Angkor Wat Small Group Sunrise Tour With Breakfast included

If you’re planning a visit to Siem Reap, witnessing the sunrise over Angkor Wat is arguably the most iconic experience you can have. This small group tour offers a well-rounded day exploring some of the most stunning temples amidst early morning tranquility. For just $20 per person, it combines the breathtaking visuals of sunrise with a carefully curated itinerary that balances history, culture, and comfort.

What we love about this tour is its excellent guide, who not only shares fascinating stories but also makes the early start feel lighter with humor and genuine care. Plus, the inclusion of a breakfast at a local family restaurant adds a taste of Khmer hospitality. However, one point to consider is that admission fees to Angkor Wat are not included in the price, so travelers should plan for the additional cost of the Angkor pass.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, early risers, and those who want an in-depth look at Angkor’s most famous sites without the hassle of planning every detail. If you’re after an authentic experience with a friendly group, this is a fantastic way to start your day in Cambodia.

Key Points

• Stunning sunrise views over Angkor Wat add a magical start to your day.
• The small group size ensures personalized attention from guides like Mr. Sotin, Mr. Ho, or Mr. Mony.
• The all-inclusive transportation and hotel pickup make logistics seamless.
• Multiple temple visits combine history, architecture, and natural overgrowth, like Ta Prohm.
• The breakfast at a local family restaurant offers authentic Khmer cuisine and a chance to support local communities.
• Admission fee to Angkor Wat (US$37) is not included, so plan to buy your pass online in advance.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Early Start – Catching the Sunrise at Angkor Wat

The day kicks off with hotel pickups between 4:30 am and 5:00 am, which might seem painfully early, but it’s entirely worth it. Being among the first to arrive at Angkor Wat for sunrise lets you beat the crowds and capture stunning photos of the temple bathed in golden light. Reviewers consistently mention how special this moment is—almost everyone describes it as “breathtaking” or “unforgettable”.

One traveler shared, “The sunrise from this place is a unique experience,” highlighting how the gentle light, combined with the stillness of the morning, creates an almost mystical atmosphere. Because the tickets are secured beforehand (you need a valid Angkor pass), you avoid long lines and can settle into your spot comfortably.

Exploring Angkor Wat

After sunrise, the tour spends about 1 hour and 30 minutes exploring the temple itself. Expect to walk through the expansive corridors, admire intricate carvings, and soak in the grandeur of the world’s largest religious monument. Several reviews point out how the early access helps avoid the overwhelming crowds, making the experience more personal and peaceful.

It’s worth noting that admission tickets are not included in the tour price, but guides can assist in purchasing these online ahead of time. The early start allows you to enjoy the temple’s beauty without the masses, which many reviewers appreciate.

Supporting Local Life with Breakfast at Srah Srang

Next, the tour moves to Srah Srang, a peaceful reservoir with a lush backdrop. Here, you’ll enjoy breakfast at a local family restaurant, featuring vegetarian options if needed. The meal is described as simple but tasty, often highlighting traditional Khmer flavors like green curry or palm cake.

One reviewer mentions, “The local breakfast was great and very interesting how it was prepared,” emphasizing how this part of the tour offers not just sustenance but an authentic cultural experience. The opportunity to support a rural community makes this stop stand out.

The Jungle Overgrowth – Ta Prohm

The iconic Ta Prohm follows—a temple famously overgrown with trees and roots, gaining fame from the Tomb Raider movies. Many visitors love the contrast of natural and man-made structures, and the guide’s insights help you appreciate the surprising survival of this site amid the jungle canopy. Reviewers note that this stop is about 1 hour, allowing plenty of time for photos and wandering.

Bayon Temple and the Heart of Angkor Thom

Moving into the heart of Angkor Thom, you’ll visit Bayon Temple, renowned for its smiling stone faces. This site was a hub of religious, educational, and administrative activities, making it a fascinating glimpse into Angkor’s former grandeur.

The Baphuon—a “golden mountain” built on an artificial hill—also makes an appearance, offering panoramic views after a quick stop. The Terrace of the Elephants and Terrace of the Leper King provide intricate carvings and historical context, with some reviewers mentioning they appreciated the commentary provided by guides like Mr. Mony or Mr. Sareik.

Final Stops – South Gate and Wrap-up

The South Gate of Angkor Thom, with its classic carved faces, marks the final temple stop, offering a dramatic photo opportunity. Afterward, the tour provides a 40-minute transfer back to your hotel, giving you time to reflect on a day packed with history, culture, and natural beauty.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The reviews reveal several strong points that make this tour a standout choice. Guides like Mr. Sotin, Mr. Ho, and Mr. Mony are consistently praised for their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness. They help make history come alive and ensure you get the most out of each site.

The transportation in air-conditioned minivans or buses is comfortable, especially for the early start. Travellers also appreciate the cool bottles of water and towels provided by the driver, which are lifesavers under the Cambodian sun.

The breakfast is a definite highlight, with many reviewers remarking on its authenticity and support for local families. It’s a small but meaningful touch that enhances the experience beyond just temple hopping.

Considering the Price and Overall Value

At $20 per person, this tour offers incredible value. For a full day—roughly 9 hours—you get multiple temple visits, a guided commentary, transportation, breakfast, and hotel pickup/drop-off. When compared to private tours or self-guided visits, this package strikes a good balance between cost and experience, especially with the small group setting ensuring more personalized interaction.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the additional cost of the Angkor pass (US$37), which isn’t included in the tour fee. Travelers should plan to purchase this online beforehand to avoid missing out on the sunrise or other sites. Also, the tour involves quite a bit of walking, and the weather can be hot and humid—so packing sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent is recommended.

Some may find the breakfast a bit simple, but reviewers generally see it as a charming local touch rather than a gourmet meal. The early start might also be tough for some, but the benefits of avoiding crowds and catching the sunrise are often cited as worth it.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This small group tour is ideal for travelers who want a manageable, well-guided, and authentic experience of Angkor’s highlights. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts, early risers eager to beat the crowds, and food lovers interested in local Khmer cuisine. If you prefer a hassle-free experience with hotel pick-up and drop-off, expert guides, and a mix of cultural sites, this tour checks all those boxes.

It’s also well-suited for those traveling on a budget but still wanting a comprehensive and memorable day exploring Angkor. The price-to-value ratio is hard to beat, especially considering the personalized guidance and authentic touches like breakfast at a local home.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
Pickup is between 4:30 am and 5:00 am, designed to give you the best chance to see sunrise at Angkor Wat.

Is the admission fee included?
No, the Angkor pass (US$37) is not included. You’ll need to purchase this online beforehand to access the temples.

What should I wear?
All visitors should cover their knees and shoulders, as there is a dress code at the temples. Shorts and sleeveless shirts are not permitted.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, towels, and breakfast (vegetarian options available).

What’s not included?
Admission tickets, lunch and soft drinks, tips (optional), and personal expenses.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 9 hours, covering multiple sites from sunrise to late morning, then a few cultural stops and return to your hotel.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for a fair amount of walking and the early start. Elderly travelers should consider their mobility and weather conditions.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a scheduled group tour with a fixed itinerary, but guides often accommodate slight adjustments or extra visits if time and group interest permit.

How do I prepare for the early start?
Bring sunscreen, hats, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes. Pack a bottle of water and a camera to capture the sunrise.

This Angkor Wat Small Group Sunrise Tour offers an authentic, value-packed way to kick off your Angkor adventure. With knowledgeable guides, stunning early morning views, and a taste of local Khmer culture, it provides a memorable glimpse into one of the world’s most awe-inspiring archaeological sites. If you’re looking for a balanced mix of sightseeing, comfort, and culture, this tour is a smart choice for most travelers.

Ideal for those who prioritize quality over price, enjoy guided storytelling, and don’t mind an early start. Just remember to buy your Angkor pass in advance and pack appropriately for the heat and walking. A truly special way to begin exploring the ancient temples of Angkor.