Angkor Wat Sunset Small Circuit Tour with Transportation Only

If you’re planning a visit to Siem Reap and want to experience the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor with a flexible, stress-free approach, the Angkor Wat Sunset Small Circuit Tour might just be what you’re looking for. Priced at $40 per group (up to 3 people), this tour offers a private transportation service that lets you explore at your own pace, focusing on iconic sites like Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, Bayon, and the sunset at Phnom Bakheng. With a typical duration of 7 to 8 hours, it’s designed for travelers who prefer independence without sacrificing the convenience of organized logistics.

Two aspects stand out immediately. First, the self-guided nature with private driver means you can skip crowded tour groups and take your time at each site—ideal for photography, reflection, or simply soaking in the atmosphere. Second, the flexibility to customize your visit, choosing the order and duration at each temple, makes this an attractive option for couples, families, or solo explorers wanting a tailored experience.

A potential consideration is that admission tickets are not included in the price, so you’ll need to budget for the $37 Angkor Pass. Also, since there’s no guide, knowing what to look for or the historical context will be up to you, which can be a plus or minus depending on your preference for guided commentary. This tour suits those who want autonomy and comfort.

If you’re comfortable navigating independently, enjoy scenic vistas, and appreciate authentic quiet moments away from crowds, this tour offers a great way to see some of Angkor’s most famous sites at sunset – all with the convenience of private transportation.

• Flexibility: You decide the pace and order of temple visits.
• Stunning sunset at Phnom Bakheng with panoramic views.
• Private driver offers comfort and local expertise without a guide.
• Cost-effective at $40 for up to 3 people, excluding entrance fees.
• Self-guided experience ideal for independent travelers.
• Admission tickets are purchased separately, so budget accordingly.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This small circuit tour is designed for travelers who value freedom and flexibility. Instead of being part of a large group or following a strict schedule, you get a private driver who facilitates your journey around the temples. It’s perfect for those who want to explore Angkor Wat’s legendary structures at their own pace, especially during the magical sunset hours.

The price of $40 is quite attractive considering the private transport aspect, especially if you’re traveling with a small group of up to three people. The transportation is cooled, which is a small but thoughtful detail, offering comfort in the often hot and humid Cambodian climate.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Stop 1: Angkor Wat

Your day begins at Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument on the planet. Here, you’ll have about 2 hours to wander through the towered complex, gaze at intricately carved walls, and perhaps capture the golden hours of sunset filtering through the towers. Keep in mind that admission tickets are not included, so you’ll need to purchase the $37 Angkor Pass beforehand or on arrival.

The vastness of Angkor Wat means you can spend your time exploring the central quincunx of towers, or simply find a quiet spot to soak in the grandeur. The sunset here is dramatic but can get crowded, so having your own vehicle and timing is a big plus.

Stop 2: Ta Prohm

Next, you’ll head to Ta Prohm, the temple famous for its giant tree roots twisting through the ruins. It’s a favorite among photographers for its mystical jungle ambiance. You’ll spend 2 hours here, which is enough to admire the fantastic interplay of nature and architecture. The review from Jungsik_C highlights this as a “no guide, just driver but… use cooled car,” and notes it’s “the best option for self-travelers who want their own time.” If solitude and photo opportunities appeal to you, Ta Prohm will not disappoint.

Stop 3: Ta Nei Temple

For those seeking a quieter experience, Ta Nei is perfect. It’s less visited and surrounded by forest, giving a feeling of authenticity and tranquility. With about 1 hour allocated here, you can enjoy a peaceful walk without the crowds. This spot is ideal if you’re craving authenticity rather than tourist hustle.

Stop 4: Bayon Temple

In the heart of Angkor Thom, Bayon is famous for its smiling stone faces and complex carvings. You’ll spend roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes exploring its labyrinth of corridors and marveling at these iconic sculptures. It’s a highlight for many visitors, and the intricate bas-reliefs tell stories of Khmer history and mythology.

Stop 5: Phnom Bakheng

Finally, the hilltop temple of Phnom Bakheng provides a spectacular sunset view. After a 1.5-hour visit, you can climb to the top and enjoy sweeping vistas over Angkor Wat and the surrounding jungle. This is a prime spot for sunset but can be crowded. Early arrival helps secure a good viewing spot, but with your own transportation, you can plan accordingly.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

The primary advantage of this tour is the freedom to go at your own pace. The review from Jungsik_C emphasizes that “it’s the best option for self-travelers who want their own time,” which is probably the key selling point. You’re not tied to a group schedule or guide’s agenda, so you can linger at favorites or skip spots that don’t excite you.

The private driver is a significant benefit, providing comfort and local insight, even if no guide is present to provide historical narration. It’s a practical choice for travelers who prefer self-guided exploration with the convenience of private transport.

Practical Considerations and Value

The main costs to keep in mind are the admission fee ($37), which is separate from the tour price. This fee grants access to all the main temples, so plan to purchase it in advance if possible.

The duration of roughly 7–8 hours** allows plenty of time to see the main sites without feeling rushed. The flexibility to skip or linger at sites makes it adaptable for different energy levels and interests.

Since the tour includes transportation and cold water, you stay comfortable and hydrated, especially during the hot midday hours. The pick-up service simplifies logistics and saves your energy for exploring.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for independent travelers, couples, or small families who want control over their day. It’s ideal if you love photography, want to avoid crowds at certain times, or simply prefer not to follow a guide. If you’re comfortable navigating the ticketing process and don’t need a narrated experience, this tour offers a cost-effective way to enjoy the highlights of Angkor.

The Angkor Wat Sunset Small Circuit Tour with Transportation Only offers a practical, flexible way to enjoy Cambodia’s most iconic temples. The private driver provides a comfortable, stress-free experience, allowing you to explore at your own pace and capture those legendary sunset views from Phnom Bakheng. While you’ll need to purchase your own admission tickets, the overall value lies in freedom of timing and personalized exploration.

This tour suits adventurous, independent travelers who love the idea of tailoring their own temple visit, enjoying stunning vistas and authentic moments away from large tour groups. If you’re comfortable with a self-guided experience and want a convenient way to see the key sites, this is a solid choice.

Do I need to purchase my own tickets?
Yes, admission to Angkor temples is not included in the $40 tour price. You’ll need to buy a $37 Angkor Pass separately, either in advance or on arrival.

How flexible is this tour?
Very flexible. You choose where to go and how long to stay at each site, making it ideal if you want to avoid rushing or crowded schedules.

Is a guide included?
No, you’ll have a driver only, so you won’t get guided commentary. You might want to do some research beforehand or use a guidebook to enhance your experience.

What kind of transportation is provided?
A cooled private vehicle that makes the journey comfortable, especially during hot weather. The driver is friendly and local, ready to assist with logistics.

How long does the entire tour take?
About 7 to 8 hours in total, giving you plenty of time to explore multiple sites without feeling hurried.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour’s flexibility allows you to prioritize certain temples or sunset spots over others, depending on your interests.

Is this suitable for families?
Absolutely, especially if your family enjoys independent exploration and appreciates the comfort of private transport.

What is the main advantage of this tour?
The ability to explore at your own pace with private transportation, avoiding large crowds and rigid schedules.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, so plan to bring snacks or plan for lunch on your own.

In the end, this tour offers a practical balance of ease, independence, and scenic beauty. It’s a good fit for those who don’t want a guided tour but still wish for reliable transportation and the chance to see some of Angkor’s most stunning sights at sunset.