A day Trip Sightseeing Phnom Penh – Siem Reap – Private English Speaking Driver

Experience a well-rounded day trip from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap with a private English-speaking driver, blending sightseeing, cultural insights, and comfort. This tour offers a fantastic way to maximize your travel time, avoiding long bus or taxi rides alone, and transforming a long journey into a memorable adventure.

What we love about this experience: First, the local stops with authentic food and markets make it much more than just a transfer. Second, the friendly, knowledgeable guides help you understand Cambodia’s culture and history along the way. Third, the balance of sightseeing and comfort stops means you can stretch your legs without the rush—perfect for travelers who want to see more than just the road.

One thing to keep in mind: entry fees for certain attractions like Sambor Prei Kuk temples are not included, so budget accordingly if you want to explore those sites. This trip suits travelers who crave an immersive, flexible, and genuinely local experience without the hassle of public transport or rigid tour schedules.

Key Points

• Private, door-to-door transfer eliminates transit stress
• Multiple sightseeing stops add cultural depth to your journey
• Authentic local experiences like markets and fishing villages
• Excellent value considering the included stops, guide, and private transport
• Flexible itinerary customizable to your interests
• Highly praised guides who share insights and personal stories

Why This Tour Stands Out

Traveling between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap typically involves a long bus or flight, but this private tour takes a different approach. It transforms a boring transfer into an engaging day packed with Cambodian culture, history, and local flavor—all at an affordable price of just $105 per person.

With a duration of around 9 to 11 hours, the tour strikes a balance between sightseeing and relaxation. The private driver, fluent in English, is more than just a chauffeur; he’s a storyteller and local expert who makes the journey both comfortable and educational.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Pickup and Early Stops
The adventure begins with hotel pickup in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. The driver, such as the highly recommended Phat Sok or Daro, promptly greets you with bottled water and a friendly smile. The journey starts with a visit to Skoun Market, also called the “Bus-Stop Market,” known for its display of insects, including fried spiders. For many, this is a highlight—an eye-opening, tasty glimpse into Cambodia’s local snack scene, as one reviewer noted, “I wasn’t brave enough to try the fried spiders, but it was fascinating to watch little kids happily playing with tarantulas.”

Sambor Prei Kuk Temples
Next, the tour takes you to the UNESCO-listed Sambor Prei Kuk temple complex, a site often overshadowed by Angkor but equally impressive. Surrounded by jungle, these Hindu temples dedicated to gods like Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva evoke a sense of ancient Cambodia’s spiritual past. Guides like Sodany, hired locally, are on hand to deepen your understanding—she’s described as very knowledgeable and friendly. Visitors say the temples feel less crowded than Angkor, offering a peaceful, almost mystical vibe.

Lunch in Pre Bross
After exploring the temples, you’ll have lunch at a local spot in Pre Bross, gaining a taste of authentic Cambodian cuisine. Many reviewers mention the “good spot for lunch,” making it a perfect break before continuing the journey.

Historical Bridges and Cultural Stops
The afternoon begins with a visit to the Kampong Kdei Bridge, built in the 12th century and still in use today. This ancient bridge, called “Spean Preah Toses,” is comparable in age to Angkor Wat and offers a fascinating glimpse into Cambodia’s engineering skills from over 900 years ago. Reviewers often describe these sites as “impressive” and “full of character,” which makes them worth the detour.

Kampong Kleang Floating and Stilted Villages
The final main stop is Kampong Kleang, a fishing community on Tonle Sap Lake with floating houses and stilted homes. Many travelers find it a highlight of the trip, describing it as a vibrant, authentic look into local life. One reviewer called it an “unforgettable experience,” emphasizing that the guide shared local stories and explained how villagers live and work. The floating village offers numerous photo opportunities and insight into Cambodia’s livelihood—though entry fees are not included, so plan ahead.

Return and Drop-off
After exploring Kampong Kleang, the driver heads back along the main road, dropping you off at your hotel in Siem Reap or Phnom Penh. The entire day is designed to be flexible, with the driver accommodating your pace and interests.

The Value of the Tour

For $105 per person, this tour packs in a full day of cultural sites, local markets, and scenic views, plus the convenience of private, door-to-door service. When you factor in the stops—temples, bridges, fishing villages—and the expertise of guides who share stories that you won’t find in guidebooks, the value becomes clear.

Most travelers say this trip is “definitely worth it,” especially compared to just taking a direct car or flight. As one reviewer quipped, “This is a great way to maximize a travel day,” and many highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the experience all the more enriching.

Transportation and Comfort

The private vehicle offers a comfortable ride, essential for a long day on the road. The drivers like Phat Sok and Daro are praised for their professionalism, punctuality, and helpful attitude. They’re well-versed in the route, providing interesting commentary and ensuring you’re always comfortable with bottled water and a clear schedule.

The journey is approximately 2 hours to the first stop, with manageable breaks in between. Roads are described as “very nice and not too busy,” which helps keep the trip smooth and enjoyable. The total duration of 9 to 11 hours may seem long, but with multiple stops, it feels more like an adventure than a grind.

Authentic Experiences Guided by Locals

Reviews consistently mention how guides like Phaty and GG go beyond the typical tourist fare. They share personal insights, local customs, and stories about Cambodia’s history and economy. One reviewer noted, “He shared his own life experiences—this was the most memorable introduction to Cambodia I’ve had.”

This personal touch elevates the tour from standard sightseeing to an immersive cultural experience. Plus, guided explanations about sites like Sambor Prei Kuk add depth, making each stop meaningful.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Entry fees are not included, so budget for temples ($10 USD) and boat rides ($20 USD) if you wish to explore further.
• The tour operates most days with confirmation upon booking, and most travelers can participate.
• Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; guides often go the extra mile to make your trip memorable.
• Be prepared for a long day; comfortable shoes, hats, and sunscreen are recommended.
• If you’re squeamish about insects, you might prefer to skip trying fried spiders, but watching the locals is still entertaining.

Who is this tour perfect for?

This day trip suits adventurous travelers eager to combine transportation with a variety of sightseeing stops. If you like authentic local markets, historical sites, and scenic villages, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. It’s especially ideal for those who want a flexible, private experience with guides who share genuine insights.

It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who prefer not to rush through Cambodia’s sights and are happy to spend a full day exploring at a relaxed pace. If you’re after a convenient, cost-effective way to see some of Cambodia’s highlights en route from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. It’s designed for private groups, so solo travelers can enjoy the same personalized experience without sharing with strangers.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers gasoline, tolls, parking, passenger insurance, an English-speaking driver, and cold bottled water during the day.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for temples, boat rides, and other sites are not included and must be paid separately if you choose to enter.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The stops can be customized based on your interests, and guides are known for their friendly, accommodating attitude.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A private taxi or van provides a comfortable ride for the day, with reviews pointing to punctuality and good condition.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers, including families and seniors, have found the tour enjoyable. However, be mindful of the walking involved at certain sites and the long drive.

Can this tour be booked last minute?
Most travelers book about 60 days in advance, but last-minute availability depends on current demand and scheduling.

In summary, this private sightseeing day trip from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap offers a compelling mix of history, culture, and local life, all wrapped in the comfort of private transportation. It’s a fantastic way to turn a long journey into an engaging adventure, especially if you appreciate guides who share personal stories and insights. Whether you’re curious about ancient temples, local markets, or fishing villages, this tour promises a comprehensive glimpse into Cambodia’s vibrant world.