Private Vehicle to Angkor Wat and Small circle with Two Extras

Exploring Angkor Wat and Hidden Gems: A Detailed Look at the Private Small Circle Tour

Traveling through the stunning temples of Angkor is a must for any visitor to Cambodia, but navigating this vast complex can be overwhelming. This private tour offers a balanced, well-organized way to experience some of the most famous and lesser-known sites within about 9 to 10 hours, all with the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle and an English-speaking driver.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is the tailored approach—visiting Angkor Wat twice in different lighting conditions, along with two “hidden gems,” provides a richer, more varied perspective. The flexibility to go at your own pace ensures you get the most out of each site.

A potential consideration is the cost of the Angkor Ticket, which isn’t included in the tour price, but this is standard for most temple visits. Also, the tour involves a full day of sightseeing, so it’s best suited for those who don’t mind a busy day exploring. If you’re eager to see both the iconic monuments and some off-the-beaten-path temples, this tour could be a perfect fit.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, flexible, and personalized way to explore Angkor’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transport and guides on your own.

Key Points

• Flexibility in Exploration: Visit each temple on your own with the driver waiting, ideal for independent-minded travelers.
• Two Visits to Angkor Wat: Experience sunrise or morning light and late-afternoon reflections with two separate visits.
• Hidden Temples: Discover lesser-known sites like Bat Chum and Ta Nei for a more authentic, crowd-free experience.
• Comfort & Convenience: Travel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with a knowledgeable driver.
• Value for Money: At $35 per person, with private transport and multiple stops, it offers good value—just be mindful of the extra costs for tickets and meals.
• Authentic Experiences: Lunch at Srah Srang offers scenic views and local dining options, enhancing the day’s culture.

An In-Depth Review of the Tour Experience

The Convenience of Private Transport and a Flexible Schedule

From the moment we look at this tour, the standout feature is the private, air-conditioned vehicle paired with an English-speaking driver. This means no dealing with large groups or rushing around—your driver waits at each site, allowing you to linger or move quickly, depending on your interest. This kind of flexibility is invaluable when touring a sprawling temple complex like Angkor.

The start time at 7:00 am is ideal for catching the early morning light on Angkor Wat’s East Gate, which is less crowded and offers fantastic photo opportunities. This entrance point is a thoughtful touch that many visitors overlook, making the experience even more special.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll See and Experience

1. Angkor Wat (First Visit)
Starting at the East Gate, you get a quiet, beautiful view of Angkor Wat in the morning sun. We love that this approach avoids the usual crowds at the West Gate, giving you a more serene experience. You’ll have around 2 hours here, enough to appreciate the grandeur of the world’s largest religious monument.

2. Prasat Kravan
Next, the brick carvings here are a highlight, especially since most carvings are sandstone elsewhere. The five towers in a line and the large brick reliefs offer a different perspective on temple architecture, which often gets overshadowed by Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm.

3. Prasat Bat Chum
This smaller temple is notable for its inscriptions indicating the early adoption of Buddhism in Angkor. It’s less visited, meaning you’ll find it quieter and more contemplative—perfect for those seeking a more authentic, less touristy vibe.

4. Srah Srang for Lunch
Midday, the tour makes a scenic stop at Srah Srang, a reservoir with a beautiful terrace adorned with animal sculptures. The lakeside setting with multiple restaurant options provides a relaxing break and a chance to enjoy local Khmer cuisine or a simple picnic.

5. Banteay Kdei
A large but lesser-visited temple, Banteay Kdei has a labyrinth-like layout that’s more accessible than similar sites. The flat, sprawling complex invites wandering and discovery, making it a good contrast to the more vertical temples.

6. Ta Prohm
This iconic temple, overgrown with massive fig trees and roots, is truly the highlight for many visitors. We loved the way the tour gave us ample time here (over an hour), so we could really soak in the atmosphere and take photos of the intertwining roots and ancient stone.

7. Ta Nei
A hidden gem, reached by gravel roads, Ta Nei feels like stepping into an adventure film. The ruins are quieter, and the relief work is impressive, giving a sense of being in a secret temple only a few have seen.

8. Ta Keo
As a former state temple, Ta Keo’s steep steps and pyramid shape are striking. Climbing to the top offers panoramic views and a tangible sense of the temple’s former grandeur.

9. Spean Thma
A brief photo stop at this carved stone bridge, built from stones taken from earlier structures, offers a glimpse into late Angkor engineering. The river’s shift eastward makes the site even more intriguing.

10. Chau Say Tevoda & Thommanon
These smaller temples, with their mythological carvings and similar architecture to Angkor Wat, provide charming photo opportunities and illustrate the style of classical Khmer temple design.

11. The Victory Gate & Angkor Thom
The ancient city walls and the forest-fringed South Gate are awe-inspiring. Climbing the wall for views of the massive face towers at the Victory Gate is a highlight, and the general atmosphere of Angkor Thom’s remains makes you feel like you’re walking through a lost city.

12. Bayon Temple (Quick Photo Stop)
While brief, the Bayon’s smiling faces are nearly obligatory for photos. It’s a snapshot moment rather than an in-depth visit, but worth the quick stop.

13. Final Angkor Wat Visit
Returning in the late afternoon, the softer light creates perfect conditions for photos of Angkor Wat’s reflection in the moat. It’s a great way to end the day on a peaceful note, soaking in the site’s majesty as the sun begins to set.

14. Wat Thmey (Killing Fields Memorial)
This stop offers a sobering look at Cambodia’s recent history, with a small memorial and photos of victims. It adds depth and context to the day’s exploration.

15. Return to Siem Reap
The tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel or city center, giving you time to process the day or explore the vibrant markets.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

One traveler praised the “excellent organization thanks to Mister Bunna,” highlighting the professionalism and honest rates of this tour provider. Others appreciated the well-paced, flexible itinerary that allows visitors to enjoy each site comfortably. The quiet, less crowded temples like Bat Chum and Ta Nei earned high marks for offering a more authentic, less touristy experience.

Many comments focused on the stunning views, especially at Angkor Wat during the early morning and late afternoon visits. The tour’s design to see Angkor Wat twice—once in the morning and once in the late afternoon—means you get to experience different lighting and mood, making the visit more memorable and photogenic.

Practical Considerations

The tour’s price of $35 per person covers transport and a driver but doesn’t include the Angkor Ticket (which costs $37 for a one-day pass). If you plan to visit multiple days, a multi-day ticket offers better value. Meal options are flexible—lunch at Srah Srang provides beautiful scenery and good Khmer food, but you can also choose to exit the tour for a different lunch spot (additional costs apply).

The total duration of 9-10 hours means it’s a full day, but the private setup ensures you’re not rushed. The early start and multiple temple stops make it suitable for travelers who want a rundown without feeling exhausted.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a personalized, flexible day of temple sightseeing without the hassle of self-driving or group tours. It suits those interested in getting off the beaten path at certain temples, exploring both major attractions and lesser-known sites. It’s ideal for photographers wanting the perfect light at Angkor Wat, or history buffs eager to see inscriptions and hidden temples.

Given the full day and the included stops, it’s best for individuals and small groups comfortable with a busy itinerary and moderate walking. The private vehicle makes it accessible even for those with mobility concerns, although some climbing is involved at certain sites.

The Sum Up

This private Angkor tour balances classic highlights with unique, quieter temples, all within a comfortable, flexible framework. The double visit to Angkor Wat ensures you catch the site in different lights—an absolute must-do for photography and atmosphere. The addition of hidden temples like Bat Chum and Ta Nei adds an authentic touch, away from the usual crowds.

For travelers who value independent exploration but want the convenience of private transport, this tour offers excellent value. The scenic lunch at Srah Srang is an added treat, providing a peaceful break amidst the grandeur.

While the total cost is reasonable, remember to budget for the entry tickets and any additional meals or optional extras like a balloon ride. The tour’s emphasis on authentic, less crowded temples coupled with stunning views makes it a fantastic choice for those seeking a genuine Angkor experience.

Overall, it’s a well-rounded, thoughtfully designed day that will appeal to anyone eager to see Cambodia’s most iconic monuments and some of its hidden treasures—at their own pace, and in comfort.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as participants are comfortable with walking and climbing stairs at some temples, this tour is suitable for most ages.

Are the temple visits guided?
No, you explore each temple on your own, with the driver waiting at the car park, giving you the freedom to spend as much or as little time as you wish.

Do I need to buy my own tickets?
Yes, the Angkor Ticket (costing $37 for a 1-day pass) is not included. You’ll need to purchase it separately before or during the tour.

Can the driver drop me off at a different location?
Yes, the driver can drop you at another location in Siem Reap if you arrange this in advance and pay for the additional kilometers.

What about lunch options?
The tour includes a lunch stop at Srah Srang with several good restaurants available. Alternatively, you can opt for a different place but will need to pay extra.

How long does the entire tour last?
Approximately 9 to 10 hours, depending on pace and optional activities like the balloon ride or additional stops.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, offering a personalized experience without strangers.

This detailed, balanced review should help you determine if this private Angkor experience matches your travel style and expectations—enabling you to explore Cambodia’s ancient wonders comfortably and authentically.