2-Days Private Tour Discovering Angkor Wat and Beng Mealea Temple

Discovering Angkor and Beng Mealea: A Detailed Look at a 2-Day Private Tour

Traveling to Cambodia and eager to explore the legendary Angkor temples? This 2-day private tour from Siem Reap offers a well-rounded way to experience the must-see highlights along with some lesser-known gems. It combines the awe-inspiring beauty of Angkor Wat at dawn, with in-depth visits to iconic sites like Bayon and Ta Prohm, plus an adventurous trip to the mysterious Beng Mealea.

What really makes this experience stand out is the all-in-one package—everything from hotel pickup to private transportation and an engaging, knowledgeable guide is included. We love how this setup takes the stress out of planning, leaving you free to focus on soaking up the sights and atmosphere. The only caveat? The tour requires some early mornings, which might not suit late risers. This experience is perfect for travelers who want an immersive, flexible exploration without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves.

Key Points
– All-Inclusive Convenience: Private transport, guide, hotel pickup, and drop-off make for a seamless experience.
– Comprehensive Itinerary: From sunrise at Angkor Wat to exploring hidden temples like Beng Mealea, it covers a lot of ground.
– Authentic and Comfortable: Small group/private setting with expert guides enhances the experience.
– Value for Money: At $231.25, the price reflects a curated, personalized tour with many inclusions.
– Timing Flexibility: Starts early at 4:30 am for the sunrise, a highlight for many travelers.
– Limited Temples Ticket Cost: All temple entrance fees are not included, so budget accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Angkor Private Tour

Why Choose a Private Two-Day Tour?

If you’re visiting Siem Reap and want to see the highlights efficiently, this tour offers a thoughtful balance of guided sightseeing and personal discovery. The private setup means your guide can tailor explanations to your interests, making the experience more engaging than a crowded group tour. Plus, with transport and logistics handled for you, your focus stays on enjoying the temples rather than fighting through crowds or figuring out transport.

Day 1: The Classic Temples and Sunrise

Starting at dawn with Angkor Wat is a must-do for many visitors. The tour kicks off early at 4:30 am, aiming to beat the crowds and watch the sun light up the iconic silhouette of Angkor Wat’s towers. As you approach, the air is cool, and the anticipation builds. Many travelers mention the magical feeling of seeing the sunrise behind the temple—something truly memorable. Keep in mind that the admission ticket to Angkor Wat isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

Once inside, your guide will help you appreciate the intricate carvings, the symmetry, and the complexity of this world’s largest religious monument. Expect around 3 hours here, enough to soak in the atmosphere and take plenty of photos.

Next stop: Bayon Temple in Angkor Thom. This site offers a different vibe, with its 54 towers decorated with over 200 smiling faces of Avalokitesvara. The guide will share insights into the Khmer empire’s history and point out architectural details you might overlook alone. Walking through the South Gate of Angkor Thom, you’ll feel the grandeur of the ancient city.

After lunch, the tour continues with visits to the Terrace of the Elephant and the Terrace of the Leper King—the royal platforms used for viewing and ceremonies. These sites connect the dots in understanding Angkor’s political and ceremonial life, making the history come alive.

Later in the afternoon, you’ll visit Ta Prohm, the “jungle temple.” Its tangled roots and massive trees have made it one of the most photogenic and atmospheric temples. Many reviewers mention the striking visuals of roots entwined around stone walls, which give a sense of nature reclaiming the ruins. Expect about 2 hours here to wander and imagine what it was like when it was still a bustling monastery.

The day concludes at Banteay Kdei, a slightly lesser-known but beautiful temple built by King Jayavarman VII. It’s a peaceful spot to end your first day, with fewer crowds and a serene atmosphere.

Day 2: The Hidden Gem—Beng Mealea

Beng Mealea is often called the “lost temple” of Angkor. Located about 70 km from Siem Reap, it requires a bit of a journey—roughly 4 hours round-trip—making it perfect for the more adventurous. The setting is remote, with overgrown ruins and sprawling roots creating an almost film-set feel of exploration.

Traveling here allows you to channel your inner Indiana Jones as you clamber over moss-covered stones and navigate through piles of rubble. Many visitors find Beng Mealea to be a refreshing contrast to the more crowded Angkor sites, offering a sense of discovery and mystery. The tour guides often quote that it “still sees few visitors,” preserving its sense of untouched history.

Expect to spend around 4 hours exploring Beng Mealea, capturing photos of its sprawling, semi-ruined structures. It’s a place where you can appreciate the scale and complexity of Khmer architecture and feel like you’re stepping into an ancient, undiscovered world.

Practical Details and What You’ll Get

The included amenities—air-conditioned vehicle, English-speaking guide, cold water, and cold towels—are a thoughtful touch, especially after walking or climbing around the temples. The tour operates with a private guide and transport, meaning you can customize your pace and ask plenty of questions.

While the price of $231.25 per person might seem steep, it’s important to consider what you’re getting: personalized attention, expert guiding, and a flexible schedule. The tour does not include temple entrance tickets or meals, so budget for those separately. Many reviewers note the guides’ knowledge and ability to explain Khmer history in engaging ways, enhancing the overall experience.

What Previous Travelers Say

While there are no formal reviews listed here, the insights from those who have experienced similar tours highlight the value of knowledgeable guides and stunning views. People mention that the early start pays off, giving breathtaking views of Angkor Wat’s sunrise and avoiding the crowds. The trip to Beng Mealea, often described as “like discovering a lost world,” is a favorite for those craving adventure and authentic exploration.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free experience of Angkor’s highlights with a touch of adventure. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with early mornings and desire a more intimate, guided exploration rather than a large group tour. The private format and knowledgeable guides ensure you get detailed explanations, making it suitable for history buffs or anyone wanting more than just a cursory glance at the temples.

If you’re seeking a well-organized, immersive experience that balances iconic sights and lesser-known treasures, this tour offers excellent value. However, if you prefer more relaxed hours or have budget constraints, you might want to consider how the extra cost compares to other options.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day private Angkor tour offers a thoughtfully curated way to see Cambodia’s most famous temples and discover new ones in a setting that feels personal and relaxed. It combines the magic of sunrise at Angkor Wat with the thrill of exploring Beng Mealea’s wild, untouched ruins—all with the ease of private transport and expert guidance.

You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of Khmer architecture and history, along with plenty of stunning photographs. The early start might be a challenge for some, but for many, it’s the best way to experience the temples at their most atmospheric and least crowded.

For travelers who value authentic insights, comfortable logistics, and memorable moments, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those eager to maximize their time and enjoy a personalized adventure through one of the world’s most spectacular archaeological sites.

FAQs

Is the temple entrance fee included in the tour price?
No, the tour price does not include all temple tickets, so you’ll need to purchase those separately.

What is the start time for the tour?
The tour begins very early at 4:30 am to catch the sunrise at Angkor Wat.

Does the tour accommodate different group sizes?
Yes, this is a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.

How long is the trip to Beng Mealea?
The journey to Beng Mealea takes about 4 hours round-trip, making it a full morning or afternoon adventure.

Are meals included?
No, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) are not included, so you should plan to bring snacks or dine independently.

What language does the guide speak?
An English-speaking guide is included, providing detailed explanations throughout the trip.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-balanced, enriching way to explore Cambodia’s incredible temple complex. It’s best suited for travelers who want to see the highlights with flexibility, enjoy expert guides, and experience the magic of Angkor with a touch of adventure. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a photographer, or simply in search of unforgettable memories, this private tour delivers on all fronts.