2-Days Private Tour Discovery Angkor Wat , Waterfall and Beng Mealea Temple

Discover Angkor Wat, Waterfalls, and Beng Mealea in Two Days: An In-Depth Review

If you’re dreaming of exploring one of Southeast Asia’s most breathtaking archaeological sites, this 2-day private tour in Siem Reap offers a thorough and personalized dive into Cambodia’s ancient splendors. For around $255 per person, you get to visit Angkor Wat, the Bayon Temple, the jungle-shrouded Ta Prohm, and the remote Beng Mealea, along with a day at Phnom Kulen National Park. Your guide, whose name we’ve seen in reviews, like Sen Prourng, will lead you through each site, sharing insights that bring the ruins to life.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are its flexibility and the chance to avoid the crowds—especially at sunrise. The early start at Angkor Wat, combined with a private guide, means a more intimate experience and better photo opportunities. The inclusion of cold water and towels keeps you comfortable on the hot days, and the vehicle is air-conditioned, a real plus in the Cambodian heat. The only caveat? You’ll need to organize your own tickets for each site, which means extra planning, but that’s a small price for the quality of your personalized experience.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want to see the highlights without feeling rushed, but also crave some off-the-beaten-path adventures. It’s ideal if you’re interested in a mix of well-known temples and lesser-visited ruins, plus a scenic day at Phnom Kulen. If you’re after a manageable, well-organized introduction to Angkor, with guides who truly know their stuff, this is a strong choice.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Tailored experience with your own guide and vehicle.
• Rich Cultural Insights: Guides provide historical context and local customs.
• Early Access & Sunset Opportunity: Amazing sunrise views and less crowded temples.
• Diverse Temples & Sites: From Angkor Wat’s grandeur to Beng Mealea’s mystery.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned transport, cold towels, and water.
• Flexibility & Extra Activities: Day at Phnom Kulen and remote Beng Mealea.

Exploring Two Days of Ancient Wonders

This tour packs in a lot—yet remains manageable, providing enough time at each site to appreciate their unique qualities. It’s structured for those who want a comprehensive look at the temples, along with a taste of Cambodia’s natural beauty.

Day 1: The Classic Temples of Angkor

Starting early at Angkor Wat is a highlight. You’ll meet your guide around 4:30am, before sunrise, which is when the temple’s iconic silhouette truly shines. Watching the sun emerge behind the temple’s intricate towers is a moment you won’t forget. We loved the way the tour guide smoothly navigated around the crowds, giving us the best vantage points, which is key at this popular site. Even if the weather isn’t perfect, arriving early means fewer travelers and cooler temperatures.

Next, your guide will lead you through Bayon Temple at Angkor Thom, famous for its smiling stone faces on 54 towers. Here, your guide will explain the significance of the faces and how they represent the Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva. Walking past the Terrace of the Elephants and the Leper King Terrace offers a glimpse into royal ceremonies and the grandeur of the Khmer empire. The guide’s explanations really helped bring the stones’ stories into focus, making history feel alive.

After a nourishing lunch, you’ll visit Ta Prohm, the “jungle temple,” where massive roots of trees weave through the ruins. The atmosphere here is almost cinematic—famous for being featured in movies like Tomb Raider. The guides emphasize respecting the site and being mindful of the fragile ruins, which is important to us. You’ll have about two hours to wander and marvel at how nature has reclaimed this once-grand complex.

The day wraps up at Banteay Kdei, a less crowded but equally atmospheric temple built by King Jayavarman VII. It feels like stepping into a peaceful sanctuary after the bustling Angkor Thom area. Our review mentions that the guide’s storytelling made this part especially meaningful.

Day 2: Hidden Treasures and Scenic Escapes

Your second day begins with a trip to Phnom Kulen National Park, a favorite among locals. Here, you’ll see the waterfalls and the famous 1000 lingas carvings in the riverbed—an impressive sight that connects natural beauty with spiritual significance. The park is a lively local spot, with picnic areas and hammocks, offering a chance to relax amid the lush surroundings. The 6-hour visit balances sightseeing with downtime, making it suitable for those who want a break from temple-hopping.

The highlight here is the waterfall, where many travelers enjoy splashing around, and the carved lingas—small stone phalluses—are believed to have spiritual power. A review noted that this site is a “great picnic spot,” which adds a laid-back vibe to the experience.

In the afternoon, you visit Beng Mealea, often called the “lost temple” of Angkor. Located about 70 km northeast of Siem Reap, this site is a true adventure. You’ll need to climb over moss-covered stones and crawl through roots, feeling like Indiana Jones discovering an undiscovered ruin. This temple is less visited, so you’ll enjoy a sense of exploration and solitude. It’s perfect for those who love atmospheric ruins and a bit of physical activity.

The Practicalities

The air-conditioned vehicle makes a significant difference in Cambodia’s tropical heat, especially given the early start times. Your guide is an English speaker, providing context and making the experience more engaging. The cold water and towels kept us refreshed, a thoughtful touch after walking through the sun-baked ruins.

While the tour price covers most of what you see and do, you’ll need to purchase your own temple tickets, which is worth considering since it’s not included. Meals are not included, giving you flexibility to explore local eateries or bring your own snacks.

The private nature of the tour means you won’t be stuck with a large group, allowing for a more relaxed, tailored experience. Reviews from past travelers highlight how guides like Sen Prourng and the driver Jamesbone made the trip memorable with their knowledge and friendliness.

Authentic, Value-Driven Experiences

This tour stands out because it balances cost with quality. For just over $250, you get two days of personalized guiding, transportation, and visits to some of Cambodia’s most iconic and lesser-known sites. The early start and private setting mean you enjoy a more intimate experience, away from the crowds, and can truly absorb the stories behind the stones.

The combination of waking up at sunrise at Angkor Wat and exploring the jungle ruins at Beng Mealea offers a variety of sights and moods. It’s not just about ticking boxes but experiencing Cambodia’s history and natural beauty at a comfortable, unhurried pace.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you value guided insights that deepen your understanding of the temples, this tour is an excellent choice. Travelers who appreciate a mix of famous sights and off-the-beaten-path discoveries will find it satisfying. As one reviewer pointed out, guides like Sen Prourng are knowledgeable and friendly, adding a personal touch that makes the experience memorable.

This tour also suits those with limited time but who want a comprehensive look at Angkor. The early starts might be tiring, but the benefits—fewer crowds and cooler temperatures—are well worth it. Plus, if you’re keen on exploring beyond the main temples, the day at Phnom Kulen and Beng Mealea adds a genuine sense of adventure.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day private tour of Angkor Wat, waterfalls, and Beng Mealea offers a well-rounded experience that balances history, natural beauty, and authentic encounters. The personalized guide service makes a big difference, transforming the ruins from mere tourist attractions into stories with soul. The combination of sunrise views, jungle ruins, and scenic park makes this an immersive journey.

While it’s priced at a premium, the value lies in the comfort, flexibility, and depth of experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights without the hassle of crowds, but also crave some hidden gems. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a thoughtfully curated adventure, this trip delivers.

In short, if you want an intimate, insightful, and scenic introduction to Angkor’s marvels, this tour is an excellent choice. Just remember to bring your curiosity, an appetite for adventure, and a camera ready for unforgettable sights.

FAQ

Are all temple tickets included in the price?
No, temple tickets are not included in the tour price. You’ll need to purchase them separately at each site.

What is the start time for the tour?
The tour begins very early, around 4:30am, to catch the sunrise at Angkor Wat.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for early mornings and some walking, especially at Beng Mealea with its climbing over ruins.

How long is the transportation?
The vehicle is air-conditioned and provides a comfortable ride between sites, with some longer drives on the second day to Phnom Kulen and Beng Mealea.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will join, allowing for a personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sun protection, comfortable shoes, and a sense of adventure. Meal arrangements are up to you, as meals are not included.

Can I see the temples at sunset instead of sunrise?
The tour starts early for sunrise, but the reviews suggest that returning for sunset is a worthwhile idea if you can.

What makes Beng Mealea special?
Its remote location and the fact that you can climb and crawl over mossy stones make it feel like discovering a lost world.

Is the tour value for money?
Yes, considering guided insights, transportation, and diverse sites, many travelers find it offers good value for the price.