Private Two Day Trip in Siem Reap

A Practical and Authentic Two-Day Experience in Siem Reap

When considering a trip to Siem Reap, a private two-day tour like this offers a well-rounded glimpse into Cambodia’s timeless charm. Covering iconic temples, cultural sites, and a floating village, it’s designed for travelers who want a comprehensive yet personalized experience. One aspect we really appreciate is the flexibility this private tour offers—your own guide and transportation mean you can tailor the pace and focus on what interests you most.

However, it’s worth noting that some of the key attractions require an admission fee (like Angkor Wat at $37 per person and boat tickets at $15). Still, for the quality of guided insights, seamless transfers, and exclusive access, the cost offers solid value for travelers keen to see the best of Siem Reap without the stress of group tours.

This experience is perfect for those who value local insights, want a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s history and daily life, and prefer a flexible schedule. If you’re traveling with a small group or family, the private setting ensures a more intimate, less hurried day.

Key Points

• Customized Private Tour: You’ll enjoy personalized guidance and transportation, ideal for a tailored experience.
• Rich Itinerary: Combines essential temples and a floating village for a full culture.
• Authentic Local Insights: Guides share detailed stories about each site and local life, making the history come alive.
• Includes Major Attractions: Visits to Angkor Thom, Bayon, Ta Prohm, and Angkor Wat ensure you see the highlights.
• Water & Culture: Day 2’s trip to Kompong Phluk offers a glimpse into everyday life on Tonle Sap Lake.
• Cost and Entry Fees: While the tour costs $263.54, the entrance fees (about $37 per person plus boat tickets) add to the overall expense but are worth the experience.

This private two-day tour packs an impressive punch, blending awe-inspiring temples, authentic floating villages, and hands-on crafts. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to maximize their time with a knowledgeable guide, rather than wandering alone through the sprawling Angkor complex. Here’s a detailed look at what makes this trip a valuable and memorable adventure.

Day 1: A Journey Through Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat

Starting at Angkor Thom South Gate

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel in Siem Reap, setting the tone for a personalized experience. The first stop is the South Gate of Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Angkorian Empire. The sight of the two rows of Deva and Demon statues holding the Naga serpents is striking—a vivid reminder of the mythological stories woven into Cambodia’s ancient architecture. Walking across the gate, you’ll notice the four giant faces that seem to gaze down at you, offering a photo opportunity and a sense of stepping back in time.

The Iconic Bayon Temple

Next, we visit the Bayon Temple, famous for its 49 serene faces surrounding its central structure. As the guide shares stories about the daily lives of Angkorian residents, you’ll get a clearer picture of the civilization’s sophistication. The detailed carvings and the temple’s layout make it a favorite among travelers seeking meaningful cultural insights.

Exploring Baphuon and Phimeanakas

From there, it’s a short walk to Baphuon, a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva with three levels—think of it as a mini-city carved into stone. Its reconstruction after years of jungle growth is a story in itself, reflecting Cambodia’s resilience. Then, inside the Royal Palace complex, Phimeanakas awaits—a smaller but significant temple that gives a glimpse into royal religious practices.

The Terrace of the Elephants and Leper King

Walking toward the Terrace of the Elephants, you’re greeted with intricate carvings of elephants, demonstrating the artistry of the Khmer. The nearby Terrace of the Leper King was historically used as a royal platform but also served as a hospital, adding historical depth beyond its carved exteriors.

The Jungle Enigma, Ta Prohm

Before lunch, you’ll visit Ta Prohm, the jungle-temple made famous by the “Tomb Raider” film. Here, towering trees intertwine with ancient stones, creating a surreal atmosphere. This site’s combination of nature and architecture makes it one of the most visually stunning temples.

The Grandeur of Angkor Wat

The finale of Day 1 is the magnificent Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Spending around three hours here, you can explore its intricate bas-reliefs, towering spires, and peaceful reflection pools. Most visitors find this awe-inspiring, especially as the sun begins to set or rise, depending on timing.

Day 2: Floating Villages and Local Art

Kompong Phluk: Life on Tonle Sap Lake

The second day begins with a transfer to Kompong Phluk, a stilted village on the edge of the Tonle Sap Lake. You’ll board a boat and see firsthand how locals adapt to the fluctuating water levels—most households own both boats and motorbikes, a vivid reminder of their resourcefulness. The highlight here is the Flooded Forest, accessible by boat during the rainy season, providing a hauntingly beautiful view of submerged trees and homes.

Several reviewers have noted that this tour segment offers “a rare glimpse into everyday life”, with one mentioning that the community’s harmony and resilience are genuinely inspiring. Keep in mind, entrance fees are not included, so budget around $15 per person for the boat.

Artisans Angkor: Crafting Cambodia’s Future

After returning to Siem Reap, you’ll visit Artisans Angkor, a social enterprise supporting local artisans. Here, skilled craftsmen produce lacquerware, stone carvings, and silver items—all showcasing Cambodia’s craftsmanship. This visit offers a meaningful shopping experience; many travelers appreciate the opportunity to see artisans at work and purchase authentic souvenirs directly from the source.

Practical Details & What to Expect

The tour is designed for small groups, with a private guide who shares expert insights. The transportation is comfortable, and everything is arranged to keep your day flowing smoothly, including hotel pickups and drops. The admission fee for temples and boat rides is not included, but the guide will assist with tickets, ensuring you don’t waste time in queues.

The overall cost of around $263.54 per group includes the private guide, transport, water, and insurance, which makes it a fair deal considering the depth of experience. Keep in mind, to access the major temples, each person should budget for $37 for the temple tickets, plus additional for boat rides.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer appreciated the “knowledgeable guides” who shared fascinating stories about each site, making history come alive. Another mentioned that the views at Angkor Wat are breathtaking, especially with the guide explaining the significance of each architectural detail. The boat tour at Tonle Sap Lake was described as “eerie yet beautiful,” offering a side of Cambodia few travelers see.

Some noted that timing is key—starting early helps avoid the crowds and heat, especially at Angkor Wat. The flexibility of the private tour was praised for allowing custom pacing; if you want to spend more time at a specific site or skip a less-interesting one, your guide will accommodate.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This two-day private tour is a fantastic way to get a comprehensive, immersive look at Siem Reap’s most iconic sights and authentic local life. It’s especially suited for travelers who want an expert-guided experience that balances history, culture, and local insights. The inclusion of a floating village experience adds depth to your understanding of Cambodia’s relationship with its environment.

The value here is in the personalized attention, expert guidance, and the chance to cover major sites comfortably within a well-organized itinerary. While the entrance fees are extra, the overall experience offers great value for those eager to learn, see, and connect with Cambodia beyond just photos.

If you’re someone who appreciates meaningful stories, stunning visuals, and prefers a less hurried, more curated experience, this tour is a solid choice. It’s ideal for small groups or families wanting a private journey that balances highlights with genuine local encounters.

Is this a private tour? Yes, this is exclusively for your group, offering personalized guidance and transportation.
How long does each day last? The itinerary is designed for approximately two days, with each day covering 6-8 hours including travel, visits, and meals.
Are admission fees included? No, the temple and boat tickets are paid separately—around $37 per person for temple entry and $15 for boat rides.
Can I customize the schedule? Since it’s a private tour, your guide can adapt the pace or focus more on sites you find particularly interesting.
Is food included? No, meals are not included; you’ll have opportunities for lunch during the day.
What is the group size? The tour is designed for groups of up to 6 people, making it intimate and flexible.
Is this suitable for all ages? Generally, yes, but consider physical mobility if visiting temples with uneven terrain or climbing stairs.

This detailed, balanced tour review should help you decide whether this two-day adventure in Siem Reap fits your travel style—combining history, culture, nature, and genuine local life, all with the comfort of a private guide.