From Siem Reap: Angkor Wat Sunrise Small Group Tour

From Siem Reap: Angkor Wat Sunrise Small Group Tour
Location: Siem Reap Province, Cambodia
Country: Cambodia
Rating: 5
Price: $39 per person
Supplier: GREEN ERA TRAVEL

A Morning You Won’t Forget — The Key Details

Imagine waking up before dawn, heading out in a small, comfortable vehicle, and watching the first light spill over Angkor Wat, one of the most iconic religious monuments in the world. For just $39, this 6-hour guided tour offers an intimate look at Cambodia’s ancient temples, accompanied by a friendly, English-speaking guide who’s eager to share stories and facts.

What we love most? First, the small group size—limited to 10 travelers—means you won’t be just another face in a crowd. Second, the early start allows you to beat the crowds and witness the sunrise in a peaceful setting, making the experience more magical. A possible downside? The early morning pickup—between 4 and 4:45 am—requires a good dose of early riser enthusiasm, but it’s well worth it for the quieter temples and stunning views. This tour is perfect for anyone eager to see the highlights of Angkor with a relaxed pace, rich insights, and fewer travelers blocking your photos.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re seeking an affordable, well-organized way to explore Angkor’s most celebrated sites in a manageable time frame, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for travelers who value comfort, informative guides, and a deeper understanding of the temples—and who don’t mind the early wake-up call. Perfect for first-timers or anyone wanting a well-rounded half-day adventure.

Key Points

• Early Sunrise Experience: Witness Angkor Wat at dawn, avoiding crowds and capturing unforgettable photos.
• Comprehensive Visit: See major sites like Angkor Thom, Bayon, Terrace of Elephants, and Ta Prohm.
• Guided Insights: Learn fascinating facts about each site from a knowledgeable guide.
• Comfort and Convenience: Travel in an air-conditioned minivan with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
• Value for Money: At $39, it’s an accessible way to cover multiple highlights with transportation and guide included.
• Flexible Options: After the tour, you can either return to your hotel or explore local dining options in Siem Reap.

Exploring the Temples and Their Hidden Charm

Starting Early with Angkor Wat

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup around 4 am—be prepared for an early start, but remember, it’s the best way to beat the crowds and experience Angkor Wat at sunrise. As the sky begins to lighten, you’ll get a view that postcards dream of: the silhouette of the temple complex against a fiery sky. The guide will likely share the history behind Angkor Wat’s construction during the 12th century, an engineering marvel built for the Hindu god Vishnu, and now a symbol of Cambodia.

Many reviews highlight how the sunrise experience makes the effort worthwhile. One traveler mentioned, “Watching the sunrise from Angkor Wat was a truly special moment—serene and awe-inspiring.” Arriving early also means fewer travelers blocking your photos and a more contemplative atmosphere.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring Angkor Thom and the Bayon

After the sunrise, the tour continues into Angkor Thom, the fortified city built by King Jayavarman VII in the late 12th century. Here, you’ll enter through the South Gate, flanked by towering stone figures of gods and demons—a striking introduction to the grandeur of this ancient city.

Your guide will point out the Bayon Temple, renowned for its multitude of stone faces carved into the towers. This site is a favorite for its mysterious expressions and impressive size. One reviewer loved the way the guide explained the symbolism behind the faces, making the carvings come alive.

You’ll also stroll along the Terrace of the Elephants, a wide platform used for royal ceremonies, and the Terrace of the Leper King, which is as intriguing as its name suggests. These areas give a real sense of the scale and sophistication of the Khmer civilization.

The Jungle Meets Ancient Stones at Ta Prohm

No visit to Angkor is complete without seeing Ta Prohm, often called the “jungle temple.” Here, massive tree roots and vines seem to embrace the stones, creating an atmosphere of mystery and wild beauty. The sense of nature reclaiming the ruins leaves visitors both amazed and contemplative.

One traveler described it as “a film set come to life,” and many appreciate how the guide shares stories about how this temple was left largely untouched to preserve its cinematic, overgrown look. It’s a unique spot that sits at the intersection of nature and archaeology, offering an authentic glimpse into what the temples might have looked like centuries ago.

Post-Tour Options and Practicalities

Once the tour wraps up, you have the option to return to your hotel or stay in town for a leisurely breakfast or further exploration. The tour includes bottled water and air-conditioned transport, making the long morning comfortable and hassle-free.

How the Tour Is Organized

The small-group size means more personalized attention and fewer crowds, which is a big plus when navigating the busy temple sites. The 6-hour duration packs in a lot but remains manageable, especially with the early start and comfortable transportation.

The entrance fee of $37 (not included in the booking price) is a significant additional cost, but buying tickets in advance or at the gate is straightforward. Keep in mind, the total cost for a full experience is around $76 when including entry fees.

Authentic Experiences and Valuable Insights

Our key to appreciating this tour is recognizing that it balances timing, comfort, and expert guidance. The early morning start is a bit demanding but offers the reward of peaceful, beautiful views and fewer travelers. The guide’s local knowledge adds depth—bringing stories of the temples’ construction, religious significance, and the Khmer empire’s grandeur.

One review mentioned, “Our guide was full of interesting facts and made the history come alive,” emphasizing how a good guide turns sightseeing into storytelling. Many travelers also appreciated the value, noting that for just $39, they received a comprehensive visit with transport and guidance included.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

First, the sunrise experience is a highlight—different from daytime visits where crowds dominate. Second, the visits to major sites like Bayon and Ta Prohm reveal the diversity of Angkor’s archaeology—from serene faces to dramatic jungle ruins. Lastly, the small group size ensures a more intimate, relaxed experience, ideal for those who dislike large tour buses and crowded viewpoints.

Practical Tips for Your Journey

• Bring a flashlight – early mornings mean darkStart, and a flashlight helps navigate the temples.
• Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll be walking on uneven surfaces.
• Pack biodegradable insect repellent – Cambodia’s jungle areas can harbor insects.
• Prepare for early wake-up – setting an alarm and getting a good night’s sleep beforehand pays off.
• Budget for entrance fees – $37 per person for the temples, separate from the tour cost.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour For You?

If you’re after an affordable, well-organized way to see Angkor’s highlights with minimal fuss, this tour is a fantastic choice. Its early start, inclusive transportation, and small group size provide a balanced combination of comfort and authenticity. It’s perfect for first-time visitors eager to get a taste of Cambodia’s most famous monuments without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Travelers who appreciate timing for photography, want to avoid crowds, or are interested in the stories behind the stones will find this tour rewarding. The experience of watching the sunrise, combined with expert guidance and a manageable schedule, makes it a memorable way to connect with Angkor’s ancient splendors.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early do I need to wake up?
The pickup is between 4 and 4:45 am, so be ready early. It’s best to be prepared for a very early start to catch the sunrise.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a flashlight, and biodegradable insect repellent are recommended for safety and comfort during the early morning walk.

Are transportation and guides included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a local English-speaking guide, bottled water, and transport by air-conditioned minivan.

How much do entrance fees cost?
The entry fee for the temples is $37 per person, which is not included in the $39 tour price.

Can I get dropped off anywhere after the tour?
You can choose to return to your hotel or be dropped off at a local restaurant in Siem Reap to continue exploring or enjoy a meal.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 4 years old, and those with back problems or who require wheelchair access may find it challenging.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, making it a manageable half-day adventure.

Will we have enough time at each site?
Yes, the tour is designed to cover the major highlights efficiently, with enough time to appreciate each location and ask questions.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The early morning light and fewer visitors mean you can capture stunning photos without the usual crowds.

This From Siem Reap: Angkor Wat Sunrise Small Group Tour offers a mix of iconic sights, insightful stories, and tranquil moments, all at a sensible price. It’s a smart way to experience the magic of Angkor in a way that’s both relaxed and immersive—ideal for travelers who value comfort, culture, and a touch of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: