Spend the day being as active as you like by swimming, taking a boat trip to one of the nearby islands, some moderate jungle trekking with one of the national park's rangers, or simply lie back with a good book. With fresh seafood BBQ's at lunch time and evening meals under the stars, this castaway spot is ideal for those seeking romance or pure relaxation.
Visit Sambor Prei Kuk Temple
Kompong Thom
Explore the overshadowed but impressive pre-Angkorian capital of Isanapura, known today as Sambor Prei Kuk, located approximately 160 km north of Phnom Penh. The first major temple city in South-East Asia, the brick temples of Sambor Prei Kuk are a peaceful contrast to their more illustrious relatives at Angkor. Visiting these ancient structures before a visit to Angkor offers a fascinating chronological insight into the development of temple architecture during the Khmer Empire.
How to book a trip
Where to stay in Cambodia
Raffles Grand Hotel D'Angkor
Siem Reap (Angkor)
The Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor is located in the centre of Siem Reap, overlooking the Summer Palace and a few minutes...
Raffles Le Royal Hotel
Phnom Penh
The city's premier five star hotel, the Raffles Hotel Le Royal blends history and style. Established in 1929, it has...
The Pavillion
Phnom Penh
The Pavillion is a simple10 room guesthouse centrally located near to Phnom Penh Royal Palace, offering great views of...
Villa Langka
Phnom Penh
A boutique hotel in an oasis of calm, Villa Langka offers a private hideaway in central Phnom Penh.Hidden in a...
Terres Rouges Lodge
Rattanakiri
Located opposite the Boeung Kan Siang Lake, in the middle of 5,000 square meters of lush gardens, this tranquil Khmer...
La Maison D'Angkor
Siem Reap (Angkor)
Tucked away in a lush tropical garden just outside the centre of Siem Reap, La Maison d'Angkor offers 16 graciously...
La Résidence D'Angkor
Siem Reap (Angkor)
Built in Khmer style, this delightful luxury boutique hotel is a haven of peace & tranquillity, located on the river in...
Hanuman Alaya
Siem Reap (Angkor)
The Hanuman Alaya brings accommodation with a personal touch, and perfectly exemplifies the concept of 'boutique...
Amanjaya Pancam Hotel
Phnom Penh
This four star boutique hotel is one of the finest in Phnom Penh. Situated in the famous Sisowath Quay in the centre of...
The Independence Hotel
Sihanoukville
Originally built in the 1960s, The four star Independence Hotel is our top pick for those looking for a relaxed beach...
Sala Koh Trong Guesthouse
Koh Trong
This charming guesthouse, located on an island in the Mekong, is a 10 minute boat ride from the town of Kratie.Sala...
4 Rivers Floating Eco Lodge
Tatai
The 4 Rivers Floating Eco Lodge is a luxuy tented lodge situated on the edge of the Tatai River reached only by boat,...
Song Saa Private Island
Song Saa Island
30 minutes from the coast of Cambodia lies the idyllic eco-paradise of Song Saa. Song Saa is translated as ‘the...
How to book a trip
Suggested Itineraries
How to book a trip
Cambodia Travel Guide
Kampot
To the south of Phnom Penh not far from the Vietnam border lies the riverside town of Kampot. Renowned for its pepper trees Kampot has a relaxed atmosphere and some fine French architecture. Bokor National park, locally known as Chuor Phnomm Damrei (elephant mountains) is home to many mammals, including elephants, and numerous bird species. Within the park boundaries are the long-abandoned French Hill Station with its intriguing Catholic church and the Bokor Palace Hotel, with panoramic jungle views stretching almost to the sea.
Sihanoukville
Sihanoukville is Cambodia’s premier beach resort. It was created in the 1950’s as a maritime deep water port but today the main vessels visiting this port are small fishing boats. Its four beaches; Ochheuteal, Sokha, Independence and Victory are blessed with snow white sand and gently swaying palms. Sihanoukville is still in its infancy as a beach resort which only adds to its charms and here you can truly relax, uninterrupted by the normal trappings of some more famous South-East Asian beaches.
Kompong Thom
Kompong Thom is a great base to explore the hundred plus temples of Sambor Prei Ko. Predating the temples of Angkor, these monuments scattered amongst the forest are little visited. Built in the seventh century, by king Isanavarman, it remained a place for scholars during the Angkorian period. Prasat Sambor the main group of temples is dedicated to Gambhireshvara, one of the many forms of Shiva. The Lion Temple or Prasat Tao has exquisitely caved lions. Hidden away in the depths of the forest the Prasat Yeay Peau group have an almost enchanted feel.
Phnom Penh
Situated at the junction of the Mekong, Basak and Tonle Sap Rivers, Cambodia's capital Phnom Penh is a cosmopolitan city, with a fading French influence. This city with its turbulent past blends the influences of Hindu, Buddhist and French colonial architecture to create a vibrant and charming town. Phnom Penh's temples and museums are complemented by fine restaurants and an exciting nightlife.
Kompong Cham
Situated on the banks of the majestic Mekong River, Kompong Cham is Cambodia's third largest city and a perfect place to access the nearby Wat Nokor. The eleventh century Buddhist shrine built of sandstone and laterite, is still home to a group of practising monks and is a peaceful place of calm and reflection. Of great interest is a large reclining Buddha and the intact stone work of the outer walls.
Rattanakiri
Rattankiri is the north-east province of the Kingdom of Cambodia. Bordering Laos and Vietnam, this is an area of lush jungle and home to Cambodia's minority people known as Khmer Leu (Upland Khmer).
Siem Reap (Angkor)
Nestled between rice paddies and stretched along the Siem Reap River, Siem Reap is a small colonial town lying just north of Southeast Asia's largest lake, Tonle Sap. The town itself is charming and pleasant enough to roam around, with some fine examples of French colonial architecture, and it serves as the gateway to the millennium-old Angkor Temples, designated as a UNESCO's World Heritage Site.
The Angkor Archaeological Park encompasses dozens of temple ruins that are the sacred remains of what was once a much larger administrative and religious centre, built between the 9th and 13th centuries to eulogize a succession of Khmer kings. Most of Angkor was abandoned in the 15th century allowing the temples to be shrouded by the jungle. Continuing efforts are being made to clear the jungle vegetation, which threatens to destroy these unique monuments.
Kep
About a 4-5 hour drive from Phnom Penh, Kep was where the Royal family and dignitaries of the 60s would spend their holidays. Long since ruined by the Khmer Rouge it is just beginning to be restored to its former state. From Kep you can take a boat ride out to the lovely beaches of Rabbit Island which you can often more or less have to yourselves.
How to book a trip
Cambodia Travel Information
Visa Information
UK Passport holders require a visa to visit Cambodia before departure.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months after the end of your trip, and it must have at least one blank page for each visa required. Please ensure the passport details we hold for you are correct.
Please note it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct visa documentation when starting your trip. Country entry regulations can alter daily and it is always best to check with the relevant embassies for any changes.
If you would rather obtain your visa through a visa service company than making a trip to the Embassy then one such company is:
Travcour (UK)
Tempo House
15 Falcon Road
Battersea
London SW11 2PJ
Tel: 020 7223 5295
Fax: 020 7738 2617
Email: info@travcour.com
Website: www.travcour.com
If you are travelling on a non UK passport please contact your relevant consulate/embassy for the latest visa information.
Insurance:
Insurance that provides cover for emergency repatriation in case of a medical emergency is compulsory for all tours.
You should be aware that many standard insurance policies may not cover you adequately for all aspects of a Wild Frontiers trip and so we strongly recommend that you purchase a suitably designed insurance policy.
One such policy is the "Wild Frontiers" policy underwritten by Ace European Group Limited (ACE " firm reference 202803), which is available to EU residents (which excludes Norway & Switzerland) through our website or via the insurance company direct on 0845 345 3456. Under this policy there are two different levels of cover available.
Standard policy: a comprehensive travel insurance policy that provides cover for all Wild Frontiers activities, including trekking up to 6,000m. This policy does not provide cover for travel to areas where the FCO is advising against all or all but essential travel.
Elite policy: provides the same comprehensive level of cover as the standard policy. In addition the Elite policy also provides cover for travel to areas where the FCO is advising against all or all but essential travel. The policy will not provide cover for any claims arising from or relating to the reasons why the FCO is advising against travel.
If purchasing the Elite policy you also have the option to extend the cover provided by the policy to include cover for claims arising from a terrorist act in an area where the FCO is advising against travel. You can add this cover to your policy when purchasing online or over the telephone.
These policies are only available to those travelling on a Wild Frontiers holiday.
For more information and to purchase your policy online please visit the Insurance section of our website.
The cover is underwritten by Ace European Group Limited (ACE), and is arranged by Travel & General Insurance Service Limited. Both companies are authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA). Wild Frontiers Limited is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Travel & General Insurance Company plc, details of which can be found at the FSA's website www.fsa.gov.uk.
To contact them please visit their website at www.travel-general.com or call 0845 408 0583.
Health and Vaccinations:
There are no mandatory immunisations for travellers to Cambodia though you should be up-to-date with Typhoid, Tetanus, Polio and Hepatitis A. Protection against Rabies is recommended and Malaria is also present in some areas so we recommend you seek advice from your local GP or travel centre as to the correct immunisations and preventative treatments.
We also recommend:
• A dental check-up prior to travelling.
• You inform us of any pre-existing medical conditions or medication.
To be on the safe side you can also check on www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk
