2 Day Private Tour Angkor Wat and Sambor Preikuk

Exploring Cambodia’s Ancient Wonders: A 2-Day Private Tour of Angkor Wat & Sambor Prei Kuk

If you’re planning a trip to Siem Reap and want to see the iconic temples alongside a rare look at Cambodia’s pre-Angkorian history, this 2-day private tour offers an intriguing blend. It’s specially designed for travelers who want a well-rounded experience without the chaos of large group tours, and at a very accessible price point—just $55 per person.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it covers the main must-see temples like Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm in a manageable route, ideal for those tight on time. Second, it includes a visit to Sambor Prei Kuk, a lesser-known but equally captivating site that offers a quieter, more authentic vibe. Lastly, the private setup, with hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and an experienced guide, ensures a smooth and personalized experience.

However, one thing to consider is that admission fees for the temples—$37 for Angkor Wat and $10 for Sambor Prei Kuk—are paid separately by travelers at the sites. This allows flexibility but adds a small extra step in the budgeting.

If you’re looking for an efficient, value-packed way to see Cambodia’s ancient sites with a knowledgeable guide, this tour could be perfect—especially for first-timers eager to tick off the highlights or history buffs wanting a deeper insight into the pre-Angkorian era.

Good To Know

• Efficient Route: Covers the essential temples in Angkor within a manageable 17km loop, perfect for those with limited time.
• Authentic Experience: Includes a visit to Sambor Prei Kuk, a quiet site rich in history and unique architecture.
• Private Tour: Offers personalized attention, flexible scheduling, and a dedicated guide.
• Value for Money: At $55, it includes transport, guide, and lunch, with temple entrance fees paid separately.
• Authentic Insights: Guides share in-depth knowledge about the sites, including lesser-known facts and local stories.
• Comfort and Convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle, hotel pickup and drop-off, plus cold water, make the day comfortable.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Day 1: The Classic Khmer Temples

Angkor Wat is the star of the show, and rightly so. This massive, intricately carved monument is the highlight for virtually all visitors. Built in the early 12th century, it was originally a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu and later transitioned into a Buddhist site. As the largest religious monument in the world, it’s impossible not to be awestruck by the scale and detail. Expect to spend around three hours here, giving enough time to appreciate the symmetry, bas-reliefs, and panoramic views from the upper terraces.

Next up is the Angkor Thom South Gate, which proudly marks the entrance to the ancient city. Built in the late 12th century, the gate’s impressive causeway is lined with stone lions and devatas, offering great photo opportunities. The guide will likely point out the detailed carvings and historical significance, adding context to what might seem like a simple gateway.

The Bayon Temple is a must-see, famous for its multitude of stone faces carved into towers. This is where you’ll get a sense of the blend between art and spiritual symbolism. The intricate bas-reliefs and the serene faces make it one of the most captivating temples in the complex. Expect about two hours exploring here, soaking in the artistry and stories behind the carvings.

Chau Say Tevoda is often overlooked but worth a visit. Built in the mid-12th century, this Hindu temple features beautiful stone carvings and a peaceful ambiance, perfect for a brief stop. It’s less crowded, giving you a chance to enjoy the architecture in relative quiet.

Ta Nei offers a quieter, less commercialized experience. Built in the late 12th century, it’s a smaller temple but rich with history. The review from travelers highlights how the sound of birds and footsteps in the woods can make your visit feel like stepping back in time—an authentic touch that larger tourist spots often lack.

Ta Prohm is famously intertwined with nature—trees and roots growing through the ruins. This atmospheric temple’s partly overgrown state makes it feel like a scene from a movie. Expect to spend about two hours here, wandering among the roots and exploring the temple’s corridors.

Banteay Kdei, often called the “Citadel of Chambers,” is a peaceful Buddhist site. Built in the mid-12th century, it’s less visited than Angkor Wat but offers a tranquil atmosphere with its interconnected galleries and quiet courtyards. An hour here allows for a relaxed exploration.

Day 2: The Hidden Gem – Sambor Prei Kuk

The second day takes you into Cambodia’s ancient pre-Angkorian past with Sambor Prei Kuk. This archaeological site from the 7th century was once the capital of the Chenla Kingdom—long before Angkor’s glory days. The site features over 100 brick temples, many of which are surrounded by lush greenery and overgrowth, giving a sense of discovery and solitude.

Yeay Poan Temple is notable for its 7th-century brick architecture and intricate reliefs. It’s a significant reminder of Cambodia’s early religious and political history. Reviewers mention its “unique flying palace reliefs,” reflecting the sophistication of the builders.

Prasat Tao, named “The Lion Temple” due to its lion sculptures, is the central temple within the site. Its impressive brick sanctuary and the iconic lions guarding the entrance are highlights, offering great photo opportunities and a deeper understanding of the local style.

Other notable structures include Sambor Temple, dedicated to Shiva, with its geometric patterns on the brick platform, and Kbal Chrouk Temple with ornate sandstone doorframes and reliefs of flying palaces, providing insight into the artistic craftsmanship of the period.

The visit to smaller sites like Drum Chan Temple and Chrey Temple, often covered in roots or with striking octagonal shapes, showcases the diversity of pre-Angkor architecture. The review mentioning the temple engulfed by a “massive strangler fig” perfectly illustrates how nature and history intertwine here.

Trapeang Ropeak stands out for its octagonal shape and large, growing tree. Such structures highlight the unique architectural styles that predate Angkor and are often overlooked, making this a highlight for history enthusiasts.

Practicalities and What You’ll Experience

Transportation: The tour offers a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, which is a welcome relief after long walks. Pickup and drop-off at your hotel make logistics simple, especially in a city like Siem Reap.

Guidance: The guide is an English speaker, providing detailed insights into each site. Based on reviews, guides like Kosorl are helpful, cheerful, and eager to share stories, including local treats like coconut biscuits and pudding—small touches that humanize the experience.

Timing: The itinerary is well-paced, with each stop allowing enough time to appreciate the architecture without feeling rushed. The first day is packed with the iconic temples, while Day 2 offers a more relaxed exploration of Sambor Prei Kuk.

Cost: At $55 per person, including transport, guide, and lunch, this tour offers excellent value considering the comprehensive coverage. Entrance fees are paid separately: $37 for Angkor Wat and $10 for Sambor Prei Kuk, giving you flexibility and transparency.

Tour Strengths: The private setup means more personalized attention and flexibility. The inclusion of less crowded sites like Sambor Prei Kuk offers a unique contrast to the bustling temples of Angkor.

Possible Drawbacks: Since the tour is quite packed, especially on Day 1, some travelers might find it a bit rushed, particularly if they love taking their time at each site. Also, the need to handle entrance fees separately might be an extra step for some.

Authentic Insights and Review Highlights

The one traveler’s review captures the essence of Sambor Prei Kuk perfectly: “Magnificent place, surrounded by nature outside the crowds of Angkor Wat. Only the sound of birds and their own footsteps allows you to truly feel the atmosphere of the temples.” This quiet, overgrown site is a stark contrast to the heavily visited Angkor complex, offering a more intimate, almost meditative experience.

Another review mentions the helpfulness of the guide, Kosorl, and even details about local treats—coconut biscuits and pudding made during the journey. Such insights reveal that guides often go beyond the script, making the experience more memorable.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This private tour is ideal for travelers seeking a blend of Cambodia’s iconic temples and off-the-beaten-path sites, especially those with limited time but a desire for depth. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts, photographers, or families with kids who want a relaxed but comprehensive introduction to Angkor and its roots.

If you’re after a cost-effective, well-organized, and personally guided experience that balances famous highlights with lesser-known sites, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s less suited for those looking for a very relaxed, slow-paced exploration or who prefer to avoid paying entrance fees separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for kids under 11?
Yes, kids under 11 can join for free, making it a good choice for family trips. Just keep in mind the physical aspects; some walking is involved.

Does the price include entrance fees?
No, the tour price covers transportation, guide, and lunch. Entrance fees for Angkor Wat ($37) and Sambor Prei Kuk ($10) are paid directly at the sites.

How long are the stops at each site?
Stops vary from around 30 minutes to two hours, depending on the site. The schedule is designed to be efficient but allows enough time to appreciate the key features.

Is the tour private or group?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable footwear, sun protection, water, and a camera. The tour provides cold drinking water to keep you hydrated.

Will I need to handle tickets myself?
Yes, you purchase the tickets on-site directly—$37 for Angkor Wat and $10 for Sambor Prei Kuk.

Are there any hidden costs or surprises?
No hidden costs; the main additional expense is the entrance fees. The tour price is transparent and includes most services.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day private tour offers a comprehensive and authentic way to experience Cambodia’s ancient temples and early history. It strikes a good balance between iconic highlights and lesser-known sites, making it perfect for travelers who want depth without the rush.

The private setup, experienced guide, and included lunch make it a relaxing experience, even during busy days of temple-hopping. While the itinerary is packed, it provides a meaningful overview suited for first-timers or anyone eager to learn about Cambodia’s rich past.

For those wanting a cost-effective, personalized, and well-organized tour—especially with the charm of quieter, ancient sites—this experience is a great choice. Just be prepared for a full, exciting two days of exploration that leaves you with plenty of stories and stunning photos.

In sum, this tour is best suited for history lovers, photographers, or families who want to see the best of Siem Reap’s ancient sites with a knowledgeable guide, all at a very reasonable price. Whether you’re marveling at Angkor’s grandeur or discovering Cambodia’s early empire at Sambor Prei Kuk, you’ll come away with a richer understanding and appreciation of this incredible country’s past.