Full Day Small Group Tour & Sunset in Angkor Area from Siem Reap

A Full Day of Angkor Wonders with a Personal Touch

If you’re headed to Cambodia and want to experience the iconic Angkor complex, this full-day small group tour from Siem Reap offers a balanced mix of history, scenery, and local flavor for just $28 per person. Led by knowledgeable guides like Sam and Sotin, the tour takes you through the most famous temples—including Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, and Angkor Wat—while also giving you time to relax, enjoy local cuisine, and finish with a breathtaking sunset view from Phnom Bakheng.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines comprehensive temple visits with the chance to taste authentic Khmer food and soak in the natural beauty of the area. Plus, with small group sizes (no more than 15 travelers), you’ll find it easy to stay engaged and ask questions. The air-conditioned transport keeps you comfortable as you hop from site to site, and the inclusion of water and towels helps beat the heat.

A potential consideration is that admission tickets to each site are not included in the base price, adding around $37 per person to your overall costs. For some, this is a worthwhile expense, especially for the convenience of a guided experience, but it’s good to budget for these extra fees beforehand.

This tour is well-suited for history enthusiasts, photographers, or anyone who wants a balanced, enriching day visiting the highlights of Angkor with knowledgeable guides. It’s also perfect for travelers who prefer a group setting but with a personal touch—especially given the glowing reviews praising guides like Sam for their patience, humor, and deep knowledge.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits to Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, Angkor Wat, and a sunset at Phnom Bakheng.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Sam and Sotin are praised for their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness.
• Flexible & Convenient: Transportation, water, towels, and lunch included, with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Extra Costs: Temple entrance fees are not included, totaling around $37.
• Authentic Experience: Local Khmer cuisine and stunning temple scenery.
• Great Value: At just $28, this tour offers a lot of insight and access.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day with a Personal Touch
You’ll be picked up from your hotel between 8:00 and 8:30 a.m., a time that’s early enough to beat some of the crowds but not so early that you’ll feel rushed. A professional English-speaking guide will be your main companion, helping translate the history and stories behind each site, making the experience both educational and engaging.

First Stop: Angkor Thom South Gate
Your first site is Angkor Thom, the “Great Royal City” built in the 12th century by King Jayavarman VII. Standing at the South Gate, you’ll see the imposing Avalokiteshvara statue—famous for its appearance in the “Tomb Raider” movie. Walking through the gate, you’ll immediately sense the grandeur of this ancient capital.

Within Angkor Thom, highlights include the Bayon Temple, known for its hundreds of stone faces peering in all directions, and the Terrace of Elephants, once a platform for royal ceremonies. Guides like Sam are praised for their patience and humor, making technical details more digestible, ensuring you don’t just see ruins but understand their stories.

Next: Ta Prohm
Then, it’s time for Ta Prohm, often called the “jungle temple” because of its overgrown roots and trees, which create a mystical atmosphere. Recognized globally after its appearance in the “Tomb Raider” film, this site feels like stepping into an adventure movie. Expect to spend about an hour wandering among the roots and ancient stonework, imagining what life was like hundreds of years ago.

Lunchtime & Local Flavors
Midday, you’ll stop at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy authentic Khmer dishes prepared by local chefs. The tour offers vegetarian options, ensuring everyone’s dietary preferences are considered. You’ll dine in front of Sras Srang, the “Royal Swimming Pool,” giving you a scenic backdrop to relax and recharge.

Afternoon: Angkor Wat
After lunch, it’s time for the crown jewel—Angkor Wat. As the largest religious monument on Earth, it’s a must-see. Built by King Suryavarman II in the 12th century, it’s dedicated to Vishnu, with walls covered in bas-reliefs depicting mythical scenes. You’ll appreciate how the moat and five towers, which appear on Cambodia’s flag, symbolize the five sacred peaks of Mount Meru.

Your guide will help you navigate the sprawling complex, pointing out details that might otherwise go unnoticed. Expect about two hours here, enough time to admire the carvings, soak in the atmosphere, and maybe capture photos of the towers against the jungle backdrop.

Climb to Phnom Bakheng for Sunset
As late afternoon rolls in, you’ll hike up Phnom Bakheng for sunset. The hilltop offers panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and the temples below, making it a perfect spot to reflect on your day. Be prepared for a bit of a climb, but the views are worth it.

Return to Siem Reap
Finally, the tour wraps up with a comfortable transfer back to your hotel, usually around 6-7 p.m. You’ll arrive tired but full of impressions, photos, and stories.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The small group setting makes it feel more personal than large bus tours, allowing guides like Sam and Sotin to give tailored insights. The knowledgeable guides and their ability to blend humor with history get high praise—one reviewer even called Sam “a legend.” The value for money is evident, considering the included transportation, lunch, water, towels, and the flexibility of the itinerary.

The timing is well-paced, giving you enough time at each site without rushing, although you’d need to budget for the $37 extra for your temple entry fees. The sunset at Phnom Bakheng offers a memorable finale, capturing the essence of Angkor’s magic.

However, the admission fees are not included in the base price, so plan ahead. It’s also worth noting that the tour is most suitable for those comfortable with 10-hour outings, and some walking and climbing are involved—so comfortable shoes and a bit of stamina are advisable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re eager to see the key Angkor sites with a guide who makes history come alive, this tour is a winner. It suits history buffs, photographers, and first-timers wanting a comprehensive, engaging view of the temples. Those who value local food, scenic views, and a personalized experience will find this tour hits the mark. It’s especially recommended if you want a well-organized, reasonably priced day with memorable highlights.

FAQ

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, pickup from your hotel in Siem Reap is offered, making logistics easy.

How long is the tour?
The entire day lasts approximately 10 hours, from early morning pickup to evening return.

What is the cost of admission tickets?
Admission to the temples costs about $37 per person, which is not included in the $28 tour price.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a local restaurant lunch with vegetarian options is included in the tour fee.

Are water and towels provided?
Yes, you’ll get chilled bottled water and towels to stay refreshed.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a guided group tour with a set itinerary, but guides are often flexible in timing and pace.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking and climbing, especially at Phnom Bakheng.

To sum it up, this tour offers a fantastic way to see the best of Angkor with a knowledgeable guide, authentic experiences, and good value. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized day without breaking the bank. The combination of stunning temples, local cuisine, and a memorable sunset makes it an experience you’ll likely remember fondly for years. Whether you’re a history lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone eager to check one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic marvels off your list, this tour delivers a balanced, enjoyable adventure.