Private 2Days Temple Tour Car and English Speaking Tour Guide

Exploring the Temples of Angkor: A 2-Day Private Tour Review

If you’re planning a visit to Siem Reap and the famed Angkor temples, a guided 2-day private tour like this one from KH Angkor Tour offers a great way to maximize your experience. It packs in the highlights—Angkor Wat’s sunrise, the majestic faces of Bayon, and the mystique of Banteay Srei—without the chaos of large groups. This tour promises a detailed, authentic look at Cambodia’s most iconic sites with the comfort of private transportation and an experienced English-speaking guide.

What we really love about this experience is how it balances early mornings with ample time to relax and enjoy each site, making it more than just a checklist. However, a potential consideration is the cost of temple entrance fees, which aren’t included, adding to the overall expense if you’re on a tight budget.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, flexible, and guided exploration of Angkor’s most famous temples, especially those who prefer a more intimate setting and expert guidance to deepen their understanding of the sites’ history and architecture.

Key Points

• Private and Flexible: Only your group participates, with door-to-door hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Early Morning Sunrises: Start at 5:00 am on Day 1 for the famed sunrise at Angkor Wat, a must-see experience.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits include Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm, Banteay Kdei, Banteay Srei, and more.
• Cost Consideration: Temple entrance fees are extra, with a combined ticket costing $37 per person.
• Comfort and Convenience: An air-conditioned vehicle and an English-speaking guide make the experience smooth.
• Timing and Duration: Each day runs around 7-8 hours, blending sightseeing with breaks, ideal for full immersion without fatigue.

Day 1: From Sunrise to Royal Temples

The tour kicks off in the early hours, with a pickup around 5:00 am to witness the iconic Sunrise at Angkor Wat. This experience alone is a highlight for many travelers—standing before one of the world’s largest religious monuments as dawn light bathes its intricate towers. The guide usually provides some background, helping you appreciate the architectural grandeur and spiritual significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Following sunrise, the tour moves to the South Gate of Angkor Thom, where the giant smiling faces of Bayon Temple greet visitors. The name “Bayon” might evoke the famous sculptures, but it’s the atmosphere of this complex that truly captivates. The Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King are next—both offer a glimpse into the ceremonial and political life of Angkor’s royal court. Our guide, often a local with detailed knowledge, can share stories behind the mysterious carvings, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

A visit to Ta Prohm, famously known as the “Tomb Raider temple,” is a must. Its roots intertwined with stone walls foster a mystical vibe that makes it stand apart from other sites. Many travelers mention its “jungle overgrown ambiance,” making it a favorite for photographers and history buffs alike.

Lunch at Sras Srong provides a needed break. The tour’s flexibility means they only arrange transportation to the destination; you’re free to choose your own food options or relax at a nearby restaurant. Afterward, visits to Banteay Kdei and the Kravan Temple round out the afternoon, with the tour wrapping up around 1 pm—perfectly paced to avoid temple fatigue.

Day 2: Hidden Gems and Artistic Masterpieces

Starting at 8:00 am, Day 2 takes a slightly later start, giving you time to rest after the early morning. This day emphasizes some of the less-visited but equally stunning sites. The journey begins with the North Gate of Bayon and continues to Preah Khan, a sprawling monastery complex with a labyrinth of corridors and carved stone. It’s less crowded but packed with carved lintels and intriguing corridors—ideal for those craving a more intimate experience.

Next is Neak Poan, a small island temple set amidst a water reservoir, which is unique because of its tranquil pond and the legend of healing waters. Then, the East Mebon, offering elevated views and impressive architecture, serves as a lovely break before lunch.

A highlight of the afternoon is the visit to Banteay Srei, known as the “Citadel of the Women” for its intricate pink sandstone carvings. The 37 km journey from Siem Reap is worth it for the exquisite detail preserved in this temple, which is often praised for its craftsmanship. Following this, the tour continues with Prei Roup, a striking temple with a more atmospheric, less touristy vibe, typically appreciated for its ruins and peaceful setting.

Practical Aspects and What to Expect

Transportation: An air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the long drives between sites, especially on Day 2. The private nature of the tour means you won’t be stuck in a large group, allowing for flexibility and personalized pacing.

Guides: The English-speaking guides are well-versed in Angkor’s history. Reviewers have noted that guides like Sokphean are knowledgeable and engaging, often sharing stories and facts that you won’t find in guidebooks.

Timing: Early starts, such as 5:00 am for sunrise, are demanding but rewarding. You’ll need to wake up before dawn, but the cool morning temperature and the chance to see Angkor at dawn make it worthwhile.

Budget Considerations: The tour price is $179 per person, which includes transportation, guide, and pickup/drop-off. However, temple tickets are an additional $37, and Banteay Srei’s admission fee isn’t included, so budget extra if you want to visit all sites without missing out.

Flexibility: The schedule is set but designed to give you a full experience. If certain sites are more appealing, your guide can adjust the pace slightly, but overall, it’s a comprehensive itinerary.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Insights

One frequent comment from travelers highlights the depth of knowledge their guides provided. For example, hearing about the mysteries of the Terrace of the Leper King or the architectural symbolism of Banteay Srei’s intricate carvings enriched the visit significantly. Several reviews appreciated how the guides explained the historical context, making the ruins more meaningful.

Another point that came up repeatedly was the importance of early mornings for visiting Angkor Wat. Many enjoyed the serenity and the chance to avoid the crowds, which can overwhelm later in the day. The sunrise photo opportunities are not only iconic but also offer a moment of peaceful reflection before the busy day.

While most found the pace comfortable, some noted that the long hours can be tiring, especially for those unaccustomed to early mornings and extensive walking. However, the air-conditioned vehicle helped keep everyone comfortable between sites.

Who will love this tour?

This private 2-day tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive and personalized experience at Angkor. It suits those eager to see the main sites with expert guidance, especially if they prefer to skip the chaos of large group tours. Photographers, history enthusiasts, and culture seekers will find this itinerary particularly rewarding.

It’s perfect for visitors who value flexibility and comfort and are willing to invest a bit more for a curated experience. However, budget-conscious travelers should remember that additional costs like entrance fees add to the overall expense.

Final thoughts

This tour delivers a well-rounded introduction to Angkor’s most impressive and meaningful sites. The combination of early mornings, a private guide, and a thoughtfully curated itinerary provides a balanced mix of adventure and reflection. While it’s a longer day, the experience is immersive and authentic, giving a real sense of the grandeur and mystique of Angkor.

For those wanting to make the most of their limited time in Siem Reap and appreciate cultural richness and historical depth, this tour offers excellent value—especially if you prefer a private, flexible approach. Just remember to factor in additional costs for temple entries and be prepared for the early starts, which are part of the charm of witnessing Angkor at its most tranquil.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off. However, temple entrance fees are extra.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. The tour only arranges transportation to the sites. You can choose your own lunch spots at Sras Srong or other nearby options.

What is the starting time?
Day 1 begins at 5:00 am for the sunrise at Angkor Wat. Day 2 starts at 8:00 am to allow for some rest after the early start.

How long are the sightseeing days?
Each day lasts around 7-8 hours, including visits, breaks, and some downtime, providing plenty of time to explore comfortably.

Do I need to buy temple tickets in advance?
No, tickets are purchased on arrival. The combined ticket for the main temples costs $37 per person, and Banteay Srei’s admission fee is not included.

Can the itinerary be customized?
While the schedule is set, guides are generally flexible enough to accommodate special interests or adjustments if possible.

Is this suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but expect early mornings and some walking. It’s best suited for those who enjoy guided tours and want an in-depth experience.

What if I want a shorter or longer tour?
This specific tour is designed as a 2-day experience. For shorter or more extended visits, other options may be available through the provider.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera are essential. It’s also helpful to carry cash for entrance fees and personal expenses.

To sum it up, this private 2-day temple tour offers a thoughtfully curated, comfortable way to explore Angkor’s most famous sites, with expert guidance and personalized service. It’s perfect for visitors eager to deepen their understanding of Cambodia’s archaeological marvels while enjoying the flexibility of a private experience. While it demands a bit of early rising and additional expense for tickets, the memories and insights gained will be well worth the effort.