Angkor Wat & Floating Village 3-Day Private Tour

Experience the Best of Siem Reap with the 3-Day Private Tour to Angkor Wat & Floating Village

If you’re planning a visit to Siem Reap, this highly-rated 3-day private tour offers a deep dive into Cambodia’s most famous sights, from the legendary Angkor temples to the floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake. Rated a perfect 5.0 out of 5 based on 17 reviews, it comes highly recommended—almost universally so. What makes this tour stand out? It’s not just about ticking off sights; it’s about experiencing each location through knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and authentically local moments.

One real highlight is that this is a private tour, meaning you get undivided attention from your guide and a flexible schedule tailored to your interests. Plus, with landmark visits like Ta Prohm, Bayon, Angkor Wat, Preah Khan, and Banteay Srei, you’re assured of a comprehensive exploration of the Angkor complex. While the price—around $199 per person—may seem steep at first glance, reviews rave about the value, especially considering the depth of experience and insider knowledge you gain.

That said, it’s worth noting that some sites require walking, trekking, or moderate physical activity, so a reasonable level of fitness is helpful. If you’re after a well-organized, culturally rich experience with a professional guide, this tour could be a perfect fit. However, if you prefer self-guided exploration or have specific dietary needs, noting the included meals and local restaurant options is advisable.

Key Points

– Expert Guides: The tour has multiple rave reviews praising guides like Mork, Smith, Long, and Chhoeum for their knowledge, friendliness, and dedication. They often go above and beyond, helping with photos and local tips.

– Full Immersion: This three-day itinerary packs in major temples, a floating village on Tonle Sap, and cultural insights, giving you a well-rounded view of Khmer history and daily life.

– Flexible and Private: Only your group participates, and the schedule is designed for comfort and depth, not rushed sightseeing. Plus, pickup from your hotel is included, making logistics simple.

– Value for Money: At around $200 per person, many reviewers felt the experience was worth every penny, especially given the quality of guides, transportation, and meal recommendations.

– Authentic Local Experiences: Visitors appreciated the opportunity to see local communities, such as the floating fishing village, and to enjoy local foods recommended by guides.

– Well-Organized and Comfortable: From air-conditioned vehicles to boat trips on Tonle Sap, the tour offers a blend of comfort and adventure, making long days easier to handle.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Temples and Khmer Heritage

The adventure kicks off around 8:00 AM with pickup from your hotel. First stop is Ta Prohm, arguably the most iconic temple due to its stunning roots and jungle setting—famous from the Tomb Raider film. Reviewers love the way the massive fig trees intertwine with the stonework, creating a surreal atmosphere. Expect to spend about an hour here, marveling at the photo opportunities and atmospheric ruins.

Next, you’ll head into Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire, passing through the Victory Gate. The guide will lead you through the Elephant Terrace, Leper King Terrace, Royal Enclosure, and Baphuon. The Bayon Temple, with its smiling faces, is a must-see—widely praised for its intricate carvings and atmosphere of spiritual mystery. This area easily takes about two hours; your guide’s insights will deepen your appreciation of each site.

Lunchtime is flexible—your guide can recommend local restaurants for authentic Khmer or Asian dishes. Some travelers might choose to return to the hotel or explore nearby on their own.

In the afternoon, the highlight is Angkor Wat itself—an architectural marvel and the largest religious monument in the world. Many reviews mention the breathtaking views of the sunrise or sunset, but even visiting during the day reveals the temple’s meticulous craftsmanship and expansive scale. The guide will help you navigate the complex and share stories behind the carvings, making the visit both educational and awe-inspiring.

Day 2: Hidden Gems and Trekking

The second day begins at 8:00 AM with a visit to Preah Khan, an ancient Buddhist monastery and former university. Reviewers note its impressive size and the peaceful, less crowded atmosphere, ideal for exploring at a relaxed pace.

Next, you’ll visit Banteay Srei, often called the “Women’s Citadel” for its delicate carvings and pink sandstone. The intricate stonework here surprises many visitors, and guides highlight the craftsmanship involved, making it a favorite stop.

After lunch (again, local options are recommended), the tour takes you uphill to Kbal Spean, famed for its riverbed carvings and waterfall. Expect a bit of a trek—reviewers mention the uphill walk is moderate but rewarding, with beautiful natural scenery and centuries-old carvings of Hindu deities. It’s a vivid way to connect with Khmer religious art and natural beauty.

Day 3: Ancient Cambodia and Floating Communities

The final day begins with a visit to the Roluos Temples, the earliest group of Angkor monuments dating back to the 9th century. These sites give a sense of the origins of Angkor’s grandeur, with large brick towers and quiet atmosphere that travelers find deeply meaningful.

In the afternoon, you’ll head to Kampong Phluk, a floating village on Tonle Sap Lake. Here, you’ll take a boat ride through flooded forests, exploring traditional stilt houses and witnessing the daily lives of fishermen. Several reviewers describe this experience as “authentic” and “eye-opening,” offering insight into how local communities adapt to Cambodia’s seasonal floods.

Included and Not Included

The tour includes dinner, air-conditioned transport, a knowledgeable guide, and a boat trip to Tonle Sap. You’ll also get cold tissues and mineral water to stay refreshed.

However, the 3-day temple pass (costing $62) isn’t included, and meals beyond dinner are at your own expense. Tips and personal expenses are also separate, so budget accordingly.

What’s Noteworthy from Reviews

Many travelers highlight their guides’ expertise—names like Mork, Smith, and Long frequently come up as making the experience memorable with their friendliness and knowledge. Reviewers appreciated guides who helped with photography, shared local insights, and adapted the schedule to their needs.

The quality of transportation and organization also receives praise. For instance, the private air-conditioned vehicle made long days in the heat much more bearable. The boat ride at Tonle Sap is described as smooth and immersive, giving an authentic glimpse into rural life.

Some travelers, especially honeymooners, noted that the timing management was perfect—allowing them to see sunrise at Angkor Wat and avoid crowds. The flexibility of this private tour meant they could customize small moments, like taking photos at scenic spots or enjoying local food.

The Value of This Tour

At roughly $200 per person, this tour provides excellent value considering the depth of coverage, the quality of guides, and the intimate experience. You’re paying for expert insights, comfortable transport, and a thoughtfully planned itinerary that hits all the major highlights and some lesser-known gems.

The tour’s reputation for well-organized logistics and personalized attention makes it suitable for travelers looking for hassle-free, immersive experiences. The inclusion of local meals, boat trips, and entrance fees means fewer worries about additional costs or logistical planning.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided exploration of Angkor without the stress of planning. It suits those interested in history, culture, and local life, especially if they value quality guides and private transportation. It’s also perfect for visitors who enjoy a mix of temple exploration, scenic trekking, and authentic community visits.

However, travelers should have moderate physical fitness, as some sites involve walking and climbing. If you prefer a more leisurely pace or have specific dietary or accessibility needs, communicating these with your guide ahead of time can enhance your experience.

FAQs

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private tour, so only your group participates, allowing for flexibility and personalized attention.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers air-conditioned transportation, a knowledgeable guide, dinner, boat trip on Tonle Sap, and cold water and tissues. Entrance tickets to temples are not included and must be purchased separately.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 13 days in advance to secure their preferred dates, especially during peak seasons.

Are meals included?
No, aside from dinner, other meals are at your own expense, with local restaurant options available near the sites.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour involves walking and some trekking, it can be suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, including families with older children.

Can I customize the schedule?
Since it’s a private tour, guides are usually flexible to some extent, so don’t hesitate to express your interests or requests.

What should I wear?
Light, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes are recommended, along with sun protection like hats and sunscreen.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the temple pass (US$62) is paid separately, and entrance tickets are not included in the tour price.

Final thoughts

This 3-day private tour of Angkor Wat and beyond offers an immersive, well-organized, and culturally enriching experience for travelers eager to see the best of Siem Reap. The combination of expert guides, authentic sites, scenic boat rides, and local dining creates a balanced mix of adventure and comfort.

Perfect for those who want a comprehensive introduction to Khmer heritage without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour is both educational and fun. While some physical activity is involved, the overall quality, value, and insights make it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about exploring Cambodia’s most iconic sights.

In short, if you’re after an insider’s look into Angkor’s temples, a glimpse of floating village life, and the comfort of private transportation—all delivered by passionate guides—this tour could very well be your ideal introduction to Cambodia. It’s a well-loved choice for travelers who cherish authentic experiences paired with expert commentary and seamless logistics.

Sources:
https://www.viator.com/tours/Siem-Reap/Angkor-Wat-and-Floating-Village-3-Day-Private-Tour/d5480-87436P16