Perfect 4 Days in Siem Reap with Temples, Nature & Culture

Overview

Day by day itinerary

1. 1Angkor Wat Sunrise & The Small Circuit⌄

   There’s a reason this is one of the most iconic sunrises in the world. Watching Angkor Wat slowly emerge from darkness as the sky turns shades of pink and gold really is one of those travel moments that lives up to the hype. Once the sunrise crowds disperse, spend time actually exploring Angkor Wat itself. Walk the galleries, explore the area and climb to the upper level for an amazing view.

   Today is all about Angkor’s most iconic temples. After exploring Angkor Wat continue on the small circuit and see all the biggest highlights of the Angkor Complex.

2. 2Lotus Farm & The Big Circuit + Sunset⌄

   Today combines one of the prettiest hidden gems near Siem Reap with some of Angkor’s most atmospheric temples.

   Morning: Visit a Lotus Farm.Start the day somewhere unexpectedly peaceful. The lotus farms near West Baray feels like stepping into another world. Depending on the season, you’ll see wide ponds covered in lotus blooms. You can choose to take a small boat ride through the flower fields and join in on workshops to learn more about how they make vegan silk from the stems.

   Midday: Explore the Big Circuit Grab an early lunch in the city and head back to the Angkor Complex to do the Big Circuit. Make sure that you visit all the highlights on the tour,

3. 3Hero Rats + Floating Village⌄

   Morning: Visit APOPO Hero Rats, This is one of the most meaningful things to do in Siem Reap. APOPO trains African giant pouched rats to detect landmines and unexploded ordnance left from decades of conflict. The visitor center is fascinating and genuinely moving, and the rats are incredible. You learn about Cambodia’s history, the demining process, and meet the famous rats themselves.

   Afternoon: Kampong Phluk Floating Village,Visiting a floating village on Tonlé Sap shows an entirely different side of Cambodia. My personal experience is that this is best if you’re not visiting during the driest time of the year, but no matter still a fun experience.

4. 4Escape to Phnom Kulen National Park⌄

   After three days of temples and exploring Siem Reap, day four is perfect for getting out into nature and seeing yet another side of Cambodia.Often considered the birthplace of the Khmer Empire, this mountain plateau is both a natural escape and an important pilgrimage site for Cambodians. Spend the day chasing waterfalls, swimming in jungle pools, admire stunning views of the national park and visiting the reclining Buddha at Preah Ang Thom. Later, cool off with a swim beneath the famous Kulen waterfall, where locals picnic and children splash in the water.