Phnom Penh to Siem Reap: Sambor Prei Kuk & Spider Market Stop

Phnom Penh to Siem Reap: Sambor Prei Kuk & Spider Market Stop – An Honest Look

This tour promises a scenic, cultural journey from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, with stops that highlight Cambodia’s ancient temples, exotic markets, and floating villages. While it’s marketed as an all-in-one experience, it’s important to weigh what you’ll get against your expectations.

What we like most about this tour is the combination of cultural sights and local flavor—from the UNESCO-listed temples of Sambor Prei Kuk to the curious, if a little creepy, Skun Spider Market. We also appreciate the comfort of private, air-conditioned transport and the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

However, a potential drawback is the short time allocated for some stops—20 minutes at Skun Market and Spean Praptos might leave you wanting more, especially if you’re keen on truly immersing yourself. This tour suits travelers who want a practical, engaging way to see diverse sights without the hassle of planning transport or multiple tickets. It’s ideal for those interested in a taste of Cambodia’s history, culture, and unique local markets in one day.

Key Points

• Comfortable private transport makes the journey smooth and stress-free.
• Multiple cultural and natural stops offer a varied experience.
• Cost-effective at $104 per person, considering the included stops and private transport.
• Short stop durations may limit the depth of exploration at each site.
• Pre-booked tickets for certain sites, like Sambor Prei Kuk, cost extra.
• Cultural authenticity, such as visiting a floating village, adds value.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

From Phnom Penh to Siem Reap: Setting Off

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in Phnom Penh, ensuring a hassle-free start. Your driver, experienced and friendly, will whisk you away in a clean, air-conditioned SUV or minivan depending on your group size. This private transfer, costing $104, offers a reliable and comfortable alternative to public buses or DIY arrangements. The journey via Highway 6 is approximately 9 hours, but with strategic stops, it becomes a mini adventure.

Stop 1: Skun Spider Sanctuary

Just 75 kilometers north of Phnom Penh, Skun (or “Spider Market”) is renowned for its exotic snacks like fried tarantulas. It’s more than just a market; it’s a curiosity for most travelers. Expect to see a variety of crunchy insects, crickets, and grasshoppers, which are part of local delicacies. While the tour doesn’t include taste testing, many visitors find this stop fascinating and slightly creepy.

One reviewer described Skun as an “otherwise normal small Asian food market,” but the part that sticks out is the arachnid and insect displays. If you’re squeamish or not into trying insect cuisine, it’s still worth the quick visit to witness Cambodia’s unique street food culture. The 20-minute stop offers enough time to take photos or browse without feeling rushed.

Stop 2: Sambor Prei Kuk – The UNESCO Site

The highlight for history buffs and temple lovers is Sambor Prei Kuk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Kampong Thom Province. Dating back to the 6th-9th centuries, these ancient temples served as the capital of the Chenla Kingdom.

This stop lasts about an hour, giving ample opportunity to appreciate the remarkably preserved ruins and the serene atmosphere surrounding them. The site features stone temples and relics that showcase early Khmer architecture, and many travelers find it a rewarding glimpse into Cambodia’s distant past.

One reviewer pointed out that entrance tickets to Sambor Prei Kuk are not included in the tour price and cost an additional $10 per person, so plan accordingly. The site’s quiet charm and historical significance make it a worthwhile visit, even if you only have a limited time.

Stop 3: Spean Praptos – The Khmer Empire’s Bridge

Next, the journey takes you to Spean Praptos, a 12th-century stone bridge built during the Khmer Empire. Known for being once the longest corbeled stone-arch bridge in the world, it’s a fascinating piece of engineering history.

The stop is brief—around 20 minutes—and mainly for viewing and photos. It’s a good reminder of Cambodia’s architectural prowess centuries ago. Although the tour does not include an entrance fee, the site’s historical importance lends a sense of connection to Cambodia’s ancient achievements.

Stop 4: Kampong Khleang – Floating Village on Tonle Sap Lake

The final stop before arriving in Siem Reap is Kampong Khleang, a traditional floating village on Tonle Sap Lake. This visit lasts approximately an hour and offers an authentic look at Cambodia’s floating communities.

This village is less touristy than some others, giving visitors a chance to witness everyday life. Travelers can see stilted houses, floating markets, and enjoy the peaceful waterscapes. The tour notes that boat rides here cost $15 per person if you choose to go on one, and the village itself is free to explore.

A reviewer emphasized the charm of Kampong Khleang, describing it as “fewer travelers and more authentic,” making it an excellent way to see livelihoods that depend on the lake.

Arrival in Siem Reap

The journey concludes with a drop-off at your hotel in Siem Reap. From there, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the famous Angkor temples or just relax after a long day of sightseeing.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are private transport, bottled water, and an English-speaking driver, ensuring comfort and clarity throughout your trip. The tour also offers group discounts and mobile tickets, adding convenience.

Not included are entrance tickets to Sambor Prei Kuk ($10), boat rides at Kampong Khleang ($15), and travel insurance. Tipping your driver isn’t mandatory but appreciated, especially after a long day of driving and sightseeing.

The Real Experience – What Travelers Have Said

While the tour has a decent rating overall, one review describes Skun Market as “creepy,” highlighting the exotic and potentially off-putting nature of the insect displays. The reviewer also mentions that no samples or taste tests are offered, so if you’re craving a culinary adventure with insects, you might find this stop a bit underwhelming.

Another traveler appreciated the professionalism of the driver and the reliability of the vehicle, noting that the stops were well-paced. However, the limited time at each site, especially Skun and Spean Praptos, suggests this tour is more about seeing highlights than fully exploring each location.

Is This Tour Worth It?

The value here lies in the convenience of door-to-door transport combined with a diversified itinerary that covers history, culture, and local life. The price of $104 per person is reasonable considering the private vehicle and multiple stops, though some travelers might feel it’s a bit rushed if they wish to linger longer at each site.

If you’re someone who enjoys brief but meaningful visits, this tour will serve you well. It’s especially useful if you want to avoid the hassle of organizing multiple transport modes and entrance tickets. However, fans of in-depth exploration or those seeking a more relaxed pace might find the schedule a tad too packed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who value convenience and want a snapshot of Cambodia’s diverse attractions in one day. It’s perfect if you’re arriving in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap and want to maximize your time with minimal planning.

It also suits those curious about Cambodia’s history, markets, and floating villages, but who aren’t necessarily looking for an intensely immersive experience. Budget-conscious travelers will find the price fair, especially given the private transport and multiple stops.

FAQs

Does the tour include entrance tickets?
No, the tour price does not include entrance tickets for Sambor Prei Kuk, which cost an additional $10 per person. Other sites like Spean Praptos and Kampong Khleang are free, but boat rides at Kampong Khleang cost $15 each.

How long is the total journey?
The whole trip takes approximately 9 hours, starting with hotel pickup in Phnom Penh and ending with drop-off at your Siem Reap hotel.

Is the tour suitable for all physical fitness levels?
Yes, but travelers should have a moderate fitness level since there is some walking involved at sites like Sambor Prei Kuk and Kampong Khleang.

What size of vehicle will I be traveling in?
Depending on your group size, you will travel in either an SUV (for 1-3 people) or a minivan (for 4 or more). The vehicle is air-conditioned and equipped with safety belts.

Are food or additional activities included?
No, food isn’t included. The tour mainly focuses on sightseeing stops, but you’ll have bottled water and the option to purchase food at some locations, especially the market.

Is there any opportunity for cultural or culinary experiences?
While the market stop offers a glimpse into local snacks, there are no tastings or tours explicitly designed for culinary immersion. The focus is more on viewing rather than sampling.

Final Thoughts

For those looking to hop between Cambodia’s key sights without the fuss of planning transport or tickets, this private transfer with sightseeing stops offers practical value. You’ll get a taste of Cambodia’s past at Sambor Prei Kuk, the local hustle at Skun Market, and a glimpse into life on Tonle Sap Lake—all in one day.

While the schedule is tightly packed and some sites are brief, the convenience and diversity make this a good option for first-time visitors. It’s especially ideal for travelers who want a snapshot of Cambodia’s culture, history, and daily life without sacrificing comfort.

If you prefer slow, immersive visits or want to spend more time at each site, this tour might feel a bit rushed. Otherwise, it’s a straightforward, well-organized way to make the most of your transfer from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap.

Final note

Always consider your interests and pace when choosing a tour like this. It packs a lot into a day but might leave you wishing for a little more time at each stop. Nonetheless, it’s a solid choice for those who want an efficient introduction to Cambodia’s highlights.