Cambodia’s national parks blend raw nature with ancient history, offering travelers unforgettable experiences. I love the 3-day Virachey trek – it’s the real deal, taking you deep into pristine rainforest where temples peek through dense jungle canopy. The Phnom Kulen Waterfall tour is another standout, packing incredible value into 8 hours. You’ll see a dramatic 20-meter waterfall, explore 12th-century temples, and marvel at ancient Hindu carvings submerged in riverbed stone. Smart travelers can skip the crowds by booking early morning slots and opting for the transportation package instead of just park entry. Let’s explore the top national park tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- Virachey National Park offers a 15-day trekking tour with visits to Angkor-era temples, vibrant cities, and tropical islands.
- Phnom Kulen Waterfall Tour provides an 8-hour private tour to see a 20-meter-high waterfall and 12th-century Hindu temples.
- Phnom Kulen National Park offers ticket options for admission-only or a transportation package with round-trip transport from Siem Reap.
- Cambodia’s national parks boast rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, and scenic natural attractions like waterfalls and eco-systems.
- Tour considerations include physical fitness requirements, accessibility, weather impact, cancellation policies, and cost-efficient options for different traveler needs.
3-Day Virachey National Park Encounter Trek
Though nestled deep within the lush, mountainous terrain of northeastern Cambodia, the Day Virachey National Park Encounter Trek offers adventurous travelers a unique opportunity to enjoy the region’s rich biodiversity.
This 15-day tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Cambodia, including visits to Angkor-era temples, vibrant cities, and tropical islands. Highlights include a private sunrise boat trip on the Mekong River, an eco-friendly elephant sanctuary visit in Mondulkiri, and a sunrise viewing at the iconic Angkor Wat.
The tour includes all entrance fees, sightseeing, and transfers, as well as select meals and English-speaking guides. However, it’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a high level of physical fitness.
Plus, the tour may be impacted by strong winds in late December and January, which can cause uncomfortable sea conditions. This private tour offers a unique and immersive experience in the natural wonders of Cambodia.
Read our full review: 3-Day Virachey National Park Encounter Trek Review
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Phnom Kulen Waterfall, 1000Lingas National Park Private Tour
Explore the rich cultural and natural wonders of Phnom Kulen National Park on this 8-hour private tour.
You’ll start with pickup from your hotel between 7:30 and 8:30 am, then head out in an air-conditioned van or bus for the 1.5-hour drive to the park.
Once there, you’ll spend 3.5 hours exploring the highlights, including the 20-meter-high Phnom Kulen Waterfall and its 12th-century Hindu temples.
Don’t miss the famed “1000 Lingas,” a remarkable underwater temple. After visiting Preah Dak, you’ll head back, with drop-off at your hotel around 4:30 pm.
Throughout the day, your English-speaking guide will provide insights into the park’s cultural significance and local life.
Priced from $99 per person, this tour includes transportation, entrance fees, water, and hotel pickup/drop-off, though meals aren’t provided.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it’s an excellent way to discover one of Cambodia’s most remarkable natural and historic sites.
Read our full review: Phnom Kulen Waterfall, 1000Lingas National Park Private Tour Review
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Phnom Kulen National Park Ticket or With Transfer
Visitors to Phnom Kulen National Park have the option to purchase a standalone park ticket or a package that includes round-trip transportation from Siem Reap.
The admission-only ticket is priced at $85 for a group of up to 1 person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This option allows travelers the freedom to visit the park on their own schedule, with tickets delivered directly to their hotel the evening before.
The transportation package offers convenience, with pickup and drop-off at the traveler’s accommodation in Siem Reap. This 8-hour experience includes admission to the park, transportation, insurance, and meals.
The highlight is an early start, which allows visitors to beat the crowds and explore the sacred Phnom Kulen mountain, home to the Thousand Lingas and the Preah Ang Thom pagoda with its giant reclining Buddha.
Whether traveling independently or with the added convenience of transfers, visitors can pre-book their tickets to avoid waiting in line at the site.
Read our full review: Phnom Kulen National Park Ticket or With Transfer Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Cambodia’s national parks offer a diverse range of experiences. The Virachey National Park trek provides an immersive wilderness adventure. Phnom Kulen Waterfall and 1000Lingas National Park provide scenic natural beauty. Phnom Kulen National Park offers flexibility with ticket-only or transfer options. Visitors can easily customize their national park experiences to suit their interests and preferences, making Cambodia an attractive destination for nature enthusiasts.