3-Days Discovery Of Angkor: Waterfalls,Floating Village and Banteay Srei temple

Traveling through Siem Reap’s famed Angkor complex doesn’t have to mean battling crowds or rushing from one site to another. This private, three-day tour offers a thorough yet relaxed exploration of Cambodia’s most iconic landmarks, complemented by authentic local experiences. With expert guides, comfortable transport, and a carefully curated itinerary, it’s a fantastic way to really get under the skin of this fascinating region.

What we love most? The chance to see Angkor Wat at sunrise and sunset, the intimate visit to a floating village on Tonle Sap, and the detailed stories shared by passionate guides. The tour’s flexibility and thoughtful pacing make it a standout — but keep in mind that it involves quite a bit of walking and outdoor exposure, so packing sun protection and comfortable shoes is key. Perfect for history buffs, culture lovers, and travelers wanting a personal touch, this tour is a well-rounded way to experience Cambodia’s heritage.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized Experience: Your own guide and vehicle ensure a tailored, stress-free visit.
• Includes Major Landmarks: Covering Angkor Thom, Bayon, Angkor Wat, Banteay Srei, and more.
• Authentic Local Encounters: Visit floating villages and waterfalls, beyond just temples.
• Flexible Scheduling: Options to catch sunrises, sunsets, and avoid peak crowds.
• Well-Coordinated Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle, hotel pickup, and drop-off.
• Great Value for Money: All-inclusive transport and a knowledgeable guide for just over $180 USD.

Why Consider This Tour?

This three-day private package stands out because it balances comprehensive sightseeing with personalized service. It’s not a hurried, checkbox experience but a thoughtfully paced adventure that allows you to savor each site, hear stories, and take photos without feeling rushed. With a consistent 5-star rating and glowing reviews from travelers, it clearly offers value and quality.

The cost, at roughly $183.08 per person, covers nearly everything — private transport, professional guide, and the flexibility to customize your experience — making it an appealing choice for travelers who value comfort and authenticity. The reviews highlight guides like Saroun, Sam, and Seila, whose passion and knowledge elevate the experience beyond just visiting ruins.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: The Heart of Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat

Your adventure begins with a hotel pickup at 8:00 am, ensuring a stress-free start. The first stops are within Angkor Thom, the last major capital of the Khmer Empire, with the iconic South Gate leading the way. From there, you’ll explore Bayon Temple, known for its smiling stone faces, and the Baphuon Temple, a three-tiered structure dedicated to Shiva that offers a quieter, less crowded experience.

The Terrace of the Elephants and Terrace of the Leper King provide striking stone carvings and stories of royal triumphs, with many reviews praising guides like Saroun for their vivid storytelling and insight into Khmer culture. After a relaxed lunch break (self-paid, so you can sample local flavors), the focus shifts to the majestic Angkor Wat. Expect about 1.5 hours to walk through the world’s largest religious monument, with reviews noting how guides expertly explain the symbolism and history behind the intricate carvings.

Sunset at Phnom Bakheng

If timing allows, many guests opt to climb Bakheng Hill for sunset views — a favorite moment for travelers, with some reviews mentioning starting the climb around 4 pm for a good spot. This optional activity offers a breathtaking vista over the jungle and ancient temples, perfect for photos.

Day 2: Waterfalls, Banteay Srei, and Tonle Sap

Day two takes you into Kulen National Park, home to Cambodia’s largest waterfall and a river of Shiva lingas — carvings that symbolize the god Shiva. While water levels are season-dependent, many travelers highlight the scenic beauty and the chance to swim if water levels permit. The reclining Buddha on site is another highlight, with reviews praising the guide’s detailed explanations about its historical and spiritual significance.

Next, you’ll visit Banteay Srei, often called the “treasure of the temples” — a smaller but exquisitely carved 10th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva. Its intricate sculptures and pink sandstone walls make it a favorite among photographers and culture lovers alike. Reviewers mention how guides like Sam take the time to point out hidden details and stories behind each carving.

Before returning to Siem Reap, you’ll explore Kampong Phluk, a floating village on Tonle Sap Lake. A private boat ride (cost not included) takes you into the community built on stilts, offering a glimpse into local life. Some reviews note visiting during the dry season as more scenic, and appreciate the calm boat ride as a peaceful contrast to temple touring.

Day 3: Sunrise, Jungle Temples, and Hidden Gems

The third day starts before dawn—an early 4:40 am pickup for the Angkor Wat sunrise. Many travelers find this moment unforgettable, watching the sun rise behind the silhouette of the iconic temple, with reviews mentioning the patience of guides and the value of arriving early. After breakfast (local Khmer breakfast options included), your exploration continues with Ta Prohm, famous for its overgrown trees and appearances in the film Tomb Raider.

The day includes visits to Pre Rup, a pyramid-shaped temple with great views, Ta Som, with its iconic East Gate swallowed by trees, and Neak Pean, a circular Buddhist temple on an artificial island. These lesser-known sites offer a more intimate experience, away from the crowds, as many reviews highlight.

Finally, you’ll explore Preah Khan, another sprawling temple complex built for King Jayavarman VII. The guide’s insights turn what might be just ruins into stories of kings, gods, and culture, with previous guests praising guides like Samath for their storytelling skills.

What Makes This Tour Shine?

Expert Guides: Multiple reviews from travelers mention guides like Saroun, Sam, and Seila for their passion, storytelling, and ability to tailor the experience. Many appreciated how guides avoided the typical tourist traps, leading to quieter, more meaningful visits.

Authentic Experiences: Visiting Tonle Sap floating villages and waterfalls adds a layer of local culture and natural beauty that many standard temple tours overlook. These moments give context to Cambodia’s way of life beyond the temples.

Flexible Scheduling: The tour’s design allows for sunrise and sunset views, avoiding the harsh midday sun and large crowds. The optional climb to Bakheng Hill for sunset is a lovely way to cap each day.

Comfort and Convenience: Private, air-conditioned transport makes the experience more comfortable, especially in the Cambodian heat. The hotel pick-up and drop-off, plus bottled water and cool towels, keep travelers hydrated and refreshed.

The Value Proposition

For roughly $183 USD, this tour offers a comprehensive, well-organized experience. It includes all transport, guiding, and major sites, with added touches like local breakfast on Day 3 and flexible scheduling. While the admission fees are not included (common in such tours), reviews indicate that guides are skilled at making the most of each site, often pointing out hidden details, best photo spots, and storytelling.

Travelers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge, with some reviewers noting how they learned stories and insights that they wouldn’t find in guidebooks. The tour’s intimate nature means you won’t be stuck behind large groups, and the professional driver ensures a smooth ride between locations.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear modest clothing: Both men and women should cover shoulders and knees, especially when visiting temples.
• Pack sun protection: Think hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, and mosquito spray.
• Bring comfortable shoes: Expect a lot of walking and uneven terrain.
• Stay hydrated: Bottled water is provided, but extra is always a good idea.
• Be mindful of the season: Water levels at waterfalls and floating villages vary, so check the season to set expectations for water-related activities.

This experience is perfect if you value personalized attention, want to avoid crowds, and enjoy rich storytelling. It suits those with limited time but a desire to see a wide range of sights, from temples and waterfalls to floating villages. If you’re traveling with elders, the comfortable transport and flexible pacing are a bonus.

It’s also great for photographers and culture enthusiasts who appreciate guides skilled at finding the best angles and sharing stories behind every carving. The inclusion of local experiences like the floating village and waterfalls adds depth, making it more than just another temple tour.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, which allows for more flexibility and personalized attention.

Are meals included?
Meals are not included except for breakfast on Day 3, which is provided. You’re free to choose local restaurants during the breaks.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is around $183.08 per person, covering guides, transport, and entrance to sites (entrance fees are paid separately).

Can I see Angkor Wat at sunrise?
Absolutely. The tour includes an early morning pickup for the sunrise, which travelers find magical and worth the early wake-up call.

Are water and towels provided?
Yes, during the tour, you’ll receive bottled water and cool towels to stay comfortable, especially on hot days.

Is this suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking and outdoor exposure. Guides are very accommodating, and the pace is flexible.

Do I need to buy additional passes?
Yes, the entrance tickets to Angkor sites are not included in the tour price, so remember to purchase your passes beforehand.

This 3-day private tour of Angkor and surrounding sites offers a rich, balanced look at Cambodia’s cultural treasures. With expert guides, flexible scheduling, and authentic local experiences, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers wanting to truly connect with this incredible region. While it involves some walking and outdoor time, the comfort of private transport and personalized service makes it worth every penny. Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer, or simply eager to see Cambodia’s highlights without the hassle of large groups, this tour delivers on both quality and value.

Ideal for those who want a tailored, immersive experience that goes beyond just temple-hopping, and for anyone who appreciates knowledgeable guides and authentic encounters. It’s a trip you’ll remember, filled with stories, sights, and moments that capture the spirit of Cambodia.