2-Day Angkor Wat, Kulen Mountain, Beng Mealea and Tonle Sap

Exploring Cambodia’s Wonders on a 2-Day Guided Tour

This 2-day tour in Siem Reap offers an excellent way to cover some of Cambodia’s most iconic sights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a clear picture of an experience packed with stunning views, cultural insights, and authentic moments.

What stands out are the early-morning sunrise at Angkor Wat, the lush adventures at Kulen Mountain, and the fascinating floating village of Kampong Phluk. The inclusion of Beng Mealea, often called the “jungle temple,” adds an adventurous twist.

A possible consideration? The costs of passes and extra activities aren’t included in the base price, so you should budget for entry fees and optional extras. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized experience with knowledgeable guides and are happy to pay a fair price for immersive sightseeing.

Key Points

• Excellent value for a full 2-day exploration of key Angkor sites and beyond.
• Professional guides with deep local knowledge enhance the experience.
• Early start for sunrise at Angkor Wat offers unbeatable photo opportunities.
• Diverse highlights: temples, waterfalls, jungle ruins, floating villages.
• Includes transportation and some meals, reducing hassle.
• Additional costs for passes and optional activities mean budget planning is necessary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Angkor Wat and the Surroundings

Day 1 begins before dawn, as your guide picks you up around 4:30 am to catch the sunrise at Angkor Wat. Witnessing the world’s largest religious monument glow as the sun rises behind its towers is a memory no camera can fully capture. According to reviews, this moment alone makes the entire trip worthwhile, with guests appreciating the “amazing views” and “great photo spots.” You’ll have about an hour and a half to soak in the atmosphere, walk around, and snap those early morning shots before crowds arrive.

After the sunrise, your guide takes you to a local family restaurant in Siem Reap for breakfast. Here, many mention supporting local livelihoods, which adds a feel-good element to your morning. Then, you’ll visit Preah Dak village, giving a taste of rural life and a chance to try traditional palm cakes—a simple but memorable local snack.

Next, the tour visits Ta Prohm, famed for its tangled roots overtaking ancient stone, famously seen in Tomb Raider. Reviewers highlight the authenticity of this site, left in its natural state, which adds to its mysterious atmosphere. The overgrown trees and atmospheric ruins evoke both awe and curiosity.

Angkor Thom is the next stop, featuring the Bayon Temple with its iconic smiling faces on 54 towers. Guests have appreciated the chance to explore the Terrace of the Elephant and Terrace of the Leper King, learning about Khmer history from guides who are well-informed and passionate.

Day 2: Adventure into Nature and the Jungle

The second day starts with a scenic drive to Kulen Mountain, around an hour from Siem Reap. Here, the journey through rice paddies gives a taste of Cambodia’s rural landscape. Once at the park, you’ll explore highlights like the Poeng Ta Kho cliff, with panoramic views, and the spectacular waterfalls—perfect spots to relax and take photos.

The Reclining Buddha at Kulen is an impressive sight, along with the River of a Thousand Shiva Lingas, which has been sacred since 802 AD. Many visitors comment on the spiritual ambiance and appreciate the opportunity to support themselves with a picnic lunch by the waterfalls, a lovely way to recharge.

Afterward, the adventure turns to Beng Mealea, a temple from the Angkor period enshrouded in jungle growth. Overgrown with moss, lianas, and trees, it’s the perfect spot for those who love exploring ruins that feel untouched and wild. Reviewers praise the sense of adventure here, calling it a “jungle temple,” with some noting that guides like Sotin make the journey informative and engaging.

The day concludes with a boat ride to Kampong Phluk, a floating village on Tonle Sap Lake. You’ll see families living on stilts, fishing, and maintaining their daily routines amid vibrant, colorful houses. The boat trip takes you through mangrove forests, offering chances to spot crab-eating macaques and other wildlife—an authentic glimpse into local life.

Transportation and Comfort

Transportation throughout the tour is in air-conditioned vans or minibuses, which many reviewers find very comfortable, especially considering the early starts. The inclusion of cool towels and bottled water keeps you refreshed, and hotel pick-up and drop-off make logistics simple. For just $59, this is a good deal, considering the comprehensive itinerary and transport.

Entry Fees and Additional Costs

While the tour price covers guiding and transport, several entry fees are extra. You’ll need an Angkor pass ($37), Kulen Mountain pass ($20), Beng Mealea ($10, or included if you have an Angkor pass), and Tonle Sap Lake boat ride ($15). These add up, so planning ahead is wise. The guide can help you purchase passes on-site, simplifying the process.

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What Travelers Say

Many reviewers highlight the quality of guides, with names like Mony, Reaksa, and Ho frequently mentioned. They praise guides’ knowledge, patience, and willingness to answer questions—making the experience more meaningful. Guests also appreciate the helpfulness of the team, especially when coordinating pick-ups or adjusting plans.

One traveler shared, “The trips were really interesting,” and noted the flexibility to swap activities between days, which shows good local management. Guests also liked the ability to take stunning photos thanks to guides who know the best angles and spots.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience covering Cambodia’s most notable sights in just two days. It suits those who value local insights, comfortable transportation, and organized itineraries that pack in key highlights without rushing. Perfect for first-timers or those with limited time in Siem Reap, but still wishing to see the best of the region.

Final Thoughts

For just $59, this tour offers remarkable value considering the number of sites visited, professional guides, and included transport and meals. It’s a chance to see Angkor Wat at sunrise, explore lush waterfalls, roam jungle temples, and experience a floating village—covering many of Cambodia’s most famous attractions in two days.

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and smooth organization. The only extra costs are tickets and optional activities, so budget accordingly. If you’re eager for a balanced mix of culture, history, nature, and authentic encounters, this tour is likely to satisfy.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want to maximize their time, enjoy guided insights, and make meaningful memories while exploring Cambodia’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail.

FAQ

What does the tour include?
The tour includes professional English-speaking guides, transportation with A/C, hotel pick-up and drop-off, bottled water, towels, breakfast on Day 1, and a picnic lunch on Day 2.

Are entry fees included?
No, entry fees are additional: Angkor pass ($37), Kulen Mountain pass ($20), Beng Mealea ($10 or included with an Angkor pass), and Tonle Sap boat ride ($15).

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, comfortable clothes, sunscreen, hat, closed-toe shoes, sunglasses, insect repellent, and a power bank.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
While not explicitly stated, the itinerary involves walking, some climbing, and boat rides, so it’s best for those able to handle a fair amount of activity.

What if I want to customize the itinerary?
The tour offers some flexibility, like swapping activities between days, as noted in reviews. Contact the provider in advance for specific requests.

How long is each day’s activity?
Day 1 begins early with the sunrise at Angkor Wat and ends with temple visits. Day 2 covers mountain, waterfalls, jungle ruins, and boat rides, likely making for full, active days.

Can I buy tickets on-site?
Yes, guides can assist in purchasing passes, simplifying the process at the entrances.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate pace and diverse activities suggest it’s suitable for families with children comfortable with walking and early mornings.

What is the price per person?
$59, which covers most guiding and transportation costs. Remember to budget for extra entry and activity fees.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve, but you can choose to pay later. Cancellation is possible with 24 hours’ notice for a full refund.

In summary, this 2-day guided tour strikes a quality balance between comprehensive sightseeing and manageable pacing. It’s great for travelers wanting expert insights on Cambodia’s most famous sites, plus a taste of the natural beauty and local life. With positive reviews and a thoughtful itinerary, it’s a compelling choice for an authentic adventure—at a surprisingly accessible price.

You can check availability for your dates here: