Cambodia is a country that rewards curious travelers with its ancient temples, lively markets, and scenic landscapes. What sets it apart for full-day tours is the mix of cultural heritage and authentic experiences. Whether you’re marveling at the UNESCO-listed Preah Vihear or cruising the Mekong Delta, each trip offers a different slice of Cambodia’s charm. We love how some tours combine history with stunning scenery, like the Koh Ker Temple, while others immerse you in local life, such as exploring the Mekong River. These tours provide depth beyond a quick visit, making your trip more meaningful.
If you’re after a balanced day that blends cultural discovery with scenic beauty, Cambodia’s full-day options won’t disappoint. From the majestic ruins of Preah Vihear to the lively Battambang countryside, these experiences are crafted for travelers who want to squeeze the most out of a single day.
Quick Overview
This list features four top full-day tours in Cambodia, each offering a unique way to explore different facets of the country:
– Ancient temple adventures, like the Full-Day Preah Vihea & Koh Ker Temple
– River and rural life, such as the Mekong Delta Full Day Tour from Ho Chi Minh
– Cultural and historical highlights, like the Full-day: Original bamboo train, Wat Banan, Phnom Sampov
– Archaeological and natural sites, including the Full Day Preah Khan Kampong Svay & Spean Praptos
Now, let’s explore each of these tours in detail to help you decide which fits your interests and travel style.
1. Full-Day Tour Preah Vihea & Koh Ker Temple
At number 1, this tour takes you deep into Cambodia’s ancient temple landscape, combining a UNESCO World Heritage site with a stunning pyramid temple. The tour includes visits to Preah Vihear, perched atop a 700-meter-high cliff, offering breathtaking views and impressive architecture. The journey then continues to Koh Ker, often called the “Pyramid Temple,” notable for its massive central tower and well-preserved bas-reliefs.
This tour stands out because it takes you off the beaten path—these sites are less crowded than Angkor Wat but equally impressive. You’ll explore these ruins with guided walks, enjoying insights into their history and significance. For just $90, the experience includes transportation, guided tours, and some scenic countryside views. The main challenge is the extra costs—there’s a $25 admission fee for the temples and another $25 for the 4X4 ride to the top of Preah Vihear’s hill, which is quite steep.
Reviewers mention the guide and driver doing a “great job,” though some note the logistics of pickup points can be confusing. Still, many agree it’s a rewarding day for anyone interested in Cambodia’s lesser-known temples.
Bottom Line: This tour offers an excellent mix of history, architecture, and scenic drives, perfect for travelers wanting to see iconic yet less crowded sites.
$90 per person
2. Mekong Delta Full Day Tour | From Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
Number 2 on our list is a vibrant journey into Cambodia’s southern river life, starting from Ho Chi Minh City. This Mekong Delta tour provides a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, letting you see the local way of life. The tour includes a boat cruise through small channels, visits to coconut factories, and even a glimpse of crocodile farms.
What makes this tour special is its small-group setting—maximum 12 people—which allows for a more intimate experience. You’ll enjoy a typical Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant, but the focus is on Cambodian towns and villages, with opportunities to explore markets and sample local flavors. The guide, Nikki, is praised for her lively storytelling and personal connection, making the day engaging.
Priced at $53 per person, the experience offers good value, especially for those interested in rural life and river ecosystems. Reviews highlight how well-organized and fun the trip is, with travelers feeling they got an authentic look at the Mekong’s charm.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers interested in river life, local food, and small-group adventures, with hassle-free transportation included.
$53 per person
3. Full-day: Original bamboo train, Wat Banan, Phnom Sampov
At number 3, this tour explores the vibrant countryside of Battambang. For just $15, you get a full 10-hour day of adventures, including riding the Bamboo Train, visiting the Wat Banan Temple, and exploring the Killing Cave and Bat Cave. This tour is known for its relaxed pace and authentic local flavor.
The Bamboo Train, a uniquely Cambodian invention, offers a fun ride through the rice paddies and small villages. The climb up Wat Banan involves steep stairs, but the views from the top are rewarding. The Bat Cave at sunset, where thousands of bats emerge, is a highlight for many, especially those who enjoy natural phenomena.
Reviewers love the mix of cultural sites and countryside scenery, highlighting the opportunity to see “real Cambodia” outside the tourist hotspots. The tour is straightforward, with tuk-tuk rides between stops, making logistics simple and flexible.
Bottom Line: Perfect for budget travelers or those craving a mix of cultural sights and countryside fun in a full day.
$15 per person
4. Full Day Preah Khan Kampong Svay & Spean Praptos
Finally, at number 4, this tour offers a deep dive into lesser-known archaeological sites. The day covers Preah Khan Kampong Svay, an ancient temple with little modern documentation, thought to date back to the 11th century, and Spean Praptos, known for its giant river bridge and spectacular scenery.
The highlight here is exploring Preah Khan Kampong Svay, which is rarely crowded and offers a real sense of discovery. The tour also includes the Kampong Kdei Bridge, an impressive ancient structure. The cost is $130 for up to four people, making it an excellent value for a personalized experience.
With a 4.8/5 rating, travelers praise the guide’s knowledge and the chance to see Cambodia’s archaeological diversity in a single day. It’s best suited for history buffs, archaeology enthusiasts, or travelers craving a quieter, more contemplative experience.
Bottom Line: This tour delivers a unique look into Cambodia’s archaeological record, perfect for those who enjoy history and off-the-beaten-path sites.
$130 per group up to 4
How to Choose
When deciding between these full-day options, consider your interests, budget, and physical activity level. If temples are your main focus, the Preah Vihea & Koh Ker tour is a solid choice. Want a mix of culture and river life? The Mekong Delta offers a relaxed, authentic experience. Looking for something budget-friendly and fun? The Bamboo Train and Battambang tour hits the spot. For history lovers wanting something quieter and more explorative, the Preah Khan Kampong Svay trip is ideal.
Think about logistics too—some tours involve extra costs or are longer, so book in advance, especially during peak season.
Final Thoughts
Cambodia’s full-day tours offer a broad spectrum of experiences, from ancient temples to river adventures and archaeological explorations. For a balanced day of sightseeing and cultural insight, the Preah Vihea & Koh Ker tour is excellent. If you prefer a peaceful river journey, the Mekong Delta trip is hard to beat. History buffs will find the Preah Khan Kampong Svay & Spean Praptos tour a rewarding escape into Cambodia’s less-charted ruins.
Booking early is wise, especially during busy months. No matter your choice, each tour provides a chance to deepen your understanding of Cambodia’s diverse heritage and landscapes.