Private Angkor Wat Sunrise Small Tour

If you’re planning a visit to Siem Reap, the Private Angkor Wat Sunrise Small Tour offers a fantastic way to start your exploration of Cambodia’s most iconic sites. This tailored experience takes you early in the morning, allowing you to witness some of the most breathtaking views and historic landmarks with a knowledgeable guide. While it’s a relatively short tour, it packs in significant highlights, making it ideal for those who want a focused, authentic glimpse of Angkor’s treasures.

What we love about this tour is the opportunity to see Angkor Wat at sunrise—a truly magical moment that many travelers cherish forever. The second highlight is the Bayon temple’s hundreds of smiling stone faces, which bring a sense of serenity and mystery. Lastly, exploring Ta Prohm’s jungled ruins, famous for its appearance in Tomb Raider, offers a sense of adventure and discovery. However, the early start can be a bit demanding, especially for those not used to waking before dawn. This experience suits travelers who value iconic sights, can handle a very early start, and want a comfortable, guided introduction to Angkor’s most famous temples.

Good To Know

• Early start to catch the stunning sunrise at Angkor Wat.
• Visit three iconic temples: Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm.
• Includes private transportation and a guided tour for a personalized experience.
• Cost covers the major temple entrance fee, but food, drinks, and tips are extra.
• Ideal for those seeking an immersive, authentic experience with expert guides.
• Not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or certain health concerns due to early hours and walking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Dawn to Midday

This tour kicks off at 5:00 am, which might seem painfully early, but it’s arguably the best time to experience Angkor Wat without crowds and with remarkable clarity. You’ll be picked up from your hotel by a private car with a licensed driver, ensuring comfortable and hassle-free transit. The first stop is, of course, Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Here, you’ll witness the spectacle of sunrise, which draws photographers and history buffs alike. The tranquil reflection of the temple’s silhouette against the dawn sky makes for unforgettable photos and a sense of awe.

By around 8:00 am, the tour moves on to Bayon, famous for its hundreds of smiling stone faces carved into the towers. Built by Cambodia’s revered King Jayavarman VII, this temple offers a peaceful yet vibrant atmosphere, as visitors can observe the intricate bas-reliefs and the serene expressions carved in stone. The guide, Mak, has been praised for taking excellent photos—so don’t forget your camera! Rafael, one reviewer, highlighted how Mak “takes excellent photos,” capturing moments you might miss otherwise.

Next, around 9:30 am, the adventure continues at Ta Prohm, the jungle-clad temple embraced by towering trees and tangled roots. Known for its cinematic appearance—most famously in Tomb Raider—this site offers a perfect blend of mystery and natural beauty. You’ll see strangler fig trees dripping over ruins, creating an almost surreal landscape. As Rafael noted, the place is beautiful, and the guide’s insights add to the experience, making it more than just a walk through ruins.

The tour wraps up by 11:00 am, and you’ll be driven back to your hotel or into Siem Reap town for the rest of your day. The balance of early mornings and mid-morning finish provides enough time to explore further or relax after the tour.

Transportation and Guides: Personal Touches for Comfort

One of the tour’s greatest strengths is the inclusion of private transportation and a licensed, English-speaking guide. This means you can move comfortably between sites without the hassle of crowded buses or confusing schedules. The guide, Mak, is known for his friendly demeanor and taking excellent photos—adding a personal touch that elevates the experience.

The vehicle is equipped with cool water and towels, helping you stay refreshed in the early morning heat. This is a thoughtful detail appreciated by travelers who want comfort during an early start.

Entry Fees and Additional Costs

The Angkor admission fee of $37 per person is not included in the tour price. This fee is payable either by cash or credit card and grants access to all three temples visited. It’s a worthwhile expense considering the magnitude and significance of these sites.

Food and beverages aren’t included, so you might want to prepare by providing a breakfast box from your hotel or grabbing something nearby. The flexibility here allows you to tailor your morning meal to your preferences.

Practical Tips: What to Bring and What to Avoid

To make the most of this tour, packing smart is key. Comfortable shoes are essential, as you’ll be walking on uneven ground. Don’t forget sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen—the Cambodia sun can be intense even early in the morning. A camera is a must, especially since the sunrise and temples provide picture-perfect moments. Insect repellent helps ward off bugs, especially at Ta Prohm, where the jungle thrives.

Dress modestly—long pants and sleeveless shirts are not allowed—and carry cash for tips and the entrance fee. Note that certain items, such as weapons, drones, or explosives, aren’t permitted, and the tour strictly advises against touching animals or wearing see-through clothing.

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Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights of Angkor with a personalized touch. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate early mornings and sunrise views. The small group setting means more flexibility and interaction with guides, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more intimate experience.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour isn’t designed for everyone: people with mobility issues or health concerns should consider their physical comfort, as the early start and walking on uneven ground can be challenging. Also, the tour’s focus on the main temples means those seeking a more comprehensive exploration of Angkor may need additional days or tours.

This private tour offers a balanced combination of iconic sights, expert guiding, and comfortable transportation. It’s especially valuable for those wanting a beautiful, photo-worthy experience—the sunrise at Angkor Wat alone is worth the early wake-up call. The inclusion of a guide like Mak, known for his friendly approach and great photos, adds a layer of authenticity and personalization that bigger group tours often lack.

You’ll enjoy the peaceful early morning atmosphere at Angkor Wat, avoiding the crowds and capturing stunning images. The visit to Bayon provides a chance to admire Cambodia’s famous smiling faces, while Ta Prohm’s jungle ruins evoke a sense of adventure. The entire experience is designed to give a taste of the grandeur of Angkor in a manageable, well-organized way.

If you’re after a focused, authentic visit to Cambodia’s most celebrated temples, this tour is a smart choice—especially if you value comfort, flexibility, and a knowledgeable guide.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is generally suitable for most ages, but since it starts early and involves walking on uneven terrain, it may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Do I need to buy the Angkor admission fee separately?
Yes, the $37 per person entrance fee is paid on arrival and is not included in the tour price. You can pay by cash or credit card.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a camera, long pants, and cash. A breakfast box from your hotel can be helpful if you prefer to eat early.

How long does the tour last?
It begins at 5:00 am and ends around 11:00 am, making it a half-day experience that leaves plenty of time for other activities.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the guide, especially regarding timing or additional sites, within the constraints of the schedule.

Is the tour available in other languages?
The tour includes an English-speaking guide. For other languages, check with the provider in advance.

This Private Angkor Wat Sunrise Small Tour offers a beautifully orchestrated way to experience Siem Reap’s most famous temples early in the day, with expert guidance and personalized service. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want a memorable start to their Cambodian adventure—one filled with stunning views, cultural insights, and a touch of adventure.