2-Days Private Angkor Wat Sunrise/Sunset Tours And Banteay Srei

Discovering Angkor: A Detailed Look at the 2-Day Private Sunrise and Sunset Tour

If you’re thinking about visiting Siem Reap and want to soak in the magic of Angkor temples without the hassle of planning every detail, this 2-day private tour is worth considering. It promises to take you beyond the typical crowds, with a carefully curated itinerary that balances iconic sights with some lesser-known gems, all in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle.

What really stands out about this experience are three things: the private nature that ensures a personalized journey, the opportunity to witness both sunrise and sunset at Angkor Wat—arguably the most breathtaking moments in a visitor’s day—and the knowledgeable guides who bring the history and stories to life. Plus, hotel pickup and a flexible, well-paced itinerary make it a hassle-free option.

That said, a key consideration is the cost—at $240 per group, it’s a solid investment if you value comfort, expert guidance, and a tailored schedule. Since entrance fees to the temples aren’t included, budget for those separately. This tour suits travelers who want in-depth exploration, a more intimate experience, and the chance to see the highlights without fighting through large crowds.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Ensures personalized attention, flexibility, and a more relaxed pace.
• Coverage: Visits major temples, including Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, Banteay Srei, and others—more than just the highlights.
• Comfort & Convenience: Travel in a private, air-conditioned minivan with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides with a passion for sharing stories, history, and photography tips—reviews praise guides like Sam and Han.
• Timing & Views: Witness stunning sunrise and sunset views, with strategic spots recommended by guides for the best photos.
• Value for Money: For $240, you get two full days of guided sightseeing, transportation, and insider tips, making it a good deal for serious explorers.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect from This Tour

Day 1: Sunrise at Angkor Wat & Jungle Temples

The tour kicks off early with a pick-up from your hotel, heading straight to Angkor Wat just before dawn. Watching the sunrise here is often cited as a highlight—reviewers like Brian rave about the “perfect spots” for photos, away from the crowds. The guide will point you toward lesser-known vantage points, so you get that iconic scene with fewer people in your shots.

After sunrise, you’ll explore the temple more thoroughly, taking in its expansive architecture, intricate bas-reliefs, and some quiet moments away from the day-trippers. Expect around three hours at Angkor Wat, with your guide sharing insights about the temple’s construction and symbolism (note: admission tickets are not included in the tour price).

Next, it’s a visit to Ta Prohm, famous for the giant fig trees and roots draping over the crumbling stonework. Known as the “Tomb Raider” temple, it’s a favorite for many—reviewers mention how overgrown vegetation creates a magical, almost movie-like setting. Expect about an hour here, and again, temple entrance fees are on you.

Day 1 Continued: Exploring Angkor Thom and More

After a local lunch (the tour includes a break at a nearby restaurant), you’ll visit Bayon Temple, renowned for its over 1000 Buddha faces. The guide will point out the symbolism behind the faces and share stories about the temple’s history. Following this, you’ll wander the sprawling Angkor Thom, exploring its various temples and courtyards for roughly two hours.

Other highlights include Preah Khan, a sprawling jungle temple with intricate carvings, and Neak Pean, a small island temple famous for its unique setting—reviewers love its peaceful vibe and innovative water features. Stops at Ta Som (noted for its fig tree overgrowth), Eastern Mebon (an island Hindu temple), and Banteay Srei (the “Citadel of Women,” celebrated for its pink sandstone carvings) round out the day.

Day 2: Sunset & Deeper Exploration

The second day emphasizes sunset experiences. The tour includes a visit to Pre Rup, known as a quiet spot for sunset viewing, where the fading light casts a mesmerizing glow over the temples. Then, the highlight is Phnom Bakheng, at the top of which you’ll be guided to the best sunset spot. Reviewers like Yogesvaran praise guides like Mr Han for their expertise and their ability to find the perfect vantage point.

Throughout both days, the guides provide plenty of insider tips—whether it’s the best angles for photos, avoiding the busiest areas, or understanding the significance of each site. The guide-to-guest ratio ensures you get personalized attention, and the private vehicle means you’re not stuck with strangers or on a rigid timetable.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Personalized Private Experience

Unlike group tours, this private option guarantees your own space to explore, ask questions, and take photos without feeling rushed or crowded. Multiple reviewers note the guides’ deep knowledge and friendly attitude—especially comments about Sam and Han, who are praised for their punctuality, politeness, and storytelling skills.

Flexibility & Convenience

With hotel pickup and drop-off included, you skip the hassle of pre-arranging transport. The air-conditioned minivan keeps you comfortable, even during the hottest part of the day. You can also expect the schedule to be flexible, with guides accommodating your interests and preferred pace.

Authentic & Less Crowded

An important aspect for many travelers is avoiding crowds at the most popular sites—this tour’s early start at Angkor Wat and quiet sunset spots help achieve just that. Reviewers mention how the guides know the “hidden” or less busy spots, making the experience more intimate and special.

Cultural and Photo Opportunities

The guides are not just historians—they’re also helpful photographers, giving tips on capturing the best shots at sunrise, sunset, and around temples. Reviewers echo how these insights elevate their experience, leaving them with stunning photos and memorable moments.

The Value Proposition

At $240 for two days, the cost includes private transport, guided insights, and a thoughtfully curated itinerary. While entrance fees aren’t included, the overall value remains high considering the personalized service, the scope of temples covered, and the quality of the guides.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a more private, in-depth look at Angkor, rather than rushing through with large groups. It’s ideal for those who value expert guidance, authentic moments, and stunning photo opportunities. The tour is also suitable for anyone with moderate physical fitness—most sites involve walking and some stairs, but the comfort of private transport helps manage long days.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Tour for You?

This 2-day private tour offers a well-balanced mix of iconic temples, peaceful moments, and expert guidance. The personalized approach and focus on avoiding crowds elevate the experience from a typical sightseeing day to an authentic adventure. It’s a great choice for couples, families, or small groups willing to invest a bit more for comfort, flexibility, and insider knowledge.

If you’re after a stress-free way to see the highlights of Angkor with a knowledgeable guide by your side, this tour could be just what you need. It’s especially suited for those craving memorable photos, cultural insights, and the chance to linger at some of the world’s most incredible monuments without feeling rushed.

FAQ

Are hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How much should I budget for temple admission fees?
Admission tickets are not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to purchase these separately. The cost varies depending on the temples you visit.

Is this tour suitable if I don’t have much physical fitness?
The tour requires a moderate level of physical activity, mainly walking and some stairs. The private vehicle helps reduce fatigue, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, guides are usually flexible and can accommodate your interests or time constraints—just mention your preferences.

What are the best times for sunrise and sunset?
The tour starts early to catch the sunrise at Angkor Wat, which is often considered a must-see moment. Sunset viewing at Pre Rup or Phnom Bakheng offers spectacular views as the day ends.

Is this tour appropriate for children?
Yes, children can participate if accompanied by adults. However, they should be comfortable with walking and the heat.

What makes this tour different from group options?
The private nature ensures you have personalized attention, flexible scheduling, and access to guides who can share deeper insights and photography tips.

This 2-day private Angkor adventure offers a rewarding, comfortable, and insightful way to explore Cambodia’s most famous temples. Whether you’re captivated by history, eager for stunning photos, or simply want to experience Angkor’s magic away from the crowds, this tour is a solid choice.