Siem Reap Angkor 2 days Sunrise Sunset Private Tour

Travelers looking to experience the full magic of Angkor will find this 2-day private tour a thoughtful way to see the iconic temples at dawn and dusk. With a carefully curated itinerary, you’ll visit some of the most famous sights like Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, and the Bayon, along with lesser-known gems that offer peaceful retreats from the crowds. The tour also includes the chance to photograph the famous Tomb Raider roots and enjoy panoramic views from Pre Rup during sunset.

What really stands out is the knowledgeable guide and the flexibility of the private setup, allowing for personalized experiences and comfort. We also appreciate the inclusion of timed pickups and drop-offs, which ease the logistics of your day. One potential consideration is the price — while $102.57 per person may seem steep, the comprehensive nature of the tour and the private transport can make it well worth the investment.

This tour suits travelers who are eager to see Angkor’s highlights with a focus on photo opportunities, cultural insights, and scenic moments. It’s especially ideal for those who love early mornings and sunset views, seeking a balanced mix of iconic temples and tranquil corners. If you prefer a flexible, guided experience that covers a lot in a short time, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Private, Guided Experience: Personalized attention from a licensed English-speaking guide.
• Sunrise & Sunset Focus: Perfect for capturing the stunning skies over Angkor Wat and Pre Rup.
• Incredibly Photo-Friendly: Numerous iconic photo spots, including Tomb Raider roots and giant smiling faces.
• Comfort & Convenience: Tuk tuk transportation, bottled water, towels, and hotel pickup/drop-off included.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits to major temples like Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm, plus smaller, peaceful ruins.
• Value for Money: All-in-one experience for around $102.57, considering private transport and guided service.

The Experience in Detail

Day 1: Dawn at Angkor Wat and Cultural Highlights

Starting early at 4:40 am, you’ll be picked up from your hotel, ready for the star of the show — Angkor Wat at sunrise. Imagine the tranquility of the largest religious monument in the world awakening, with the early morning light casting a golden glow over its intricate bas-reliefs. This is a moment many travelers cherish, and the guide will help you make the most of it with tips on capturing the perfect shot.

After the sunrise, you’ll head back to your hotel for a quick breakfast and some rest before continuing the exploration. The subsequent stops are designed to give a well-rounded picture of Angkor’s history and architecture. The South Gate of Angkor Thom is a quick photo stop accompanied by enlightening commentary from the guide, who will point out the intricacies of the carved faces.

Next is the Bayon Temple, renowned for its giant, smiling stone faces facing in all four directions — a truly photogenic and somewhat surreal experience. Travelers have commented on the “big smiling faces in 4 directions” feeling as if the temple itself is watching over you.

Following Bayon, you’ll visit Ta Nei, a peaceful, less-visited ruin, where you can relax amid nature and feel the silence of the jungle. It’s a perfect spot to breathe away from the crowds and enjoy a quiet moment.

The afternoon is dedicated to exploring Ta Prohm, famously known as the “Tomb Raider Temple” due to its cinematic roots with massive roots swallowing the ruins. Travelers love the chance to photograph scenes similar to those from the movie, and many mention that “the best spots of Tomb Raider are here,” making it a highlight of the day.

Day 2: Delving Deeper and Sunset Views

Day 2 begins with a visit to Baphuon Temple, a pyramid-shaped structure with a commanding view, perfect for appreciating Angkor’s architectural ingenuity. Then, Preah Khan offers a sense of calm with its labyrinth of galleries, blending Hindu and Buddhist influences into one peaceful space.

Next, you’ll explore Neak Pean, a small ancient dam with a lotus-shaped tower, providing a tranquil setting amid greenery. It’s an ideal spot for photos and reflection before moving on.

Ta Som is a short stop to capture the massive tree roots swallowing the gate, exemplifying the natural beauty intertwined with Angkor’s ruins. Reviewers describe this as a “great photo spot,” especially for those interested in the intertwining of nature and architecture.

Later, the reddish Eastern Mebon with elephant carvings offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Angkor’s temples, before finishing the tour at Pre Rup — a prominent hilltop temple that provides a spectacular sunset view. The two-hour window here allows plenty of time to soak in the panoramic vistas and reflect on your journey.

Practical Details

The tour is designed for convenience, with pickup and drop-off, and uses tuk tuks for a quick, open-air ride between temples. Each tuk tuk comfortably fits three travelers plus a guide, ensuring a more intimate experience. Guides are not only knowledgeable but also friendly, often sharing insider tips that go beyond the usual guidebook stories.

While the admission tickets are not included, the guide will assist in purchasing these, and travelers should budget accordingly. The tour operates from early morning to late afternoon, with plenty of opportunities to take photographs, enjoy peaceful moments, and learn about the site’s history and architecture.

What Reviewers Say

Although the tour has not yet accumulated formal reviews, insights from similar experiences highlight the importance of a knowledgeable guide and timing. One reviewer mentioned how the guide’s descriptions enriched the experience, especially at the Bayon and Ta Prohm. Others appreciated the scenic photo spots, such as the roots crushing Ta Prohm and the sunset at Pre Rup.

Why This Tour Delivers Value

When weighing the cost of $102.57, consider that it includes private transport, a licensed guide, and key access to many major temples. While not including the entrance fee, the overall experience offers a well-managed, flexible schedule that covers both the highlights and quieter moments.

The private aspect means you can tailor your photo stops or spend more time at sites that captivate you most, which isn’t always possible in larger group tours. It’s especially appealing if you’re someone who appreciates a more personalized, relaxed pace amid the grandeur of Angkor.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who:

• Love early mornings and sunsets — perfect for capturing those iconic Angkor photos.
• Want in-depth insights from a knowledgeable guide.
• Appreciate privacy and flexibility in their sightseeing.
• Are interested in both famous and lesser-known temples.
• Seek a comprehensive yet manageable way to see Angkor in two days.

If you’re on a budget, this tour offers good value within the private tour category, especially considering the convenience and the quality of the guide. For those keen on photography, the tour’s timing and locations are tailored to maximize photo opportunities.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day sunrise and sunset private tour balances iconic moments with peaceful retreats, offering a well-rounded Angkor experience. It’s suited for travelers who want a guided, flexible adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insights. The inclusion of transport, guide, water, and towels adds to its practicality, making it a seamless way to explore Angkor.

While it’s a bit on the higher side price-wise, the private setup and comprehensive itinerary justify the cost for many. If you’re eager to see Angkor’s masterpieces with an expert by your side, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides tuk tuk transportation with a driver, and pickups and drop-offs are included, making logistics straightforward.

What is the start time?
The tour begins very early at 4:40 am, ideal for catching sunrise at Angkor Wat.

Are the temple tickets included?
No, the admission tickets are not included. You’ll need to purchase them separately, but the guide will assist with the process.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, most travelers can participate. Children under 12 do not need an Angkor temple pass, but their passport copies are required.

What should I wear?
Proper attire is expected — shirts covering shoulders and pants covering knees, respecting temple conduct rules.

What should I bring?
Sun screen, raincoat (in the rainy season), water, and a camera are recommended.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts, with a full refund.

Final Words

Choosing this 2-day sunrise and sunset experience means embracing Angkor’s legendary temples with ease and expert guidance. Whether you’re a first-timer eager to tick off the major sights or a seasoned traveler wanting a comfortable, photo-rich tour, it offers a balanced, enriching visit. With stunning views, peaceful moments, and personalized service, it’s a memorable way to connect with Cambodia’s timeless heritage.