Angkor Wat Sunset Small Circuit Tour with Transportation Only

If you’re visiting Siem Reap and craving a flexible way to explore Angkor’s most iconic temples, this Sunset Small Circuit Tour is worth considering. It offers a private, self-guided experience with transportation included, allowing you to set your own pace and enjoy the temples without the pressure of a group guide.

What we love about this tour is its customizable schedule, intimate transportation, and the opportunity to witness the sunset from the famous Phnom Bakheng. Plus, the flexible nature makes it ideal for those who prefer to explore independently, whether you’re traveling as a couple, family, or solo adventurer.

One potential downside is that admission fees to the temples are not included, meaning you’ll need to purchase your Angkor Pass separately. This might be a small inconvenience but isn’t a dealbreaker for many who want the freedom to choose which temples to visit.

This tour fits best for travelers who want a stress-free, self-paced day with the benefit of private transportation, especially those who enjoy exploring at their own speed rather than in a large tour group.

Key Points

• Flexibility and independence: Explore temples at your own pace without a scheduled guide.
• Private transportation: Enjoy a cooled, private vehicle for comfort and convenience.
• Stunning sunset views: End the day at Phnom Bakheng, known for its spectacular sunset panoramas.
• Cost-effective: The small group (up to 3 people) at $40 offers a personalized experience.
• Temple pass not included: Budget for the $37 ticket per person.
• Informal experience: No guide means more freedom but less historical commentary.

An Honest Breakdown of the Tour

This small circuit tour truly emphasizes personal freedom. For just $40 per group (up to 3), you get private transportation for approximately 7 to 8 hours, with a friendly driver who will pick you up and take you around Siem Reap’s highlights. The tour does not include a guide, which is perfect if you enjoy wandering and discovering on your own, or if you prefer to skip the guided commentary altogether.

Tour Itinerary and What to Expect

Stop 1: Angkor Wat
This is the star of Cambodia and the largest religious monument in the world. Visitors get around two hours to walk amongst its towers, passe through intricate carvings, and soak in the atmosphere as the golden light from sunset casts a glow over the entire complex. While the admission ticket isn’t included, many travelers choose to purchase the $37 Angkor Pass beforehand or on-site. The experience at Angkor Wat is often described as awe-inspiring, especially as the light changes, making it a must-see for any first-time visitor.

Stop 2: Ta Prohm
Famous for the massive tree roots sprawling over ancient stones, Ta Prohm offers a mystical, jungle-covered vibe. This spot is a favorite for photographers and those seeking a unique temple experience. The review mentions that the temple “gives visitors a mystical jungle feel” and is “one of the most photogenic temples in the park.” You get about two hours here, enough time to wander and take photos without feeling rushed.

Stop 3: Ta Nei Temple
Less crowded and more tranquil, Ta Nei is perfect for travelers craving some quiet time. Surrounded by forest, this temple provides an authentic, peaceful atmosphere. It’s a great spot to step away from the crowds and soak in the serenity.

Stop 4: Bayon Temple
Located in the heart of Angkor Thom, Bayon is famous for its huge stone faces peering from every direction and the maze of carvings depicting Khmer history. Spending around an hour and a half here, you’ll explore the enigmatic smiling statues and ancient reliefs that tell stories of the past.

Stop 5: Phnom Bakheng
The highlight for many visitors is the sunset view from this hilltop temple. Climbing up the pyramid structure takes about 30 minutes, but the panoramic vistas of Angkor Wat and the surrounding jungle are worth it. Several travelers, including a reviewer, appreciated that this was the perfect way to end the day, with a “beautiful sunset” over the temples.

Transportation and Comfort

The real star here is the private, cooled vehicle. Users have appreciated this detail, describing it as more comfortable than shared or public transport. The driver is friendly and flexible, allowing you to decide your pace and stops. This is especially valuable on hot days or if you’re traveling with children or elderly family members.

Flexibility and Self-Guided Exploration

Without a guide, you have total control. The driver simply provides transportation, so your experience depends entirely on your interests and stamina. Several reviewers have expressed how this setup suits independent explorers well. One noted, “It’s the best option for self-travelers who want their own time,” and praised the quiet, unhurried exploration.

Value for Money

Given the price of $40 for up to three people, this tour offers a personal, flexible way to experience some of Cambodia’s most famous sites. The cost of temple admission isn’t included but is an additional $37 per person, which is consistent with the typical entry fee. When you consider the private transport and the freedom to explore on your own, this arrangement is quite attractive for budget-conscious travelers wanting to avoid guided tours’ rigid schedules.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for couples, families, or solo travelers who want to explore Angkor independently without a guide. If you enjoy wandering at your own pace, taking photos whenever the mood strikes, and ending your day with a sunset view, this tour is well-suited for you. It’s also a good choice for those who prioritize comfort, as the cooled vehicle makes the long day more enjoyable.

However, if you prefer a detailed historical narration or guided insight into each monument, this might not be the best fit. Also, remember that admission fees are separate, so budget accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Sunset Small Circuit Tour provides an excellent way to see some of Siem Reap’s most famous temples at your own pace. With the flexibility to skip guided commentary, you get to craft your adventure, whether you want to linger at Angkor Wat or catch the sunset from Phnom Bakheng. The private, cooled transportation adds a layer of comfort that’s often missing from larger group tours.

The price is reasonable, especially considering the private nature of the transport, making this a practical choice for independent explorers. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers comfortable navigating ticketing and who want freedom over a structured tour.

While it’s not a guided experience, the ability to set your own schedule, combined with stunning sunset views and quiet temple visits, makes this a memorable way to experience Cambodia’s iconic temples.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour fee?
Yes, the tour provides private transportation with a friendly driver, including fuel surcharge and cold water.

Are admission tickets to Angkor Wat included?
No, the admission ticket ($37 per person) is not included. You’ll need to purchase this separately.

Can I customize the temple stops?
Since it’s a self-guided tour with private transportation, you can choose which temples to visit within the time frame, depending on your interests.

How long do I spend at each site?
You’ll spend approximately 2 hours at Angkor Wat, 2 hours at Ta Prohm, 1 hour at Ta Nei, 1.5 hours at Bayon, and 1.5 hours at Phnom Bakheng for sunset.

Is the tour suitable for families or elderly travelers?
Yes, the private cooled transport and flexible schedule make it suitable, but consider mobility requirements for temple climbs.

Does the tour include a guide?
No, this is a self-guided experience; the driver only provides transportation.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and your temple pass or plan to buy it on-site.

Can I start the tour at a different time?
Yes, the tour is flexible, and you can coordinate pickup and timing with the driver.

Is this a full-day experience?
Yes, it lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, enough to explore several key temples and enjoy the sunset.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, according to the provider’s policy.

This tour offers a flexible, independent way to experience Angkor’s beauty, perfect for travelers who value comfort, freedom, and stunning sunset views.