Siem Reap: 2-Days Angkor Wat with Sunrise Small-Group Tour

Siem Reap: 2-Days Angkor Wat with Sunrise Small-Group Tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into Cambodia’s most iconic temples for just $12 per person. For one or two days, this tour takes you through the sprawling Angkor complex, including the famous Sunrise at Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm’s overgrown ruins, and the intricate carvings of Banteay Srei.

What we love about this experience is the attention to detail — from cooling towels during hot walks to knowledgeable guides who bring the temples’ stories to life. Plus, the small-group size ensures a more personal feel, avoiding the overwhelming crowds that often accompany larger tours.

A possible consideration is the early morning wake-up call, especially on Day 2, when pickup begins at around 4:20 am. If you’re not an early riser or have limited mobility, this might be a challenge, but it’s also what makes the sunrise experience so special.

This tour suits travelers who want a deep, structured visit with expert guidance without breaking the bank. It’s especially ideal if you’re eager to see both the must-see sites and some lesser-visited temples in a comfortable, hassle-free way.

Key Points

• Great value for money: For just $12, you get a well-rounded, guided two-day experience with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Expert guides: Their knowledge adds a layer of depth to each site, making history and culture come alive.
• Comfortable transportation: An air-conditioned vehicle, cold water, and towels keep you cool and refreshed.
• Breathtaking sights: From sunrise at Angkor Wat to jungle overgrowth at Ta Prohm, the visuals are unforgettable.
• Flexible scheduling: The tour can be adjusted depending on your preferences, including swapping days if needed.
• Limited to certain travelers: Not suitable for children under 8 or those with mobility issues, due to early starts and temple terrain.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Angkor Experience

Getting the Most Out of Two Days in Siem Reap

When you book this tour, you’re signing up for a packed yet manageable schedule that hits many of the highlights of Angkor’s vast temple complex. For just $12 (which we agree is a steal for what’s included), you get transportation, a guide, and a carefully curated itinerary that makes sure you see the main attractions without feeling rushed.

Day 1: Banteay Srei and the Grand Circuit

You’ll start with a drive to Pre Rup, a late 10th-century Hindu temple with a distinct stepped pyramid shape. It’s not just a photo op; it’s a quieter spot that sets the tone for the day. Then, the real highlight: Banteay Srei. This small temple is often called the “Pink Temple” because of its intricate red sandstone carvings. The detailed reliefs are so delicate that they seem like miniature works of art, and many reviews mention how special it is to see such craftsmanship up close.

After a hearty lunch (often outside the temples), you’ll visit Neak Pean, a Buddhist temple built on a man-made island, which offers a peaceful break from the crowds. The day wraps up at Preah Khan, a sprawling, atmospheric complex where jungle roots intertwine with stone walls, a favorite among those who love to see temples overgrown and mysterious.

What we love about Day 1 is the variety—from the detailed carvings of Banteay Srei to the atmospheric ruins of Preah Khan. Many reviews praised the guide’s explanations, noting how they deepened understanding of the temples’ history and significance. For instance, Ana raved about the guide Mr. Pal and driver Mr. Vichet, saying they explained everything clearly and thoughtfully.

Day 2: Sunrise, Ta Prohm and Angkor Thom

The early morning pickup for Day 2 makes for a long day, starting around 4:20 am to catch the sunrise at Angkor Wat. Watching the sun rise over the largest religious monument in the world is a bucket-list moment — the sky lighting up behind the silhouette of the temple towers is truly unforgettable. Plus, you’ll beat some of the crowds that arrive later, making it more peaceful to photograph and absorb the scene.

After breakfast outside Angkor Wat, you’ll explore its interior, including the corridors and terraces. From there, the tour continues at Ta Prohm — that iconic temple where massive trees grow through crumbling stone walls, popularized by movies like Tomb Raider. Many reviewers mention how overgrown and photogenic it is, creating an atmosphere that feels like stepping into a jungle adventure.

Next, you’ll visit the Eastern Gate of Angkor Thom, with its carved stone faces and statues of gods and demons. The city’s walls enclose Bayon Temple, famous for its many smiling stone faces, which seem to watch you from every angle. You’ll also pass by the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King, which add to the sense of ancient grandeur.

The tour concludes mid-day, with plenty of time to rest or explore further on your own if desired.

Reviews from past travelers highlight guides like Sokhpee, Bun, and others, noting how their detailed stories and personal anecdotes made these sites come alive. One reviewer mentioned how their guide deciphered ancient scriptures thanks to his background as a monk, adding a rare depth to the experience.

What You Can Expect: Practical Details and Experience

Transportation and Group Size:
The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a relief after walking in the heat. You’ll travel with a small group, typically around 10-15 people, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible. Many reviews emphasize the value of the small-group setup, mentioning how it avoids the chaos of large crowds and allows for more personalized attention.

Guides and Commentary:
Guides are fluent in English, knowledgeable, and eager to share their insights. The reviews repeatedly praise guides for being passionate, well-informed, and personable. They often go beyond just facts, sharing anecdotes and answering questions, making the temples’ stories more meaningful.

Comfort and Refreshments:
Given the heat, the complimentary bottled water and cold towels are highly appreciated, especially during the midday heat or after climbing stairs. Many reviewers mention how these small touches made the experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

Timing and Flexibility:
Pickup times are early, especially on Day 2, but this allows you to see the sunrise — a highlight for many travelers. The schedule can be adjusted if needed, a helpful feature if you prefer a later start or want to customize your experience.

Cost and Value:
At only $12 per person, this tour provides an outstanding value considering the inclusions: guides, transportation, water, towels, and a well-designed itinerary. The ticket to the temples is not included and costs around $62 for 2-3 days, but that’s a small extra for such extensive access.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want a guided, comprehensive visit to Angkor. If you’re a history lover or an avid photographer, the early sunrise and overgrown temples will appeal. The small-group setting is ideal if you dislike large crowds and want a more personal, relaxed atmosphere.

However, if you or your travel companions have limited mobility or prefer a more leisurely pace, the early starts and temple terrain might be challenging. The tour also isn’t suitable for children under 8 or those in wheelchairs.

Final Thoughts

This two-day Angkor Wat tour offers excellent value for the price, combining professional guides, thoughtful logistics, and unforgettable sights. It balances guided expertise with enough free time to explore on your own, making it ideal for travelers who want depth without hassle.

Many travelers have praised the guides’ knowledge, the comfortable transportation, and the thoughtfully timed schedule. The included cold towels and water, along with the sunrise experience, elevate the trip from a standard sightseeing tour to a memorable adventure.

Whether you’re visiting Cambodia for the first time or returning to soak in the temples again, this tour provides a well-organized, authentic experience that captures the essence of Angkor.

FAQ

What does the tour include?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and cold towels. Entrance to the temples is not included but can be purchased separately.

How long does the tour last?
It spans 1 to 2 days, depending on your booking. Day 1 ends around 4-5 pm, while Day 2 starts early morning at around 4:20 am and ends by early afternoon.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 8 years old due to early mornings and walking involved. Check your comfort with early starts and temple terrain.

Can I customize the schedule?
Yes, the timing can be swapped or adjusted based on your preferences, with some travelers choosing to start later or skip certain sites.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), insect repellent, and light, breathable clothing are recommended.

Is the tour good for photography?
Absolutely. Many reviews praise the guides’ photography tips, and the early sunrise offers fantastic photo opportunities of Angkor Wat’s silhouette.

What about the price?
At just $12, this tour provides excellent value, especially considering the guides’ knowledge and included amenities. The temple pass is an additional cost.

Does the tour cover all major temples?
It covers many highlights — Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, Bayon, Banteay Srei, Preah Khan, and others — but not every temple in the complex.

What’s the best time to do this tour?
The sunrise tour on Day 2 is a highlight, best experienced when the weather is clear. The early start is worth it for the stunning visuals and fewer crowds.

Is there anything I should know about the guides?
Reviews consistently mention guides being passionate, knowledgeable, and eager to answer questions, often sharing personal stories that deepen the visit.

In short, this tour offers a balanced, well-organized way to see Cambodia’s most famous temples without feeling overwhelmed. With expert guides, thoughtful logistics, and unforgettable views, it’s a solid choice for travelers eager to learn and photograph their way through Angkor.

You can check availability for your dates here: