Angkor Thom, Cambodia— Photo: David Bishop

The Cambodian people are indeed custodians of a very special natural heritage. In recent years a number of hugely exciting discoveries have been made, including a population of the near-mythical Giant Ibis, a new species—the Mekong Wagtail, and a breeding population of the rapidly declining eastern race of Sarus Crane. Other highly threatened species have been found in the northern plains of Cambodia.

A healthy breeding population of White-shouldered Ibis has been found in the northern province of Preah Vihear along with White-winged Duck, Green Peafowl, White-rumped Falcon, and White-rumped and Slender-billed vultures. On the wetlands around Tonle Sap lake, the biggest breeding colonies of waterbirds in Southeast Asia represent one of the finest birding spectacles in the entire region. Breeding populations of Greater Adjutant (which is declining alarmingly elsewhere), the still relatively common Lesser Adjutant, the very rare Milky Stork, Spot-billed Pelican, and many others can be observed nesting at Preak Toal on the amazing and huge Tonle Sap lake, fed by the monsoonal back-up from the mighty Mekong River. The most extensive grasslands remaining in Southeast Asia are where we will look for some more scarce beauties, in particular the splendid Bengal Florican, as well the rare Manchurian Reed Warbler.

As if the birds of Cambodia were not exciting enough, we also have the opportunity to visit some of the greatest surviving architectural monuments of Asia—the temples of the ancient city of Angkor. They represent the heart and soul of Cambodia, harking back to an era of unrivaled influence over the entire region. The Khmer Empire once ruled over south China, Vietnam, Thailand, Burma, and Malaysia. Built at the height of the Khmer civilization from the eighth to the twelfth century, the Angkor complex was erected during a time of extraordinary artistry. This beautiful World Heritage temple complex surrounded by forest composes one of the most enjoyable settings imaginable for any birdwatcher.

This tour offers a unique opportunity to see some of the world's rarest birds. Our accommodation is mostly of a high standard; in fact, many of our lovely hotels are a highlight of the tour, but our short expedition to the northern village of Tmatboey will involve some reasonably rough roads (although these are being continually upgraded) and three nights of simple accommodation.

Superb hotel and gardens at Siem Reap, near Angkor; excellent, comfortable hotels at most sites, and a simple lodge at Tmatboey with private facilities and solar power; good to excellent food; easy to moderate trail and easy roadside birding, with some midday breaks; warm and dry throughout. Excellent photographic opportunities.