Day 1 – Arrival in Phnom Penh
Our journey through Cambodia begins in Phnom Penh, a city that immediately overwhelms the senses. The heat, the traffic, the constant sound of motorbikes and horns — everything feels intense, busy, and alive.
After checking into our hotel, we take our first walk through the city. Golden temples rise between colonial buildings, and street food stalls line the sidewalks. We visit Wat Phnom, the small hilltop temple that gave the city its name, and take our time adjusting to the rhythm of Cambodian city life.
In the evening, we walk along the riverside where the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers meet. Locals gather to relax, exercise, and enjoy the cooler air. Sitting by the water, watching the sunset, it feels surreal to realize that our Cambodian adventure has truly begun.
Day 2 – History, Culture, and Reflection in Phnom Penh
Today is a deeper dive into the history and culture of Phnom Penh. In the morning, we visit the Royal Palace, a stunning complex with golden rooftops and carefully maintained gardens. It feels peaceful inside the palace grounds, a calm contrast to the busy streets outside.
Later, we head to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. This visit is heavy and emotional, but incredibly important. Walking through the former prison and reading the stories of those who suffered here gives us a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s past and the resilience of its people.
In the afternoon, we slow things down. We explore local cafés, wander through small streets, and observe everyday life unfolding around us. As evening falls, we return to the riverside once more, reflecting on everything we’ve seen. Phnom Penh shows us both beauty and pain — and that balance makes the city unforgettable.
Day 3 – From Phnom Penh to Siem Reap
Today we leave Phnom Penh behind and take the bus north to Siem Reap. The journey takes several hours and gives us our first real look at rural Cambodia. Outside the window, rice fields stretch endlessly, small villages pass by, and everyday life unfolds slowly along the road.
By late afternoon, we arrive in Siem Reap. The atmosphere feels immediately different — more relaxed, more focused on travelers, yet still very Cambodian. After checking into our hotel, we head out for a first walk through town. We end the evening at the local markets, tasting street food and browsing handmade souvenirs, before getting some rest for the days ahead.
Day 4 – Exploring Siem Reap
We spend the day discovering Siem Reap itself. In the morning, we visit the Old Market, where locals shop for fresh produce and travelers wander between colorful stalls. The air is filled with the smell of spices, grilled meat, and fresh fruit.
During the day, we take it easy, walking through town, stopping at cafés, and soaking up the laid-back atmosphere. In the evening, the city becomes lively and energetic. Streets fill with music and lights, and there’s a buzzing feeling everywhere. Siem Reap feels like a perfect balance between culture, comfort, and adventure.
Day 5 – A Full Day at Angkor Wat
Today is one of the highlights of the trip. Early in the morning, we pick up our rental car and drive to Angkor Wat. We spend the entire day exploring the vast temple complex.
Walking through Angkor Wat itself is breathtaking — the scale, the symmetry, and the detailed carvings are overwhelming. We continue to other temples within the complex, from grand stone cities to ruins slowly being taken over by jungle roots. As the day comes to an end, we stay to watch the sunset over Angkor Wat. The light turns golden, the crowds grow quiet, and the moment feels almost unreal.
Day 6 – Drive to Battambang & Evening Tour
After breakfast, we leave Siem Reap and drive toward Battambang. The road takes us through peaceful countryside, past villages and farmland. Battambang feels calm and authentic, with a slower pace than the bigger tourist cities.
In the afternoon, we join a local tour. We ride the Bamboo Train, a simple wooden platform moving across old railway tracks through open fields. Later, we visit the Killing Caves, a place that again confronts us with Cambodia’s painful history. We end the day at the Bat Caves, where thousands of bats fly out at sunset, filling the sky in an unforgettable natural spectacle.
Day 7 – Deep into the Jungle: Battambang to Tatai River
Today is a long travel day. We drive for seven to eight hours through remote areas and dense jungle, leaving towns and busy roads far behind. The journey itself feels like an adventure, with changing landscapes and fewer signs of civilization.
By evening, we arrive at the Tatai River. Surrounded by rainforest, the atmosphere is completely different — quiet, green, and peaceful. That night, we fall asleep to the sounds of insects and the jungle instead of traffic.
Day 8 – Nature and Waterfalls at Tatai River
This day is all about slowing down. We explore the area around the Tatai River and visit nearby waterfalls, where we cool off in fresh water and enjoy the untouched nature.
Time seems to move differently here. There is no rush, no noise, just jungle, water, and fresh air. It’s one of the most peaceful moments of the entire journey.
Day 9 – From Jungle to Coast: Tatai River to Sihanoukville
We leave the jungle behind and drive toward the coast, heading to Sihanoukville. Upon arrival, we park the car, ready for the next part of the journey — but first, an unexpected moment.
We are stopped by the police and fined for driving through a green light. It’s frustrating and confusing, but also one of those travel experiences that reminds us things don’t always go as planned. After dealing with it, we continue to the harbor.
Day 10 – Ferry to Koh Rong
Today we finally head to the islands. We take the ferry from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong. As soon as we arrive, everything changes. The air feels lighter, the pace slower, and the surroundings almost unreal.
We spend the rest of the day settling in, swimming in clear water, and enjoying our first island sunset.
Day 11–13 – Island Life on Koh Rong
We stay on Koh Rong for several days, fully embracing island life. Our days are spent snorkeling, visiting nearby islands, swimming, and relaxing on white-sand beaches.
There is no strict schedule — just sunshine, sea, and time to enjoy the moment. Evenings are calm, with beautiful sunsets and quiet nights under the stars. These days feel like the perfect reward after such a long and varied journey.
Day 14 – Back to Phnom Penh
Eventually, it’s time to leave the island. We take the boat back and return to Phnom Penh, where we spend our final night. Walking along the riverside again feels familiar, almost comforting.
Sitting by the water, we reflect on everything we’ve experienced — from busy cities and ancient temples to jungle rivers and tropical islands. Ending the journey where it began feels just right.
