CAMBODIA

Overview

From adventure to luxury, Khmer temples to French colonial elegance, hospitable locals and incredible landscapes – Cambodia's charms cast a spell over all who visit.

A century has passed since explorers rode elephants through the Cambodian jungle and discovered the temples of Angkor Wat, this incredible complex of creeper-clad ruins outside of Siem Reap has been drawing visitors for years. Head off in the early hours to soak up the eerie silence whilst others sleep, and hop on a bike or a rickshaw to navigate these gnarly ruins in private.

We can introduce you to some wonderfully off-the-beaten-track cultural spots, like Beng Melea, Koh Ker, Preah Vihear and Preah Kahn temples. To up the adventure, we can arrange activities like micro-lighting over jungle-clad ruins, jet-skiing on the Mekong, and elephant trekking through whispering bamboo forests.

The pinnacle of the country’s troubled past is centered in its capital city, Phnom Penh, but it still retains a small-town atmosphere, with streets teeming with scooters and the quieter world of stilted villages lining the waterfront.

Visit this city which retains trace of French colonial lustre, with your private guide who will quite likely be able to give you a moving insight as to how the recent atrocities affected people so near and dear to him. The Killing Fields and S-21 Prison are a harsh but necessary reminder of the cruelties suffered by these beautiful people not too long ago.

Further south, Cambodia’s coast is varied and each region has their own charm.

Kampot, famous for its pepper, is a riverside town rich in French architecture and the perfect base to explore the Bokor Hill Station.

Sihanoukville has developed into a popular local beach destination and the jumping off point to the Koh Rong archipelago where eco-luxury resort Song Saa has recently opened.

Cambodia has long been a favourite of the Lightfoot Travel team and we take frequent research trips to dig out the finest activities and luxury properties the country has to offer. When booking your trip with us you are guaranteed expert, impartial advice and a fully bespoke itinerary.