Angkor Wat plus Balloon Ride with Khmer Lunch

Exploring Angkor Wat with a Balloon Ride and Khmer Lunch: A Deep Dive into an Unforgettable Day

When it comes to Cambodia’s most famous site, Angkor Wat, there’s no shortage of tours claiming to offer the best experience. This particular package, offered by Green Era Travel, stands out by combining a traditional temple exploration with a one-of-a-kind aerial view and a delicious local meal. With a stellar 5.0 rating from 46 reviews and a recommended rate of 98%, it’s clearly a popular choice for travelers seeking both culture and unique sightseeing.

What we love most about this tour is the combination of expert-guided insights and the stunning aerial perspective of Angkor’s sprawling ruins. The inclusion of a small group setting means you’ll get more personal attention—perfect if you want to truly understand the history and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site. One aspect to consider is the weather dependency of the balloon ride, which might lead to cancellations — but such situations are handled professionally, with refunds provided.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy a balanced mix of history, adventure, and local cuisine. If you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized day out with knowledgeable guides and memorable views, this experience is worth considering. Let’s get into the details and see what makes it tick.

Key Points

• Unique aerial view of Angkor Wat and surrounding temples via tethered helium balloon
• Expert-guided commentary from a knowledgeable Khmer scholar
• All-inclusive transportation from your hotel, plus lunch at a local restaurant
• Small group size enhances the personalized experience
• Price of $85 offers good value, considering the combination of activities and inclusions
• Weather-dependent balloon ride might be canceled, but full refunds are offered

An Overview of What You Can Expect

This tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day to take in Cambodia’s top archaeological sites. The experience kicks off with hotel pickup, ensuring a hassle-free start, especially if you’re staying near Siem Reap’s accommodations. From there, the journey begins with exploring the magnificent Angkor Wat complex—a must-see for any visitor.

Exploring the Temples: What’s in Store?

Your guide, a local Khmer scholar, will lead you through the expansive complex, sharing insights into Hindu mythology, Khmer history, and the artistic details of intricate carvings. Expect to see the famous Apsara dance carvings, along with bas-reliefs depicting myths and legends. Your guide’s commentary is tailored to enhance your appreciation and understanding, making the ruins come alive with stories and context that often get lost on self-guided visits.

Reviewer Jennifer_S highlights her experience: “Our guide Nak was fantastic—knowledgeable, kind, and attentive. He made the tour so special.” Such praise underpins the value of traveling with a dedicated guide who knows the site well and can point out hidden details.

The Balloon Ride: A Sky-High Perspective

One of the tour’s standout features is the helium balloon ride—a 12-minute tethered flight that offers stunning views of Angkor Wat, Phnom Bakheng, and parts of Angkor National Park. It’s weather-dependent, and as reviewers noted, if conditions aren’t favorable, the ride may be canceled, with refunds provided. This transparent policy ensures no surprises on the day.

Travelers who have experienced this describe it as “impressive” and “a must-do for the view alone.” From 200 meters above, you’ll see the vastness of Angkor’s layout and the lush greenery surrounding it—a perspective impossible from the ground.

Reviewer David_S states, “My guide Phy was very informative and spoke English very well, so communication was easy. I’d recommend this tour to anyone wanting a comprehensive Angkor experience.” The combination of aerial and archaeological sights makes this tour stand out from standard temple visits.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Green Era Travel Pickup and Temple Exploration

The day begins with hotel pickup, a boon for travelers who dislike navigating unfamiliar transport. The journey to the temples is smooth, often via tuk-tuk or minivan depending on group size. Once at the complex, the guide immerses you in the history and symbolism of Angkor Wat. Expect to spend around 3-4 hours wandering through late afternoon sunlit ruins, capturing photos of the iconic spires, and discovering lesser-known shrines.

Your guide emphasizes photo spots, helping you get that perfect shot of the temple silhouette against the sky or intricate carvings. The reviews mention how knowledgeable guides like Nak and Phy enhance the experience, turning what could be a lengthy walk into a storytelling session.

The Aerial View: A 12-Minute Balloon Flight

Depending on weather, you’ll ascend to 200 meters above the archaeological site, where panoramic views reveal the expansiveness of Angkor. You’ll see the symmetrical layout of the temples, the surrounding jungle, and the nearby Phnom Bakheng hill. Guests rave about the “breathtaking” views, and many find it changes their appreciation of the site altogether.

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Post-flight, you’ll enjoy a Khmer lunch at a local restaurant within the national park. The food is typically flavorful and filling, offering a taste of authentic Cambodian cuisine. Vegetarian options are available if advised at booking. The lunch break is a good chance to relax and reflect on the morning’s sights.

Additional Temple Visits and Return

Depending on timing and group energy, the guide might continue to other nearby temples or viewpoints. The return transfer to your hotel is included, making the day seamless and stress-free. The total duration fits comfortably into a single day, balancing sightseeing, aerial views, and culinary experiences.

Value and Practical Considerations

At $85 per person, this tour provides a well-rounded experience—especially considering the hotel pickup, expert guide, aerial view, and included lunch. The $37 park entry fee is separate, which is typical for Angkor tours, but it’s worth budgeting for.

The small-group setting, capped at 12 travelers, is a significant advantage. It means more personalized attention and fewer crowds at the temples. The guides’ reviews consistently mention their patience, knowledge, and caring attitude, which makes the experience more engaging and comfortable.

Weather and Cancellation

Weather plays a crucial role—if the balloon ride cannot operate due to wind or rain, the tour still proceeds with the temple exploration, and you are refunded for the balloon. Many reviews, including Jennifer_S’s, mention this, noting it’s handled professionally.

Accessibility and Physical Fitness

Moderate physical fitness is recommended, as exploring Angkor involves walking, sometimes on uneven surfaces. Only trousers or knee-length skirts/dresses are permitted for the balloon ride, so dress accordingly.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Multiple reviewers praised their guides—Nak and Phy—for their knowledge, attentiveness, and ability to make the experience personal. One reviewer shared, “Phy was very patient and friendly, explaining the sites well and making sure I felt safe, especially as a solo female traveler.” Such comments highlight how small-group tours with attentive guides can make a big difference.

The balloon ride, while weather-dependent, is often described as a highlight. “The view from the balloon was breathtaking,” states David_S, reinforcing how this adds a memorable dimension to your visit.

However, not all reviews are perfect. One traveler expressed disappointment that the balloon was canceled due to weather, but appreciated the refund process and the guide’s offer to reschedule. This transparency seems to be the standard, and most guests find the experience valuable even without the flight.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want to combine cultural discovery with a dash of adventure. If your trip to Angkor Wat is about more than just ticking boxes and you appreciate informative guides who can tell stories about the carvings and history, this tour hits the mark.

For those who seek unique perspectives, the balloon ride offers a chance to see Angkor from above, providing a new appreciation for its scale and layout. The local Khmer lunch adds authenticity and flavor to your day, rounding out a well-balanced experience.

While weather can be an unpredictability, the rest of the tour remains immersive and educational. It’s an excellent option for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive, guided introduction to Angkor, and for anyone eager to see the sunrise or sunset from a scenic vantage point.

FAQs

Is the balloon ride included in the price?
Yes, the $85 fee includes the tethered helium balloon ride, along with a guide, transportation, and lunch. The park entry fee ($37) is separate.

What happens if the balloon ride can’t operate due to weather?
If weather conditions prevent the balloon from flying, the tour still proceeds to explore the temples, and you’ll receive a full refund for the balloon fees.

How long does the tour last?
Expect around 6 to 7 hours, covering temple exploration, the balloon ride, and lunch.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel are included, with transport by tuk-tuk or minivan depending on group size.

Are children allowed?
Children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour involves some walking, so moderate physical fitness is recommended.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is popular and is usually booked about 53 days in advance on average, so early booking is advised.

This tour offers an authentic, well-organized way to experience Angkor Wat that balances history, adventure, and local flavor. Whether you’re taking in the intricate carvings, soaring above the temples, or enjoying Khmer cuisine, it’s designed to leave lasting memories of Cambodia’s crown jewel.