Human Rights Tour in Cambodia

You will fly into Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia. Your first day will be spent soaking in the culture of this iconic city with a private tour that highlights the best street food and takes you into Cambodia’s past. Phnom Penh’s architecture is unique and lovely; a combination of French and Southeast Asian influence.

An afternoon visit to the Silver Pagoda and Royal Palace will cap off the afternoon. Your evening is free to explore the waterfront and dine at one of Phnom Penh’s famous cafes.

Today you will begin your journey into Cambodia’s past with a guided tour of the National Museum. This museum is home to some relics from the Khmer regime, as well as ancient artifacts from Cambodia’s rich past. Many artifacts were destroyed during the Khmer Rouge’s terror, but the National Museum still has a fine collection.

You will also visit Independence Monument, which symbolizes Cambodia freeing itself from French rule. You will learn about the history of the monument, and French colonization from your local guide.

Today you will visit Choeung Ek, which is one of Cambodia’s most notorious killing fields. Before the Khmer Regime took over power in the 1970s, Choeung Ek was an orchard. Your private guide will take you from Phnom Penh to Choeung Ek, and explain the brutality of the regime to you on the way.

You will also visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, where the Khmer Rouge would routinely torture their political prisoners. You will have a chance to ask your English-speaking guide any questions that you have about the brutality of the regime and pay your respects to Cambodia’s tragic past.

This morning, you will fly from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, where you will visit the Cambodia Landmine Museum. During the war, Cambodia’s countryside was full of landmines and many are still active today. Unfortunately, those landmines maim and kill people on a regular basis. 

You will learn about the atrocities of landmines and how you can work to help the victims.

Angkor Wat is one of the most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This impressive ancient temple spans 400 square kilometers and is a marvel of architecture even today. You will have the chance to visit Angkor Wat, and also many of the other temples of Siem Reap during your full day guided trip.

You will also be treated to a traditional Cambodian lunch.

On your last full day here, you will visit the Cambodia Wildlife Sanctuary. You will be able to interact with the elephants and learn about proper animal husbandry. Many of the elephants at the sanctuary were previously abused, but they have found a safe haven in their older age. Visiting this sanctuary is sure to be one of the high points of your trip, and will allow you to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures.

You will fly from Siem Reap back to Phnom Penh, where you will embark on a wonderful river cruise that will let you see a whole new side of the city. The evening cruise will also be paired with a three-course traditional Cambodian dinner featuring traditional dishes like chicken and banana flower salad and Khmer curry.

You will have the evening free to wander through some of Phnom Penh’s outdoor markets and pick up plenty of souvenirs for the trip home.