3-Days Private Angkor Wat Sunrise/Sunset Tours & Floating Village

If you’re considering a trip to Siem Reap, this 3-day private tour of Angkor Wat and surrounding sites might just be the perfect way to learn about Cambodia’s incredible heritage. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, reviews and detailed itineraries reveal a well-organized, authentic experience aimed at travelers eager to explore beyond the typical day-trip crowds.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it offers a slow-paced, three-day exploration rather than rushing through all the major sites in a single day. Second, the private guide promises a tailored experience, packed with insightful stories and sharing of photography tips. Third, the inclusion of sunrise and sunset viewing elevates the experience to more than just sightseeing—it’s about witnessing these majestic temples in their full, awe-inspiring light.

One possible consideration is the overall cost, which is $370 per group. While that might seem high at first glance, it covers private transportation, expert guiding, and multiple in-depth visits—making it quite valuable for those looking for a personalized adventure. This tour definitely appeals most to travelers who want to avoid crowds, learn from knowledgeable guides, and capture stunning photos at iconic sites.

Who will love this tour?

If you’re a history enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply want a relaxed, immersive experience at Angkor, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s perfect for those who prefer private, flexible itineraries over group rushes and are willing to pay a premium for comfort and in-depth guidance.

Key Points

• Extended exploration allows a more relaxed experience of Angkor’s sites
• Private guide provides personalized insights and photography tips
• Included sunrise and sunset views make for unforgettable moments
• Three-day format helps avoid the typical crowds and rush
• Covers major temples and hidden gems like Beng Mealea and floating villages
• Price offers good value considering private transport, expert guidance, and multiple sites

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect on Each Day

Day 1: The Classic Angkor Experience

The tour kicks off with a pick-up from your hotel around 8:30 am. After a quick visit to buy your 3-day Angkor Pass, you’re off to see Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Expect to spend about three hours here, soaking in the intricate carvings and the grandeur of the early 12th-century construction. Reviewers highlight the guide’s ability to share fascinating stories about the site—one even mentions how the guide, Lee, mixed facts with humor, making the experience engaging.

Next, the adventure heads to Ta Prohm, famously overgrown with trees and vines, which has a cinematic feel—think “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider.” Visitors love this site’s atmospheric ruins, with one reviewer mentioning how it looks like a real-life movie set.

After a local lunch break, the exploration continues into Angkor Thom, the ancient city built in the late 12th century. This sprawling complex includes several key sites: the South Gate (famous for its enormous stone faces), the Bayon Temple with over 200 smiling Buddha faces, the Baphuon Temple with its serene atmosphere, and the Terrace of the Elephants with intricate carvings of elephants and riders. Tourists appreciate how the guide makes these stories come alive, and the pace allows for great photo opportunities.

The day wraps with a visit to Phnom Bakheng, a hilltop temple offering spectacular sunset views over Angkor Wat and the surrounding plains. Many reviewers note this as a perfect spot to enjoy a peaceful end to the day, with the sunset’s golden hues adding magic to the scene.

Day 2: Deep Dive into Temples and Hidden Sites

Day two dives into lesser-visited sites, emphasizing both history and natural beauty. The tour begins at Preah Khan, an expansive Buddhist temple surrounded by lush vegetation, which remains atmospheric and untouched in parts—perfect for photography and exploring.

Next, Neak Pean offers a unique experience as an ancient “hospital” with a sacred water pond accessible via a long wooden bridge. Visitors find this site fascinating, especially considering its healing history.

The itinerary continues with Ta Som, a charming 13th-century Buddhist temple, famous for its four Buddha faces framed by roots and trees. Reviewers mention the picturesque overgrowth as a highlight, adding to the temple’s mystical charm.

Eastern Mebon features elephant statues and a dried-up island temple, giving insight into the once-abundant water features of Angkor’s landscape. Pre Rup, a mid-10th-century Shiva temple, offers a fantastic panoramic view from its top, with visitors describing it as both a spiritual and scenic highlight.

The day concludes at Banteay Srei, a small but exquisite pink sandstone temple adorned with intricate carvings—many call it Cambodia’s “jewel” due to its delicate craftsmanship. Reviews emphasize how special this site feels, especially after the long drive out of the main complex.

Day 3: Sunrise Beauty and Jungle Adventure

Starting early, the tour offers the unforgettable experience of witnessing Angkor Wat at sunrise. The reviewer who described this as “magnificent” noted how the golden light reflected perfectly in the water pools—a moment to cherish forever. The guide’s local tips for capturing the best photos come in handy here.

After sunrise, the trip continues 68 km away to Beng Mealea, an untouched jungle temple that looks like Indiana Jones’ set. You’ll love roaming through the vines and ruins—an adventure that feels like discovering your own secret. Many find this site’s wild overgrowth and ruins particularly exciting, and it’s often described as a highlight.

The journey concludes with a visit to Kampong Phluk Floating Village on Tonle Sap Lake. It’s a lively, authentic community with homes, schools, pagodas, and floating farms. Reviewers appreciate the chance to see how local residents live on water, adding depth to the experience and a sense of genuine connection.

Transportation, Comfort, and Guide Quality

Traveling in a private, air-conditioned SUV or minivan significantly enhances the overall experience. The private transport means you can set your own pace, take breaks, or revisit sites if something catches your eye. With a dedicated guide, you get insightful commentary, support with photography, and the flexibility to customize parts of the day—you’re not stuck with a large group’s schedule.

The guide’s reputation, based on reviews, is excellent. They’re described as knowledgeable, friendly, and capable of sharing stories that bring each site to life. The inclusion of cold water and wipes helps you stay comfortable after long walks, which is especially helpful in Cambodia’s warm climate.

Practical Considerations

The tour’s price of $370 covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, and guiding. However, entrance fees like the $50 for the 3-day Angkor ticket and additional site-specific fees (e.g., Beng Mealea and Kampong Phluk) are extra. This setup makes it clear upfront what’s included and what’s paid separately, helping travelers budget accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day private tour offers an in-depth, flexible way to experience Angkor and its surroundings without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The thoughtful itinerary balances visiting the iconic temples with discovering lesser-known gems, all guided by knowledgeable locals.

What truly sets this experience apart is the personalized approach—whether it’s watching sunrise over Angkor Wat, exploring jungle ruins, or floating through a Cambodiam fishing village, you’re in expert hands. Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ storytelling abilities, making history engaging and memorable.

While the cost might seem steep for some, the value lies in the private, curated experience—perfect for travelers seeking comfort, depth, and authenticity. If you want more than just a quick glimpse of Angkor, this tour appears to deliver precisely that.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits those who crave a personalized, relaxed experience at Angkor, with plenty of time for photography and reflection. It’s ideal for history buffs, photographers, or luxury travelers willing to invest in comfort and depth.

If you prefer rushing through sights or are on a tight budget, you might find this experience less appealing. But if you value expert guidance, stunning views, and a true sense of exploration, this 3-day private tour is a fantastic choice.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included? Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off within Siem Reap, making your day seamless.

Are admission fees included? No, the tour price does not include the $50 for the 3-day Angkor Pass or site-specific entrance fees like Beng Mealea and Kampong Phluk, which are paid separately.

What should I wear? Visitors are advised to dress in smart casual or formal attire. Covering shoulders and knees is required when entering religious sites, so pack appropriate clothing.

Is this a group or private experience? It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized experience.

How long are the visits at each site? The itinerary gives approximate times, with longer stays at key sites like Angkor Wat and Banteay Srei to allow ample exploring and photography.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels? The tour requires a moderate physical fitness level as many sites involve walking and exploring uneven terrain, especially in jungle or temple ruins.

This detailed, flexible, and well-reviewed tour offers a comprehensive way to experience Angkor’s marvels. Perfect for those looking to combine history, culture, and stunning visuals in an intimate setting.