2-Day Angkor Tour with Sunrise, Sunset & Banteay Srei temple

A Closer Look at the 2-Day Angkor Tour with Sunrise, Sunset & Banteay Srei Temple

If you’re planning a trip to Siem Reap, this 2-day guided experience offers a comprehensive and flexible way to see the highlights of Angkor Archaeological Park. For $160 per group (up to four people), you get the chance to witness spectacular sunrises at Angkor Wat, stroll through the intricate carvings of Banteay Srei, and catch breathtaking sunsets from Phnom Bakheng. The tour can be tailored with or without an English-speaking guide, making it accessible whether you want a more self-directed experience or guided insights.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances iconic sights with quieter, less crowded moments—like those early mornings at Angkor Wat and the magical sunset at Phnom Bakheng. The inclusion of hotel pickup and private transportation makes logistics smooth, especially for travelers eager to maximize their time without worrying about navigation or crowds. The only thing to consider is that the entry fee to the temples is not included—so budget an additional $62 per person if you plan to visit over three days.

This experience suits travelers who value authentic, well-organized tours and want to see the major sights without feeling rushed. It’s especially good for those who appreciate cultural insights, since the guide option (if chosen) can enrich your understanding of the temples’ history and architecture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Two-day experience: Allows a thorough exploration of Angkor’s key sites, including sunrise and sunset views.
Flexible guide options: Choose between a private driver or a guided tour for richer context.
Iconic sights: Angkor Wat, Banteay Srei, Angkor Thom, and more—each with its own story.
Early mornings: Witness the stunning sunrise at Angkor Wat, a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
Comfort and convenience: Hotel pickup, private transport, and free water enhance the day.
Additional costs: The temple pass isn’t included, so plan for $62 per person for the full experience.

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An In-Depth Review of the 2-Day Angkor Tour

Setting the Scene: What’s Included and How It Works

This tour offers a practical approach to seeing the highlights of Angkor, aimed at travelers who want a mix of guided insights and free time. You can book the trip with or without an English-speaking guide, which impacts both the price and the depth of historical commentary. The base price of $160 covers private transportation and hotel pickup and drop-off, removing the hassle of navigating Siem Reap traffic or arranging local transport.

The tour spans two days, giving you enough time to appreciate the grandeur of Angkor Wat, the serenity of Banteay Srei, and the interesting mix of temples in the Small and Big Circuits. With the flexibility to start early or later, you can customize your experience based on your travel style.

Day 1: The Big Circuit, Banteay Srei, and Sunset at Phnom Bakheng

Your first day kicks off at around 8:00 am, with your driver arriving to whisk you away. The journey begins with the Pink Temple, Banteay Srei, often called the “Citadel of Women” because of its delicate pink sandstone carvings. Built in the 10th century, Banteay Srei’s intricate details remain some of the most finely carved in the Angkor complex, offering a quieter, less crowded start to your adventure.

You’ll then visit Preah Khan, an enormous monastic complex with atmospheric corridors and crumbling pillars. Following that, Neak Pean—a tiny, island-based temple—provides a peaceful spot for reflection. The tour continues with Ta Som, East Mebon, and Pre Rup, which offers a stunning sunset view from its upper terraces.

What we particularly liked here was the balance between popular sights and lesser-known gems. For example, Neak Pean’s tranquil pond creates a surprising sense of calm amid the day’s busy schedule. The sunset at Phnom Bakheng caps the day with a sweeping view of Angkor’s jungle, though it can get crowded, so arriving early helps.

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Day 2: The Early Sunrise and the Small Circuit Highlights

On your second day, we suggest an early start at 4:45 am to catch the magnificent sunrise at Angkor Wat. The sight of the first light illuminating the iconic towers is truly unforgettable. You’ll have about four hours to explore the temple, walking through its corridors and viewing the intricate bas-reliefs.

After breakfast, your guide or driver will take you on the Small Circuit, which includes highlights like Angkor Thom (the grand ancient capital), the Bayon Temple with its smiling stone faces, and Ta Prohm—the famous temple overrun by jungle, as seen in “Tomb Raider.” The natural wonder of Ta Prohm often draws a lot of praise, with travelers describing its “magical” atmosphere. The tour winds down at Banteay Kdei and Prasat Kravan, each offering a quieter, more contemplative experience.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The combination of timed visits—like sunrise at Angkor Wat and sunset at Phnom Bakheng—delivers those awe-inspiring moments everyone dreams of. The flexibility to choose guided or self-guided options allows you to decide how much historical context you want, which can make a big difference in your appreciation of these ancient sites.

And the private transportation ensures you get to move efficiently between sites, avoiding the hassle of crowded tuk-tuks or poorly timed group tours. Plus, the provision of cool bottled water keeps you refreshed throughout the long days.

The Authentic Experience and Practical Tips

Many travelers appreciate the personalized service—the driver or guide arrives promptly, and the itinerary covers major highlights without feeling rushed. Since the entrance fee isn’t included, it’s wise to budget an additional $62 per person; it’s a fair price for three days of access.

A few reviewers mentioned the early start can be challenging but worth it for the cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, especially at Angkor Wat. Some also noted that the sunset at Phnom Bakheng can be busy, but arriving early guarantees a good spot.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free experience without sacrificing depth or authenticity. It suits those who enjoy combining guided insights with free time, as well as anyone wanting to witness the best sunrise and sunset views in Angkor. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups who prefer a private, tailored experience.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a well-organized, immersive experience that balances major sights with quieter moments, this 2-day Angkor tour hits the mark. It offers excellent value for the price, especially when you consider transportation, hotel pickup, and water included. Travelers who value timed moments like sunrise and sunset will find this itinerary particularly rewarding.

However, if you’re a history buff craving deep guided commentary, the optional guide upgrade will be well worth it. Conversely, those on a tighter budget might prefer to buy the temple pass separately and explore at their own pace.

This tour provides a practical and memorable way to see the essence of Angkor—its temples, its magic, and its history—all delivered with comfort and flexibility.

FAQ

Does this tour include the entrance fee for Angkor temples?
No, the temple pass is not included. You’ll need to budget an additional $62 per person for access to the sites over three days.

Can I choose to have an English-speaking guide?
Yes, during booking, you can select an option that includes both a driver and an English-speaking historical guide, which adds valuable context to your visits.

What time does the tour start?
Start times vary; early mornings begin around 4:45 am for the sunrise, while daytime starts around 8:00 am. Check availability when booking for exact timings.

How long are the stops at each site?
Stops range from 20 minutes at smaller temples like Prasat Kravan to 4 hours at Angkor Wat, allowing enough time for exploration and photos.

Is the tour suitable for families or elderly travelers?
Yes, as long as participants are comfortable with early mornings and walking. It’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of water. A camera is a must for capturing the stunning sights.

How does the transportation work?
A private, air-conditioned vehicle will pick you up from your hotel and take you between sites, saving you from cumbersome local transport.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour, so your group will be just you, your companions, and your guide or driver.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This 2-day Angkor tour balances iconic sights, genuine comfort, and cultural richness. It’s an excellent choice for travelers eager to see the best of Angkor with a mix of guided insight and personal exploration.