Welcome to Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s lively and bustling capital city. Despite its tumultuous recent history, the city’s broad, tree-lined boulevards and faded colonial mansions hold an irresistible charm. Upon your arrival, your tour guide will greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel for check-in.

This afternoon, you will embark on a half-day city tour to acquaint yourself with Phnom Penh’s major sites. First visit the National Museum, which serves as an exceptional introduction to the ancient Khmer art and civilization, showcasing a rich tapestry of historical artifacts. Next, explore the Royal Palace, the illustrious residence of the royal family, and marvel at the opulent Silver Pagoda within its grounds.

After the tour, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel, where you can unwind and spend the rest of the day at your leisure, perhaps taking a stroll through the nearby streets or simply relaxing in the comfort of your accommodation. 

After enjoying the hotel at your hotel, you will board a boat for a scenic transfer to the Mekong Islands, where a captivating village trip awaits. Situated 20 kilometers north of Phnom Penh lies Koh Dach silk village, a hidden gem brimming with cultural charm. Here, you’ll embark on a leisurely biking tour, immersing yourself in the local way of life. You’ll have the chance to interact with the friendly Khmer villagers, gaining insights into their daily farming routines and the intricate process of silk production that sustains their livelihoods. It’s a unique opportunity to witness firsthand the skills and traditions passed down through generations.

After working up an appetite, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savor authentic Cambodian dishes and soak up the village atmosphere.

In the afternoon, head back to Phnom Penh and delve deeper into Cambodia’s recent history with a guided tour of two significant sites. First, visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former high school that was transformed into a notorious security prison during the Khmer Rouge regime. The museum stands as a solemn reminder of the atrocities committed, and your guide will provide a moving and informative narrative to help you understand this dark chapter in Cambodia’s past. Next, make your way to the infamous Choeung Ek “Killing Fields”. This site, once an orchard and a Chinese cemetery, became a mass grave where thousands of people were executed and buried during the Khmer Rouge era. As you walk through the memorial stupa filled with skulls and bones, and listen to the stories shared by your guide, you’ll gain a profound appreciation for the resilience of the Cambodian people and the importance of remembering history to prevent such tragedies from happening again.

Today, you’ll set off in a private tour for the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre, just an hour’s drive from Phnom Penh. This remarkable sanctuary holds the distinction of being the world’s largest haven for sun bears and has played a crucial role in educating countless Cambodians about the threats endangering their wild bear populations.

Once at the zoo, you’ll delve into the world of over 100 rescued bears. Spanning 7 hectares, 21 forested enclosures provide a home for a diverse mix of sun bears and Asiatic black bears, each with its own unique age and personality.

After exploring the various bear habitats, you can join in the lively activity of crafting enrichment toys for the bears. There’s also an opportunity to visit some of the other endangered species housed at Phnom Tamao.

As you depart Phnom Tamao, your next stop is Tonle Bati Temple. This Angkorian – style temple, though small in size, is remarkably well – preserved and boasts a picturesque charm that makes it one of Cambodia’s finest.

(Note: As the bears are rescued wild animals, direct contact is strictly prohibited. It’s advisable to wear closed footwear, apply sunscreen, and dress appropriately for a day spent in the forest.)

Today, you are free until the transfer to the Phnom Penh International Airport for your departure flight. End your unforgettable tour in Phnom Penn.