2-Day Angkor Wat Small and Big Circuit – Free hotel pick up

Exploring the 2-Day Angkor Wat Small and Big Circuit Tour: An Honest Review

Visiting Angkor Wat and its surrounding temples is a bucket-list experience for many travelers heading to Cambodia. This 2-Day Angkor Wat Small and Big Circuit tour offers a thoughtfully paced, immersive way to explore one of the world’s most impressive UNESCO World Heritage sites. With private transportation, hotel pickup, and a dedicated guide, it promises a more personal and detailed experience than quick-group tours.

One of the things we love about this tour is the flexibility it provides, allowing you to truly savor each monument without feeling rushed. The second day’s itinerary, especially, offers a chance to catch the iconic sunrise, adding a magical start to your explorations. However, the overall cost—at $102 per person—must be balanced against the need for temple tickets, meals, and optional extras like sunset viewing, which can add up.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxed exploration of Angkor, with a knowledgeable guide to share stories and context. It’s ideal for those who value private transport and personalized attention, but it does require a decent level of physical fitness for climbing and walking around the sites.

Key Points

• In-Depth Exploration: Spreading the visit over two days allows a more relaxed, detailed experience.
• Private Guide Benefits: Gain insights and stories from knowledgeable guides, making each site more meaningful.
• Flexible Planning: Options to skip or extend parts of the tour, including the sunset climb, cater to your preferences.
• Cost-Effective Value: The price includes hotel transfers and private transport, enhancing convenience.
• Additional Excursions: The visit to Banteay Srei and other temples adds cultural depth.
• Weather Considerations: The tour requires good weather, especially for sunrise and sunset views.

Why Choose This Tour?

If you’re after an authentic, well-rounded experience at Angkor, this tour ticks all the boxes. The two-day structure minimizes rushing through sites, giving you time to absorb the atmosphere and appreciate the architecture. The private guide means you’ll hear fascinating stories about each temple—something that often gets lost on larger group tours.

Travelers have appreciated the local restaurant lunch stops, which offer meals starting at just $5, providing a taste of authentic Khmer cuisine without breaking the bank. Plus, the hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics straightforward—no need to worry about navigating busy tuk-tuks or figuring out transport on your own.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Day 1: From Angkor Wat to the Temples of Angkor Thom

The day kicks off early, with a pick-up at 8:00 am from your hotel. Your guide, who’s typically well-informed and friendly (reviewers mention guides like “Mr. Sokha, with his wealth of stories”), will take care of the logistics, including buying your temple pass—an aspect that can be confusing for first-timers.

Angkor Wat itself is the star of the show, and you’ll spend around two hours marveling at this iconic structure. The guide will share the history behind its impressive bas-reliefs and the mysterious symbolism of its five lotus-shaped towers. While admission tickets aren’t included, this is standard, and the guide can advise on the best way to purchase or prepare in advance.

Next, you’ll visit Ta Prohm, famous for its tangled roots over ancient stones—here, Hollywood’s “Tomb Raider” film has left a lasting visual impression. We loved how the guide animated the stories of King Jayavarman VII’s monastery, making history come alive. Expect about two hours at this site.

A mid-day break for lunch at a local spot offers a chance to sample dishes from $5 upwards—think Khmer curry or fresh spring rolls. Reviewers mention that the food is simple but tasty, perfect for refueling before more temple exploring.

Post-lunch, you’ll explore Ta Nei, a quieter temple surrounded by trees, ideal for those craving a less crowded experience. With less restoration work, it feels more authentic and peaceful.

The afternoon continues with the Bayon Temple, renowned for its 49 towers, each adorned with four giant faces. The atmosphere here is lively, and the guide’s stories of the faces representing Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara add an intriguing dimension. A short walk takes you to Baphuon, with its reclining Buddha and royal enclosure, giving a glimpse into Angkor’s religious diversity.

Finally, you’ll ascend Phnom Bakheng in the late afternoon for a chance to see the sunset. If waiting hours isn’t your thing, you can skip this part, but many reviewers enjoyed the panoramic view and the photographic opportunities.

Day 2: Exploring the Big Circuit and Hidden Gems

Starting again at 8:00 am, you revisit Angkor Wat, this time with a different perspective, appreciating the sunrise if you choose. The early start is rewarded by lighter crowds and a breathtaking, serene scene.

Next, your guide takes you through Preah Khan, a sprawling monastic complex built by King Jayavarman VII. The site’s intricately carved corridors and large open spaces evoke a sense of the once-thriving community of monks and scholars.

Neak Pean, a small island temple in a large pool, offers a peaceful atmosphere and unique photo opportunities. Reviewers comment that it’s a “hidden gem,” different from the large, bustling sites.

You’ll also visit Ta Som, a smaller but beautifully preserved temple, and Eastern Mebon, an impressive stepped pyramid-like structure with towers.

The afternoon’s highlight is Pre Rup, a temple-mountain famous for its sunset views. The climb is manageable, and the view over the Angkor plain is spectacular. It’s an excellent way to end your temple journey.

Finally, after lunch, you visit Banteay Srei, often called the “Ladies’ Temple” for its delicate carvings and pink sandstone. The craftsmanship here is extraordinary, and the smaller size makes it accessible.

Banteay Samre and Banteay Kdei round out the day, both offering different architectural styles—more relaxed, less crowded, and packed with intricate carvings.

The Benefits and Limitations

The private transport and hotel transfers are a definite plus, making the long days more comfortable. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures you stay cool between sites, which can be a blessing in the heat.

A group discount option exists, which might be ideal if you’re traveling with friends or family. The guided commentary adds depth, especially for those interested in the stories behind the stones.

However, the cost does not include entry tickets—these need to be purchased separately, and prices can vary depending on the type of pass you buy. Also, some sites require climbing steps, so travelers should be prepared physically.

Reviewers mention that timing is key—if you’re after the sunset, arriving early at Phnom Bakheng is advised due to permit restrictions on the peak. The tour’s 8:00 am start aligns well with catching the iconic sunrise at Angkor Wat.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

One review mentions that the guides are well-versed and eager to share stories, making the experience educational and engaging. They often add personal touches, like recommending local eateries for lunch or sharing lesser-known facts about each temple.

For those with limited time or wanting to avoid the crowds, the early start and private guide make a big difference. The tour’s pace allows for plenty of photo stops, and the small group size ensures personalized attention.

Remember to bring water and sunscreen, especially for the midday hours. The local restaurants offer reasonably priced food, so you can try Khmer specialties without overspending.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This 2-Day Angkor Wat Small and Big Circuit tour offers a balanced, insightful way to experience the temples beyond quick snapshot visits. It’s perfect for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and depth, especially if visiting with a small group or family. The inclusion of hotel transfers and a private guide makes the logistical side effortless, letting you focus on soaking in the sights.

If you’re passionate about architecture, history, and photography, this tour’s detailed itinerary and carefully curated sites will satisfy your curiosity. It’s also a terrific choice for travelers who appreciate local cuisine and want to support small-scale, authentic experiences.

This tour provides great value for those who want more than just a superficial glance at Angkor — it’s a chance to connect with the stories behind the stones, with the comfort of a personalized experience.

FAQ

Are hotel pick-ups included?
Yes, the tour offers free pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Siem Reap.

How long is each day’s tour?
Each day lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:00 am and including several temple visits, lunch, and possibly sunset viewing.

Are tickets to the temples included?
No, the tour price does not include temple admission tickets. You will need to purchase these separately.

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

Can I skip the sunset at Phnom Bakheng?
Yes, you can choose to skip the sunset part or arrive earlier to avoid waiting long for sunset views.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes for walking and climbing, and a camera for capturing the stunning sights.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
While it’s generally accessible, some temples involve walking or climbing steps, so moderate fitness is recommended.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children who can walk and climb stairs are welcome, but parents should consider the physical demands.

To sum it up, this tour offers an excellent blend of comfort, insight, and authentic temple exploration. It suits travelers who want to take their time, learn the stories behind the temples, and enjoy a more personalized adventure. With thoughtful planning and expert guides, you’re set for a memorable journey into Cambodia’s ancient wonders.