Apsara Dance Show & Dinner with Tuk-Tuk Transfers

A Cultural Feast: Apsara Dance Show & Dinner with Tuk-Tuk Transfers

When you’re in Siem Reap, the allure of Angkor Wat is undeniable, but stepping outside the temple complex offers equally enriching experiences. For just $21, you can enjoy an evening that combines Cambodian traditional dance, a hearty buffet, and convenient tuk-tuk transportation. This tour is roughly two hours long and includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel—making it a hassle-free way to indulge in local culture.

What we love most about this experience is how accessible and relaxed it is. The well-organized transfer by tuk-tuk takes you comfortably from your hotel, removing any stress of finding the venue. Plus, the variety of dances, from classical Apsara to folk styles, offers a genuine glimpse into Cambodia’s vibrant performing arts. Our second favorite aspect? The buffet dinner, featuring Khmer, Asian, and European dishes—so there’s something to satisfy every hungry traveler.

On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the venue is a large conference-style hall, which might lack the intimacy of smaller, more traditional performances. During peak season, it could feel a bit more crowded, diminishing the charm of a personal show. Still, if you’re looking for a low-cost evening of culture and entertainment, this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits travelers who want a balanced mix of dinner and cultural entertainment without fuss. If you’re curious about Khmer dance or enjoy trying a variety of dishes, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable solution. It’s perfect for those who prefer comfort and convenience but still want authentic Cambodian sights and sounds.

Key Points

• Affordable Cultural Experience: At $21, it offers good value for a combined dinner and dance show.
• Convenient Transport: Hotel pickup and tuk-tuk transfers make logistics simple.
• Diverse Dances: Features five traditional Khmer dances, providing insight into local culture.
• Buffet Dinner: Wide selection of Khmer, Asian, and European dishes, catering to different tastes.
• Family-Friendly & Accessible: Suitable for most travelers, with confirmation received easily at booking.
• Large Venue: Expect an open, conference-room style setting, which may reduce intimacy but allows for a larger audience.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Location: Morokot Angkor

Your evening begins with a pickup from your Siem Reap hotel, thanks to the included tuk-tuk transfer. The venue, Morokot Angkor, is set up for comfort and visibility, but true to the reviews, it’s a large hall with long tables. This means the atmosphere is more banquet hall than small theater, which some may find less intimate, especially during busy seasons when space can be tight.

The Transport: Tuk-Tuk Convenience

One of the standout features of this tour is round-trip tuk-tuk transport. This not only simplifies your logistics but adds a bit of local charm to your evening. Our driver was praised for navigating traffic smoothly, making the journey to the show both quick and enjoyable. In a city where traffic can be unpredictable, this small detail makes a big difference, letting you arrive relaxed and ready to enjoy.

The Dances: A Window into Khmer Culture

Once seated, the show kicks off with traditional blessings—setting a respectful tone. Over the next 90 minutes, you’ll see five dances: the Ramayana Dance, Fishing Dance, Peacock’s Dance, Coconut Dance, and of course, the Apsara Dance.

According to reviews, the dance and music are quite good—a point of praise from those who enjoy traditional performances. The dances are performed by professional artists, giving you a chance to witness Cambodia’s cultural heritage that’s still alive today. One reviewer shared that sitting close to the stage would provide excellent photo opportunities, which is worth considering if capturing memories is important.

The Dinner: A Buffet for Every Craving

The buffet is another highlight, with a broad selection of Khmer, Asian, and European dishes. Reviewers have described it as “amazing” with “lots of choices” and vegetarian options. Several mentioned that the buffet is big enough to satisfy a hungry appetite before the dance begins, which is perfect after a day of temple touring.

Interestingly, some reviewers noted that less food was available during the show, but the quality remained good. The attentive staff kept drinks flowing, adding to the relaxed vibe. For many, the buffet complemented the evening nicely—allowing for a leisurely meal while enjoying the entertainment.

The Atmosphere & Audience

While the venue isn’t a small, intimate setting, it doesn’t detract from the overall enjoyment. One guest noted, “It’s a large conference-type venue, so not an intimate small performance, but you get the gist.” If you’re after a more personal experience, this might not be the best fit, but if you’re happy to enjoy a large, lively show, it works well.

The Reviews & Authenticity

The reviews reflect a generally positive experience, with ratings consistently around 4 to 5 stars. Travelers appreciated the value—the combination of local culture, good food, and convenient transport—all at an affordable price. Several reviewers mentioned that the performance exceeded expectations and provided a fun, memorable evening.

Practical Considerations

• The tour is booked an average of 26 days in advance, so plan ahead if you want to secure a spot.
• It’s suitable for most travelers, including families and those with limited mobility, given the straightforward logistics.
• The cancellation policy is flexible—free if canceled more than 24 hours in advance, which adds peace of mind.
• Drinks are not included, so you might want to budget extra for beverages.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re seeking a cost-effective introduction to Khmer culture, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s perfect for first-timers who want an overview of traditional dance without the fuss of complicated arrangements. It also suits food lovers eager to sample a variety of dishes, and those who appreciate easy, hotel-to-venue transport.

However, if your priority is an intimate cultural performance or a more theatrical setting, this might feel a bit large and impersonal. Still, for most visitors wanting a fun, relaxed night out, it hits the sweet spot.

Final Thoughts

This Apsara Dance Show & Dinner offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience Cambodian culture after a day of temple exploration. The tuk-tuk transfer adds a touch of local flavor, while the diverse dance performances provide a genuine glimpse of Cambodia’s performing arts. The buffet dinner ensures you’ll be well-fed and happy, with plenty of options to suit different tastes.

At $21, it’s an excellent value—combining entertainment, authentic cuisine, and convenient logistics in one package. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want a relaxed, fun evening that feels both genuine and effortless. While it may lack the intimacy of smaller shows, the overall experience is lively, colorful, and memorable—a true taste of Siem Reap’s cultural vibrancy.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Siem Reap, making the evening hassle-free.

How long is the show?
The entire experience is approximately two hours, including transfer, dinner, and the performance.

What type of food is served?
A buffet featuring Khmer, Asian, and European dishes, with vegetarian options available.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included. You might want to buy beverages separately during the evening.

Is this suitable for families?
Most travelers can participate, making it a good option for families or groups.

Is the venue small or large?
The performance takes place in a large hall with long tables, so expect a more banquet-style atmosphere.

Can I take photos during the performance?
While not explicitly stated, sitting close to the stage might allow for better photos, and reviews suggest good viewing and photo opportunities.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 26 days ahead is typical, but earlier is recommended during peak seasons.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by Cambo Tours, a reputable local operator.

In short, this tour combines good value with engaging cultural entertainment, all while keeping things easy and relaxed. Whether you’re a first-time visitor eager to experience Khmer dance or just want an enjoyable evening out, it’s a solid choice in Siem Reap.