Angkor Sunset & Gondola Ride By Jeep

Experience the Hidden Corners of Angkor with a Sunset Jeep and Gondola Ride

Imagine exploring Cambodia’s ancient temples and vibrant countryside on a stylish open-air jeep—all in a relaxed afternoon. For around $79 per person, you’ll spend about 4 hours and 15 minutes uncovering parts of Angkor most visitors miss, ending with a peaceful Gondola boat ride on the moat of Angkor Thom. Guided by knowledgeable locals, this tour offers a genuine glimpse into rural life and historic sites beyond the typical crowded temples.

What we particularly love is the combination of off-the-beaten-path routes and stunning sunset views—whether crossing rice paddies or sipping cold drinks while gliding on water. The personalized guide service and stunning photo opportunities make this a memorable, intimate experience.

A potential consideration is the early start time, with pick-up beginning at 2:30 pm, meaning you’ll want to plan your day accordingly. Also, the roads are a mix of tarmac and dirt, so be prepared for a bumpy ride, which adds to the adventure.

This tour suits travelers who have already visited Angkor’s main attractions and are eager to see a different side of Cambodia—village life, local markets, and quiet temples—without feeling rushed or overwhelmed by crowds. It’s ideal if you value authentic interactions and scenic views over crowded tourist spots.

Key Points

• Unique Perspective: Offers access to lesser-known parts of Angkor, away from the main crowds.
• Authentic Experience: Cross small farms, villages, and rice paddies, gaining insight into local Cambodian life.
• Comfortable Transport: Stylish open-air jeeps from the 1970s provide a fun, nostalgic ride.
• Beautiful Sunset: End the day with a peaceful boat ride on the moat of Angkor Thom, perfect for photos.
• Expert Guides: Guides like August and Sorphea are praised for their knowledge, storytelling, and personal touch.
• Good Value: For $79, you get a full, well-rounded afternoon including soft drinks, snacks, and a memorable water journey.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown: What Makes Each Stop Special

Starting at Siem Reap at 2:30 pm, the tour kicks off with hotel pickup. From there, you’ll hop into a vintage jeep and begin your adventure in the countryside, crossing a river and winding along red clay roads. This part of the journey is what makes this experience stand out: the chance to see local villages, children heading home from school, and small farms—scenes that rarely make it into the typical tourist photos.

The stop in Tapang is a highlight. Here, the tour transitions from the bustling town to the quiet rural areas. The reviews rave about this part: “Getting to explore the Cambodian livelihoods and see the real Vietnam,” as one traveler put it. Crossing rice paddies and passing local markets lets you witness daily life in a way that’s both authentic and intimate.

Next, the tour takes you into the Angkor Archaeological Park. Instead of fighting crowds at the usual entry points, your guide leads you along backroads—a thoughtful move that makes the experience calmer and more personal. You’ll see Victoria Gate, Dead Gate, and Bayon Temple, with opportunities to capture stunning photos and truly appreciate the architecture without the usual hustle.

The final temple stop is at the South Gate of Angkor Thom. Here, the tour slows down for an extra special treat: a peaceful Dragon Boat ride on the moat. The sunset views from the boat are widely praised, with reviews mentioning “spectacular” views and “breathtaking” moments. While floating on the water, you enjoy local delicacies, soft drinks, and cold beverages, making the experience feel both leisurely and luxurious.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. One reviewer notes, “August was a wonderful guide—pleasant, warm, and a great storyteller,” emphasizing how personal attention enhances the tour. Others mention the jeep rides as “great fun” and the sunset boat trip as “spectacular,” especially when paired with local wine and canapés.

The small group size—maximum 12 travelers—ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, allowing more meaningful conversations and plenty of photo opportunities. Guests also appreciated the mix of dirt and tarmac roads, which, while bumpy, add a sense of adventure and authenticity.

Transportation & Comfort

The stylish jeeps are a highlight, offering an open-air experience that keeps the breeze flowing and the scenery in full view. This choice of transport allows you to feel connected to the landscape, and many reviews mention the nostalgic charm of the 1970s vehicles.

The driver is experienced and accommodating, ensuring smooth rides along uneven roads. The tour provides water and snacks, so you’re not left hungry or dehydrated. The pickup and drop-off service is seamless, making logistics simple.

Cost & Value

At $79 per person, this tour offers good value considering the personalized experience, local insights, and scenic highlights. Compared to standard temple visits, which can be crowded and rushed, this tour’s emphasis on small-group exploration and authentic encounters provides a richer, more relaxed experience.

Note that temple entry fees are not included—$37 per day—so if you’re planning to visit other temples independently, budget this in. But, for the price of this tour, you get a well-rounded afternoon filled with sights, stories, and serenity.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy off-the-beaten-path adventures, crave authentic local experiences, or prefer a calm, scenic approach to Angkor, you’ll love this tour. It’s particularly suited for travelers who’ve already “done” Angkor’s main sites and want a different perspective—seeing local villages, rice fields, and quiet temples with a knowledgeable guide.

It’s also perfect if you’re seeking a romantic sunset, a photo-rich experience, or just want to escape the crowds and explore Cambodia’s countryside in style. Family groups, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy and authentic scenery will find this a rewarding outing.

The Sum Up

This Angkor Sunset & Gondola Ride by Jeep stands out for its authenticity, scenic beauty, and personalized service. It combines local village exploration, hidden temple visits, and a peaceful boat ride, creating a well-balanced experience that feels both relaxed and enriching.

The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the journey more engaging and informative. The jeep rides add a nostalgic charm, while the sunset boat offers a tranquil view of Angkor’s moat—perfect for photography or simply soaking in the scenery.

While the early start and road conditions might be considerations for some, those seeking a less crowded, more personal glimpse into Cambodia’s countryside and temples will find this tour particularly worthwhile.

Overall, if you’re after a unique, culturally rich experience that balances history, scenery, and local life, this tour offers exceptional value and memories to last a lifetime. It’s best suited for those who want to see the overlooked and enjoy a serene sunset in style.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early does the tour start?
Pickup begins at 2:30 pm, so plan to be ready at your hotel then for a seamless start.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the scenic nature and manageable group size suggest families with older children might enjoy it. Check with the provider for specific age recommendations.

Are temple tickets included?
No, the $37 daily temple pass is not included, so you will need to purchase this separately if you plan to visit other temples.

What’s the best way to dress?
Wear comfortable clothing, and remember to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and pants or shorts that are at least knee-length for temple visits.

Is the jeep ride comfortable?
Yes, the jeeps are stylish and open-air, ideal for sightseeing. The ride is bumpy due to dirt roads, but this adds to the adventure and charm.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes gondola ticket, guide, driver, hotel pickup/drop-off, water, snacks, and beverages onboard the boat.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride on the moat of Angkor Thom lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, providing a relaxing way to end the day.

Can I join as a solo traveler?
Yes, but note that a minimum of 2 people is required to depart. Solo travelers may be able to join an existing group via inquiry.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, camera, water, and knee-length clothing for temple visits. It’s a good idea to wear comfortable shoes for walking.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The mix of roads and boat rides might pose challenges for those with limited mobility. Confirm with the operator beforehand if needed.

Set out on a journey that goes beyond the typical Angkor experience—arriving in villages, capturing quiet temples, and ending with a sunset boat cruise. Whether you’re after scenic beauty, authentic insights, or a peaceful escape, this tour delivers a genuine taste of Cambodia’s countryside and ancient splendors.