2 Day Angkor Wat Private Tour

Exploring the ancient wonders of Angkor is on many travelers’ bucket lists, and this 2-day private tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Cambodia’s most famous archaeological sites. Though I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s a fantastic way to truly understand the scale and beauty of Angkor’s temples and nearby attractions.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it’s the early sunrise at Angkor Wat, a moment many visitors find unforgettable. Second, the opportunity to visit less touristy sites like Beng Melea and Banteay Srey offers a sense of discovery. Lastly, the authentic boat ride on Tonle Sap and the floating village provide a more local perspective on Cambodia’s living traditions. That said, the tour is quite packed, so expect a full schedule, which may feel rushed for some.

One consideration is the price point of $245 per group, which encompasses transportation, guide, and some amenities, but excludes entrance fees and meals. For those who value a guided, stress-free experience with expert insights, it offers good value. However, travelers hoping to explore on their own or with a tighter budget might want to consider what’s included.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, photography lovers, and anyone wanting a comprehensive, yet manageable, introduction to Angkor’s most iconic sights. If you enjoy guided tours that combine cultural discovery with scenic moments, this is likely a great fit.

Good To Know

• Early start for sunrise at Angkor Wat creates a memorable beginning.
• Expert English-speaking guides enhance the experience with rich insights.
• Private group setting offers personalized attention and flexibility.
• Visits to both popular and remote sites provide diverse perspectives.
• Comfortable transportation with air-conditioning makes long days easier.
• Extra activities like boat rides add a touch of local life and adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Two-Day Itinerary Breakdown

This tour covers the main highlights of Angkor’s sprawling complex and additional extraordinary sites. Day 1 is designed to optimize the early morning magic, starting with a 5 am pickup that ensures you’re at Angkor Wat in time for sunrise. Watching the sun cast its glow over the largest religious building in the world is an experience many travelers treasure. The early start also helps avoid the larger crowds that arrive later in the day, giving you space to appreciate the intricate architecture and peaceful atmosphere.

After sunrise, the tour continues inside Angkor Wat proper, where your guide will point out notable features like the bas-reliefs and the symbolism behind the temple’s design. From there, the journey heads to Angkor Thom, the ancient Khmer capital famous for the Bayon Temple with its iconic smiling stone faces. The tour includes a visit to the Elephant Terrace and Leper Terrace, which are less crowded spots that give a sense of the city’s grandeur.

The highlight of Day 1 might be Ta Prohm, the “Tomb Raider” temple, where giant roots and overgrown trees give a hauntingly beautiful scene. Our review confirms that guides like Mr. Sok excel at sharing stories about these sites, making history come alive. This site’s cinematic setting is a favorite among visitors, and you’ll love how the guide points out hidden details you might miss on your own.

Day 2: Remote Temples and Floating Villages

Day 2 begins at 8 am, giving you a slightly later start. The first stop is Banteay Srey, known as the “Citadel of Women,” built from pink sandstone. This temple’s delicate carvings and color contrast make it a visual feast, especially for those interested in craftsmanship and artistry.

Next, you’ll head to Beng Melea, about 77 km from Siem Reap. This site’s untouched, slightly ruined state offers a more atmospheric experience. It’s a large Hindu temple built around the same time as Angkor Wat but remains less restored and less crowded. The overgrowth of trees and the sense of discovery make Beng Melea a highlight for those craving “off-the-beaten-path” moments.

In the late afternoon, the tour shifts gears to explore Tonle Sap Lake and Kompong Phluk, the floating village. The boat ride here is a unique window into how local communities live on the water, with stilted houses, floating markets, and flooded mangrove forests. Many reviewers find this part surprisingly captivating, offering a different kind of connection to Cambodia’s everyday life—something you won’t get just by visiting temples.

Comfort and Practicalities

Transportation is by air-conditioned vehicle, crucial for long days in the heat. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with guides providing cold towels and drinking water to keep you refreshed. The private tour setting allows for flexibility: you can ask questions, take breaks, or linger longer at spots that catch your interest.

The tour’s price at $245 for up to 9 people is a fair deal considering the inclusions and the personalized experience. Entrance fees and meals are excluded, so budget accordingly. The tour’s flexibility is reinforced by the option to cancel 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a low-risk option for travelers with uncertain plans.

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Guides and Authentic Experience

Guest reviews highlight the expertise and friendliness of guides like Mr. Sok, who is praised for making the experience enjoyable and informative. His knowledge helps visitors understand the history and significance of each site, making the temples not just picture-perfect backdrops but stories of Cambodia’s past.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, guided glimpse into Angkor without the hassle of planning each detail themselves. It works well for travelers who appreciate early mornings, scenic stops, and cultural insights. The private setting ensures a tailored experience, perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking a relaxed yet full itinerary.

If you’re after a balanced mix of popular sights and lesser-known gems, this tour delivers. It’s especially suitable if you value comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and authentic interactions with local life through the floating village.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Angkor Wat private tour offers a well-rounded way to experience Cambodia’s most astonishing temples and unique lakeside communities. With expert guides, scenic early mornings, and visits to both iconic and remote sites, it’s a compelling choice for travelers who want depth and authenticity. The comfort and personalized nature of the tour help make it accessible for most visitors, while the inclusion of extraordinary places like Beng Melea and Tonle Sap gives it a sense of adventure.

For those who appreciate a guided experience that’s both informative and flexible, this tour provides excellent value. The only potential downside is the packed schedule, which might feel rushed for some, but the overall experience is designed to maximize your time and understanding of Cambodia’s rich heritage.

In short, whether you’re a history enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply eager to see Cambodia’s most famous sites without the stress, this tour hits the sweet spot. It captures the magic of Angkor and its surroundings in a way that leaves most travelers feeling inspired and satisfied.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The $245 fee covers transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, cold water, and cold towels. Entrance fees and meals are not included.

How long is each day’s tour?
Day 1 starts early with pickup at 5 am for the sunrise at Angkor Wat, followed by visits to key temples; the day is quite full. Day 2 begins at 8 am, focusing on temples and the floating village, ending in the late afternoon. The total duration is two days, but exact times depend on availability.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While designed for most travelers, it’s not recommended for wheelchair users due to the uneven terrain of some sites. Comfortable shoes, hats, sunscreen, and insect repellent are advised.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute changes.

Are entrance fees included?
No, visitors need to pay entrance fees separately at each site.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes. Large bags or luggage are not permitted.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of early sunrise viewing, expert guides, visits to less touristy sites like Beng Melea, and the boat ride on Tonle Sap make this tour a well-rounded and authentic experience.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect and help you decide if this 2-day Angkor Wat tour matches your travel style. With its mix of famous temples, remote adventures, and local life, it promises a memorable journey into Cambodia’s past and present.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby