Siem Reap – Gateway to Angkor and Cambodia’s Cultural Heartbeat
From a quiet market town to one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing destinations, Siem Reap has transformed into a lively hub, drawing travelers eager to explore the iconic Temples of Angkor. Beyond the ancient ruins, the town offers a fusion of tradition and modernity — where jungle treks meet fine dining, and hidden temples sit just beyond buzzing night markets.
Discover Angkor’s Ancient Wonders
Spread across over 400 sq km of jungle and rice paddies, the Angkor Archaeological Park is a monumental wonder. Begin your visit at sunrise with Angkor Wat, whose majestic towers are so iconic they appear on Cambodia’s national flag. Our expert guides bring its history to life, revealing intricate carvings and legends behind each structure.
Venture to Ta Prohm, a temple engulfed by thick tree roots and morning mist, or cycle to lesser-visited spots hidden deep in the jungle. Travel further afield to the jungle-choked Beng Mealea or the red sandstone Banteay Srei, famed for its delicate carvings said to be too intricate for human hands.
Siem Reap Experiences Beyond Temples
Immerse yourself in Cambodia’s vibrant culture with a Vespa-led evening food tour, sampling dishes like fish amok, crispy crickets, or even beef with tree ants. Or join a cooking class at Kroya and prepare your own five-course Khmer meal in a serene tropical setting.
Just outside the city lies Phnom Kulen National Park, where sacred waterfalls and the River of a Thousand Lingas await. Discover a reclining Buddha carved into stone and hike through jungle trails that feel worlds away from the temple crowds.
Tonle Sap Lake – Life on the Water
An hour from Siem Reap, Tonle Sap is Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, home to floating villages that rise and fall with seasonal floods. A boat tour through Kompong Khleang reveals stilted homes, riverside schools, and birdlife including painted storks — all part of a resilient waterside lifestyle shaped by nature.
Evenings in Siem Reap
Don’t miss a performance by the Phare Cambodian Circus, where acrobats, musicians, and storytellers use their talents to share stories of Khmer life with electrifying energy.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Siem Reap is from November to April, when the weather is dry and pleasant. November offers a sweet spot of low humidity and fewer crowds, ideal for both temple explorations and village visits.
Speak to someone who's been there
Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Siem Reap, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Our expert guides to exploring Siem Reap
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Siem Reap, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Siem Reap at its best.
