2-Days Private Tour Discovery Angkor Wat , Waterfall and Beng Mealea Temple

A Detailed Look at the 2-Day Private Tour of Angkor Wat, Waterfalls, and Beng Mealea

This 2-day private tour in Siem Reap offers a well-rounded exploration of Cambodia’s most iconic temples and scenic spots. Designed for those who want a comprehensive yet flexible experience, it combines the famous Angkor Wat complex with off-the-beaten-path gems like Beng Mealea and Phnom Kulen’s waterfalls. The tour boasts a small-group feel with a dedicated guide, promising an intimate journey through the ancient Khmer empire.

What we really like about this experience is its balance between major highlights and lesser-known sites. The early start for sunrise at Angkor Wat is unforgettable, especially for those who love beating the crowds and enjoying cooler temperatures. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide ensures you get context-rich insights without feeling rushed. One potential drawback could be the reliance on separate tickets for each site, which adds to the overall cost if you’re on a tight budget. Still, for travelers craving a full, authentic experience, this tour hits the sweet spot, especially for first-timers eager to see the best of Siem Reap.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, adventure seekers, and travelers who value guided insights and authentic explorations. If you’re after an immersive experience that covers the must-see temples while also giving you a taste of local natural beauty, this could be just the right fit.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Angkor Wat, Beng Mealea, and Phnom Kulen waterfalls
• Private guide ensures personalized attention and rich historical explanations
• Early start offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, especially at Angkor Wat
• Remote sites like Beng Mealea provide a sense of discovery and adventure
• Separate entrance fees at each site are not included, so budget accordingly
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle makes long days manageable

The Experience in Detail

This tour is designed to give you a full sense of what makes Siem Reap and its surroundings so captivating. Starting early, you’ll be picked up before dawn, ready to witness the iconic sunrise at Angkor Wat. Imagine the silence, the cooler air, and the breathtaking view as the sun peeks over the temple’s towers — a truly memorable way to begin your adventure. Reviewers like BettyH emphasize how the sunrise remains a highlight (“the pinnacle of my adventure”). Arriving before the crowds allows you to appreciate the intricate carvings and awe-inspiring architecture without the throng of other visitors.

The guide’s expertise shines during your visit to Bayon Temple, where you’ll learn about the 54 towers adorned with nearly 200 serene faces of Avalokitesvara. The guide will explain the significance of these faces and the architecture, enriching your understanding of Khmer artistry. You also visit the Terrace of Elephant and the Terrace of the Leper King, which served as royal stages and platforms for kings’ ceremonies. These sites add depth to your visit, highlighting the grandeur of the ancient Khmer court.

Next, the lush, atmospheric Ta Prohm Temple draws many visitors thanks to its film fame—it’s the “jungle temple” where massive roots embrace the stone ruins, creating the iconic “Tomb Raider” vibe. Our review from Laura_D notes that her guide was “knowledgeable and friendly,” making the experience even more engaging. Prepare to climb over roots and explore the temple’s nooks—this site’s atmosphere is both mysterious and photogenic.

The tour wraps up with Banteay Kdei, a less crowded but equally atmospheric temple built by King Jayavarman VII. It’s a peaceful spot to reflect on the day’s explorations, and the guide’s storytelling helps bring the site’s history alive.

On day two, the focus shifts to natural beauty with a visit to Phnom Kulen National Park. The waterfalls are the main attraction, offering a refreshing escape from temple sightseeing. The park is also home to the 1000 lingas carvings, which are believed to be sacred and historically significant. Reviewers like Kevin_B note that the waterfalls and the picnic spots — set up with Cambodian-style shelters and hammocks — make for a relaxed and scenic break amid the adventure.

The highlight of the second day is Beng Mealea, about 70 kilometers northeast of Siem Reap. This “lost temple” feels like an archaeological treasure hunt; moss-covered stones and sprawling roots create a sense of discovery that few other temples can match. The site’s remote location means fewer visitors, which adds to the feeling of exploring a hidden world. Visitors like BettyH mention clambering over rubble and twisting through narrow passages, which makes this site perfect for those craving a bit of adventure and exploration.

Transportation, Timing, and Comfort

Travel is by air-conditioned vehicle, which is crucial given the long days and hot weather. Starting early at 4:30 am ensures you catch the sunrise at Angkor Wat and beat some of the crowds—something highly praised in reviews. The flexibility of a private guide means your pace, stops, and focus areas can be tailored, making the experience more personal.

Though the admission tickets for each site are not included, this setup allows you to choose which sites to prioritize and budget accordingly. The tour lasts approximately two days, giving just enough time to experience the highlights without feeling rushed.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. Laura_D states, “Our guide was knowledgeable and friendly and always catered to our wants and needs,” highlighting the value of personalized attention. Kevin_B appreciated arriving before sunrise at Angkor Wat, describing it as “wonderful to see it slowly come into view,” and suggests returning at sunset for a different perspective.

BettyH emphasizes how the sunrise at Angkor Wat was “undeniably the pinnacle” of her trip, while others appreciated the sense of discovery at Beng Mealea, which still sees few visitors due to its remote location. The overall sentiment is that this tour provides excellent value for money, combining major sights with some lesser-known gems, all with expert guidance.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This 2-day private tour is ideal if you’re looking for an immersive, well-organized exploration of Angkor’s highlights with a touch of adventure. It suits travelers who value guided insights, want to avoid large crowds, and prefer a personalized experience. The inclusion of natural scenery and less-visited temples makes it appealing for those interested in both culture and the outdoors.

If you appreciate early mornings for the best views, want to see both the iconic and the hidden gems, and enjoy comfortable transport, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s particularly good for first-time visitors who want a rundown without the hassle of planning each detail themselves.

The Sum Up

This 2-day private tour of Angkor Wat, waterfalls, and Beng Mealea offers a balanced mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its private guide, early starts, and thoughtfully curated sites, it provides a rich, authentic experience that’s both manageable and memorable. The inclusion of lesser-known sites like Beng Mealea adds a sense of adventure and discovery that many other tours lack.

The value lies in the guided expertise, the flexibility of the itinerary, and the opportunity to see Cambodia’s most iconic temples while also exploring its hidden corners. For travelers who want a well-rounded and engaging experience, this tour delivers a compelling blend of sights, stories, and scenery.

While it requires a bit of budget—mainly for the separate entrance tickets—the overall experience justifies the cost. It’s suited for those eager to explore Angkor’s magic with knowledgeable guides, comfortable transport, and a flexible schedule. Whether you’re a history lover, an adventurer, or simply someone wanting to see the best of Siem Reap, this tour is a highly recommended route to unforgettable memories.

FAQ

Are the temple tickets included in the tour price?
No, the tour price does not include entrance tickets for the temples. You will need to purchase these separately at each site.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 4:30 am, ensuring you catch the sunrise at Angkor Wat and avoid the larger crowds later in the day.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking, climbing, and exploring uneven terrain, especially at Beng Mealea.

How long is the transfer between sites?
Transportation is via air-conditioned vehicle, and the long drives are managed comfortably, given the remote locations like Beng Mealea.

Are meals included?
No, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan for meals during your breaks.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, your guide can tailor the experience to some extent based on your interests and pace.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The early sunrise at Angkor Wat and the atmospheric ruins of Beng Mealea are perfect for photography enthusiasts.

What should I wear?
Light, breathable clothing, comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen are recommended. Bring a water bottle and a camera to capture the moments.

This tour offers a true taste of Cambodia’s ancient marvels with the comfort of a guided experience. For those eager to see the highlights and some hidden gems, it’s a solid choice that balances value, authenticity, and adventure.