Amazing full day TUKTUK tour

Traveling through Cambodia’s legendary Angkor temples is a must-do for any visitor, and what better way to explore than on a lively, open-air TukTuk? We’ve looked into this full-day tour in Siem Reap, and it’s clear that it offers a blend of authentic sights, personalized pacing, and friendly service—all for just $25 per person. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone wanting to see the highlights comfortably, this tour might be just what you need.

What we love most? The flexibility of the itinerary, the friendly, knowledgeable drivers, and the opportunity to soak in stunning temple views at your own pace. On the flip side, some travelers might find the admission fees not included—so be prepared for that extra expense. This tour suits independent-minded travelers eager to customize their temple-hopping without the hassle of crowded group tours, making it perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed, private experience.

Key Points

• Flexible Itinerary: You set your own pace, focusing on what interests you most.
• Authentic Temples: Visit major sites like Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, and Angkor Wat, plus hidden gems.
• Friendly Guides: Experienced drivers who are accommodating, safe, and often praised for their hospitality.
• Comfortable Transport: Open-air TukTuks with cool water and towels, ideal for hot days.
• Affordable Price: At $25, the value includes a full day’s exploration with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Extra Expenses: Temple entrance fees are not included, so budget accordingly.

An Overview of the Experience

This full-day TukTuk tour offers an accessible, fun way to explore the sprawling temple complex of Angkor. For just $25, you’ll have a private ride with an English-speaking driver, who doubles as your local guide, providing insights and ensuring your comfort throughout the day. The experience is designed to be flexible, allowing you to choose how long to spend at each site and what spots to prioritize—unlike linearly arranged group tours.

The tour begins with a hotel pickup, which is a real plus, saving you the hassle of finding your way to the temples early in the morning. Expect a comfortable ride in a lively TukTuk, with cool water and refreshing towels provided—something that many reviewers have appreciated, especially on scorching days.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Angkor Thom and South Gate

Your day kicks off at Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire, accessible via its iconic South Gate. Inside, the Bayon Temple with its smiling faces on 49 towers is the main highlight. Travelers often note how the smiling faces seem almost alive, providing incredible photo opportunities. The guide’s knowledge enriches the visit, sharing stories about the temple’s history, although entrance fees aren’t included, so do bring your budget.

Baphuon Temple and Royal Enclosure

Next, you’ll visit the Hindu Baphuon Temple, constructed before Angkor Wat in the 11th century. The Reclining Buddha behind it, built in the 16th century, is a peaceful spot, and you’ll also see the Royal Enclosure Wall. Reviewers comment on how these sites offer a fascinating glimpse into Khmer spiritual life, and the less crowded atmosphere at these lesser-visited temples allows for more relaxed exploration.

Phimeanakas and the Terrace of the Elephants

The Phimeanakas pyramid, from the 10th century, sits pretty at the heart of the old Royal Palace. Here, the guide might briefly explain its role in royal ceremonies. Nearby, the Terrace of the Elephants is particularly striking, carved with detailed images of elephants, and was historically used by kings to observe victorious armies. Some reviewers mention that the pictures of elephants on the walls truly bring history to life.

Terrace of the Leper King

Just north of the Elephant Terrace, this platform is another highlight—its mysterious name adds intrigue. The carvings and the historical context make it a favorite for history buffs. Reviewers have noted that local guides are often very knowledgeable, sharing stories and legends that deepen the experience.

Ta Prohm Temple: Jungle and Movie Fame

No trip to Angkor is complete without visiting Ta Prohm, famous for its overgrown roots and cinematic appeal—it’s the temple from the movie Tomb Raider. The tour includes smaller sites like Chau Say Tevoda, Thommanon, and Khao, giving visitors a nice variety of ruins before the jungle temple. Expect around 2 hours here—good for photos and appreciating the atmospheric ruins.

Srah Srang and Banteay Kdei

A quick stop at Srah Srang, the ancient royal pool, is especially lovely at sunrise or sunset but still impressive during the day. Reviewers have appreciated this peaceful spot, perfect for photos or a quiet moment.

Banteay Kdei, a 12th-century Buddhist temple with similar architecture to Ta Prohm and Bayon, is a brief stop. Its well-preserved structures make it a worthwhile addition, especially if you’re keen on more temple exploration.

Angkor Wat: The Crown Jewel

The tour wraps up with Angkor Wat, the largest Hindu temple in the world. Visitors often find that two hours is enough to soak in its grandeur. Many reviews mention that seeing the sunrise or sunset here is magical, though it’s not guaranteed with this itinerary. The temple’s intricate carvings and expansive grounds make it a highlight—perfect for photography, reflection, or simply marveling at ancient Khmer engineering.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

At $25, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering it includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver, cold water, and refreshing towels, which are especially welcome on hot days. The private setup means you won’t be stuck with large groups, giving you the freedom to adjust your pace.

However, admission tickets to the temples aren’t included. Budget for these separately—prices vary depending on the site but typically are around $37 for a one-day pass. Many travelers have found this extra cost manageable and worth the flexibility it affords.

Transportation and Timing

The TukTuk is open-air, which keeps the air flowing but does mean you’ll feel the heat, so be prepared with hats, sunscreen, and water. The tour lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, providing ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. Reviewers value the safe, smooth driving and appreciate that the driver often moves at their preferred pace.

Flexibility and Personalization

One of the biggest draws is the ability to customize your visit. The guide is experienced in managing your timing—some may want longer at Angkor Wat, others prefer to skip certain minor temples. The reviews highlight how friendly and accommodating the driver was, with one mentioning that they were moved at their pace and received plenty of water and towels.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Authentic Experience: Unlike large, crowded group tours, this private TukTuk allows you to experience the temples with a more personal touch. You’ll get to hear insightful stories and ask questions, making the visit more meaningful.

Cost-Effective: At $25, the value is clear—especially since it includes hotel pickup, water, towels, and a flexible itinerary. Paying for admission tickets separately still keeps the total cost reasonable for a full-day adventure.

Comfort and Convenience: The open TukTuk offers a breezy ride that feels more like exploring with friends than a structured tour. Reviewers consistently mention the kind, friendly driver who made the day enjoyable.

Ideal For: Travelers who want to avoid the rigidity of scheduled group tours, those seeking a relaxed pace, or visitors with a keen interest in seeing the temples while having the flexibility to linger or move on.

Potential Drawbacks

The main point to consider is that temple entrance fees are not included, so be prepared for an additional expense. Also, since the tour depends on weather and driver availability, some travelers might want to confirm specifics beforehand. If you’re a very independent traveler or prefer guided commentary at every site, you might want to supplement this tour with a guide service offering detailed historical guides at each site.

Final Thoughts

This full-day TukTuk tour in Siem Reap strikes a lovely balance between affordability, flexibility, and authentic temple exploration. It’s especially suited for travelers who value personalized experiences, appreciate scenic rides, and want to see the major Angkor sites without the fuss of large groups or rigid schedules.

The inclusion of friendly guides and the chance to tailor your day make it stand out. If you’re after a relaxed, enjoyable way to experience Angkor’s most iconic ruins with good value, this tour is a solid option.

FAQs

Are hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient and hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 8 to 10 hours, giving ample time to explore the temples at your own pace.

Are admission tickets to the temples included?
No, the temple entrance fees are separate. Budget accordingly for these additional costs.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and since it’s a private tour, it’s flexible to suit different needs and paces.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, you can prioritize sites or spend more time at certain temples, as the driver is accommodating.

What should I bring?
Bring hats, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and enough water. The open-air TukTuk can get hot, so stay hydrated.

In summary, this tour offers a relaxed, personalized, and affordable way to see the highlights of Angkor with the added benefit of a friendly driver and flexible scheduling. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy Cambodia’s stunning temples without feeling rushed or overwhelmed, all while staying within a reasonable budget.