12-Day Cambodia Adventure
Women Only
Max Group 12
Lifetime Deposit
Solo traveller friendly
5 Good Reasons To Do This Trip!
THE OG TEMPLE EXPERIENCE:
Get up before the birds and catch Cambodia’s showstopper: Angkor Wat at sunrise. Trust us, no preparation can do this justice. You’ll waltz into the temple from the quiet side, skipping the crowds like a VIP.
PROJECT WITH PURPOSE:
When you visit 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!
FRIED SPIDERS, ANYONE?
Cambodia’s food scene pulls no punches, and this trip takes you straight into the heart of it. From sizzling street food to your very own Khmer cooking class, you’ll eat your way through the country like a pro.
MEET THE LOCALS:
From village blessings to lunch with a Cambodian family, this trip is about real, heart-on-your-sleeve connections, not ticking boxes. You’ll meet the locals, hear their stories, and leave with plenty more than just travel pics.
CRUISING THROUGH SUNSET:
Wrap up your Phnom Penh stay with a boat ride along the Mekong, where you’ll catch a sunset so good it’ll render your group speechless (no mean feat!). Temples on one side, skyscrapers on the other, and a cold drink in hand – this is the life!
Trip Details
| Dates | Price AUD (per person twin share) |
|---|---|
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Price
$3,471 AUD (twin share)
- $1,350 AUD deposit.
- 2 week cooling off period applies.
- Lifetime Deposit. If you need to cancel, your deposit is transferable to other trips.
- Twin Share: we’ll match you with a roomie if you’re travelling solo.
- Private supplement available: $1,450 AUD, max 4 spots
Trip length
12 days, 11 nights
Meeting point
Fragipani Rolay Palace Hotel, Phnom Phen
Ending point
Fragipani Rolay Palace Hotel, Phnom Phen
Group size
Maximum 12
Participation requirements
Please see our “Is this trip right for you?” section under the Participation Tab.
Included
- Meals: 11 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 6 dinners
- Private vehicle transportation
- Boat ride along the Mekong River
- 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 Fee
- Additional hotel nights & late checkouts
- Drinks and other other personal expenses
- Tip kitty (See FAQs for more information)
Click the tabs to find out more
Day 1: Hello Phnom Penh!
Welcome to Phnom Penh! From the moment your plane touches down, we’ll have you covered with a stress-free door-to-door transfer straight to your hotel – no fuss, no hassle. As you weave through the chaos of Cambodia’s capital, soak it all in from the passenger seat. You’re finally here! Once checked in, it’s time to chill, shake off the jetlag and maybe sneak in a nap.
But don’t get too comfy! Tonight’s your first chance to meet your new Patchie crew over a welcome dinner. Settle in, swap some banter 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)
Included: Dinner
Day 2: Living History Foodie Tour
Rise and shine, diving straight into Phnom Penh’s markets for a no-holds-barred foodie bonanza! Here at Patch, 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 in the old French quarter, soaking in Belle Epoque and Art Deco vibes. Of course, you’ll cap it off at Wat Phnom because if you know one thing about Cambodia, it’s that its temples are out-of-this-world gorgeous!
It’s been a hectic day, but don’t kick off your shoes just yet. 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)
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”. It’s a rough morning, we can’t sugarcoat it, but these destinations are absolutely essential visits to fully understand the resilience of the Cambodian people. Don’t forget to rock your long trousers or a skirt, as well as cover those shoulders for today. Respectful and stylish!
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 this crash course day of Cambodian history, you’ll swing by the National Museum, a treasure trove of ancient Khmer sculptures and artefacts that’ll take you on a wild ride through the ancient Angkor Empire.
Accommodation: Frangipani Royal Palace (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4: Sambor Preikuk (Isanapura)
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. We won’t tell!
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 from top-to-bottom.
Finish the day with an easy cycle 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: Sambor Village (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5: Siem Reap
You’re off to Siem Reap, so amidst your excitement, the three-and-a-half-hour journey this morning will fly by! 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 Cambodian countryside than on a bike? You’ll pedal past endless rice fields, wave back at grinning kids and get a peek into palm wine making, sugar production, basket weaving and 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, and it’s all about fun, going at a pace that’s comfortable for everybody. Of course, no ride’s complete without munching on some local snacks, so we’ve prepared a selection of the yummiest to keep your energy levels (and spirits) high.
Accommodation: Tara Angkor (or similar)
Included: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 6: Angkor Wat
Alright Patchies, it’s Day six and this is the big one! This beauty is the jackpot of all temples – 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.
Once recharged, 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. This jungle-choked wonder looks straight out of an Indiana Jones movie, with trees growing through its ancient stones and greener than greenness everywhere! Finally, cap off the day by watching the sunset at Pre Rup or Srah Sarong. It’s impossible to have a better day than this!
Accommodation: Tara Angkor (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 7: Battambang
This morning you’ll leave Siem Reap behind as you swap the city life for Battambang’s nice-and-easy vibe. The four-hour drive is packed with countryside views that’ll have you either snapping photos, or just zoning out in pure “relaxation mode”.
After checking into your hotel and stretching your legs, 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.
Once you’ve taken it in, you’ll trek up to the top for sweeping panoramas of rice fields as far as the eye can see. 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)
Included: Breakfast and 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)
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, crack inside jokes with your Patchies and turn that five-hour ride into a rolling giggle-fest.
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? It’s already Day nine and there’s still plenty more to discover.
Accommodation: Smiling Gecko Farmhouse (or similar)
Included: Breakfast and 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 Patchie 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. By the time you’re done, you’ll be tasting your own culinary creations like a true master chef. Plus, you’ll have earned some serious cooking bragging rights!
Accommodation: Smiling Gecko Farmhouse (or similar)
Included: Breakfast
Day 11: Phnom Penh
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 fellow Patchies 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 and your rag-tag crew of Patchies who’ve made it all unforgettable. One last hurrah, one last round of laughs – make it a night to remember!
Accommodation: Frangipani Royal Palace (or similar)
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
Good to Know
WHAT ABOUT FOOD?
Is This Trip Right For You?
You love to travel but don’t like being herded around B-grade attractions… just the mere idea of joining a ‘big bus’ tour makes you want to run for the hills.
You also know, however, that some places are worth the wait.
You’re open-minded and open-hearted. You try to embrace the little things. You understand that even in the best vehicles, the air-con sometimes breaks. This is just part of the adventure, and you choose to be gracious.
You also love the idea of living a day fully, and then returning to unique, interesting accommodation!
You enjoy trying new food, visiting new places, and making new friends. You make a great travel buddy and you love to share experiences with others. You understand that to fit in with local cultures, sometimes that could involve trying something you haven’t tried before, or sitting on the floor to eat with a nomad family.
If that sounds like you, you’d make a great Patchie.
Frequently Asked Questions
Prior to the payment of your full balance, the final price may change if there is 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:0.68 USD.
A deposit of $1,350 is required to hold 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 110 days in advance.)
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 120 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.
This is the most frequently asked question we get!
Nearly everyone is in their 50s and 60s, with some people above and below (but of course, everyone is welcome!)
Most Patchies come alone and are matched with a room-mate. Remember, you don’t need to pay for a single supplement if you come solo. We will place you with a similarly-aged roommate.
The typical Patchie has travelled a LOT, is a well-seasoned adventurer, and is not easily thrown by small things. However, many Patchies tell us that this is their first ever group tour. Many of our guests have avoided tours to this point as they’re not attracted to being herded around in large groups.
Oh, and one last thing:
Patchies are warm, generous, and kind. We knew it would be like this, but we weren’t expecting it to be *quite* like this. We’re so blessed as a business to have the customers we do; we consider ourselves to be some of the luckiest people in the world.
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.
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.
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.
So long as you have a general level of health and fitness, you’ll be fine. There is no specific exercise planned for this trip, but there will be days where you’ll be walking and spending a lot of time on your feet – sometimes on uneven ground and unpaved tracks. Daily activities may include morning walks and getting on and off various forms of transport. On Day 4 there is an easy cycle ride through the villages.
You’ll need to be capable of occasionally using a squat toilet. We do our best to accommodate sit-down toilets (all the hotels have them) but when you’re out for the day, and nature calls, sometimes they can’t be avoided.
All activities are optional, meaning that if you don’t feel like it, you can skip it but 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.
Will we be picked up at the airport?
Yes! One of our friendly team will be waiting for you in the public arrivals area of the airport. You’ll transfer directly to the hotel. The transfer is free and in a private and air-conditioned vehicle, which you will only share if there is anyone else on your flight joining the tour.
When should we arrive?
Try to arrive before midday on the start day, although earlier would be recommended. If possible, come one day early to settle in. We can organise additional hotel nights for you at cost.
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.
