IMME10_2015
Bombarded with social networks (twitters, likes) and always on the move, this year will be dedicated to immersing ourselves in a quieter and slower pace, only as fast as our footsteps or a cycle ride. More time spent on site and less transportation lead to more exchanges! Use our experience to take time to discover locals’ customs and life. This tour intertwines the must-see cultural aspects of the country (the Angkor temples) and hiking or riding mountain bikes in the Kulen Mountains. Also included is the Great Tonle Sap Lake to sample lakeside life and two nights at a homestay in a floating house (new). A tour exclusive to Terre Cambodge!
Setting off after sunrise, our day is spent riding. We begin by checking the mountain bikes and adjusting our helmets, riding on laterite roads, through rice fields and villages. This leads us to the former Royal Road to reach the remote temple of Chao Srei Vibol, a small temple engulfed in the forest, off the tourist trail. A timeless ride, away from the bustle of the city, to discover the life of the locals living in the province. Riding through numerous villages, discover the peaceful atmosphere of rural life in Cambodia and its people\'s crafts: ironmongers, hairdressers, sugar palm farmers, etc. In the afternoon, reach our always-welcoming hosts, whose smiles are a symbol of the Cambodian people. Set up the mosquito nets in the traditional house. The landlady will be delighted to give you some cooking tips. Enjoy a late afternoon stroll in the village, along the small lake, among rice fields and traditional houses.
Dinner with the hosts and first night at a home stay. (20-25 kilometers of bike riding per day with support vehicle/ laterite and dirt roads).
Before departing, we thank our hosts for their reception, and ride further among banana and coconut groves until we reach Beng Mealea, located at the foot the Phnom Kulen mountain. The surrounding landscapes and atmosphere trigger emotions similar to those of the first explorers of Angkor in the late 19th century. Considered as one of the most outstanding Khmer temples, Beng Mealea resembles a miniature version of Angkor Wat. By car, we reach the pilgrim path. We start ascending Phnom Kulen, the sacred mountain of the Khmers. This region has recently been cleared by archaeologists. Halfway, a waterfall brings some calm tu our trek. In the afternoon, hike through the forest, where a small temple is concealed. It is time to meet our hosts for the overnight stay, along a small path winding between rice paddies and fields. We reach a village at the top of the mountain. Two nights home stay in traditional wooden Khmer houses. (4-5h hike with a 300 meter positive altitude change)
Breakfast with the hosts. Time to hike towards another village on Kulen to meet craftsmen. Exchange with farmers to discover their daily lives, gardens and activities. Further on, hike through villages, meet another family whose main activity is fish farming. This day is spent discovering the lifestyle of the locals, projects, exchange, etc. Other activities are also seen while hiking.
Picnic in a village and visit a school to meet the children (as long as it is not a holiday or the weekend!).
Late afternoon hike back to our hosts; we can take a stroll in the village or help the landlady prepare dinner.
Second night at the home stay. (2/3hr hike).
DAY 1 - SIEM REAP
DAY 2 - SIEM REAP ANGKOR TEMPLES
DAY 3 - SIEM REAP-CHAO SREI VIBOL-ROLUOS (VTT)
DAY 4 - ROLUOS-PHNOM KULEN
DAY 5 - PHNOM KULEN
DAY 6 - PHNOM KULEN-BANTEY SREI - SIEM REAP
DAY 7 - SIEM REAP
DAY 8 - KAMPONG TOM - FLOATING VILLAGE
DAY 9 - FLOATING VILLAGE
DAY 10 - FLOATING VILLAGE - KAMPONG CHNANG-PHNOM PENH
* Based on 4 people
Khmer meals, as mentioned in the programme; refer to (B,L.D).
Transportation and transfers as mentioned in the programme.
An official english speaking guide.
Entrances to the sites and museums (excluding the Angkor pass: US$72/person).
International and/or domestic flights (extra)
Meals, not mentioned in the programme; refer to (B,L.D)
The visa (US$35 + 1 picture)
Individual expenses
Individual insurance
Tips
Drinks