Guided Private Tuk Tuk Tour Angkor Wat and Small Circle and Five Extras

Exploring Angkor in Depth: A Private Tuk Tuk Tour with Hidden Gems and Extra Temples

If you’re planning a trip to Siem Reap and want to make the most of your time at Angkor, this private tuk tuk tour promises an intense, immersive experience that balances iconic sights with lesser-known treasures. What sets this tour apart is the early start—beginning at 6:30 am—allowing you to witness Angkor Wat in the best light and avoid some of the crowds that tend to swamp the site later in the day. Plus, it includes visits to five hidden temples and a scenic 3.5 km hike, offering a blend of popular highlights and off-the-beaten-path discoveries.

What really catches the eye is the thoughtfully curated itinerary that aims to maximize your temple encounters while offering flexible options, like a relaxed lunch break at the beautiful Srah Srang reservoir. Our favorite part? The expert guidance paired with private transport, making it feel tailored just for you. The only thing to consider is that entrance fees for each temple are not included—a common practice, but worth planning for. This tour suits travelers who love history, are eager for a full-day adventure, and appreciate a more intimate, personalized experience with knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Early start at 6:30 am for optimal lighting and fewer crowds at Angkor Wat
• Private tuk tuk with driver and guide for flexibility and personalized attention
• Includes five hidden temples and a scenic 3.5 km walk along Angkor Thom’s walls
• Flexible lunch options at Srah Srang or nearby, with additional costs for extra transfers
• Stunning views at Angkor Wat during sunrise and sunset photography opportunities
• Dedicated guide providing insightful commentary and detailed temple histories

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

This tour is designed to be exhaustive, taking you through the well-known sites and secret corners of Angkor and its surroundings. The early start is a big plus for photography lovers and those who dislike large tourist crowds. Starting at the East Gate of Angkor Wat means you’re greeted with the dawn’s first light, capturing the temple’s stunning towers in soft morning hues—a moment many travelers cherish.

From there, the tour moves on to Prasat Kravan, a small but visually distinctive temple with large brick carvings, which are unlike the sandstone sculptures more common in Angkor. Our reviewer noted that “the brick carvings are quite remarkable,” making it a worthwhile stop for those interested in architecture and construction techniques. Next is Bat Chum, a less-visited site with significant inscriptions showing the early presence of Buddhism—an insight that adds depth to the visit.

The Hidden Gems and Offbeat Temples

Following the classic temples, the tour takes a peaceful pause at Srah Srang, an artificial reservoir with an elegant terrace decorated with animal sculptures. The site’s serenity makes it a perfect spot for a relaxed lunch break, with several good restaurants available. Alternatively, the driver can drop you off elsewhere, but this will add to the overall duration and cost.

After lunch, you’ll visit Banteay Kdei, a sprawling complex often overshadowed by Ta Prohm but equally impressive with its labyrinthine layout. The reviewer described it as “a very large complex, but you won’t get lost,” highlighting the manageable size for visitors.

The highlight of the day is undoubtedly Ta Prohm, the jungle temple famous for its large roots and tree overgrowth. One reviewer called it “a photographer’s paradise,” emphasizing how the massive trees weaving through the stonework create a feeling of ancient mystique. You’ll spend over an hour here, soaking in the eerie beauty.

Ta Nei, accessible only via gravel roads, offers a more secluded vibe—perfect for those wanting to feel like Indiana Jones. “The ruins feel undisturbed,” noted a visitor, and the relief art there is superb.

From there, the tour climbs into the higher temples like Ta Keo, an artificial mountain with steep stairs and impressive views from the top. The climb is steep but manageable, and the panoramic vistas are well worth the effort.

The 3.5 km Hike and Less-Trodden Corners

One of the most distinctive features of this tour is the hike along the city walls of Angkor Thom, starting at the Victory Gate. This 3.5 km walk takes you past Prasat Chrung—a rarely visited corner temple—offering an authentic and undisturbed experience. According to reviews, this part of the tour provides a rare glimpse of Angkor’s medieval architecture away from the usual crowds. The East Gate and Prasat Chrung are particularly praised for their quiet charm.

The walk concludes at the South Gate of Angkor Thom, the iconic face towers that are often featured in photographs of Angkor. Walking along the walls, you’ll see the demons and gods carved into the railings—a striking detail that brings the ancient city to life.

Ending the Day with Classic Views and Reflection

The late afternoon finale at Angkor Wat is a highlight for many. The golden hour offers perfect lighting for photos of the towers reflected in the temple’s ponds. The tour includes a special opportunity to join a small balloon ride for a bird’s-eye view of Angkor Wat—an experience reviewed as “a fantastic way to see the layout from above,” though it’s a small extra.

The visit to Wat Thmey, the Killing Fields memorial, adds a poignant note to the day, offering a glimpse into Cambodia’s more recent history. It’s brief but meaningful, with a small memorial stupa and photo boards.

Finally, the tour wraps up with a drop-off back in Siem Reap, giving you the evening free to explore the markets or relax after a full day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The blend of famous and hidden temples is a key selling point. You’ve got Angkor Wat at sunrise and sunset—both times offering stunning photo opportunities—plus the chance to explore temples like Bat Chum, Ta Nei, and Prasat Chrung that most travelers miss. The early start is ideal for photography and avoiding crowds at the main attractions.

The private tuk tuk transport and guide make the experience feel personal and flexible. According to reviews, the guides are knowledgeable and tailored the itinerary to individual preferences, turning a typical temple tour into a customized adventure. The driver’s role is mostly to get you between sites, allowing you to focus on exploring.

The inclusion of a 3.5 km hike along the city walls adds a physical challenge and a unique perspective on Angkor’s layout. The walk on the historic walls offers stunning views and a sense of walking through history—something that many visitors don’t get on standard tours.

What Could Be Better?

While the tour is packed with temples, there’s a clear emphasis on admission fees not included in the price. Travelers should budget roughly $37 for a 1-day Angkor ticket, and potentially more if visiting all sites, as some extras like the balloon ride are optional.

It’s a longer day (11-13 hours), which might be tiring for some, especially those not used to extensive walking or the heat. However, the private setup allows for breaks and personal pacing if communicated beforehand.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for history buffs and photographers eager to see Angkor in different lights and explore lesser-visited sites. It’s also perfect for those who want a full, immersive day with a private guide, ensuring rich insights into Cambodia’s temples and history.

Travelers who appreciate flexibility and don’t mind a long day will find this tour offers excellent value for the depth of exploration. It’s also suitable for those interested in authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences—like visiting Prasat Chrung or walking along Angkor Thom’s walls.

However, if you prefer a shorter, more relaxed visit or plan to visit only a few temples, this might be too intensive. Likewise, budget-conscious travelers should factor in the additional costs for tickets and extras.

The Sum Up

This private tuk tuk tour strikes a lively balance between the must-see highlights and secret corners of Angkor, making it a compelling choice for those eager to see it all in one day. The early start, combined with expert guidance, means you’ll get both the best lighting for photos and insightful stories behind each site. The hidden temples and scenic hike add a unique touch that elevates this beyond a typical day trip.

The value for money is strong, especially considering the personalized service and comprehensive itinerary. It’s a particularly good fit for adventurous travelers who don’t want to miss the lesser-known sites and are comfortable spending a full day exploring.

While it does require some stamina and a budget for additional tickets, the experience promises a deep, meaningful encounter with Angkor’s ancient marvels—guided by knowledgeable locals who know their stuff inside out. If you’re looking for a full, authentic day immersed in Cambodia’s past, this tour might just be your best option.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but younger children should be prepared for a long day with lots of walking and climbing.

Are the temple tickets included?
No, the tour price does not include the Angkor Ticket, which costs about $37 for one day. You’ll need to purchase it separately.

Can I customize the lunch location?
Yes, the tour includes a break at Srah Srang, but the driver can also drop you elsewhere if you prefer. Extra costs for additional transfer are possible.

How long is the hike along Angkor Thom’s walls?
The walk is about 3.5 km, starting at the Victory Gate and ending at the South Gate, providing a panoramic view of the ancient city.

What temples are considered hidden gems?
Prasat Kravan, Bat Chum, Ta Nei, and Mangalartha are among the lesser-visited temples included as extras.

Is the tour guided throughout?
Yes, an English-speaking guide accompanies you at each site, providing context and history, while the driver handles transportation.

How much time is spent at each stop?
Stops range from 10 minutes at Spean Thma to over an hour at Ta Prohm, allowing ample time for exploration and photos.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely. The early morning and late afternoon visits to Angkor Wat are especially photogenic.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and your camera are essential. Extra cash for tickets and optional extras is recommended.

Is the tour available in other languages?
The current setup offers an English-speaking guide, but check with the provider for other language options if needed.

This detailed, well-rounded tour combines the classic highlights with offbeat temples and scenic walks, perfect for travelers seeking a meaningful and comprehensive Angkor experience.