Private Two Day Trip: Angkor Temples with Floating Village

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What’s this tour all about?
This Private Two Day Trip in Siem Reap offers a thoughtfully curated mix of Cambodia’s iconic temple ruins and a glimpse into local life on Tonle Sap Lake. Designed for travelers wanting a balanced experience, it combines the grandeur of Angkor’s temples with the authenticity of floating villages, all in a private, comfortable setting.

Three things we really like about this experience:
First, the expert-guided visits to renowned sites like Angkor Wat and Bayon mean you’ll gain insight beyond what a map can give. Second, the private nature of the tour ensures personalized attention and flexibility — no rushed groups here. Lastly, exploring the floating village and artisan workshops offers a rare chance to see life on the water and local craftsmanship in action.

A possible point to consider is the cost of additional expenses, such as temple entry ($37) and boat fees ($15), which aren’t included in the base price. That’s typical for private tours but worth budgeting for.

This tour caters best to those who want a comprehensive, authentic experience—combining history, culture, and water-based adventures in a single, seamless itinerary.

Good To Know

Private Two Day Trip: Angkor Temples with Floating Village - Good To Know

  • Flexible Private Tour: Enjoy a tailor-made itinerary with hotel pick-up and drop-off.
  • Iconic Temples: Visit Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm, and other major sites with expert guides.
  • Cultural Insights: Explore local arts, crafts, and traditional life at artisan workshops and floating villages.
  • Value for Money: At $140 per person, it covers transportation, guide, tickets, and more, making it a good deal for a full experience.
  • Two-Day Depth: Spread over two days for a relaxed pace, avoiding crowds and taking your time at each site.
  • Family-Friendly & Accessible: Suitable for most travelers, including those with wheelchairs, thanks to the private setup.
You can check availability for your dates here:

First Impressions and Overall Experience

We love the way this tour balances the must-see temples with genuine local life. It’s perfect if you’re after an immersive experience without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The private arrangement means the itinerary can adapt to your pace, and you won’t be sharing the experience with large groups, which can make a big difference in how relaxed you feel during the day.

The emphasis on authentic visits—from exploring the jungle-wrapped ruins of Ta Prohm to witnessing traditional craftsmanship at Les Artisan D’Angkor—makes this tour more than just a sightseeing list. It’s about understanding Cambodia’s soul: its history, art, and everyday waterborne existence.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Temples, Ruins, and Jungle Magic

Starting at 8 AM, the tour begins with a visit to Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument. The early morning is a great time to beat the crowds and enjoy the intricate bas-reliefs before the tour bus groups arrive. Your guide will likely share stories about the temple’s transition from Hindu to Buddhist, providing context that enriches your visit.

Next, you’ll head to Ta Prohm, famously known for its roots-tangled ruins made iconic by movies like Tomb Raider. Expect a slightly mystical atmosphere—trees growing over stones, roots winding through walls—that’s a photographer’s dream. Several reviewers cite the “ethereal” vibe as a highlight, noting how the jungle breathes life into the ancient stones.

Following that, the massive Angkor Thom complex opens up with its impressive gateways and the Bayon Temple, with its 200 smiling faces. It’s unlike any other site, offering a mix of spirituality and artistry. The bas-reliefs here depict daily life, battles, and festivals—providing a snapshot of historical Cambodian society.

Other stops include Baphuon, a majestic mountain-temple, Phimeanakas, and the Terrace of the Elephants, which served as a royal platform. The Terrace of the Leper King adds a touch of mysterious history, with some reviews mentioning how the statues and carvings evoke curiosity about their stories.

Day 2: Waterways and Artisans

The second day shifts focus from stone to water. The morning involves a boat ride on Tonle Sap Lake to visit the Floating Village of Chong Kneas. You’ll see crocodile farms and local homes built on stilts, giving a raw look at water-based livelihoods. Travelers often comment on the vivid contrast between the ancient stone ruins and the lively, floating community. One reviewer enthused, “It felt like stepping into a different world—people living their daily routines right on the water.”

The boat ride also reveals the lifestyle of Cambodia, Cham, and Vietnamese communities, highlighting cultural diversity. It’s a genuine peek into how water shapes life here, far from the usual tourist spots.

Later, you’ll visit Les Artisan D’Angkor, a workshop dedicated to traditional Cambodian crafts like wood and stone carving, lacquering, silver plating, and silk painting. It’s an inspiring stop for anyone interested in arts and crafts; plus, it’s a good chance to pick up authentic souvenirs directly from local artisans.

Transportation, Guides, and Overall Comfort

All transportation is in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long days more comfortable, especially in Cambodia’s tropical heat. The driver and guides are licensed and highly professional, often sharing insights into the sites that you might not find elsewhere. Many reviewers point out the knowledgeable guides—one even noted that their guide, Mr. Sok, was deeply passionate about Khmer history and made the experience memorable.

The tour is designed to be flexible, with the option to skip certain stops or spend extra time at your favorites. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included, which simplifies logistics considerably, especially if you’re staying somewhere central in Siem Reap.

Cost and Value

At $140 per person, this tour covers transport, guide, entrance fees, and artisan workshops. Remember, the temple ticket ($37) and boat fee ($15) are extra, but even with those added, the overall value is high considering the depth of experience. You’re paying for a personal guide and private vehicle, meaning you avoid crowds and can ask questions freely.

Some reviewers mention that the tour is well worth the price, especially given the personalized attention. It’s an efficient way to see major sites and local life without the hassle of organizing transport or worrying about timing.

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Practical Tips for Travelers

  • Bring long pants and sunscreen to protect against the sun and insects, especially during outdoor temple visits.
  • A power bank keeps your camera ready for countless photos.
  • Keep cash handy for entrance fees and souvenirs, as many artisan shops and local vendors prefer cash.
  • A sarong can be useful for temple visits—some sites may require covering shoulders or legs.
  • Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking quite a bit over uneven surfaces.
  • Prepare for some early starts and long hours, but the private setup makes the day manageable.

Authentic & Unique Experiences

Many travelers appreciate the blend of ancient architecture and water-bound life. The experience at the floating village feels genuinely local, offering insight into Cambodia’s resilience and adaptability. The artisan workshops showcase Cambodia’s craftsmanship, giving you a chance to connect with the local economy and culture.

Accessibility & Family-Friendly Aspects

The tour mentions that it is wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal. It’s also suitable for families or travelers who want a comprehensive but relaxed exploration of Angkor and beyond.

Final Thoughts

Private Two Day Trip: Angkor Temples with Floating Village - Final Thoughts

This Private Two Day Trip offers a wonderful mix of Cambodia’s biggest treasures and less touristy, authentic experiences. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, personalized, and meaningful exploration of Siem Reap’s highlights.

The combination of iconic temples, local waterways, and artisan culture provides a well-rounded perspective that few other tours can match at this price point. The private nature allows you to tailor the experience, making it ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking depth and comfort.

If you’re after a comprehensive, insightful, and hassle-free way to discover Cambodia’s archaeological and waterborne life, this tour is a strong option. Just keep in mind the additional costs for tickets and boat rides, and come prepared for a full but rewarding experience.

FAQs

Private Two Day Trip: Angkor Temples with Floating Village - FAQs

What is included in the price?
The $140 fee covers private transport, a licensed guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off, toll roads, parking, and insurance. Temple tickets and boat fees are paid separately.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is private, so you can discuss with your guide to spend more time at your favorite sites or skip places you’re less interested in.

Is this tour suitable for all ages and mobility levels?
It is described as wheelchair accessible and suitable for most travelers. However, be prepared for some walking and uneven surfaces at temple sites.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, long pants, personal medication, sunscreen, insect repellent, sunglasses, cash for extra expenses, and a sarong for temple visits.

Are meals included?
No, meals and beverages are not included, giving you the flexibility to choose local eateries or pack your own snacks.

How do I reserve this tour?
You can reserve now and pay later—just provide your hotel details for free pick-up. Cancellation is free if you cancel 24 hours in advance.

In essence, this tour offers a well-balanced, authentic Cambodian experience wrapped in comfort and flexibility. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to see the highlights with a local touch and plenty of personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:
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