Private Two Day Trip: Angkor Temples with Floating Village

Traveling through Cambodia’s Siem Reap province offers more than just a peek at ancient temples—it’s an immersive journey through history, artistry, and everyday life on the water. This private two-day tour promises a well-rounded experience, combining the grandeur of Angkor’s iconic temples with the authenticity of a floating village on Tonle Sap.

We love how this tour balances major highlights with cultural insights, offering a personalized touch thanks to private transportation and guides. The flexibility to explore at your own pace means you can truly absorb each site without feeling rushed. Plus, the inclusion of artisan workshops adds a creative peek into local crafts. One thing to consider is the overall cost—$140 per person includes most major activities, but tickets and boat fees are extra. Still, for a comprehensive, private experience, it’s quite a value.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to see the main temples, experience local water-based communities, and enjoy the convenience of private transport. It suits those who appreciate a mix of historical sites, cultural authenticity, and some leisure time in between. If you’re eager for a deeply personal, insightful glimpse into Cambodia’s vibrant life, this is a solid choice.

Good To Know

• Private and Personalized: Your own guide and vehicle make for a more relaxed, flexible visit.
• Iconic Temples: Spotlights include Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon, Ta Prohm, and Baphuon, each with unique features.
• Cultural & Artistic Insights: Visits to artisan workshops reveal traditional Cambodian crafts.
• Unique Water Village Experience: The floating village on Tonle Sap offers a glimpse into local livelihoods on the water.
• Inclusive Itinerary: All transportation, hotel transfers, and insurance included for hassle-free planning.
• Additional Costs: Temple tickets and boat fees are extra, so budget accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Day 1: The Majestic Temples of Angkor

The adventure begins early, with hotel pickup around 8:00 AM. From there, you’ll be whisked away in a private, air-conditioned vehicle—an important detail for comfort, especially in Cambodia’s tropical climate. The guide is licensed, knowledgeable, and keen to share insights, ensuring you don’t just see the sights but understand their significance.

Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, is the first stop. Built initially as a Hindu temple and later converted to Buddhism, it’s a marvel of architecture and spiritual history. Expect grand corridors, intricate bas-reliefs, and a sense of awe as you walk through its expansive grounds. The guide may point out subtle carvings and hidden details that often go unnoticed by casual visitors, enriching your visit.

Next, Ta Prohm, famously featured in movies like Tomb Raider, offers a different vibe—almost as if you’ve stepped into a jungle adventure. The trees with enormous roots sprawling over ancient stones create a surreal atmosphere. Reviewers repeatedly mention the enchanting, almost cinematic feel of Ta Prohm, noting how the giants of banyan and kapok trees seem to reclaim the ruins. One traveler said, “It feels like you’re walking through a storybook—a mysterious, magical place.”

Then, the tour moves to Angkor Thom, the ancient city complex. Big faces carved on the Bayon temple’s towers dominate the scene, and over 200 of these serene faces gaze out across the grounds. The bas-reliefs here depict scenes of daily life, battles, and festivals—offering a vivid snapshot of historic Cambodia. The Terrace of the Elephants and Terrace of the Leper King are also included, both offering impressive views and intriguing carvings.

Finally, a visit to Baphuon and Phimeanakas adds layers of history, while the Terrace of the Elephants offers a broader perspective of the grandeur once held here. The day concludes back at your hotel, having experienced the highlights of Angkor’s ancient civilization.

Day 2: Floating Village and Local Artisans

The second day takes a different turn—toward water, community, and craftsmanship. After a morning pickup, you travel to Tonle Sap lake, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, renowned for its floating villages. The visit to Chong Kneas involves a boat ride, giving you a front-row seat to the daily lives of locals who live on the water.

Guests consistently mention the authenticity of this experience. You’ll see crocodile farms, floating markets, houses, and schools—all built on stilts. One reviewer recalls, “You get to see real life on the water, not just tourist spots. It’s fascinating and humbling.” The boat ride also offers views of diverse communities, including Cambodians, Cham, and Vietnamese residents, highlighting Cambodia’s multicultural fabric.

The boat fee of USD 15 per person is not included, but the experience of observing how people adapt their lives to the lake’s rhythm makes it worthwhile.

Following the water visit, you’ll explore Les Artisan D’Angkor, a workshop dedicated to traditional Cambodian crafts like wood carving, silver plating, lacquerware, and silk painting. Watching artisans at work offers insight into the country’s artistic heritage and supports local livelihoods. Guests often appreciate the opportunity to purchase authentic souvenirs directly from artisans.

Extras like cold water, wipes, and hotel pickups make the journey comfortable, and the entire experience fosters a sense of cultural connection often missing from large group tours.

The Value of a Private, Guided Tour

This tour’s pricing at $140 per person reflects the inclusion of private transport, a professional guide, and tailored experiences. The private setup means no waiting for others or noisy group dynamics—just your party, your pace, and personalized commentary.

While the temple entrance fee (USD 37) and boat fee (USD 15) are additional costs, these are standard for most tours in the area. Comparing this to the hassle of organizing transportation and tickets independently, the convenience is clear.

The tour’s structure—balanced between iconic temples and water-based culture—caters well to travelers who want a comprehensive look at Siem Reap without feeling overwhelmed. The flexibility to skip lines with a dedicated entrance and the inclusion of hotel pickup/drop-off enhances the overall experience.

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Practical Tips from Reviewers

Guests recommend bringing essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, sunglasses, a power bank, and a sarong for temple visits. Comfortable long pants are also advised, especially for temple exploration. The early start helps beat the crowds—most visitors agree it’s worth the effort to see temples in the peaceful morning hours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers seeking a personalized, all-in-one visit to Cambodia’s highlights. History buffs will appreciate the detailed storytelling and access to major temples, while culture lovers will enjoy the artisan workshops and floating village.

It’s ideal for those who prefer private tours over group excursions, especially if you value flexibility and comfort. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a range of travelers.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, authentic experience that combines Cambodia’s ancient wonders with its vibrant water life, this tour offers a balanced and satisfying itinerary.

The Sum Up

This two-day private tour in Siem Reap effectively combines Cambodia’s most famous temple sites with a genuine look into life on Tonle Sap lake. The private transport and guides mean you can enjoy each moment without rushing, gaining a richer understanding of the sites and local culture. The inclusion of artisan workshops adds a creative and tangible connection to Cambodia’s craftsmanship, elevating the experience beyond just sightseeing.

While the added costs for temple and boat tickets are worth factoring into your budget, the overall value lies in the convenience, personalized service, and comprehensive coverage. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a flexible, in-depth exploration without the stress of navigating on their own.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a culture seeker, or someone simply wanting to see the highlights comfortably and privately, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated journey into Cambodia’s essence.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The package includes private transportation, a licensed guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, toll roads, parking, and travel insurance. Cold water and wipes are also provided.

Are temple tickets and boat fees included?
No, the temple entry fee of USD 37 and boat fee of USD 15 per person are additional costs payable during the tour.

How flexible is the schedule?
The tour starts at a designated time (usually 8:00 AM), but as a private experience, it offers some flexibility within the day’s itinerary. You can discuss pacing and sites with your guide.

Is this tour suitable for all mobility levels?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm specific needs beforehand.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a camera, long pants, personal medication, a power bank, sunscreen, cash, sunglasses, insect repellent, and a sarong for temple visits.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you peace of mind to keep your plans flexible.

This private two-day trip in Siem Reap offers a rich, balanced experience packed with history, culture, and local life—perfect for travelers who want to see the best with comfort and authenticity.

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