2 Days Tour in Siem Reap including Lunch, Dinner & Apsara Show

Taking a trip to Siem Reap isn’t just about ticking off iconic temples; it’s about experiencing the soul of Cambodia. The 2-day private tour offered by Dear Diary Tours promises a blend of history, culture, and local flavor—without the crowds and tourist traps. From floating villages to sunset views, this experience aims to give travelers an authentic taste of Cambodia’s diverse attractions.

What really stands out is the personalized approach from passionate guides who seem genuinely excited to share their country’s stories. The inclusion of local dining experiences and cultural performances enhances the trip’s value, making it more than just a sightseeing tour. That said, a quick consideration is the extra cost of the Angkor Pass ($37), which isn’t included in the tour price but is essential for temple visits.

This tour suits travelers who value authentic encounters, well-rounded culture, and flexible itineraries. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or nature lover, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here—just be prepared for early mornings and a fair amount of walking.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experiences: Skip touristy spots for hidden gems and local favorites.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Mr. Vorn and others who share personal insights.
• Cultural Highlights: Temples, floating villages, and traditional dance shows.
• Flexible & Personalized: Tours tailored to your interests with options like kayaking and local workshops.
• Value for Money: Nearly all entrance fees, most meals, and private transport included.
• Consider the Extras: The Angkor Pass ($37) is not included, so budget accordingly.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Floating Village & Sunset

The adventure kicks off early at 8 am with a hotel pickup, which is a nice touch—no fuss about navigating unfamiliar streets. The first stop is Kampong Phluk Floating Village, a less touristy alternative to the more crowded Tonle Sap. Here, you’ll explore by boat and possibly kayak, giving you a real sense of local life on the water. The experience is enhanced by the guide’s stories about the village’s residents and their livelihood.

One reviewer mentioned that the guides, like Mr. Vorn, are “very excited and proud to show you their country,” which adds a warm touch to the experience. The boat rides, combined with the chance to see traditional floating homes and fishing activities, make this a highlight for many.

Following this, travelers enjoy a refreshing shower before heading to Phnom Krom for sunset views. The sunset at Phnom Krom, with its panoramic vistas, provides prime photo opportunities. It’s a relaxing way to wind down after a busy morning, and the dinner that follows at a local restaurant adds to the sense of local immersion.

Day 2: Temples, Local Food, and Cultural Show

The second day begins at 5 am with a pickup for the Angkor Wat sunrise experience. The early start might seem daunting but is well worth it—the sight of Angkor Wat bathed in dawn’s first light is a moment few forget. The tour doesn’t include the temple entrance fee ($37), so be prepared to purchase that separately.

After the sunrise, you get to explore the temple’s interior, which is a chance to witness the intricate carvings and architecture up close. This is a perfect moment for photography enthusiasts, as several reviewers noted how stunning the views are and praised the guides for taking spectacular photos.

Next, the group visits Bayon Temple with its famous smiling faces, and Ta Prohm, famously called “Tomb Raider Temple” for its giant trees growing over ruins. The guide’s tales about the history and architecture make these sites come alive. One reviewer highlighted the guide’s “delightful, knowledgeable” nature, which really helps bring the history to life.

Lunch is served at a floating hut, another authentic experience where you can try Khmer noodles, roasted pig, or palm cakes. Multiple reviews emphasize the delicious food and the chance to sample local flavors in a true village setting.

The afternoon includes a visit to Banteay Srei, renowned for its delicate pink sandstone carvings. Although farther afield, its intricate artwork makes it a worthwhile detour. The tour wraps up with a dinner at Amazon Angkor Restaurant, featuring a buffet and a captivating Apsara dance show. The cultural performance is a favorite among travelers, as it showcases traditional Khmer dance and art, providing a deeper appreciation of Cambodia’s cultural heritage.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides: Multiple reviews praise the guides for their friendliness, professionalism, and genuine love for Cambodia. They share stories that make the ruins and local life more meaningful, turning a standard tour into a memorable experience.

Authentic Encounters: The floating village, local village food, and traditional dance performances provide rich, genuine insights into Cambodian life beyond the temples.

Comfort & Convenience: Private transportation, water, snacks, and all community entrance fees simplify the experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying each moment.

Cultural & Natural Blends: The mix of historical temples, water-based villages, and scenic sunsets offers a well-rounded perspective of Siem Reap.

Value for Money: At $210 per person, including most meals and activities, this tour offers a comprehensive experience. The only extra expense is the $37 Siem Reap temple pass, which is quite reasonable considering the access it provides.

Real Traveler Insights

One traveler reflected that their guides “highlighted their country well and were very excited,” which set a positive tone. They appreciated the care and attention during the tour, noting that the guides seemed genuinely proud of their homeland.

Another reviewer called it an “outstanding experience,” praising the friendly guides and their love for Cambodia. The early mornings and the effort to create engaging, photo-worthy moments clearly resonated with participants.

Many also appreciated the local food stops, especially the village meals and palm cakes, which added an authentic flavor that’s often missing from overly commercialized tours.

Practical Tips for Tour Participants

• The Angkor Pass ($37) isn’t included, so plan to purchase this separately at the park entrance.
• Be prepared for early mornings, especially if you want to see the sunrise at Angkor Wat.
• Wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection—there’s plenty of walking and outdoor exposure.
• Keep your camera ready; the sunrise, temples, and water villages are incredibly photogenic.
• This tour is private, so expect a more personalized experience with fewer crowds.
• If you love local food and culture, this trip offers ample opportunities to indulge your interests.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This 2-day adventure is ideal for travelers who want a friendly, well-organized, and authentic glimpse into Siem Reap’s wonders. It’s perfect for those who appreciate local culture, historical monuments, and scenic landscapes without the stress of large group tours.

It also suits those looking for flexibility—the private nature means guides can tweak the schedule slightly based on your interests. If you’re curious about Khmer traditions, enjoy taking photos, or simply want an immersive experience, this tour ticks all boxes.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Siem Reap tour offers a carefully curated mix of iconic temples, water village adventures, cultural performances, and local cuisine. The guides’ genuine passion and knowledge transform each stop into a meaningful experience, making it stand out from standard package tours. The inclusion of private transport, meals, and cultural shows provides excellent value, especially for travelers seeking a deep dive into Cambodia’s rich culture.

While the tour’s early mornings and the extra cost for the Angkor Pass are worth noting, they are minor considerations compared to the depth of authentic experiences you’ll gain. This tour is best suited for curious explorers who want a balanced, immersive, and well-supported journey through Siem Reap’s highlights.

If you’re looking for an engaging, friendly, and enriching way to explore Cambodia—this tour delivers on all fronts, with happy travelers consistently describing it as a highlight of their trip.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all age groups?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but consider physical activity levels, especially with early mornings and temple walks.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes lunch and dinner on both days, with options like Khmer noodles, roasted pig, and local desserts.

What’s not included in the price?
The only major extra is the Angkor Pass, which costs $37 per adult. Insurance is also not included.

How long is each day’s activity?
Day 1 activities last around 4 hours, with additional time for sunset and dinner. Day 2’s temples and visits span approximately 6 hours, depending on pace.

Is private transportation provided?
Yes, private transportation is included throughout the tour, making for a comfortable experience.

Are the temple tickets included?
No, temple admission fees are not included but are payable separately at the entrance.

What is the quality of the guides?
Based on reviews, guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about Cambodia, enhancing the overall experience.

Can I customize the itinerary?
As a private tour, guides are generally flexible and can tailor parts of the day to your interests.

How do I book or cancel?
You can book directly through the provider, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

This 2-day tour offers a rich blend of adventure, culture, and local flavor, perfect for travelers eager to experience Siem Reap beyond the typical tourist spots.