Cambodia & Laos - Past to Present

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Overview

Cambodia & Laos - Past to Present
Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia
Duration: 8 days
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CurioWanderer
$2,400
Deposit: $240

About your trip

Take in the ultimate South East Asian experience on this 8 day adventure. Learn about the history and culture of Cambodia and Laos*, from the ancient civilizations of the Khmer Empire to the 20th century genocide in Cambodia and civil war in Laos*


2025 Departures: March 31. Additional add-on to Luang Prabang, Laos is available and is US$1,100/person. Single Occupancy. Trip will end on April 11th, 2025 for this option.


2025 Departures: November 8th. Additional add-on to Luang Prabang, Laos is available and is US$1,100/person. Single Occupancy. Trip will end on November 19th, 2025 for this option.

What's included

Hotel Accommodations

7 nights, single occupancy

Meals

7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners

Transportation

All transportation and transfers during the trip

Entrance Fees

Entrance fees to all attractions and cultural immersion experiences

Local Guides

All our trips are guided by locally based guides who know the area like the back of their well-traveled hand

What's not included

Airfare

Flights to and from destination are not included

Airport Transfers

Transfers to and from the airport are not included

Meals not stated

Meals not stated in the itinerary are not included

Entry & Visa Requirement

Cambodia & Laos require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your trip and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is required on all our trips and is not included

Alcoholic Drinks

Drinks containing alcohols are not included

Optional Activities

Activities not in the itinerary are not included

Day 1 - Day 3

Day 1 - Day 3 image

Phnom Penh

Start your journey with a warm welcome in Cambodia's bustling capital, Phnom Penh, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and rich history of Cambodia. 


During your stay here, you'll explore the grandeur of the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda, delve into the nation's poignant past at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek Genocidal Center, and visit iconic landmarks like Wat Ounaloum and the Central Market. On the final day, experience the lively Boeng Keng Kang Market, discover the city's street art, and unwind in the serene countryside with a visit to Silk Island, where you'll witness traditional silk weaving.

Day 4

Day 4 image

Mekong River

Enjoy the scenic journey on a one-way river boat cruise from Phnom Penh to Siemp Reap on Mekong River. En route, you'll get to see and experience how Cambodians live along this important river. You'll also glide by Tonle Sap Lake before ending your journey in Siem Reap.

Day 5 - Day 8

Day 5 - Day 8 image

Siem Reap & Angkor Wat

Embark on a journey through Cambodia’s ancient wonders with four days of cultural exploration. Begin by visiting the most interesting temples outside the main Angkor Archaeological Park. You'll start with Pre Rup, a Hindu temple built as the state temple of King Rajendravarman followed by the intricately carved but well-preserved Banteay Srei, only accessible since the late 1990s after the Khmer Rouge vacated the area.  Next day, you'll rise early to experience the most breathtaking sunrise over the horizon of Angkor Wat, with colors of the sky mirrored in the reflection pool. This is an absolute must-see bucket list item. Next, head toward Angkor Thom, the once glistening capital city of the Khmer Empire, and Ta-Prohm aka the "Tomb Raider Temple".  You'll also have a FREE Day to relax and rejuvenate. On this day, you can revisit the Angkor Archaeological Park, embark on a day tour to the nearby Kulen Mountains to explore Phnom Kulen, the birthplace of the Khmer Empire, or simply unwind with a foot massage in town to soothe your tired feet. The options are endless!

Day 9 - Day 12

Day 9 - Day 12 image

Luang Prabang (Add-On)

On the last part of your journey, experience the spiritual and cultural richness of Luang Prabang. Begin with an early morning alms-giving ceremony, followed by visits to key cultural sites such as Wat Xieng Thong, Wat Sensoukharam, and the Royal Palace Museum, before trekking up Mount Phousi for stunning views of the city. 


The next day, enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Mekong River to explore Ban Xang Hai village and the sacred Pak Ou Caves, followed by a relaxing afternoon at the picturesque Kuang Si Falls. Conclude your adventure with a hands-on Laotian cooking class, where you'll prepare traditional dishes, and savor your creations before joining fellow travelers for a memorable farewell dinner.

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1. Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia

Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia

About your organizer

CurioWanderer was born from the passion of two avid explorers who, combined, have journeyed across almost 100 countries on all seven continents. We are founded by travelers for travelers, and we are the only travel company that brings our guests on adventures we've personally undertaken. At CurioWanderer, our goal is to transform your travel aspirations into genuine and profoundly unforgettable experiences. We're not just creating trips; we're helping to build a better global village for all, one adventure at a time.

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