Guided Private A/C vehicle Tour Angkor Wat and Small Circle and Five Extras

A detailed look at the private Angkor Wat and Small Circle tour with five extras

If you’re planning a day exploring Angkor Wat and its surrounding temples, this private guided tour offers a comprehensive experience that balances iconic sights with hidden gems. For just $69 per person, you’ll get a full-day adventure in a comfortable A/C vehicle with an English-speaking driver and guide, tailored to help you avoid crowds and see some of the lesser-visited spots. It’s a well-structured way to soak in the grandeur of Angkor while discovering quieter corners of this vast archaeological site.

What really stands out about this tour is its early start—at 6:30 am—to catch Angkor Wat at its most photogenic and crowd-free. Plus, the inclusion of five carefully chosen “extras,” such as a “lost temple in the jungle” and a 3.5 km hike through Angkor Thom’s walls, makes it perfect for travelers who want a deeper, more personal exploration. However, it’s a long day, lasting between 11 to 13 hours, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with full-day excursions.

A possible consideration is that admission tickets to the temples aren’t included, which adds to the overall cost if you don’t have a valid pass already. Still, the value in guided insights, relaxed transportation, and the chance to see Angkor at its best makes this tour appealing—especially for those craving a rich, authentic experience over a rushed, crowd-heavy visit.

Who is this tour best for?

This tour is ideal for history buffs, photography enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a personalized, in-depth exploration of Angkor’s most iconic and hidden sites. It’s perfect for those who want to avoid tourist crowds and appreciate a flexible, private experience. If you’re after a comprehensive, well-paced day with expert guidance, this tour ticks the boxes.

Key Points

• Early start for optimal light and fewer crowds: You’ll visit Angkor Wat twice—morning and late afternoon—allowing for beautiful photos and avoiding the midday rush.
• Private, guided experience: An English-speaking guide and driver ensure a smooth, personalized day focused on your interests.
• Inclusion of five “extras”: You’ll explore lesser-visited temples and sites, including a jungle temple and a remote corner of Angkor Thom, adding depth to your visit.
• Hiking and authentic exploration: A 3.5 km walk along Angkor Thom’s walls offers a sense of adventure and discovery.
• Flexible lunch options: A stop at Srah Srang reservoir offers several dining choices, but optional additional drives are possible if you prefer other locations.
• Comprehensive coverage: From the grand Angkor Wat to small temples like Prasat Kravan and Bat Chum, the tour offers a balanced mix of highlights and hidden spots.

The full experience: what to expect from each stop

Starting early at Angkor Wat

We loved the way the tour begins at the East Gate of Angkor Wat, a less crowded entrance that offers a peaceful view of the sunrise-like morning light illuminating the towering structures. It’s a smart move, as it avoids the crowds that gather at the West Gate—famous for its reflection pools and iconic silhouette. Visiting twice—once in the morning, once in the late afternoon—means you get to see Angkor Wat in different lights, especially when the sun is setting, creating perfect photography moments.

Prasat Kravan and Prasat Bat Chum

The next stops are the smaller, less visited temples: Prasat Kravan, with its impressive brick carvings, and Bat Chum, notable for its inscriptions indicating early Buddhist roots. These sites aren’t overcrowded, giving you a chance to absorb their quiet beauty and learn about Cambodia’s spiritual evolution. Reviewers have appreciated Bat Chum for its rarity and significance: “not frequented very often by travelers and thereby somewhat special,” as one reviewer noted.

Srah Srang: more than just a picturesque basin

The terrace at Srah Srang, with its animal sculptures, is a perfect spot for photos and a tranquil break. Built in the 10th and 12th centuries, it was likely used for ceremonies rather than irrigation. During our visit, you’ll find several good restaurants along the reservoir, ideal for a relaxed lunch.

Banteay Kdei and Ta Prohm: the jungly giants

Banteay Kdei, a large, labyrinthine temple, is often overshadowed by Ta Prohm but is no less impressive. Its expansive layout makes it easy to explore without feeling crowded. Then comes the legendary Ta Prohm, famous for its overgrown trees and cinematic atmosphere. Expect large fig roots entwined with stone, creating a photo opportunity like no other. One reviewer called it “a very large temple compound,” and it truly deserves its reputation.

Hidden treasures: Ta Nei and Mangalartha

Ta Nei remains tucked away in the jungle, accessible only via gravel roads—perfect for the adventurous. It offers a sense of discovery and solitude, with some exquisite relief carvings. Mangalartha, built in the 13th century, is considered the last stone temple of Angkor and is rarely visited, which makes it a special highlight for those wanting to see something off the beaten path.

The 3.5 km hike along Angkor Thom

Starting at the Victory Gate, you’ll walk along ancient walls, passing Prasat Chrung and the rarely visited eastern corner temples. The walk, while lengthy, is a fantastic way to experience the scale of Angkor Thom without the crowds. One review highlighted the “undisturbed” feel of these hidden corners, emphasizing the value of this part of the tour.

Iconic gates and the temples within

The South Gate of Angkor Thom is a spectacle of stone faces and mythological carvings—an unmissable photo stop. Walking along the city walls, you’ll visit Prasat Chrung, a small, well-preserved temple on the wall, offering solitude and a sense of stepping back in time.

Revisiting Angkor Wat at sunset

Back at Angkor Wat, the late afternoon light creates stunning reflections, making it the perfect time for photos. If you’re interested, you might also enjoy the optional balloon ride for a bird’s-eye view of the complex—a memorable way to wrap up the day.

Ending with history and reflection

The last stop is Wat Thmey, a memorial site for Khmer Rouge victims, offering a solemn moment of reflection before concluding your day with drop-off at your hotel or central Siem Reap.

A day in the life: how the logistics work

The tour begins promptly at 6:30 am, with pickup from your hotel. The private transportation ensures a comfortable ride, and your guide’s insights bring each site alive. Notably, each temple visit is accompanied by your guide, while the driver remains available for parking and quick transfers, making the day smooth and efficient.

The itinerary is carefully structured to maximize your time at key sites while allowing for some flexibility, especially during lunch at Srah Srang. The tour also includes a significant amount of walking—about 3.5 km during the Angkor Thom hike—so comfortable footwear and a water bottle are recommended.

You’ll need a valid Angkor Ticket, which isn’t included in the tour price. This means planning ahead if you wish to visit multiple days or if you already have a pass.

Cost and value analysis

At $69, this guided tour offers excellent value considering the number of sites covered, the personalized experience, and the inclusion of hidden gems. When added to the cost of tickets ($37 for a one-day pass), it’s still a reasonable price for a well-organized, in-depth day with an expert guide.

Final thoughts: who should consider this tour?

This private tour is perfect for travelers who want an expert-led, flexible, and comprehensive exploration of Angkor. It suits those who value early access to avoid crowds, appreciate hidden temples, and enjoy walking and hiking as part of their sightseeing. The inclusion of five extras makes it ideal for those craving a deeper understanding of Angkor’s lesser-known stories and sites.

If you’re after a well-paced, intimate experience with a knowledgeable guide and the comfort of private transportation, this tour will serve you well. It’s more than just a visit; it’s an opportunity to connect with Cambodia’s history and spirituality in a personal way.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, though it includes a 3.5 km walk during the Angkor Thom section, so comfortable shoes and some stamina are recommended.

Are all temples included in the tour?
The guide takes you to many temples, but you need a valid Angkor Ticket for each site. Tickets are not included in the $69 price.

Can I customize the lunch options?
Yes, the lunch stop at Srah Srang features several good restaurants. The driver can also drop you elsewhere if you prefer, but this could add extra kilometers and cost.

What time does the tour start and end?
It begins at 6:30 am and lasts about 11 to 13 hours, ending back in Siem Reap in the late afternoon or early evening.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, offering more flexibility and personal attention.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely—reviewers praise the guides for their professionalism, attention to detail, and deep understanding of Angkor’s sites.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable ride through the long day.

Are there any special considerations for visiting early or late?
Arriving early at Angkor Wat allows for stunning light and fewer crowds, while late afternoon visits provide excellent photo opportunities of the sunset reflections.

This private guided tour provides a balanced, engaging, and well-organized way to see the best of Angkor Wat and its surroundings. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a more intimate experience and want to go beyond the typical tourist trail, exploring some of the quieter, more mysterious temples with expert insights.