2-Days Private Tour Explore Angkor Wat, Beng Mealea Temple and Floating Village

Exploring Cambodia’s Ancient Wonders and Local Life in Two Days

When it comes to uncovering the treasures of Siem Reap, this 2-day private tour offers a well-rounded experience of Cambodia’s highlights. From the iconic Angkor Wat at sunrise to the enigmatic jungle-covered Beng Mealea and the floating villages of Tonle Sap, it’s designed for travelers eager to see more than just the surface. The private aspect means your group can enjoy a flexible, personalized experience with knowledgeable guides leading the way.

One of the best parts? The tour’s ability to blend famous landmarks with lesser-visited sites—like Beng Mealea—which feels like stepping into an Indiana Jones movie. However, the intensive schedule and some remote locations require a good level of energy and a sense of adventure. This tour is perfect if you want a comprehensive, authentic taste of Cambodia’s ancient and modern life, all in just two days.

Key Points

• Private guidance offers a tailored experience and flexibility to explore at your own pace.
• Early mornings for Angkor Wat promise fewer crowds and stunning sunrise views.
• In-depth visits to key temples like Bayon, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Kdei provide historical insights.
• Remote Beng Mealea offers a sense of discovery and adventure, with fewer visitors.
• Floating village visit provides authentic local life on Tonle Sap, not just touristy sights.
• Good value for money with an all-encompassing itinerary, expert guides, and transportation included.

The Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: The Heart of Angkor’s Ancient City

Starting early around 4:30 am, you’ll be picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle and whisked away to witness the breathtaking sunrise over Angkor Wat. While the weather can be unpredictable, the smaller crowds at dawn mean you’re more likely to experience the site’s majesty without the throngs of travelers. Our reviewer Vladimir appreciated this aspect, noting that going at sunrise “smaller crowds and comfortable temperatures” made for an ideal start.

Once the sun is up, your guide will lead you through the main temple, explaining its significance as a Hindu monument dedicated to Vishnu. This is the highlight for many, and the view of Angkor Wat’s silhouette against the morning sky is unforgettable. Expect about three hours here, so bring your camera and patience.

Next, you’ll head to the Bayon Temple at Angkor Thom’s South Gate. Known for its 54 towers with 216 faces of Avalokitesvara (a Buddhist bodhisattva), it’s one of the most distinctive monuments. Our guide will share stories about the Khmer empire and point out architectural details that make the site so special. Vladimir found the guide “very professional and organized,” which really elevates the experience.

After a relaxing lunch break, the tour visits the Terrace of the Elephant and Terrace of the Leper King—impressive structures once used for royal ceremonies and gatherings. These sites offer both historical context and fantastic photo opportunities.

The afternoon concludes at Ta Prohm, the temple famously intertwined with giant roots and sprawling trees. Known as the “jungle temple,” its dramatic setting has made it a favorite among visitors. Reviewers like Sylvain loved the “lush trees surrounding the stones,” describing it as a mystical scene straight out of a movie.

Finally, the day wraps up at Banteay Kdei, a peaceful Buddhist monastery built by King Jayavarman VII. This less crowded temple offers a calm retreat to reflect on the day’s explorations.

Day 2: Off the Beaten Path and Local Life

The second day begins with a 70-kilometer drive northeast to Beng Mealea, often called the “lost temple of Angkor.” Its remote location and overgrown ruins evoke a true sense of discovery. You’ll spend around four hours here, scrambling over moss-covered stones and roots—a perfect adventure for those who love exploring ruins that feel untouched by mass tourism. Sylvain described it as “clambering and crawling over piles of moss-covered rubble,” emphasizing how immersive the experience can be.

The tour then moves to Kompong Khleang, a traditional floating village on the Tonle Sap Lake. Here, you’ll board a private boat and glide past stilts houses, floating hospitals, fisheries, and mangroves. This is a chance to see Cambodian daily life beyond the tourist spots. The boat ride lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, with some variability depending on the season—reviewers noted that this part offers a genuine, unfiltered look at local livelihoods.

The floating village visit is particularly valued by travelers seeking cultural authenticity. It’s a rare glimpse into how communities have adapted to life around Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, and the natural scenery is often breathtaking.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The private guide and vehicle arrangement are a big plus. As Vladimir pointed out, “the guys were very professional and organized,” which means you avoid the hassle of large group tours and can customize your pace. The inclusion of cold water and towels keeps you refreshed during the long days, essential when exploring in the heat.

The itinerary balances major sights with lesser-known gems, providing richness without rushing. The early start allows you to beat some crowds at Angkor Wat, but be prepared for an early wake-up call. The tour’s overall cost of $237.50 per person offers great value, considering the comprehensive coverage, private transportation, and expert guiding.

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, especially after walking around temples or on the boat. The small group or private nature means your experience is tailored, with the guide able to answer questions and adjust the timing if needed.

What’s Not Included?

Remember, all temple and boat tickets are extra. Meals aren’t covered either, so planning for breakfast, lunch, and possibly snacks is wise. That said, your guide can likely recommend good local eateries to learn about authentic Cambodian cuisine.

Authentic Insights From Past Travelers

Our reviews reveal consistent praise for the guides—Sylvain specifically mentioned “Mr T” and “Mr Lucky,” who made the experience memorable through their professionalism and local knowledge. Vladimir appreciated how smoothly everything went, citing “organized and professional” service.

The remote Beng Mealea site and floating village also received high marks for offering a sense of discovery and genuine local life. Travelers loved the “explorer feeling” at Beng Mealea and the chance to see Cambodian daily life firsthand at the floating village.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for history buffs and culture lovers who want a deep dive into Angkor’s temples, combined with unique local experiences. It suits those with moderate to high energy levels, given the early start and active exploration of ruins and villages. If you’re keen on avoiding large crowds, the private setting and early mornings make it more enjoyable.

Travelers who value expert guides and want to see both the iconic and offbeat sides of Siem Reap will find this trip highly rewarding. It’s perfect for adventurous souls eager to scramble over ruins and discover hidden corners of Angkor’s vast complex.

The Sum Up

This 2-day private tour offers a well-balanced blend of Cambodia’s ancient architecture, jungle adventure, and authentic village life. The fact that it’s private means you get a personalized experience, with knowledgeable guides who can share insightful stories and tailor the day to your interests.

For travelers who want a comprehensive, authentic encounter without feeling rushed, this tour provides excellent value. The inclusion of remote sites like Beng Mealea and the floating village elevates it beyond the usual tourist trail, giving you memorable moments that stay with you long after the trip ends.

While it’s a slightly intensive schedule, the early starts and active exploration are rewarded with fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and a richer understanding of Cambodia’s history and daily life. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious traveler seeking genuine cultural insights, this tour delivers a captivating experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
The tour involves early mornings, walking, and some scrambling at Beng Mealea, so it’s best suited for travelers with moderate fitness levels and no mobility issues.

Are the temple tickets included?
No, all temple and boat tickets are paid separately. It’s worth budgeting extra for these entrance fees.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can often accommodate slight adjustments, but the core itinerary is fixed based on the tour package.

How long is the boat ride at the floating village?
The boat ride lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the season and water conditions.

What should I bring for Beng Mealea?
Wear sturdy shoes for scrambling over ruins, bring water, sun protection, and perhaps a light jacket if mornings are cool.

Is this tour worth the price?
Given the range of sites visited, private guiding, transportation, and personalized experience, most travelers find it excellent value for the price.

In essence, this tour is perfect for those wanting to see the highlights of Angkor with a touch of adventure and authenticity, all while enjoying the comfort of private guidance.