Unveiling 2 Days Private Angkor Wat/Beyond In Sunrise/Sunset Tour

Exploring Angkor Wat and its surrounding temples is a must-do for anyone visiting Siem Reap, but doing it independently can be overwhelming. This private 2-day tour offers a curated experience that balances iconic sights with authentic insights, all while avoiding the crowds.

What makes this tour special? First, the personalized service means you get the undivided attention of a knowledgeable guide—adding depth to the story behind each monument. Second, the early sunrise and evening sunset experiences are worth the price alone, offering stunning views and photo opportunities. Third, the comfort of private transportation ensures you travel efficiently and in style, with air-conditioning and plenty of cold water to beat the heat.

A possible consideration is that the admission tickets to temples are not included in the price, so you’ll need to purchase these separately. For travelers who value a flexible, customized itinerary with high-quality guides, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly suitable for those who want a deeper, less touristy experience wrapped into just two days.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience with a professional guide and driver
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience
• Optimal for those with moderate physical fitness due to walking and exploration
• Highlights sunrise and sunset views at iconic temples, avoiding crowd congestion
• Excellent reviews about knowledgeable guides and stunning sites
• Cost-effective for a two-day immersive experience in Angkor Wat and beyond

Why Choose This Tour?

When looking at a comprehensive tour of Angkor, the main advantages are its personalized approach and quality of guides. With a private guide leading the way, you gain insights that self-guided visits often miss, like historical context or tips for great photo spots. The reviews consistently mention guides like Sam and Mr Han, who are praised for their English skills, humor, and knowledge—making the experience both educational and fun.

The cost of $234 per group might seem high at first glance, but considering the included transport, guide, and the absence of crowds, it’s excellent value. You’re essentially paying for a tailored experience that maximizes your time and minimizes hassle in a sprawling archaeological park.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: Sunrise at Angkor Wat and Jungle Temples

The tour kicks off early, with pickup from your hotel in a private, air-conditioned SUV. You’ll arrive at Angkor Wat before dawn, aiming to catch the famous sunrise over the temple’s reflective pools. Many travelers find this a highlight, as the soft morning light makes the intricate carvings glow and offers fantastic photo opportunities—something that reviewers like Brian and Chris have raved about, citing the guide’s help in finding the best spots.

Following sunrise, you’ll explore the entire Angkor Wat complex, appreciating its grandeur. The guide provides explanations about the temple’s architecture, symbolism, and history, making each step more meaningful.

Day 1: Jungle Temple Ta Prohm & Angkor Thom

Next, the tour moves to Ta Prohm. This temple, famously overgrown with trees, was the filming location for Tomb Raider, and it truly feels like stepping into a jungle adventure. Visitors love the atmosphere here, with reviewers highlighting the guide’s insights on the temple’s architecture and the stories behind its overgrowth.

After a lunch break at a local restaurant, you’ll visit Bayon Temple, renowned for its over 1000 Buddha faces carved into stone. The walls are filled with intricate bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Khmer mythology, making it a photographer’s paradise and a favorite among visitors for both its artistry and spiritual vibe.

The day wraps up with a walk around Angkor Thom, the ancient royal city, where multiple smaller temples await exploration. The guide’s commentary helps unravel the history of this former empire hub, making each site more than just a pretty ruin.

Day 2: More Temples and Sunset Views

The second day begins with Preah Khan, a vast jungle temple that offers a sense of adventure and discovery. It’s known for its maze-like layout and moss-covered stones, with reviews emphasizing how knowledgeable guides enhance the visit.

Next, you’ll visit Neak Pean, a small island ‘hospital’ temple with a tranquil pond—perfect for those seeking peaceful moments amid the ruins. Then, the tour continues to Ta Som, notable for the fig tree overtaking its eastern gate, providing a fantastic photo op.

The eastern Mebon Temple, an island Hindu site built from clay bricks, offers a different architectural style, and Banteay Srei, often called the “Citadel of Women,” delights visitors with its exquisite pink sandstone carvings. Many travelers mention how the guides’ detailed explanations help appreciate the craftsmanship and stories behind each sculpture.

The day ends with the sunset at Pre Rup or Phnom Bakheng. The latter is especially popular for panoramic views from the top. Reviewers such as Yogesvaran highlight how the guide carefully navigates crowds, leading to a memorable sunset experience.

What to Expect From the Experience

Transport and Comfort

Travel is in a private, air-conditioned minivan or SUV, which makes the long days much more comfortable. The tour includes cold water, wipes, and tolls, ensuring you stay refreshed and stress-free. The small group size (up to 12 people) offers a balance between intimacy and social interaction, but many reviews emphasize that it feels just like a private tour.

Guides and Expertise

From the reviews, guides like Sam and Mr Han are praised for their deep knowledge and friendly approach. They not only narrate the history but also give tips on taking better photos and avoiding crowds. Many mention that the guides go beyond simple facts, sharing personal stories and insider tips that elevate the experience.

Flexibility and Customization

While the itinerary is packed with must-see temples, there’s mention of flexible planning. Guests appreciated that the guides adapted the schedule or swapped days when needed, making the experience suit individual interests.

Timing and Duration

Each stop is timed to maximize the experience—early mornings for sunrise, late afternoons for sunset. The total duration of around 2 days allows for a thorough exploration without rushing, which is often a concern in large archaeological parks.

Cost and Value

At $234 for the entire group, this tour offers excellent value considering the private guide, transportation, and the curated experience. Since admission costs are not included, travelers should budget for those separately, but the overall experience justifies the additional expense.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to see the best of Angkor without the stress of planning and prefer a more intimate, guided experience. It’s perfect for those who value expert insights and want to avoid the busy crowds, especially at sunrise and sunset spots.

The comfort of private transport paired with knowledgeable guides makes it a great choice for first-timers and repeat visitors alike. If you’re physically able to walk and explore for several hours over two days, this tour will maximize your time and provide a rich, memorable visit.

However, if you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind doing your own research or navigating crowds, this may seem pricier. But for those seeking a seamless, immersive experience that covers key highlights with professional guidance, this tour delivers plenty of value.

FAQs

Are transportation and hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with private air-conditioned transport for the entire two days.

Do I need to buy temple tickets separately?
Yes, admission tickets are not included, so you will need to purchase them separately to access each temple.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult and should have a moderate physical fitness level, as the tour involves walking and exploring multiple sites.

How long is each day’s schedule?
The itinerary is designed to cover key sites over roughly two days, with stops ranging from 40 minutes to a couple of hours, depending on the site.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the tour is structured, reviews mention that guides are flexible and can adapt to your interests or schedule.

What should I wear?
Dress modestly with knees and shoulders covered, especially at religious sites. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, along with sunblock and mosquito repellent.

Is the sunset at Phnom Bakheng or Pre Rup better?
Both spots are popular, but Phnom Bakheng offers a panoramic view from the top of an ancient Hindu temple, often praised for its breathtaking sunset.

In summary, this private 2-day Angkor tour stands out for its personalized approach, knowledgeable guides, and stunning vistas. It’s well-suited for travelers who want an immersive experience with convenience and expert insights, all while avoiding the crowds. If you’re seeking a memorable visit that balances history, photography, and comfort, this tour deserves serious consideration.