If you’re planning a trip to Siem Reap, this full-day Angkor tour promises a comprehensive glimpse into the sprawling temple complex — without the hassle of figuring out transportation or guides yourself. With an excellent reputation backed by 306 glowing reviews, this tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, well-organized itinerary, and stunning sunset finale.

What we love about this experience is how it balances value for money with authentic, meaningful sights. You’ll get to see a mix of iconic and less crowded temples, enjoy comfortable transport, and end your day with a memorable sunset. The possible downside? The tour’s early start (around 10:30 am) might not suit those who prefer a very leisurely morning or early risers. This tour suits travelers eager for an insightful, structured day exploring some of the most impressive temples in Cambodia.

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Key Points

Well-structured itinerary covering key temples of the Angkor complex
Expert local guides passionate about sharing Cambodia’s history
Comfortable transportation with air conditioning and chilled water
Affordable price point for a full-day tour with sunset viewing
Small group size (up to 15 travelers) for a personal experience
Includes pick-up and drop-off from central Siem Reap locations

Why Choose the Full-Day Big Tour?

This tour offers a fantastic way to pack a lot into just one day. For travelers with limited time in Siem Reap, it’s a practical, budget-friendly option that covers many of the must-see sites. The price is roughly $18.50 per person, making it a very accessible choice when you consider the inclusion of guided commentary, transportation, water, and the convenience of hotel pickup.

The guided element is highly praised, with guides like Makara getting special mentions for their friendliness and willingness to show extra temples and take photos. Such personal touches really enhance your experience, making the day more than just a checklist of sites.

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Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Pickup and Early Morning Start

The tour begins with a pickup from the Siem Reap Pub Hostel, usually around 10:30 am. This slightly later start than some sunrise tours means you can enjoy a bit more rest, but it also shifts the schedule to the hotter parts of the day. Expect to arrive at the Angkor Ticket Office first, where you’ll purchase your entrance pass (not included in the tour price). This quick stop is essential because without your ticket, access to the temples isn’t permitted.

First Stop: Pre Rup

The first temple is Pre Rup, a striking and accessible site famous for its impressive sandstone terraces. As one of the more visually stunning temples, it provides fantastic photo opportunities and a good introduction to Angkor’s architecture. Visitors have reported the site as “beautiful” and appreciated the chance to explore without the crowds that often flock to Angkor Wat.

East Mebon and Ta Som

Next, the group visits East Mebon, a mountain-like temple built on an island in a water reservoir. Its elevated position offers great views, and it’s less crowded than some of the main sites, giving you space to absorb the atmosphere. Reviewers note that exploring these slightly offbeat spots makes for a more scenic and relaxed experience.

Then, the visit moves to Ta Som, an overgrown temple that feels almost like a jungle adventure. Its tree roots entwined with stone walls make for impressive photos and evoke a sense of discovery. Reviewers mention this temple as “more scenic than Angkor Wat and less busy,” allowing for a more intimate experience.

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Neak Pean and Preah Khan

After a quick stop at Neak Pean, an island temple nestled in a water reservoir, the tour continues to Preah Khan. Built in the 12th century as a spiritual site and a royal monastery, Preah Khan is famous for its sprawling ruins and intricate carvings. Visitors find it captivating and less touristy, which makes for a more meaningful exploration.

Ending with Phnom Bakheng and Sunset

The day wraps up at Phnom Bakheng, a hilltop temple known for offering spectacular sunset views over Angkor Wat and the surrounding jungle. This part of the tour is the highlight for many, especially given the reviews praising the sunset as “spectacular.” Be aware that this is a popular spot, so arriving early helps secure a good viewing spot.

What You Can Expect From the Experience

Transportation and Comfort

The tour includes a modern, air-conditioned minivan which ensures that you stay cool during the often hot, humid days. The driver is experienced and reliable, and chilled bottled water is provided throughout, helping you stay refreshed as you explore.

Guided Expertise

Your English-speaking guide brings the sites alive with context and stories, making history accessible and engaging. Reviewers often mention how guides like Makara go above and beyond by taking photos and customizing the trip when possible, which adds a personal touch.

Timing and Pacing

The schedule is designed to give you enough time at each site without feeling rushed. Starting around 10:30 am, the tour wraps up after sunset, usually around 6 pm. This makes it manageable even if you’re on a tight schedule but does mean you might miss early morning sunrise views if that’s your preference.

Small Group Advantage

Limited to about 15 travelers, the group size fosters a friendly, intimate atmosphere. Reviewers appreciate that this allows for more interaction with guides and fewer crowds around each monument.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

While Angkor Wat itself is a highlight, this tour’s strength lies in its inclusion of less crowded temples like Ta Som and East Mebon. These sites are often overlooked but offer stunning architecture and fewer travelers snapping photos.

One reviewer shared that their guide was very friendly, showed them extra temples, and even clicked several photos, elevating the experience from just sightseeing to memorable moments. Another mentioned that the guide’s knowledge helped them appreciate the history and significance of each site more deeply.

The Value for Money

At just under $20, this tour offers excellent value considering all the inclusions: transportation, guide, water, and the sunset experience. Compared to more expensive private tours, this shared group option is budget-friendly and efficient, especially for solo travelers or small groups.

However, it’s important to consider that ticket fees to Angkor Archaeological Park are not included in the price, so budget accordingly. Still, the convenience of guided transport and expert insights more than compensates for the small extra expense.

Who would benefit most from this tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a structured, informative introduction to Angkor’s key sites. It’s also well-suited for travelers who prefer a small group setting with a knowledgeable guide, making the experience more personal and relaxed. If you’re someone who values sunset views and wants a comprehensive day without the hassle of logistics, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Final Thoughts

This full-day ‘Big Tour’ with sunset at Phnom Bakheng hits a sweet spot of value, comfort, and authenticity. The blend of iconic temples and quieter sites makes it a great choice for those looking to maximize their Angkor experience without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The inclusion of a friendly, passionate guide and a convenient schedule means you’ll walk away with not just photos but stories and insights to cherish.

While the late start might not suit early risers, it offers a relaxed pace that fits most travelers. Plus, ending the day with sunset views from Phnom Bakheng provides a perfect, memorable conclusion to a day filled with incredible sights.

This tour genuinely caters to those who want a well-rounded, engaging introduction to Angkor’s wonders — especially if you appreciate good value, expert guides, and a mix of popular and hidden temples.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with pickup around 10:30 am from the Siem Reap Pub Hostel.

Are tickets to Angkor included?
No, tickets to the park are not included and need to be purchased separately at the entrance.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses an air-conditioned minivan, and chilled bottled water is provided throughout the day.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, promoting a small-group, personalized experience.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The guide may add extra temples if time permits, as noted in some reviews, but the main stops are pre-planned.

What about the sunset?
The sunset at Phnom Bakheng is a key feature, offering stunning views, though it can be crowded, so arriving early is recommended.

In essence, this tour offers a balanced, engaging, and affordable way to experience the grandeur of Angkor. Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer, or just seeking a memorable adventure, you’ll find plenty to love here.