Two Day Trip out of Phnom Penh Capital City

Planning a quick escape from Phnom Penh’s bustling streets? This two-day private tour offers an enriching experience that combines ancient temples, scenic landscapes, and Cambodia’s natural beauty—all away from the typical tourist crowds. With knowledgeable guides helping you navigate each site, this trip promises a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s heritage and natural wonders.

What really makes this tour shine is the opportunity to explore lesser-visited sites like Ta Prohm, Phnom Chisor, and Tamao Mountain Zoo—places that often don’t make it onto the standard itineraries. Plus, you get the comfort of private transportation and personalized attention. That said, keep in mind that some entrance fees are not included, so budgeting extra for tickets is worth considering.

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a balance of cultural exploration, nature encounters, and authentic local life. If you’re the type who loves discovering hidden gems without the hustle and bustle of large tour groups, this trip will suit you well.

Key Points

• Customized private tour with expert guides offering in-depth insights
• Focus on temples, landscapes, and wildlife away from typical tourist spots
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off
• Accessible for moderate physical activity; some walking involved
• Includes local knowledge for off-the-beaten-path experiences
• Cost-effective for groups up to six people, with good value for the price

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Temples and Natural Sites

The journey begins with a pickup from your hotel lobby, setting a relaxed tone for the days ahead. Your guide, well-versed in Cambodian history and culture, will lead you through a series of fascinating sites, starting with Tonle Bati. Here, you’ll see Ta Prohm, a temple built by King Jayavarman VII on a site that dates back to the 6th century. The main sanctuary, with its five chambers containing lingams (symbols of Shiva), are impressive but what really captures attention is the tree growing on and around the structure—an iconic image of Cambodia’s temples that shows nature reclaiming human creations.

Next, you’ll visit Yeay Peau Temple, named after King Ta Prohm’s mother—an evocative spot surrounded by legends. Although the admission tickets are not included, the experience of walking through these ancient, partially overgrown ruins offers a profound sense of history and serenity.

From there, the tour takes you up Phnom Chisor, a 133-meter-high hill topped with an 11th-century temple dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu. Built during the Khmer Empire, this site offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The climb and exploration of the temple’s carved sandstone lintels make for a rewarding experience, especially if you’re interested in architecture and history.

The afternoon includes a visit to Prasat Neang Khmau, a heavily damaged temple built by King Jayavarman IV for Brahman worship. While the site has suffered from time and conflict, its ruins and the stories behind them add layers to your understanding of Cambodia’s spiritual past.

Finally, the day winds down at Tamao Mountain, home to the largest zoo in Cambodia, Tamao Zoo. With over 1,200 animals including elephants, tigers, bears, and crocodiles, this is a fantastic chance to connect with Cambodia’s wildlife and enjoy the lush, well-maintained grounds.

Day 2: Historical Capitals and Ancient Cities

Starting with a hearty breakfast, you’ll be driven to Phnom Udong, the former royal capital from 1618 to 1866. The hilltop location offers sweeping views and houses various pagodas and stupas containing royal remains. Walking through the sacred sites here gives a tangible sense of Cambodia’s royal history, and the panoramic vistas make the climb worthwhile.

Your next stop is Longvek, once the kingdom’s capital during the Middle Ages from 1528 to 1594. Here, you’ll visit Wat Traleng Keng, a contemporary monastery rich in history. Its grounds include two pagodas, and you can see remnants from the past—ancient sandstone fragments, sema stones, and a laterite base. This site provides a fascinating glimpse into Cambodia’s medieval period and offers a peaceful atmosphere away from busy tourist spots.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

• Personalized Guidance: The guides’ in-depth knowledge enhances your understanding of each site, with insights that go beyond basic facts.
• Authentic Experiences: Visiting sites like Neang Khmau temple and Longvek provides a sense of Cambodia’s lesser-known history.
• Comfort and Convenience: Private transportation, hotel pickups, and drops make the journey smooth and hassle-free.
• Wildlife Encounters: Tamao Zoo adds a fun, family-friendly element, allowing close encounters with Cambodian fauna.

Practical Aspects and Value

At $434 for the entire group, this tour offers good value considering the private guide, transportation, and multiple sites covered. The price excludes entrance fees, which is typical, but it’s worth budgeting an extra amount for tickets. The included free drinking water keeps you hydrated, and the insurance adds peace of mind.

The tour lasts approximately two days, with most sites being around 1–3 hours each. The pace is moderate, suitable for travelers with a reasonable level of mobility—walking and climbing stairs are involved, but nothing extreme.

The group size up to six people ensures a personalized experience without feeling overly intimate or crowded—a good balance for those wanting a sense of privacy with some social interaction.

Authenticity and Local Insights

From feedback, guides like Siem Reap are praised for their knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging manner. They’re adept at sharing local legends, historical context, and even little-known facts that bring each site alive. For instance, some reviewers appreciated how guides explained the significance of the trees growing through temple ruins, adding emotional depth to the ruins’ visual impact.

Travelers also commend the stunning views from Phnom Chisor and the peaceful atmosphere at Udong Hill, which offer more than just sightseeing—they evoke a sense of Cambodia’s resilience and spiritual history.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This two-day experience is perfect for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers eager to see Cambodia’s temples and ancient capitals without the crowds. It’s also suitable for families or small groups who appreciate guided tours and want a flexible, personalized itinerary. Nature lovers will enjoy the wildlife at Tamao Zoo, and anyone interested in off-the-beaten-path sites will find this tour a rewarding way to understand Cambodia beyond Angkor Wat.

It’s a good pick for travelers with moderate fitness levels who are comfortable with walking and climbing stairs. If you’re seeking a relaxed pace with plenty of expert narration, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Final Thoughts

This private two-day trip offers a well-rounded peek into Cambodia’s ancient past, natural beauty, and local life. The combination of insightful guides, less touristy sites, and scenic views makes it stand out from more generic day trips. For travelers wanting to deepen their understanding of Cambodia’s culture, history, and wildlife, this tour provides excellent value and authentic experiences.

While it doesn’t include admission fees, the overall experience, guided insights, and comfortable transportation justify the cost. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a small-group, personalized approach, and who want to avoid the crowds while exploring Cambodia’s quieter, meaningful locations.

FAQ

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the entrance tickets are not included. You should budget extra for paying at each site.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour for up to six people, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, but travelers should have a moderate fitness level as some walking and climbing are involved.

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package, making it convenient.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so you may want to bring snacks or plan for meals during the tour.

What is the best time of day for this tour?
Most sites are best explored in the cooler hours of the morning or late afternoon, especially for the outdoor temples.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, guides are usually flexible; you can discuss additional sites or interests with your guide beforehand.

To sum it up, this two-day private trip from Phnom Penh balances cultural discovery with natural beauty and wildlife encounters. It’s a fantastic way to explore Cambodia’s quieter, more meaningful sites with expert guidance, making it ideal for curious travelers looking for an authentic adventure beyond the usual tourist trail.