Cambodia: Ancient Khmer Heritage
12-Day Deep Dive into Khmer Food, Temples & Rural Life
5 Good Reasons To Do This Trip!
Who’s bucket list doesn’t have Angkhor Wat as a must do! Did you ever imagine though, you’d be heading into the countryside where tourists just don’t go – to amble through the ruins of the pre-Angkhorian Chenla Kingdom too?
Dive mouth-first into Cambodia’s fragrant flavours. Whether it’s during a street food safari, in your very own Khmer cooking class – or an epiphany you have while crunching on a fried grasshopper – you’re bound to find your favourites!
Beyond the traffic and highrise boom, you’ll be swept into a yesteryear vision of old markets, Art Deco-era buildings and dilapidated French colonial grandeur – there’s even a hotel that once hosted guests as varied as Jacqui Kennedy and Pol Pot!
From village blessings to lunch with a Cambodian family, this trip is about real, heart-on-your-sleeve moments – not ticking boxes. You’ll meet the locals, hear their stories, and leave with plenty more than just travel pics.
At the Smiling Gecko project, you’re not just a spectator – you’ll be supporting a life-changing initiative that provides education, housing and jobs to disadvantaged communities. Meaningful travel at its finest!
Trip Details
Trip Breakdown
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Length
12 days / 11 nights
Details
- 2 week cooling-off period applies.
- Lifetime Deposit. If you need to cancel, your deposit is transferable to other trips.
- Private room – no sharing required
Please refer to our payment terms in the FAQs.
Arrival
Frangipani Royal Palace Hotel, Phnom Penh
Departure
Frangipani Royal Palace Hotel, Phnom Penh
Group Size
12
Included
- Meals: 11 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 7 dinners
- Private vehicle transportation throughout
- 11 nights boutique and premium accommodation
- A top-rated and English-speaking Tour Leader
- All listed activities and more!
Not Included
- International Flights and travel insurance (necessary)
- Visa (See FAQs for more information)
- Additional hotel nights & late checkouts
- Drinks and other personal expenses
- Tip kitty (See FAQs for more information)
Accommodation
Your Fencox accommodation means having a private room, all to yourself – every single time.
Accommodation Preview
Frangipani Royal Palace, Phnom Penh
Tara Angkor Hotel, Siem Reap
Smiling Gecko Farmhouse, Sameakki Mean Chey District
Day 1 – Hello Phnom Penh!
Welcome to Phnom Penh! Meet your stress-free, door-to-door transfer straight to your hotel. Soak it all in from the passenger seat. Just outside your car window is Cambodia’s chaotic capital – you’re finally here! Tonight’s your first chance to meet your new Fencox crew over a welcome dinner. Settle in and raise a toast to what’s going to be an adventure for the books. This is just the beginning!
Accommodation: Frangipani Royal Palace (or similar), Phnom Penh
Included: Dinner
Day 2 – History and Food Heaven
Rise and shine, diving straight into Phnom Penh’s markets for a no-holds-barred foodie bonanza! Here at Fencox, we firmly believe the best way to get to know a country is through its food, so it’s time to devour sizzling dishes of BBQ beef with papaya salad, slurpy noodle soup and those bite-sized rice-coconut Nom Krok snacks cooked in clay pots. It’s all research, right?
Fully fuelled, walk off that feast and soak up the Art Deco vibe in the old French quarter. The old French administration building is dilapidated and abandoned, but still beautiful. In contrast, you’ll also stand in front of the brilliance of Wat Phnom. Here you’ll confirm one thing about Cambodia – that its temples are out-of-this-world gorgeous!
In the late afternoon, hop on a sunset boat ride down the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, where you’ll get to see Phnom Penh’s old-world vibes collide with its modern glitz, right from the water’s edge.
Accommodation: Frangipani Royal Palace (or similar), Phnom Penh
Included: Breakfast
Day 3 – Phnom Penh
Start the day with a sobering visit to Tuol Sleng Prison, where you’ll catch a glimpse of Cambodia’s dark, not-so-distant past. From there, you’ll head to Choeng Ek, better known as the “killing fields”. We need to set the tone for you – it’s a rough morning, but these destinations are essential to fully understand the resilience of the Cambodian people. Don’t forget to wear clothes that cover your knees and shoulders today, as a sign of respect.
After refuelling with lunch, it’s time to swap sombre for stunning as you dive into the next-level fancy Royal Palace with its golden rooftops and the famous Silver Pagoda. Here, over 5,000 silver tiles cover the floor like one massive disco ball!
Rounding off your one-day recon of Cambodian history, you’ll swing by the National Museum, a treasure trove of ancient Khmer sculptures and artefacts.
Accommodation: Frangipani Royal Palace (or similar), Phnom Penh
Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4 – Chenla Kingdom Ruins and Village Cycle
Goodbye, Phnom Penh – it’s time to hit the road! Your first pit stop today is Skun, a roadside snack fest for the brave. You’ll find all sorts on the menu here, from fried spiders to crickets and bamboo rice, so if you’re feeling gutsy, now’s your chance to chow down on Cambodia’s quirkiest delicacies – or just snap a photo pretending you did!
Kampong Thom is home to the ancient ruins of Sambor Prei Kuk and you’ll explore these pre-Angkorian temples left by the Chenla Kingdom, today. The crumbling ruins are the keeper of lots of stories and your guide will bring those historical tales alive as you explore this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Finish the day with an easy cycle (or by tuk tuk if you prefer) through the Isanborei communities that surround the complex. Can you believe it’s only Day four and you’ve already ditched the touristy gloss and replaced it with a legitimate peek into real Cambodian life? Pedal through rural villages, meet the locals and see how everything from noodles to handmade crafts keeps the community ticking.
Accommodation: Glorious Hotel (or similar), Kampong Thom
Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5 – Siem Reap
The three-and-a-half-hour drive to Siem Reap will fly by today, amidst your anticipation and excitement. After you’ve checked in and caught your breath, it’s time for another spin on two wheels – because honestly, what better way is there to explore the relatively flat Cambodian countryside than on a bike? You’ll pedal past rice fields, wave back at grinning kids and get a peek into palm wine making, sugar production, basket weaving, trying some local snacks and seeing good ol’ fashioned farm life. Sometimes, simple is best.
Don’t worry if you’re not Tour de France ready – this is a chilled-out ride, not a race, but if you’d prefer taking a tuk tuk and let someone else do the pedaling, that’s OK too.
Accommodation: Tara Angkor (or similar), Siem Reap
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6 – Show-stopping Temples and Food Safari
It’s Day six and this is the big one! This beauty is the jackpot of all temple complexes – massive and mind-boggling – and this morning as your guide sneaks you into the quieter East side, you’ll be sharing it with just a handful of people compared to the maddening crowds that flock there later on. Magical! After a good roam, you’ll head back for a well-earned late breakfast.
Then it’s off to explore the South Gate of Angkor Thom and a lineup of other iconic temples: Bayon, Baphoun and the Elephant Terrace, just to name a few, before the grand finale, Ta Prohm, where you’ll finish your temple experience as you started – at the best time of day and far from the tourist crowds.
It’s been a big day on your feet. That’s why we’ve arranged tuk-tuks for your ride to dinner tonight. Hang on and embrace the exhilarating air rushing over you as you head through town like a local. Be warned: tonight’s street food safari is going to make you fall in love with Cambodian food – that is if you haven’t done so already!
Accommodation: Tara Angkor (or similar), Siem Reap
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 7 – Battambang
This morning you’ll leave Siem Reap behind as you swap the town life for Battambang’s laid-back country life. The four-hour drive won’t feel so long while you’re glued to the window, watching the countryside views roll on by.
After checking into your hotel, it’s off to Phnom Sampeou for a sobering yet fascinating afternoon. Here, you’ll explore the “Killing Caves”, a Khmer Rouge memorial site tucked into the hillside. But don’t worry – it’s not all heavy. There’s an interesting temple up top, too, and the views across the countryside are absolute magic. Stick around for the grand finale: thousands of bats bursting from the caves at sunset, all while you kick back with a cold drink.
Accommodation: Classy Hotel (or similar), Battambang
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8 – Village life, Wine and a Bamboo Train!
It’s time to explore the real-deal Battambang! First up, you’re off to Kor Village, where you’ll ogle at the colonial buildings before stopping at Wat Kor and receiving a blessing of flicked holy water for health and happiness. Feeling zen? Great, because next up is a breezy walk along the Stung Sangker River to scope out stilted houses and get a peek at everyday village life.
After a riverside lunch, it’s time for a glass (or two) at Battambang’s local winery. Yes, Cambodian wine is a thing! Sip, learn and explore the vineyards before you wrap up the day on Battambang’s famous Bamboo Train. Hold on tight! It’s a quick ride, but you’ll be grinning ear to ear as you zip through the countryside like a true local.
Accommodation: Classy Hotel (or similar), Battambang
Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 9 – Smiling Gecko Farmhouse
After all the non-stop action, today’s the day to kick back and breathe easy. You’ve got a long drive ahead to the Smiling Gecko Farmhouse, but after all that go-go-go, you’ll be grateful for the chance to chill out and crack inside jokes with your fellow Fencoxers – afterall, by day-nine, those who were once strangers are now your friends! .
Arriving at the Farmhouse is like discovering a luxe oasis hidden in the heart of the jungle! What’s your first pick? Is it sweating it out in the sauna, floating in the swimming pool, booking in for a massage… or would you prefer to just curl up with a good book on your comfy bungalow verandah?
Tonight, regroup for a special dinner, inhouse.
Accommodation: Smiling Gecko Farmhouse (or similar), Kampong Chhnang
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10 – Khmer Cooking Class
It’s rare to be invited behind the scenes of a game-changing initiative that’s truly improving lives like the one you’ll visit this morning! Smiling Gecko is more than your overnight haven, it’s also the cornerstone of a social enterprise providing a safe space for socially disadvantaged Cambodians to live, attend school and learn a trade. You and your Fencox crew will learn all about their work during a private visit. Your heart is sure to be singing, as you come away, knowing that your stay at Geckos is helping to support their important work!
Then, in the afternoon, it’s your moment to shine in the kitchen, so grab your apron for a hands-on cooking class with the amazing chef Mariya. It’s farm-to-table magic as you pick fresh herbs and veggies straight from the garden, then whip up some seriously mouth-watering Khmer cuisine at your own cooking station. Now, you have some insight of just why dinner was so good last night!
Accommodation: Smiling Gecko Farmhouse (or similar), Kampong Chhnang
Included: Breakfast and Cooking Class
Day 11 – Back to Where It All Started
It’s time to pack up and head back to Phnom Penh. There’s time to unwind before the grand finale. Or maybe you might want to pop out for some last-minute shopping? No matter how full your bag is, there’s always room for another Khmer Silver bangle or three!
And here it is: your farewell dinner! Gather with your Fencox friends for one last epic feast as the stories get wilder, the laughs louder and the toasts a little more daring. With plates of Khmer goodness on the table and blissed-out vibes in the air, it’s time to raise a glass to the silly memories, the once-in-a-lifetime adventures. One last hurrah, one last round of laughs – make it a night to remember!
Accommodation: Frangipani Royal Palace (or similar), Phnom Penh
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 12 – Farewell Friends!
All good things must come to an end, and after a rocking adventure like this, it’s hard to believe it’s time to say goodbye. After one last breakfast with your pals, don’t forget to exchange those last hugs and promises to stay in touch. It’s time to pack up the memories (and maybe a few souvenirs) and head to the airport. Your pre-arranged transfer will get you there with plenty of time, leaving just one question… where’s the next adventure?
Included: Breakfast
Trip Map
Frequently Asked Questions
Prior to the payment of your full balance, the final price may change if there is a significant variation in the AUD:USD exchange rate. Our trip pricing is determined by what the exchange rates are at the time of publishing the trip.
The pricing on this trip is based on an exchange rate of 1 AUD:0.63 USD.
A deposit of 25% of the total trip price is required to secure your spot. Payment can be made by credit card (fees apply) or bank deposit.
There is a cooling-off period of 2 weeks. (Applicable to all bookings made at least 120 days before trip departure.)
We have implemented a ‘lifetime deposit’ guarantee. Deposits are not refundable, but they are transferable at any time, right up until the first day of the trip.
The final balance of the trip is required 95 days in advance of the departure date. Our suppliers require upfront payment well in advance to guarantee availability.
Please refer to the full terms and conditions for further information.
Australians and New Zealanders require tourist visas to enter Cambodia. Currently – choose between an online application or visa-on-arrival. We’ll be providing more guidance on visas closer to the trip departure.
Pre-arrival immigration process for Cambodia must be completed within 7 days of arrival.
Please note: The fast-track visa-on-arrival service for Cambodia is no longer available.
Level 1
So long as you have a general level of health and fitness, you’ll be fine. However, to enjoy this trip, you’ll need to be able to spend time on your feet and regularly walk for 3-4 hours. Daily activities might include walking on uneven and hilly ground, getting on and off various forms of transportation and occasionally climbing some stairs. You may also encounter over-the-bath showers in some of the accommodations.
It will be impossible to enjoy your trip if you’re not able to do a walking tour for a full afternoon. Unfortunately, this tour cannot accommodate people requiring walking aids.
Most of our trips have a tip kitty because many cultures have interesting and diverse rules when it comes to tips. We’ve found it to be the easiest way to combat over-tipping, under-tipping or having the tip fall into the wrong hands. Our goal is for guests to relax and know that the complexities of tipping are taken care of, on their behalf.
We’ll be updating this section with the tipping amount and how it’s distributed, soon.
1 luggage 23kg and 1 carry-on bag (excess baggage allowances available to purchase)
FEBRUARY
In February, Cambodia enjoys dry, sunny weather with clear skies and low humidity, making it one of the most pleasant months to visit. Temperatures are warm but manageable, ranging from around 24°C in the mornings to 32°C during the day. The lack of rain and comfortable conditions make it ideal for exploring cultural sites like Angkor Wat or enjoying nature and outdoor activities.
MARCH
By March, the dry season continues, but the heat starts to intensify. Daytime temperatures often rise to 34°C or higher, and while rain is still rare, humidity begins to increase slightly. The landscape remains dry, and water levels in rivers and lakes may start to drop. It’s still a good time for travel, especially in early March, but you should prepare for hotter conditions.
NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER
November and December are great months to visit Cambodia. The weather is generally warm and sunny during the daytime and mild at night, with an average daily temperature range of 22°C to 30°C. Rainfall is occasional and light.
Whenever we can, we’ve chosen charming boutique stays that capture the spirit of the region, mostly around 3-star comfort, and occasionally we’ve snuck in some 4-star touches. Sometimes it’s the shared patio views or unique location that make a hotel stand out. Other times, it’s the local character that makes the stay special, and in some spots, rooms might differ in size and style.
Your accommodation will be private; in other words, no room-sharing with anyone, throughout the entire trip.
Most Fencox travellers tend to be in their mid-50s to mid-70s.
Generally, we have no upper age limit for our trips. But, it’s important for you to know that our trips can be physically demanding and we will chat to you about your suitability. We’ll provide you with details of the health and fitness must-haves for our trips; however, we clearly are not medical experts. We will need you to obtain proper and detailed medical advice at least two months before you travel for the latest health requirements, vaccination advice and recommendations for your destination.
Age 75+
Guests over 75 years old at the time of travel, or those with pre-existing health conditions may need to have medical clearance to ensure safe travel, and must have a doctor complete a ‘Certificate of Medical Fitness to Travel’ within 30 days of booking confirmation.
Minimum age
While it doesn’t happen often, we do get younger guests joining our trips! As a general rule, the minimum age is 15 at the time of travel. All travellers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a legal guardian, or be accompanied by someone over the age of 18 appointed by their legal guardian.
International airfares are not included.
Being tour operators (not travel agents), we are not licensed to sell flights. We recommend contacting your trusted local travel agent to book flights if you’re in need of assistance.
There are several 1 and 2-stop flights available from Australia and New Zealand that transit through other SE Asia countries. Phnom Penh is the capital city of Cambodia and accepts international arrivals.
Yes! A friendly Fencox representative will meet you upon arrival and take you to either the Start Hotel (for Pre-Tour or Day 1 check-in), or to another hotel within a reasonable distance that you’ve independently booked as Alternative Pre-Tour Accommodation. At the end of your trip, we’ll see you off with a departure transfer from the Tour-End Hotel.
The official currency of Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel (KHR).
In the unlikely event of a health or security related incident during a trip, we’ve engaged a local partner to assist. From our experience, there is not one framework that fits all, and every incident is unique and requires a different approach. With all trips, your guides are your day-to-day support. While behind the scenes, there is an active line of communication – between your guide, the on-ground support team, and Australian Ops.
Fencox was created because we had so many enquiries from men and women who had heard about our amazing Patch Adventures trips for women-only and wanted the opportunity to travel solo in the same way, only in a mixed group.
Fencox caters to both men and women who are solo travellers, have a genuine sense of adventure, are aged 55+, and are physically active and young at heart. Your fellow travel mates on a Fencox trip are inquisitive about the world and love exploring new travel destinations. Fencox travel mates love meeting new people, enjoy a good chat, and are happy to share a table with fellow travel mates for dinner.
If you’re travelling solo but don’t want to feel alone, this is your opportunity to share your travel experiences with other like-minded people. And best of all …. you’ll never pay a single supplement because everyone is guaranteed their own room!
