Angkor Wat Day Tours And Sunset

If you’re planning a trip to Siem Reap, one of the highlights is undeniably the legendary Angkor Wat and its surrounding temples. This $18 private tour offers a full day of exploring some of the most significant ruins, finishing with a breathtaking sunset view from Phnom Bakheng. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary make it clear this experience is a fantastic way to see the highlights without breaking the bank.

What we really love about this tour is its balanced mix of major sites and lesser-known gems, as well as the focus on authentic, stress-free exploration. The highlight for many is the chance to see Angkor Wat itself—the largest religious structure in the world—and walk through some of the jungle-covered ruins like Ta Prohm, famously known as the Tomb Raider temple. But, a potential consideration is that the admission fees for the temples are not included, so travelers should budget around $37 per person for entry. This tour seems best suited for those who want a flexible, private experience that combines historical discovery with stunning scenery and some local insight.

• Affordable Private Experience: Cost is just $18 per group, making it accessible for families or small groups.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers the must-see temples like Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, Bayon, and more.
• Expert Driver, No Guide: The tour includes a knowledgeable, friendly driver but no dedicated guide, so some self-guided discovery is expected.
• Ideal for Photographers and View Seekers: Ending at Phnom Bakheng for sunset offers spectacular photo opportunities.
• Physical Activity Level: Moderate walking and climbing are involved, so wear comfortable shoes.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and Early Morning Excitement

The tour begins with hotel pickup around 9:30 am, which is typically handled by an experienced driver from Tip Top Tuk Tuk. From the reviews, it’s clear that the drivers are punctual, friendly, and well-versed in the local area—a big plus for a smooth start. With bottled water provided, you can stay refreshed during the day’s adventure. The private nature means you won’t be stuck with strangers, allowing for a relaxed, tailored experience.

First Stop: Angkor Wat

You’ll spend roughly two hours at Angkor Wat—the crown jewel of Cambodian architecture. This UNESCO site covers about 400 acres, so there’s plenty to see. The temple’s iconic five towers and intricate bas-reliefs are truly impressive, and the vastness of the site makes you feel like a tiny explorer in a grand ancient city.

Visitors often comment on the peaceful, almost sacred atmosphere here, despite the crowds. The reviews highlight that the driver doesn’t just drop you off and leave; he provides insightful commentary, helping you appreciate the site’s significance. Keep in mind, the admission ticket costing $37 per person isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

Exploring Banteay Kdei

Next, the tour takes you to Banteay Kdei, known as the “citadel of monk’s cells.” The temple’s partly overgrown walls and twisting tree roots create a mystical vibe. From the reviews, it’s clear that the beauty of the roots weaving through the ruins is a favorite visual, often described as “beautiful” and “fascinating.” The site offers a quieter atmosphere compared to Angkor Wat, allowing for peaceful exploration.

Ta Prohm: Jungle-Ruined Charm

A quick stop at Ta Prohm is always a highlight. Famously featured in the movie Tomb Raider, this temple looks like it was plucked straight from a jungle adventure. The trees, especially the silk cotton variety, seem to embrace the ruins, giving the site an almost enchanted feel. Visitors mention that Ta Prohm is “partially retaken by jungle,” which provides fantastic photo opportunities and a tangible sense of history fighting to stay alive.

Ta Keo: The Dramatic Pyramid

The next stop is Ta Keo, a temple that never quite finished. Its square, multi-tiered structure offers a different perspective compared to the more ornate Angkor Wat. Climbing the terraces gives you sweeping views over the jungle canopy, making it a favorite for photography. Reviewers note that climbing here is well worth the effort for the views and the sense of adventure.

Bayon Temple: Smiling Faces and Intricate Reliefs

The Bayon Temple is renowned for its over 200 enigmatic smiling faces and detailed bas-reliefs depicting battles and daily life. It’s a compact but highly immersive site, where you can easily spend an hour or two wandering around, observing the carvings and trying to decipher stories from the past. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable driver who guides you through these stories, making history come alive even without a dedicated guide.

Sunset at Phnom Bakheng

The day concludes with a visit to Phnom Bakheng, a hilltop temple offering some of the best sunset views in Cambodia. It’s a popular spot, so arriving early is recommended to secure a good vantage point. Visitors describe the sunset as “breathtaking”, with the silhouette of Angkor Wat in the distance making for perfect photos. The climb is moderate but involves some steps, so comfortable shoes are a must. The sunset view is a fitting end to a day of exploration, wrapping up with a moment of tranquility and awe.

This tour offers great value considering the price, especially when you factor in the flexibility of a private experience. The driver’s knowledge, as highlighted in reviews, often surpasses expectations. They’re praised for being friendly, punctual, and insightful, sometimes giving personal tours of the temples, which can be a real bonus for travelers craving local stories and tips.

The adventure is paced well—long enough at each site to appreciate the details, but not so rushed that you feel overwhelmed. The timing ensures you see the main highlights without the oppressive midday heat, and the sunset adds a magical finish.

However, since entrance fees are not included, budget for the additional $37 per person. Also, because there’s no guide included, those looking for in-depth historical explanations might want to consider supplementing this tour with an audio guide or a local guide for certain sites.

Wear comfortable shoes and dress respectfully

A common theme in reviews is the importance of comfortable footwear—there’s quite a bit of walking and some climbing involved. The dress code is modest, with shoulders covered, so packing a light scarf or shawl is a smart idea.

Weather considerations

The tour runs in all weather conditions, so be prepared for sun, rain, or shine. A hat and sunscreen are recommended, especially for the climb up Phnom Bakheng and the hot midday hours.

If you’re seeking a cost-effective, flexible way to see the highlights of Angkor, this tour ticks many boxes. The private setup ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, and the stops are thoughtfully chosen to balance iconic sites with lesser-known treasures. Travelers have praised the driver’s friendliness and knowledge, which makes the experience more personal and memorable.

It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy photography, as your day ends with a stunning sunset view over Angkor Wat. The tour is also perfect if you prefer a more relaxed pace and want to avoid guided group tours, as you can explore at your own speed.

While the lack of a dedicated guide might be a downside for those wanting detailed historical insights, the driver’s commentary often provides enough context to make the visit meaningful. Just remember to bring some extra cash for entrance fees and wear comfortable clothing.

This tour offers an authentic, well-rounded experience of Angkor’s most famous temples—delivered with warmth, flexibility, and great value. It’s a solid choice whether you’re a history buff, a sunset chaser, or simply looking to capture unforgettable memories.

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the temple entrance fee of $37 per person is not included. You’ll need to budget for this separately.

Is a guide included in this tour?
No, the tour includes a driver but no dedicated guide. The driver provides some commentary and insights based on reviews, but for in-depth explanations, you might consider a guide or audio guide.

What should I wear for this tour?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended because of the walking and climbing involved. Also, dress modestly—cover shoulders and knees out of respect for the temples.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 8 to 9 hours, from around 9:30 am to early evening, ending at Phnom Bakheng for sunset.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and climbing are involved. Younger children and elderly travelers should consider their comfort levels with walking and the weather.

This private tour of Angkor Wat and its surrounding temples offers a fantastic way to experience Cambodia’s most iconic sites at a reasonable price. With expert drivers, stunning photo opportunities, and a peaceful sunset finale, it’s a memorable way to spend a day in Siem Reap.