Siem Reap: Bakong Temple, Roluos Groups & Countryside

Exploring Siem Reap doesn’t have to mean just visiting Angkor Wat. For a more relaxed yet meaningful experience, the Bakong Temple, Roluos Group, and surrounding rural areas offer a glimpse into Cambodia’s past and present that’s both authentic and scenic. This tour, priced at $79 per person, runs roughly from mid-afternoon into sunset, covering historic temples, countryside vistas, and a vintage vehicle adventure that adds a fun twist to your day.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances cultural discovery with leisure. First, you get to stroll through Bakong, one of the earliest major temples from the Khmer Empire, with its impressive pyramid-like structure and intricate carvings. Then, the journey continues into the countryside, where quiet, lush scenery and local life unfold at a comfortable pace. The vintage Jeep ride not only makes the trip more exciting but also lets you see the landscape in a relaxed, open-air way. Finally, ending the day with a breathtaking sunset and a cooling drink leaves you feeling both refreshed and inspired.

A few considerations: since this tour involves some walking and outdoor exposure, it’s best suited for those able to handle a bit of sun and uneven ground. Also, note that temple passes are not included, so you’ll need to purchase those separately if you want to go inside the temples. This experience suits travelers who crave a mix of history, scenery, and authentic local culture without rushing through it all.

Key Points

• Authentic temples: Visit Bakong and Prey Monti to see some of Cambodia’s earliest major religious sites.
• Scenic countryside: Experience a peaceful rural landscape, far from the crowds of Angkor Wat.
• Vintage Jeep ride: Enjoy a fun, open-air journey that offers unique views and photo opportunities.
• Sunset views: Cap off the day with a stunning sunset, perfect for relaxing and taking memorable photos.
• Guided experience: Led by an English-speaking guide, ensuring you learn about the history and local culture.
• Flexible booking: Reserve now and pay later, with a full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Details: What to Expect on This Tour

Starting Point & Timing

You’ll be picked up from your Siem Reap hotel around 14:45, which allows you to settle in comfortably and prepare for an engaging afternoon. The tour lasts until sunset, so plan to be back around early evening. The timing is ideal—avoiding the heat of midday while still offering plenty of daylight for sightseeing and photography.

The Temples: Bakong & Prey Monti

The first stop, Bakong Temple, is a true highlight. As one of the earliest major temples in the Angkor region, it’s a great place to see how Khmer architecture evolved. Its pyramid-like structure and elaborate carvings tell stories of Khmer gods and rulers—your guide will likely point out details and help you understand its significance. Visitors often comment on the intricate carvings and the sense of history that pervades the site.

Next, you’ll explore Prey Monti, a less-visited spot that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. According to some reviews, this hidden gem provides a tranquil setting to appreciate Cambodian rural life. You might learn about local flora and fauna or simply enjoy the serenity away from tourist throngs found elsewhere.

The Vintage Jeep Experience

The most unique part of this tour is the vintage Jeep ride. Instead of a typical bus or minivan, you’ll be cruising in a classic vehicle with a driver, providing an authentic and fun perspective on the rural landscape. The open-air nature of the Jeep means you’ll get breathtaking views of rice paddies, small villages, and distant mountains. Several reviewers mention how this adds to the adventure feel and makes for excellent photo opportunities.

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Countryside & Sunset

As you wind through the countryside, your guide will probably share stories about local community life, agriculture, and traditions. The highlight is the sunset, which many describe as “breathtaking” and “magical.” The sky often turns vibrant shades of orange and pink, providing a perfect backdrop for a relaxing drink and some quiet reflection on the day.

Practical Details & What’s Included

The tour includes a guides who speaks English, a vintage transportation with a driver, cool water and towels to stay refreshed, and round-trip pickup from your hotel. Keep in mind, temple passes are not included, so if you want to go inside the temples, you’ll need to purchase those separately.

What to Bring

Since you’ll be outdoors most of the time, pack a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Comfortable walking shoes are advisable, especially if you plan to explore the temples on foot.

Considerations

• The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to uneven terrain and vehicle access.
• Pets are not allowed.
• If you’re looking for a quick, rushed temple visit, this may not be your best fit, as the focus is on relaxed exploration.

Authentic Experiences & What Travelers Love

Many guests appreciate the balance between cultural sites and rural scenery. One reviewer appreciated the chance to explore less crowded temples like Bakong, describing it as “a peaceful, beautiful site that feels like stepping back in time.” Others loved the vintage Jeep, calling it “a fun way to see the countryside without the usual bus crush,” and noted how it made the experience more memorable.

The sunset is another favorite, often described as “unforgettable,” with one guest noting, “We watched the sky turn from gold to fiery red as the sun dipped below the rice fields—that moment felt truly special.”

Authenticity and Value

For $79, this tour offers a well-rounded experience worth the price, especially considering it includes transportation, guiding, and the scenic highlights. It’s a good choice for those wanting to combine history, scenery, and relaxation without the rush of more intense temple tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed way to explore Cambodia’s rural character and ancient architecture. It suits those who prefer small group experiences with plenty of opportunities for photos and conversation. If you’re interested in less crowded, more authentic sites and enjoy a bit of adventure in a vintage vehicle, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

It’s less ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a comprehensive temple pass experience, but for an authentic taste of Siem Reap beyond Angkor Wat, it hits the mark.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This tour provides an excellent value for those looking to see Cambodia’s early temples and beautiful countryside in one relaxed afternoon. The combination of historic sites, scenic views, and a vintage Jeep ride creates a memorable and authentic experience that’s both fun and educational. It’s especially suited for travelers who love photography, enjoy nature, or simply want a more genuine glimpse of rural Cambodia.

While it doesn’t include entry to the temples, the focus on outdoor exploration and scenic spots makes it a refreshing alternative to more crowded tours. The sunset viewing, in particular, provides a perfect, peaceful end to a day of discovery.

If you’re after a balance of culture, scenery, and adventure in a manageable timeframe, then this tour could be just the right fit.

FAQ

Do I need to buy temple passes separately?
Yes, temple passes are not included in the price. If you want to go inside the temples, you’ll need to purchase those separately.

How long does the tour last?
The tour starts around 14:45 and ends with the sunset, so expect it to last roughly 3-4 hours.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour involves outdoor walking and sitting in a vintage vehicle, it can be suitable for children, provided they’re comfortable with these conditions. It’s best suited for families with older kids who enjoy scenic outings.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable shoes for walking around the temples and countryside.

Is it a small-group experience?
Yes, with a guide and vintage transportation, it feels more intimate than large bus tours.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

This tour offers a unique, balanced way to see Cambodia’s historic and rural sides without the crowds or rush. Perfect for those who want to connect with the countryside, enjoy scenic views, and step back in time—one relaxed, beautifully-lit sunset at a time.

You can check availability for your dates here: