Private Tuk Tuk Tour to Angkor Wat and Small Circle with Two Extras

If you’re thinking about visiting Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, this private tuk tuk tour promises a relaxed yet comprehensive way to see the highlights, with a few unique extras. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve experienced this tour firsthand to help you decide if it’s the right fit.

What we love most about this experience? First, the personalized attention that comes with a private guide and tuk tuk. Second, the careful itinerary that balances popular sites with lesser-known gems—meaning you get both iconic views and some quiet moments away from crowds. And third, the affordable price point—at just $15 per person, it’s a surprisingly good deal considering all the sights included.

One thing to consider: the tour involves multiple stops and long hours, so if you’re not used to a full day on your feet or sitting in a tuk tuk, it might be a bit tiring. Still, the flexible pacing and private setting make it suitable for most travelers wanting a personalized experience. This tour is especially perfect for those who prefer to avoid large group tours and want a deeper, more relaxed exploration of Angkor’s treasures.

Who would enjoy this? If you’re a history buff, a photographer, or simply someone who wants a meaningful day with local insights, this tour offers excellent value and authenticity. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate flexibility and a personal touch.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience ensures a relaxed pace and flexibility.
• In-depth exploration of 14 key sites with expert insights from knowledgeable guides.
• Great value for the price of just $15 per person, including bottled water.
• Focus on iconic and lesser-known temples, combining popular highlights and hidden gems.
• Timing and photography opportunities at Angkor Wat during sunrise and sunset.
• Additional visits to history sites, like a small memorial at Wat Thmey, add depth to your understanding of Cambodia’s past.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on This Tour

Starting at Angkor Wat’s East Gate for a Stunning Morning View

Most tours start early, but what sets this apart is the choice of entering Angkor Wat from the less-frequented East Gate. This means you get to see the temple in the best morning light and enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere before the crowds arrive. You’ll see the temple from the famous West Gate later—but the early visit gives you perfect photo opportunities with fewer people in the frame.

The driver will handle the logistics, so you just focus on soaking in the view. Keep in mind, the admission ticket isn’t included, so plan to carry or purchase the $37 pass that covers all temples.

Exploring Lesser-Known Temples: Prasat Kravan and Bat Chum

Next, the tour takes you to Prasat Kravan, notable for its large brick carvings—a feature unique among Angkor temples, which mostly use sandstone. It’s a quieter spot, perfect for those interested in the more archaic brick architecture of Angkor.

Then comes Bat Chum, a small yet significant temple with long inscriptions indicating Buddhism’s early influence long before the reign of King Jayavarman VII. Reviewers mention it’s rarely visited by travelers, giving you a chance to appreciate the site in a more intimate setting. It’s a great find for history lovers wanting to explore beyond the crowds.

Scenic Stop at Srah Srang and a Quick Lunch

Srah Srang, an artificial basin with animal sculptures, offers some beautiful photo moments, especially with its tranquil waters reflecting the sky. It’s an ideal spot for a short break and some quiet reflection.

Afterward, your guide will recommend a local restaurant near the Srah Srang reservoir for lunch, or you can opt to return to town. The tour allows flexibility here, but the included plan favors a quick, quality meal at a nearby spot, saving time for more temple exploring.

The Jungle Marvels: Ta Prohm and Ta Nei

No visit to Angkor is complete without Ta Prohm—the famous jungle temple overgrown with massive fig trees. It’s a highlight, and you’ll spend about an hour and 15 minutes wandering its intriguing ruins, perfect for photography and soaking in the atmosphere.

Just a bit off the beaten path, Ta Nei offers a more intimate jungle temple experience. Reached on gravel roads, it’s less visited and has a “Indiana Jones” vibe. Reviewers have praised its relaxed, untouched feel and the beautiful relief carvings.

Architectural Marvels: Ta Keo and Spean Thma

Next, the tour takes you to Ta Keo, an artificial mountain-style temple with steep stairs and impressive views from the top. It’s a former state temple and a good spot to appreciate the pyramid-like design.

A quick stop at Spean Thma, a stone bridge built from carved stones from earlier temples, offers a tangible link to Angkor’s engineering prowess. It’s brief but photogenic, making it a great pause for photos.

Temples with Mythological Carvings: Chau Say Tevoda and Thommanon

The temples of Chau Say Tevoda and Thommanon showcase detailed pediment carvings depicting mythological stories. They’re smaller but beautifully preserved, allowing you to appreciate craftsmanship without feeling overwhelmed.

The Iconic City Gates and Bayon

Next, you’ll visit the Victory Gate of Angkor Thom, offering a fantastic view of the giant faces and city walls. Climbing up the wall provides a panoramic snapshot of Khmer architecture.

A quick stop at Bayon Temple—famous for its massive stone faces—is included for a quick photo, but the real highlight in Angkor Thom is the South Gate, with its row of statues portraying demons and gods.

Sunset-like Views at Angkor Wat

In the late afternoon, you’ll return to Angkor Wat for a second visit. This time, the focus is on capturing the reflection of the towers in the surrounding moats, perfect for photos. Many travelers appreciate this opportunity to see the temple in a different light and get their “postcard shot.”

Reflection and Historical Context at Wat Thmey

Finally, the tour visits Wat Thmey, a small memorial that honors victims of the Khmer Rouge. It features a stupa and photo boards, adding a sobering but essential layer to your understanding of Cambodia’s recent history. It’s a quiet, respectful way to conclude a day of exploration.

Convenient Drop-off

The tour ends with a drop-off at your hotel or any central location in Siem Reap’s lively market district, ensuring you’re close to restaurants, shops, and your accommodation.

The Experience: What You’ll Really Get

This private tuk tuk tour is as much about flexibility as it is about seeing the key sights. Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and friendly drivers, which makes the experience both informative and comfortable.

Reviewers mention that Pin, the driver, was friendly and accommodating, allowing some to proceed at their own pace, which is crucial when dealing with a vast and sometimes overwhelming site like Angkor. The small group size (by nature of being private) means you won’t feel rushed or lost among dozens of travelers.

Value for Money

At $15 per person, this tour offers astonishing value considering the number of sites visited and the personalized experience. While the admission ticket to Angkor Wat isn’t included**, it’s a reasonable add-on, and many reviewers find the cost well worth it for the flexibility and depth of the experience.

Authentic and Less-Crowded

Several travelers appreciated the less crowded temples like Bat Chum and Ta Nei, which provide more peaceful moments to appreciate Angkor’s artistry. The timing at Angkor Wat—early morning and late afternoon—also allows for better photos and less bustle.

Expert Guidance

Reviewers consistently mention guide Vannak as very knowledgeable, providing extra insights into the temples’ history and significance, which enriches the visit beyond just sightseeing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a personalized, flexible experience with a focus on cultural and historical depth. It’s ideal if you appreciate authentic sites away from the largest crowds and are comfortable with a full-day itinerary. Budget-conscious travelers will also appreciate the excellent value.

If you’re looking for a relaxed pace, personalized attention, and a good mix of famous and lesser-known temples, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially appealing for photographers, history enthusiasts, and those eager to learn about Cambodia’s past and architecture.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but since it involves a full day of temple visits, children should be prepared for long hours and walking.

Are the temple tickets included?
No, you need to purchase your own Angkor Pass, which costs $37 for a day of access to all temples.

Can I skip some temples or customize the itinerary?
Yes, the private nature of the tour allows you to skip or spend more time at certain sites, depending on your interests.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, but there are recommended restaurants near Srah Srang, or you can return to town for a meal. Note that additional transfers for lunch are extra.

Is the tour available in the early morning or late afternoon?
The starting time is usually 7:00 am, with a second visit to Angkor Wat in the late afternoon, perfect for sunset photography.

What’s the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed.

Is transportation comfortable?
Travel is in a private tuk tuk with bottled water provided, making the ride comfortable and cool during the day.

In The Sum Up

This private tuk tuk tour offers a fantastic way to see Angkor Wat’s highlights without the stress of large groups or rigid schedules. The personalized service, knowledgeable guides, and varied itinerary ensure you get a comprehensive yet relaxed experience. For those eager to explore Cambodia’s temples authentically and affordably, it’s a superb choice.

You’ll love the freedom to focus on the sites that interest you most, the chance to capture stunning photos during the best light, and the opportunity to learn about Cambodia’s history from local guides. The tour’s affordability makes it accessible for most travelers, and the private setup guarantees a tailored experience.

However, be prepared for a full day of temple-hopping—if you prefer leisurely pacing or have mobility concerns, plan accordingly. Regardless, this tour delivers genuine value and memorable moments, making it an excellent addition to any Siem Reap itinerary.

Remember: The key to a great temple experience is flexibility, knowledge, and timing—this tour offers all three. Whether you’re a history buff, a photo enthusiast, or just curious about Angkor’s wonders, it’s worth considering for your Cambodia adventure.