Angkor 2-Day Sunset & Sunrise Small-Group Tour

If you’re planning your trip to Siem Reap and want a well-rounded, authentic experience of the Angkor complex, this 2-Day Sunset & Sunrise Small-Group Tour is worth considering. It offers a balanced mix of iconic sights and lesser-known gems, all while providing a comfortable, guided journey that’s tailored for travelers who appreciate detailed explanations and memorable photo moments.

What we love about this tour? First, the expert guides who bring the temples’ stories to life, second, the comfortable climate-controlled transport that keeps the heat at bay between stops, and third, the chance to see both sunrise and sunset at Angkor Wat—a truly magical experience. A potential consideration? The entrance fee of $62 is not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to budget for that separately. This tour is ideal for those who want in-depth, flexible exploration with knowledgeable guides, especially if you value comfort and authentic insights.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive 2-day itinerary covering major temples and hidden spots
• Expert guides with deep knowledge and storytelling skills
• Comfortable transport in air-conditioned vehicles, avoiding open-air tuk-tuks
• Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunset, capturing iconic moments
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for seamless convenience
• Visit lesser-known sites like Banteay Srei for unique photos and fewer crowds

Why This Tour Stands Out

If you’re eager to tick off the major highlights of Angkor while also enjoying some quieter, more atmospheric temples, this tour hits the mark. The small-group size (max 15 travelers) means you get personalized attention, and the guides are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to answer every question.

The climate-controlled vehicle is a big plus—imagine avoiding the sweltering open-air tuk-tuks, especially in Cambodia’s intense heat. Instead, you’ll cruise smoothly between sites, with bottled water and cool towels provided, which reviewers say makes a noticeable difference in comfort.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Day 1: Hidden Gems and Majestic Temples

Your day begins with a visit to Preah Khan, an atmospheric ruin where centuries of nature and stone intertwine, creating an eerie yet beautiful scene. Reviewers gush about the “tree roots and crumbling stone structures” and mention how this site feels less crowded, offering more space for reflection and photos.

Next, you’ll head to Neak Pean, an artificial island with a Buddhist temple. The circular layout makes for some unique photo opportunities, and reviewers note it’s a peaceful spot, perfect for a quick walk and some appreciation of Cambodia’s spiritual side.

Moving on, the highlight for many is Banteay Srei. Known for its exquisite sandstone carvings and detailed reliefs, this temple is often called “the jewel of Angkor.” Visitors rave about the craftsmanship, with some mentioning it’s “regarded as the finest” in Cambodia, offering a quieter, more intricate experience compared to the larger temples.

In the afternoon, the tour visits Pre Rup, a temple mountain built for King Rajendravarman. Its terraced structure and panoramic views make it ideal for photos—something many reviewers highlight, especially during sunset.

Day 2: Iconic Sunrises and Cultural Marvels

Starting very early—around 4:10 am—you’ll venture to Angkor Wat to witness the sunrise. Entering from the eastern side in darkness is considered the best way to avoid crowds and enjoy that first light illuminating the temple’s silhouette. Reviewers describe this moment as “serene and unforgettable,” often noting it’s a must-do at Angkor.

From there, it’s a stroll through the grand halls, with guides providing fascinating stories and historical context. Expect about 3 hours at Angkor Wat, where you’ll have plenty of time for photos and reflection.

Next, you’ll visit Angkor Thom, the ancient Khmer capital city. Its impressive gates and the Bayon Temple—famous for its massive stone faces—are highlights. Travelers mention that guides do a good job explaining the significance of each element, making the visit highly engaging.

Additional stops include the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King, both full of history and perfect for photo ops. Many reviewers rave about how guides like Sokpee explain the stories and legends, adding depth to the experience.

The day wraps up with a visit to Ta Prohm, the jungle temple made famous by Tomb Raider. Its crumbling walls intertwined with massive trees create an atmospheric setting. Reviewers often mention how “this site looks much as it did when rediscovered, with nature reclaiming the stones,” making it one of the most atmospheric sites in Angkor.

The Practical Side: Transport, Guides, and Cost

Travelers consistently praise the climate-controlled vehicle that makes long days more bearable. This is a significant upgrade from open tuk-tuks, especially in the Cambodian heat, enhancing comfort and allowing you to focus on the sights. The hotel pickup and drop-off service means you don’t need to worry about navigating Siem Reap traffic—just relax and enjoy the ride.

The guides are a standout feature. Multiple reviews mention guides like Sopheap Rath, Sokeep, and Sak as knowledgeable, personable, and eager to share stories and answer questions. Several travelers note that their guides went beyond expectations, even borrowing scooters for photo ops or providing detailed explanations that made history come alive.

The group size—restricted to 15 people—creates a friendly, intimate atmosphere, allowing for personalized interactions and easier access to sites often crowded with large tour groups.

Regarding cost, the tour is priced at $49 per person, which is exceptionally good considering it includes two full days of exploration, transportation, bottled water, and guiding. The $62 entrance fee is separate, but this is standard for Angkor passes, and the value lies in having knowledgeable guides and a well-organized itinerary.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s perfect for those who appreciate comfort during long touring days and value insightful storytelling. It also appeals to early risers eager to witness Angkor’s sunrise, and those wanting to avoid the crowds with a smaller group.

Families, solo travelers, and even seasoned explorers seeking an authentic, well-organized visit will find this tour an excellent choice. If you’re after a balanced mix of major sites and lesser-known temples, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. For the price of $49, you get two days of expertly guided temple explorations, comfortable transport, and memorable sunrise and sunset moments. The small-group atmosphere and knowledgeable guides elevate the experience from a typical tour into a personal journey through Cambodia’s history and architecture.

The inclusion of lesser-visited sites like Banteay Srei adds a special touch, giving you a richer understanding of Khmer craftsmanship and history. Meanwhile, the early mornings and long days are well-managed, with many reviewers praising the balance of activity and comfort.

If your goal is to make the most of your time in Siem Reap, want meaningful insights, and prefer hassle-free logistics, this tour hits all those marks. It’s a smart choice for travelers seeking both iconic moments and deeper engagement with Angkor’s treasures.

FAQs

Does the tour include the entrance fee? No, the $62 temple pass is paid directly to Angkor. The tour price covers guides, transport, water, and towels.

What should I wear? Casual attire is fine, but remember to cover shoulders and knees when inside temples to respect local customs.

How early do I need to wake up for the sunrise? You’ll depart at around 4:10 am depending on the time of year, so be prepared for an early start.

Is the transport air-conditioned? Yes, the tour uses a climate-controlled vehicle, which reviewers find a huge plus, especially in the heat.

How many people are in the group? The tour is capped at 15 travelers, making it more intimate and personalized.

Can I buy the ticket on the day? Yes, the temple pass can be bought on-site, but it’s best to budget and buy it directly to avoid surprises.

What is included during the tour? Hotel pickup and drop-off, guided visits, bottled water, cool towels, and transportation.

Is this tour suitable for children? Most travelers can participate, but children under 5 are not allowed due to the early start and long days.

Final Words

This 2-day sunset and sunrise tour strikes a fantastic balance of comfort, insight, and flexibility. It’s ideal for travelers who want to explore the key sites of Angkor with guides who bring history alive, all without sacrificing comfort or rushing through the highlights.

Whether you’re there for the photo opportunities, the culture, or simply to witness Angkor’s grandeur, this tour offers a well-organized, authentic experience that’s hard to beat at this price point. It’s a smart way to make the most of your time in Siem Reap, especially if you value guidance, convenience, and depth.

If you’re after a memorable, hassle-free way to see the temples that doesn’t sacrifice comfort for detail, this tour could very well be your best choice.