Two Day Tour, Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, Angkor Temple and Back

Two Day Tour, Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, Angkor Temple and Back

Traveling between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap doesn’t have to be a boring long drive. For just $130, this two-day private experience offers a balanced mix of scenic stops, cultural insights, and the highlight — the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat. Led by friendly, knowledgeable drivers and guided by English-speaking guides in Siem Reap, this tour is tailored for travelers eager to see Cambodia’s iconic sights without the hassle of organized group tours or rushed schedules.

What we love about this experience? First, the comfort and flexibility of door-to-door private transfers, which means no crowded buses or awkward group scenarios. Second, the variety of stops along the route — from a spider sanctuary to a 12th-century bridge — making the long drive more engaging. The only thing to consider? The cost excludes entrance fees like the Angkor pass and optional boat tickets, so budget accordingly.

This tour works best for adventurous travelers who want to combine a scenic road trip with immersive cultural visits, especially those who appreciate authentic local stops and expert guiding. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but eager to see as much as possible of Cambodia’s historic and natural highlights.

Key Points

• Comfortable private transfers with door-to-door service make travel seamless.
• Interesting stops along the route break up the drive and add cultural depth.
• Guided tours of Angkor Wat and temples bring history to life with expert commentary.
• Flexible scheduling allows you to choose your departure time.
• Excludes entrance fees, so plan ahead for the Angkor pass and boat tickets.
• Highly rated for driver professionalism and guide quality, according to reviews.

Exploring the Route: An In-Depth Look at the Two Days

Day 1: From Phnom Penh to Siem Reap — Scenic Stops & Cultural Sights

The adventure begins with a flexible departure time around 7-8 am, depending on your preferences. You’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver who’s friendly and safety-conscious. The drive takes roughly five hours, which might sound long but is peppered with notable stops that make the journey part of the experience.

First stop: Skun Spider Sanctuary – Yes, your first tourist encounter involves tarantulas and crickets! This unique spot is a favorite for those curious about local delicacies and the quirky side of Cambodian culture. The 15-minute stop allows for a quick look around, a toilet break, and some fun photos. Travelers often appreciate this as a lighthearted, authentic glimpse into local markets.

Next, you’ll visit Prasat Kuha Nokor, a peaceful Buddhist temple complex about 35 minutes away in Kampong Thom Province. It’s not as famous as Angkor but offers a quiet, spiritual atmosphere and some local architecture. The free admission makes it a budget-friendly stop that enriches your understanding of Cambodian religious sites.

Midday, you’ll stop for lunch at Somros Prey Pros Restaurant, a good opportunity to stretch your legs and enjoy local cuisine or a quick bathroom break. The timing here is flexible, so you can linger or keep moving.

The highlight of the afternoon is the Spean Praptos, an ancient 12th-century stone-arch bridge built during King Jayavarman VII’s reign. With more than twenty arches spanning 285 feet, it’s a marvel of medieval engineering and offers fantastic photo opportunities — a favorite among history buffs and engineering enthusiasts.

Finally, just before reaching Siem Reap, you’ll visit Kampong Phluk Floating Village, a fascinating community of stilt houses set amid flooded mangroves. Here, you’ll get an up-close look at how locals live and work in this distinctive aquatic environment. The 1 hour 30 minutes visit is well worth it, providing a window into a vibrant, resilient way of life. Note that admission isn’t included, so plan on a small extra expense for the boat.

Day 2: Exploring Angkor — Sunrise, Temples & Ancient City

Your second day is the grand finale with visits to some of Cambodia’s most iconic temples. The day kicks off early at 4:45 am to catch the famous sunrise over Angkor Wat — an unforgettable moment that many reviews praise as a highlight. The ticket for Angkor Wat isn’t included in the tour price, so you’ll need to purchase an $37 Angkor pass on-site.

After sunrise, your guide will lead you through Angkor Wat, where you’ll marvel at its massive scale and intricate bas-reliefs depicting mythological scenes and stories. Expect about three hours here, with plenty of opportunities to take photos and absorb the grandeur.

Next, the group visits Angkor Thom, the ancient capital set up by King Jayavarman VII. Highlights within include the South Gate, with its giant stone faces, and Bayon Temple, famous for its mysterious smiling faces and detailed bas-reliefs of battles and daily life. The 1-hour exploration of these sites provides insight into the Khmer Empire’s once-mighty capital.

The journey continues with Ta Keo, a temple-mountain built entirely of sandstone, reflecting the Khmer’s architectural ambitions. Though the admission fee isn’t included, the striking views from the top make it worth a visit.

Your tour then includes a visit to Ta Prohm, often called the “Tomb Raider” temple. Its jungle overgrowth and ancient trees entwined with stone ruins create a hauntingly beautiful scene that many travelers find captivating. This site is a must-see for its cinematic appeal and the sense of mystery it evokes.

The day concludes with a return journey to Phnom Penh, taking roughly 6 hours. While this may seem long after a day filled with temples, many reviews highlight the comfort of the vehicle and the professionalism of the driver, ensuring a safe and relaxed ride back.

What’s Included & Excluded: Making Your Budget Work

Included in the tour are the air-conditioned vehicle, hotel pickup and drop-off, drinking water, and English-speaking drivers and guides in Siem Reap. These basics are essential for a smooth journey, especially when covering long distances and managing multiple stops.

Not included are the entrance fees (the Angkor pass), boat tickets for Kampong Phluk (around $20), and personal expenses like meals, tips, and souvenirs. If you’re planning to visit all the temples, factoring in the $37 fee is a must for budgeting.

Authentic Experiences & Genuine Praise from Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and friendly drivers, often mentioning how these aspects made their trip memorable. One reviewer said, “The driver was friendly and knowledgeable, and the stops along the way were interesting,” highlighting the value of local expertise. Another added, “We had Pheakdey as a driver for 3 days, and he was always on time and in a good mood,” emphasizing professionalism.

The stops at historic sites like Spean Praptos and the floating village are especially appreciated for their authenticity — offering more than just temple-hopping, but real glimpses into Cambodian life and history. The early morning sunrise at Angkor Wat remains a standout moment for many, often described as “breathtaking” and “not to be missed.”

Final Thoughts: Who This Tour Is Best For

This two-day private tour offers a well-rounded, flexible way to see Cambodia’s highlights without the stress of independent planning. It’s ideal for travelers who want a comfortable, guided experience with plenty of local flavor — from markets and ancient bridges to the world-famous Angkor temples. The mix of scenic stops and cultural sites makes it perfect for history buffs, culture lovers, and first-time visitors wanting an immersive experience.

If you’re short on time but want to maximize your sightseeing and enjoy the journey as much as the destinations, this tour strikes a good balance of value and depth. Keep in mind the additional costs for entrance tickets and optional boat rides — but overall, the experience provides a comprehensive, authentic taste of Cambodia that many travelers find rewarding.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the private nature allows for some flexibility in timing and stops.

What is the main highlight of Day 1?
The floating village of Kampong Phluk offers a glimpse into local life on the water, a unique experience compared to temple visits.

Are the temple entrance fees included?
No, the $37 Angkor pass is paid separately at the site. The tour price covers transport and guides.

Can I choose my departure time?
Yes, you can select your preferred start time around 7-8 am on Day 1.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, sun protection, a hat, water, and camera gear. Optional boat tickets or temple passes are purchased separately.

Is there a recommended duration for exploring Angkor temples?
The tour allocates roughly 3 hours for Angkor Wat and additional time for other temples, but you can extend or shorten your visit by discussing with your guide.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are stops for lunch and refreshments.

How long is the return drive on Day 2?
Approximately 6 hours from Angkor back to Phnom Penh.

Is the vehicle air-conditioned?
Yes, the vehicle used is air-conditioned and kept clean and comfortable.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
The tour is private, so you can discuss specific interests or additional stops with your guide beforehand.

This two-day journey offers a compelling window into Cambodia’s past and present, blending scenic drives, cultural stops, and the breathtaking temples of Angkor. Whether you’re here for a quick, immersive experience or want a flexible, guided adventure, it’s a solid choice that balances convenience, authenticity, and value.