Private sunrise tour to Angkor Wat & other highlights with Professional Guide.

If you’re planning a trip to Siem Reap, a private sunrise tour of Angkor Wat combined with visits to other major temples offers an exceptional way to soak in the grandeur of the Khmer monuments. This tour isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about experiencing the temples in a way that’s personal, insightful, and surprisingly comfortable. We’ve reviewed this experience based on extensive feedback and available details to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your adventure in Cambodia.

What we love about this tour:

• The early morning sunrise over Angkor Wat, arguably the most iconic scene in Cambodia
• The expert guidance that helps you understand the stories behind these ancient structures
• The privacy and flexibility of a private tour, avoiding the crowds and customizing your experience
• The value, which includes hotel pickup, bottled water, an air-conditioned vehicle, and a knowledgeable guide for just over $58 per person

One consideration: Some parts of the tour—like Ta Prohm or Angkor Thom—require additional tickets not included in the price. Also, waking up early might not be for everyone, but it’s well worth it for the views and atmosphere.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a deeper, more personalized experience of Angkor’s treasures without the chaos of large group tours. It also suits those who appreciate expert storytelling and prefer to avoid the crowds at the most popular sites.

• Sunrise over Angkor Wat provides a breathtaking start to the day, with many reviewers noting how magical the early morning light is.
• Private guide and vehicle ensure comfort, flexibility, and tailored commentary, making your visit more informative and relaxed.
• Includes hotel pickup and bottled water, removing the hassle of logistics and keeping you refreshed.
• Skip crowds at key sites like Ta Prohm and Bayon temples, giving you more space to enjoy the scenery and take photos.
• Cost-effective considering the personalized service, expert guide, and included amenities, making it a good value for a full-day tour.
• Additional costs for temple tickets mean the total price can increase, but the experience itself remains well worth the extra expense.

Starting Bright and Early at Angkor Wat

The adventure kicks off with pickup from your hotel, typically arranged by the tour operator, Around Cambodia Travel. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle driven by a friendly local driver. The early start—usually around 4:30 or 5 am—means you’ll arrive at Angkor Wat just in time to witness the sunrise. As the sky shifts from dark to dawn, you’ll see Angkor Wat’s silhouette gradually illuminated by the rising sun, a spectacular sight that many previous travelers say is worth waking up for.

The process of purchasing your temple tickets happens before entering the monument, which saves you from any logistical delays. The tour guide will be with you, sharing insights about the temple’s construction, symbolism, and the Khmer Empire’s grandeur. One reviewer, Lauren, mentioned that their guide Nak was “knowledgable and funny,” tailoring the tour to her interests, which heightened the experience.

Exploring Angkor Wat and Srah Srang

After the sunrise, you’ll take a short break at Srah Srang, a beautiful reservoir often overlooked but perfect for breakfast with a view. Expect around 30-45 minutes of relaxing, with your guide arranging a simple meal or you can bring your own snacks. The peaceful setting and early morning tranquility make this a lovely pause before the day’s more extensive temple visits.

From there, the tour continues to Ta Prohm, famous for its giant roots wrapping around ancient stones—the “Tomb Raider” temple. Visiting early means fewer crowds, so you can walk among the collapsed towers and tangled roots more peacefully. Reviewers like Rae appreciated the knowledge and attentiveness of the guide, who answered all their questions and pointed out details they might have missed on their own.

Next is Ta Nei, a lesser-known, quieter temple hidden in the jungle, providing a peaceful alternative to the busier sites. Its seclusion and lush surroundings are ideal for those who love nature and history combined. As one traveler noted, it’s “a very nice and peaceful temple to visit,” and the lack of crowds enhances its charm.

The Majestic Angkor Thom and Bayon

The tour then moves into Angkor Thom, the ancient city, starting with its impressive South Gate—a grand entrance with giant stone faces. This is a great spot for photos and understanding the scale of the ancient city. Afterward, you’ll visit Bayon Temple, renowned for its countless stone faces and intricate carvings. Visiting after sunrise means the crowds have thinned, allowing you to fully appreciate the artwork and atmosphere.

Reviewers have praised guides for their storytelling ability here, explaining the significance of the faces and the history behind the temple. The guide’s insights help transform these ruins from mere stones into stories of kings, gods, and centuries of Cambodian culture.

Ending the Day in Siem Reap

After a full morning of temple exploration, you’ll be driven back into Siem Reap. The last half-hour often involves optional stops at local shops or cafes for souvenirs or a quick rest. Many travelers appreciate the flexibility here, as it allows you to unwind or explore further on your own.

This private tour offers a fantastic balance of value, intimacy, and expert guidance. For a little over $58, you get a full day of sightseeing, convenience, and a personalized experience. The inclusion of hotel pickup, bottled water, and air-con transport means you can focus on enjoying Cambodia’s wonders without stress.

The tour is especially advantageous for those who value early mornings, want to skip the crowds, and prefer a flexible schedule driven by an expert guide. The reviews highlight that guides like Nak or Lux are not just knowledgeable but also engaging, making the history come alive.

While the main attractions are included in the itinerary, note that temple tickets cost $37 USD per adult—a cost to keep in mind when budgeting. Kids under 12 enter free, which can be a bonus for family travelers.

Travelers seeking an authentic, personalized exploration of Angkor will find this tour ideal. It suits those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more leisurely, intimate visit. History buffs, photo enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a deeper understanding of Khmer architecture and culture will benefit from the guide’s insights.

If you appreciate comfort, flexibility, and expert storytelling, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting a rundown or repeat visitors looking for a more relaxed, private day.

This private sunrise tour of Angkor Wat and surrounding temples blends convenience, expert guidance, and intimate access to some of Cambodia’s most famous sites. The early start allows you to beat the crowds and witness the temple’s stunning beauty at dawn—a moment many travelers say is unforgettable. The inclusion of hotel pickup, bottled water, and air-conditioned transport adds significant value to the overall experience.

You’ll love the knowledgeable guides who turn ancient stones into stories, the peaceful visits to lesser-known temples, and the chance to capture iconic sunrise photos without the throngs of fellow travelers. The flexible itinerary means you can focus on what interests you most, making it a very personalized way to see Angkor.

While temple tickets are an additional cost, the overall value remains high considering the comfort, guidance, and unforgettable views. This experience is best suited for those who want a private, relaxed, and insightful exploration of Angkor’s most iconic monuments—perfect for history lovers, photography fans, or travelers who prioritize quality over quantity.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup, making logistics much easier and saving you time in the morning.

What’s the best time to start?
The tour typically begins early morning, around 4:30 or 5 am, to catch the sunrise and avoid crowds.

Are temple tickets included?
No, the temple entrance fee of $37 USD per adult (free for children under 12) is paid separately.

How long is the tour?
The total tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, covering multiple temple stops and some relaxing breaks.

Can I customize the experience?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can tailor some parts of the day based on your interests or pace.

Is this suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the private nature makes it flexible for families with children.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, guide services, bottled water, and cool towels. Meals and temple tickets are extra.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Who is the tour provider?
Around Cambodia Travel organizes this experience, with positive feedback about their attentive service and knowledgeable guides.

If you’re after a thoughtfully curated, private exploration of Angkor Wat and its highlights, this sunrise tour ticks all the boxes. It combines early morning magic, expert storytelling, and comfort—all for a fair price that makes it a compelling choice for your Angkor adventure.