Cambodia is no longer just a backpacker's haven; it has transformed into one of Asia’s most compelling luxury destinations. This 14-day journey is designed for those who seek the perfect balance between high-octane exploration of ancient Khmer history and the sophisticated comfort of world-class retreats. You will move through the country with ease, utilizing private transfers and domestic flights to maximize your time in the Kingdom of Wonder.
From the spiritual sunrise over the spires of Angkor Wat to the cosmopolitan flair of Phnom Penh and the untouched turquoise waters of the southern islands, every detail has been curated for exclusivity. Prepare for private helicopter tours, fine dining that fuses French technique with Khmer flavors, and stays at some of the world’s most acclaimed boutique properties.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Siem Reap, Cambodia - Arrival & Royal Welcome
Private Arrival & Check-in
Arrive at Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport where a private chauffeur awaits. Check into the iconic Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort, a sanctuary of French colonial elegance.
Sunset at Pre Rup
Enjoy a private guided visit to Pre Rup temple, known for its warm brick tones that glow intensely at sunset, offering a peaceful introduction to the Angkorian architecture.
Fine Dining at Malis
Experience 'Living Cambodian Cuisine' at Malis, where Chef Luu Meng revitalizes traditional recipes in a stunning courtyard setting.
Evening Cocktails at Miss Wong
Sip on infused gin cocktails at this sophisticated 1920s Shanghai-style lounge hidden in the heart of the city.
Day 2: Siem Reap, Cambodia - The Wonders of Angkor
Angkor Wat Sunrise
Witness the sun rise behind the five towers of Angkor Wat with a private historian who will guide you through the intricate bas-reliefs after the crowds thin out.
The Faces of Bayon
Explore the walled city of Angkor Thom, focusing on the Bayon Temple with its 216 enigmatic smiling faces of Avalokiteshvara.
Gourmet Picnic Lunch
Escape the midday heat with a luxury picnic setup at a quiet, secluded spot near the ancient city walls, catered by your resort.
Ta Prohm Exploration
Visit the 'Tomb Raider' temple, where giant silk-cotton trees and strangler figs have reclaimed the stone ruins in a dramatic display of nature’s power.
Day 3: Siem Reap, Cambodia - Water Culture & Floating Villages
Private Lake Cruise
Board a private, traditional wooden boat to explore Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, observing the unique lifestyle of the floating villages.
Lunch in a Stilted House
Enjoy a high-end Khmer lunch prepared by a private chef inside a traditional stilted house overlooking the lake's seasonal floodplains.
Artisans Angkor Visit
Discover the revival of Khmer craftsmanship at this social enterprise, specializing in high-quality silk, stone carving, and lacquering.
Phare, The Cambodian Circus
Watch an incredible performance of acrobatics and theater from your VIP seats at Phare, supporting the local arts community.
Day 4: Siem Reap, Cambodia - Banteay Srei & Spa Retreat
Banteay Srei Temple
Travel to the 'Citadel of Women,' famous for its pink sandstone and the most intricate carvings in Cambodia, located 25km north of the main park.
Landmine Museum Visit
A somber but essential visit to learn about Cambodia’s recent history and the ongoing efforts to clear the countryside of mines.
Wellness at Amansara
Indulge in a traditional Khmer herbal wrap or a specialized massage at the world-renowned Aman Spa.
Chef’s Table Experience
Dine at Cuisine Wat Damnak, the first Cambodian restaurant to be ranked in Asia’s 50 Best, for a seasonal tasting menu.
Day 5: Battambang, Cambodia - Colonial Charm
Private Transfer to Battambang
Enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive in a luxury SUV to Battambang, Cambodia's second city, known for its well-preserved French colonial architecture.
Lunch at Jaan Bai
Eat at this social enterprise restaurant that serves some of the best fusion food in the country, mentored by Chef David Thompson.
The Bamboo Train
Take a private ride on the famous 'Norry' (bamboo train), a unique local engineering feat that speeds along the jungle tracks.
Bat Cave Sunset
Watch millions of bats emerge from the caves at Phnom Sampeau at dusk, a spectacular natural phenomenon.
Day 6: Battambang, Cambodia - Heritage & Countryside
Heritage Architecture Tour
Explore the city on a private architectural tour, visiting ancient wooden houses and the Governor's Residence.
Khmer Cooking Class
Join an exclusive cooking class at Maisons de Wat Kor, learning to balance the sweet, salty, and sour notes of Khmer cuisine.
Phnom Banan Temple
Climb the steps to this 11th-century temple for panoramic views of the Sangkae River and surrounding rice paddies.
Riverside Dining
Enjoy a quiet dinner at Au Cabaret Vert, focusing on organic ingredients and French-Khmer fusion.
Day 7: Phnom Penh, Cambodia - The Capital's Grandeur
Flight to Phnom Penh
Take a short domestic flight to the capital. Transfer to the Rosewood Phnom Penh, located in the Vattanac Capital Tower with stunning city views.
Lunch at Khema La Poste
Dine at this premium deli and restaurant located in a beautifully restored colonial building near the riverside.
National Museum
Visit the terracotta-roofed museum housing the world's finest collection of Khmer sculpture.
Sunset River Cruise
Board a private luxury boat for a sunset cruise on the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, enjoying cocktails as the city lights up.
Day 8: Phnom Penh, Cambodia - Royal History
The Royal Palace
Visit the official residence of King Norodom Sihamoni, including the Silver Pagoda, whose floor is covered with over 5,000 silver tiles.
High Tea at Raffles
Enjoy a sophisticated afternoon tea at the Elephant Bar, a favorite of Jackie Kennedy during her 1967 visit.
Wat Phnom
Visit the city's namesake temple, set on a small hill, where locals come to pray for good luck.
Modern Khmer Gastronomy
Dine at Rosewood’s Brasserie Louis for a mix of French classics and modern Cambodian interpretations.
Day 9: Phnom Penh, Cambodia - Reflection & Art
Tuol Sleng & Choeung Ek
A private, sensitive tour of the S-21 Prison and the Killing Fields to understand the country's tragic Khmer Rouge history.
Lunch at Friends the Restaurant
Support a great cause while enjoying creative tapas at this vocational training restaurant for former street youth.
Silk Island Excursion
Take a private boat to Koh Dach (Silk Island) to see traditional silk weaving and enjoy the rural atmosphere just outside the city.
Dinner at Sora Sky Bar
End your day with dinner and drinks at the highest bar in Cambodia, offering a 360-degree view of the capital.
Day 10: Koh Rong, Cambodia - Island Paradise
Expressway Transfer
Travel via the new Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway in a private luxury van, reaching the coast in just 2.5 hours.
Private Speedboat to Koh Rong
Board a private speedboat for a 45-minute crossing to the pristine white sands of Koh Rong island.
Check-in at The Royal Sands
Settle into your beachfront villa at The Royal Sands Koh Rong, the ultimate in island luxury.
Beachside Relaxation
Enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Long Beach, widely considered one of the best beaches in Southeast Asia.
Day 11: Koh Rong, Cambodia - Marine Exploration
Private Snorkeling Charter
Explore the hidden coves and vibrant coral reefs of Koh Koun and Koh Rong Samloem on a private chartered boat.
Seafood BBQ Lunch
Enjoy a fresh seafood barbecue prepared by your crew on a deserted beach.
Senses Spa Treatment
Unwind with a holistic spa treatment at the resort’s wellness center, overlooking the Gulf of Thailand.
Bioluminescent Plankton
Take a night dip in the ocean to witness the magical glow of bioluminescent plankton around your feet.
Day 12: Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia - Ultimate Seclusion
Transfer to Song Saa
Short private boat transfer to the nearby Song Saa Private Island, an ethical luxury resort dedicated to conservation.
Marine Reserve Tour
Join the resort’s conservationist for a tour of the marine reserve and learn about their coral reef restoration project.
Lakeside Lunch
Dine at the Driftwood Bar for a relaxed lunch of wood-fired pizzas and fresh salads right on the sand.
Yoga at Sunset
Participate in a private yoga session on the overwater deck as the sun dips below the horizon.
Day 13: Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia - Leisure & Bliss
Kayaking the Mangroves
Paddle through the serene mangrove forests surrounding the island, spotting local birdlife and rare flora.
Private Pool Villa Lunch
Enjoy a leisurely in-villa dining experience by your private infinity pool.
Buddhist Blessing
Experience a traditional water blessing by local monks for health and safe travels.
Farewell Tasting Dinner
Indulge in a 7-course Khmer tasting menu at the Vista Restaurant, cantilevered over the ocean.
Day 14: Phnom Penh, Cambodia - Final Farewell
Return to Mainland
Take the luxury speedboat back to Sihanoukville and meet your private chauffeur for the drive back to Phnom Penh.
Central Market Shopping
Do some last-minute shopping for high-quality jewelry and silks at the Art Deco Central Market (Phsar Thmey).
Final High Tea
A final Khmer-inspired afternoon tea at the Rosewood's Living Room before heading to the airport.
Departure
Private transfer to Phnom Penh International Airport for your flight home, concluding your epic journey.
Best Time to Visit Cambodia
The ideal time to visit Cambodia is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. Within this period, November to February is the most pleasant, with cooler temperatures and low humidity, making it perfect for temple exploration. From March to May, the heat intensifies, often reaching over 35°C (95°F). The green season (May to October) brings lush landscapes and lower prices, though you should expect short, heavy afternoon downpours.
Currency & Money
Cambodia operates on a dual-currency system. While the official currency is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), the US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted and often preferred in luxury hotels and fine-dining establishments. Most ATMs dispense USD. Credit cards are accepted in high-end venues, but carrying crisp, new US bills is essential for smaller purchases. Tipping is not mandatory but highly appreciated; 10% is standard in luxury restaurants if a service charge isn't already included.
Getting Around Cambodia
For a luxury traveler, the best way to navigate between major cities like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh is via domestic flights on Cambodia Angkor Air. For shorter distances or to explore the countryside, private chauffeur-driven SUVs are the gold standard, offering flexibility and comfort. Within cities, air-conditioned private cars are recommended, though a short trip in a 'remork' (Cambodian tuk-tuk) is a must for the local experience. The new expressway has drastically improved travel times between Phnom Penh and the coast.