Angkor Full Day Tour All The Main Temples

Getting a chance to visit Angkor is a must for anyone traveling to Cambodia, but navigating the array of temples can feel overwhelming. That’s where a well-organized, guided full-day tour like this one from Angkor Temple Private Full Day Tour shines. It promises an in-depth experience with expert guides, comfortable transportation, and plenty of photo opportunities, making the most of your precious time in Siem Reap.

What we love about this tour is its comprehensive itinerary—covering major sites like Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm, and others—and the personalized attention with private transport and guides fluent in both English and French. We also appreciate the ability to stop at interesting points between temples to take photos or soak in the atmosphere. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off is a small but significant convenience, especially after a long day of exploring.

A potential downside? The cost of admission tickets isn’t included, meaning you’ll need to budget around $37 USD per person separately. While the price for the tour itself at $60 for up to four people offers excellent value considering the guided experience, it’s essential to keep that additional expense in mind.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a balanced mix of culture, history, and comfort—perfect for first-timers or those wanting a thorough yet relaxed look at the Angkor complex.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering main temples and iconic sights
• Private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility
• Expert guides fluent in English and French enhance understanding
• Photo stops between temples allow capturing memorable moments
• Affordable price considering guide, transport, and flexible scheduling
• Not included: entrance fees and meals, which can be budgeted separately

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Angkor Park Ticket

The day kicks off with a pickup from your hotel, making it easy to start stress-free. You will head directly to the ticket counters to purchase your $37 USD per person ticket for the day’s exploration. This upfront step ensures no delays later, but it’s good to prepare cash beforehand or on arrival.

Angkor Thom South Gate

Your first temple stop is the impressive South Gate of Angkor Thom, just 20 minutes from the ticket area. This gate is a visual feast—huge stone faces of Buddha stare across the causeway, with gods and demons pulling the snake on either side. As one reviewer noted, “Mr. Hua, my guide, gave me excellent insights into the temple’s symbols,” which adds depth to the experience.

Bayon Temple

Next, about 10 minutes away, is the Bayon Temple, renowned for its multitude of serene smiling faces carved into stone. It’s a photographer’s paradise—especially with a monkey or two enjoying the jungle backdrop. The walls depict scenes of daily life and warfare, giving a snapshot of the past. One visitor shared, “Mr. Hua’s knowledge about the temple’s carvings made the visit even more meaningful.” Expect about an hour here.

Prasat Preah Khan

Passing by iconic sites like Elephant Terrace and the Royal Palace, you’ll reach Preah Khan, a sprawling temple covered in jungle vines. Hollywood fans might recognize it from “Tomb Raider.” Our review mentions, “This site’s jungle feel and ancient ruins make it a highlight,” with a recommended visit time of about an hour.

Ta Prohm Temple

Famous for the giant roots of trees clutching the stone walls, Ta Prohm is the most iconic site—think of Angelina Jolie in “Tomb Raider.” The mix of nature and architecture provides perfect photo moments. Visitors have called it “absolutely breathtaking,” and the guided commentary helps understand its significance amid the jungle.

Srah Srang (Royal Bath)

A great spot for lunch, Srah Srang offers a peaceful lakeside setting. The tour includes roughly an hour to enjoy a local meal at a nearby restaurant, giving a taste of Khmer cuisine in a scenic environment. Many reviewers appreciated this break, noting the delicious food and the chance to relax before more temple exploring.

Angkor Wat

Post-lunch, the journey takes you to Angkor Wat itself, where you’ll spend approximately two hours. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the pinnacle of Cambodian architecture, with intricate carvings and sprawling courtyards. One reviewer mentioned, “Angkor Wat’s grandeur exceeded my expectations, and the guide’s detailed explanations made it even more impressive.” Expect to see daily life activities happening around, adding authentic local flavor.

Phnom Bakheng Sunset

Ending the day with a sunset at Phnom Bakheng offers panoramic views of the Angkor complex. It’s a popular spot—so expect a bit of a climb and some crowds, but the sunset views are worth it. The hour-long stop lets you soak in the atmosphere and capture memorable photos.

End of the Tour

After sunset, your guide will escort you back to your hotel or preferred location. The entire experience lasts around 8-9 hours, balancing sightseeing, cultural insights, and downtime.

What We Think About the Experience

Comfort and Convenience: The use of a private, air-conditioned car makes the long day far more comfortable than group tours on tuk-tuks or bikes. The flexibility to stop for photos or quick breaks means you can customize the experience a bit, which many travelers appreciated.

Guidance Quality: The guides are highly praised, with reviews mentioning “extremely knowledgeable” and “friendly, reliable, and flexible” guiding. Their insights turn a simple temple visit into a compelling story, making history come alive.

Photo Opportunities: Between temples, you’ll find multiple stops for capturing the perfect shot—whether it’s the faces of Bayon, the roots at Ta Prohm, or the sunset from Phnom Bakheng. Reviewers highlighted how helpful and accommodating guides are in helping find the best angles.

Value for Money: At $60 for the tour (excluding tickets and meals), the price is very reasonable, especially considering the personalized service, private transportation, and expert guidance. The extra ticket cost is a small addition that pays off in enriched understanding and comfort.

Cultural and Practical Insights: Numerous reviews mention the guides’ depth of knowledge about temple carvings, historical context, and local life. This transforms the visit from a photo session into an educational experience, perfect for history buffs or curious travelers.

Limitations: The main thing to keep in mind is the additional expense of the entrance fee, which is not included. Also, the entire day is quite full, so if you prefer a more relaxed experience or limited walking, this might feel intensive.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This full-day adventure suits those who want to see the main highlights of Angkor without the hassle of planning each stop. It’s perfect for first-time visitors eager to get a rundown with expert guidance. If you’re after hassle-free transportation, interesting commentary, and a flexible schedule for photos, this tour ticks all those boxes. Families, couples, and small groups will benefit from the private setting, making it a personal, memorable experience.

The Sum Up

This Angkor full-day tour delivers a balanced mix of iconic temples, cultural insights, and comfortable travel—making it a great choice for travelers who value guidance, convenience, and depth of experience. The knowledgeable guides, flexible stops, and stunning sights combine to create a meaningful day in Siem Reap. While the entrance fee isn’t included, the overall value and quality of service make it well worth the price.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to explore the highlights of Angkor, with a knowledgeable guide and plenty of photo opportunities, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially ideal for first-timers or those wanting a comprehensive, comfortable, and engaging day out.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup from Siem Reap, making it easy to start your day without extra arrangements.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, giving you ample time to see all major sites comfortably.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the $37 USD ticket per person for the Angkor sites is paid separately by guests.

Can I customize the stops or schedule?
Since this is a private tour, guides can often accommodate your preferences, such as spending more time at certain temples or adjusting the order.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak fluent English and French, ensuring clear explanations and engaging storytelling.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
Yes, the private and air-conditioned transportation makes it comfortable for all ages, but be prepared for some walking and stair climbing at temples.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and camera are recommended. The tour provides cool towels, water, and sodas.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The stops are perfect for capturing your memories, and guides often help spot the best angles and lighting.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Last-minute cancellations are non-refundable.

This well-rounded, flexible approach to exploring Angkor ensures you won’t just see the temples—you’ll understand them, capture them, and enjoy every moment of your day.