Behind the Wheel of History: A 3-Day Vintage Jeep Expedition

DAY 1: Siem Reap - Ko Ker Hidden gems of Cambodia

After a hearty breakfast, we leave Siem Reap and drive into the Cambodian 'outback' to the mysterious 12th-century temple of Beng Mealea, one of Cambodia’s true hidden gems. Heavily overrun by trees, vines, and moss, Beng Mealea offers a truly evocative insight into the majesty of ancient Khmer architecture. Following lunch, we continue our journey by jeep to an abandoned, remote temple that remains completely off the tourist radar. We then proceed to the stunning Koh Ker temple complex. Built in 931 AD, its unique seven-tiered pyramid bears a striking resemblance to Central American Mayan sites like Chichen Itza. Koh Ker holds a fascinating political history, having served as a 'new' capital established by Jayavarman IV. Its prominence was short-lived, however; after the King’s death in 944 AD, power returned to the Angkor region. A rewarding climb up the wooden steps to the summit offers breathtaking views that make the effort well worth it. We save our favorite temple for last—a site that perfectly illustrates the raw power of nature reclaiming stone. From there, it is just a short drive to our hotel for the evening.

DAY 2: Ko Ker - Preah Dak Phnom Kulen - The sacred mountain.

We continue our journey toward Phnom Kulen, one of the most scenic and historically significant locations in the region. This sacred mountain holds deep religious importance for both Hindus and Buddhists, who visit on pilgrimages. However, before we begin our ascent with the jeeps, we have a special surprise in store. We will navigate toward mysterious rock carvings—ancient masterpieces hidden deep in the forest that are only accessible by jeep. This is exactly why a vintage jeep is the ultimate way to experience this tour. After exploring these hidden gems, we proceed to the summit. Your visit will conclude at one of Cambodia’s most breathtaking waterfalls, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the large pool at its base. As we drive back downhill, we will pass through charming local villages before arriving at Bong Thom Forest Lodge for the night

DAY 3: Preah Dak - Siem Reap The floating village of Kampong Kleang

We set out from our accommodation in our vintage jeep and head into the beautiful countryside. In a small village, we witness locals engaged in their daily crafts: the traditional production of palm sugar, the delicate art of making incense sticks, and the intricate weaving of rattan. You will also have the chance to taste a local delicacy: freshly made coconut cupcakes. We then resume our journey to visit one of the most impressive floating villages in Cambodia, Kampong Khleang. Upon arrival, we will board a boat to explore the area. For lunch, we will take you to a stilt house to share a typical Khmer meal with friendly locals. Next, we proceed to the Vietnamese floating community. This part of the village is unique; unlike the stilt houses of Kampong Khleang, these homes are built on floating platforms that keep them afloat on the Tonlé Sap. After all these impressions, we make our way back to Siem Reap. Having spent three days behind the wheel of a vintage jeep—exploring ancient temples and the countryside while connecting with the local community—this is an unparalleled experience that will stay with you forever. We will arrive back in Siem Reap in the late afternoon

Included services:

2 Nights Accommodation (breakfast)
3 Vintage Jeep (petrol)
3 Support car with mechanic, spare parts and tools
3 days English speaking guide
Entrance fee Beng Melea temple
Entrance fee Ko Ker temple
3x lunch
Entrance fee Phnom Kulen
Boat tour Kampong Khleang
Road book and signs
Drinking water

Recommended travel period:

All year

Excluded services:

Meals not mentioned
Personal expenses, drinks
Travel Insurance
International flight tickets
Visa Cambodia
Tips for guide/mechanic

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