Angkor Wat 2-Day complex Sun rise & Sun set with Guided Tour

Travelers looking to see Cambodia’s iconic Angkor Wat and its surrounding temples often find themselves overwhelmed by the sheer scale of the site. That’s where a 2-day guided tour like this one from Siem Reap shines. It promises a well-organized, insightful, and comfortable way to uncover the highlights of the Angkor Archaeological Park, all for just $29 per person.

We love that this tour offers a balanced blend of early mornings and relaxed afternoons, a detailed itinerary covering 11 different temples, and the benefit of expert guides who bring the history to life. The inclusion of sunrise and sunset moments makes it an unforgettable experience, framing your visit with beautiful natural backdrops.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the ticket to the park is not included in the price, so you’ll need to budget for that separately. Also, since the tour takes place rain or shine, packing appropriate rain gear is advisable.

This experience suits travelers who value guided insights, want to cover multiple sites without the stress of planning, and who appreciate a comfortable, well-paced tour** that balances sightseeing and storytelling.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Visits to 11 temples, including Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon, and others.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with stories, tips, and cultural context.
• Sunrise and sunset views: Capture iconic moments at Angkor Wat and Phnom Bakheang hilltop.
• Comfortable transportation: Air-conditioned mini-bus makes long days more manageable.
• Flexible timing: Two separate days – one for sunrise, one for sunset – with options to customize.
• Great value: For only $29, you get two days of guided exploration, transportation, bottled water, and wet towels.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the 2-Day Angkor Wat Guided Tour

Day 1: Sunrise at Angkor Wat and Morning Temple Tour

Starting early at around 4:30 am, this tour ensures you beat the crowds and catch the spectacular sunrise over the most photographed monument in Cambodia. Watching the light change behind Angkor Wat’s intricate towers is a moment many travelers cherish; even in the rainy season, the atmosphere is enchanting.

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Siem Reap, where you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus that whisks you to the park. Guides like Sary and Nick are frequently praised for their extensive knowledge and friendly demeanor—they not only explain the temples’ history but also share little details that make each site come alive. For example, one reviewer mentioned their guide “made sure we were well looked after” and “chose an excellent lunch venue.”

The morning itinerary includes Angkor Wat itself, Angkor Thom, and the Bayon Temple with its famous smiling faces—these are the crown jewels of the park and magical at sunrise. The cooler temperature and fewer visitors at this hour make exploring more enjoyable. Visitors often comment on the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful photo opportunities.

Additional stops like Banteay Kdei, a serene Buddhist temple, and Ta Keo, a mountain temple from the 10th century, add variety. These smaller temples are less crowded but equally impressive, offering a quieter vibe and more chance to appreciate the architecture and carvings.

The day wraps up around 1 pm back at your hotel, giving you time to rest or explore more on your own. According to reviews, guides are attentive, ensuring you’re stocked with water and wet towels, which are much-needed in the Cambodian heat.

Day 2: Sunset over Phnom Bakheang and More Temple Exploration

The second day is designed to be more relaxed, starting around 10:30 am. It’s a great way to avoid early morning fatigue while still experiencing the beauty of Angkor’s sunset. The tour visits Preah Khan, the largest temple on the loop, built by King Jayavarman VII, and Neak Pean, a small island temple once used for bathing—both offer contrasting views of Angkor’s grandeur.

Other highlights include Ta Som, with its iconic tree growing over the East Gate, and East Mebon, an artificial island temple that now lies in a dry reservoir. These sites are famed for their unique architecture and atmosphere.

The grand finale is Phnom Bakheang, perched on a hill with 33 towers that symbolize the heavens. As many reviewers noted, the sunset views from this hilltop are breathtaking, providing a perfect end to the tour. The panoramic vistas allow you to reflect on the scale and history of this ancient empire.

Throughout the day, guides like Sary and Vone are praised for their enthusiasm, patience, and storytelling skills—they make sure you get the best photo spots and help you understand the cultural significance of each temple.

Transportation and Group Size

The air-conditioned minibuses are a major plus, especially given the heat and humidity. They also facilitate seamless transitions between temples, making long days more comfortable. The tours tend to be small groups, with many reviewers mentioning groups of 11-12 people, which is ideal for personalized attention without feeling crowded.

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Guides and Personal Touches

Many reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Names like Sayon, Kosal, and Rith are often mentioned for their enthusiasm and storytelling prowess. One reviewer even called Kosal an “amazing photographer”, offering tips for the best shots—this extra touch is appreciated when trying to capture the perfect temple photo.

Value for Money

At just $29, this tour offers exceptional value. For that price, you get two days of guided exploration, transportation, bottled water, and wet towels—these little extras make a noticeable difference in comfort. Keep in mind, the park admission fee is separate (USD 37 for one day or USD 62 for multiple days), so budget accordingly.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book your temple pass beforehand, as recommended, to avoid delays on the day.
• Bring long pants, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera for photos.
• Be prepared for early mornings and possibly rain—pack a raincoat or umbrella.
• Wear comfortable shoes; you’ll be walking and climbing stairs.
• Respect temple rules: no short skirts or sleeveless shirts, and avoid alcohol and drugs.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Angkor’s main sites without the hassle of planning each stop. It’s also suited for travelers who appreciate guided narratives and prefer to see the highlights with comfortable transportation.

Those who want to maximize their experience with sunrise and sunset moments will find this tour especially rewarding. It’s also a good pick if you’re traveling on a budget, as the price includes two days of guided entry, making it a cost-effective way to explore.

The Sum Up

This 2-day guided tour of Angkor Wat delivers a well-rounded, hassle-free experience that balances stunning scenery, cultural insight, and comfort. With knowledgeable guides, seamless transportation, and iconic moments like sunrise and sunset, it’s a memorable way to explore Cambodia’s most famous landmarks.

It’s best suited for travelers who want to see a lot in a short amount of time, enjoy storytelling from local experts, and value good organization and comfort over a DIY approach. At such an affordable price, it provides a compelling option for those eager to experience the magic of Angkor without the stress of navigating alone.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an Instagram lover, or just someone eager to see the world’s largest religious monument, this tour covers all the bases—and leaves you with plenty of stories to tell.

FAQs

Do I need to buy my temple pass separately?
Yes, the tour price does not include the Angkor Archaeological Park ticket. You should purchase your pass in advance to save time on the day.

What is included in the tour price?
You get hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned minibus, a guided tour of 11 temples, sunrise and sunset experiences, bottled water, and wet towels.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Many travelers praise guides like Sayon, Kosal, Rith, and others for their extensive knowledge and friendly approach, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
While the tour is not recommended for babies under 1 year, and not suitable for wheelchair users or those over 95, it’s generally good for anyone able to handle some walking and stairs.

How long does each day last?
Day 1 runs from around 4:30 am (for sunrise) until about 1 pm. Day 2 starts at 10:30 am and ends around 7 pm, offering a relaxed pace with plenty of time at each site.

What should I bring?
Pack a camera, long pants, a hat, sunscreen, cash for extras or tips, and a sarong if you plan to enter certain temples.

Is rain a problem?
The tour takes place rain or shine. It’s wise to bring rain gear or an umbrella, especially during the rainy season.

How crowded will it be?
Starting early for sunrise helps avoid crowds. Guides often steer you to less busy spots and off-peak times for photos.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The itinerary is fixed, but guides are generally flexible about pacing and stopping for photos, ensuring you get the most out of your experience.

This comprehensive tour offers a fantastic way to see Angkor Wat’s highlights, all while relaxing in comfort and benefiting from expert insight. If you’re short on time but want a memorable, hassle-free adventure, this 2-day guided experience is hard to beat.

You can check availability for your dates here: