Phnom Penh – Siem Reap Road Transfer Plus Sightseeing

Phnom Penh – Siem Reap Road Transfer Plus Sightseeing offers an excellent way to travel between Cambodia’s two most famous cities. For $99 per person, you get a full 11-hour journey with the chance to see some of the country’s most memorable sights along the way. Your journey is hosted by friendly, English-speaking drivers in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, making the long drive more enjoyable—and even fun.

What we love about this tour is the flexibility and personal touch. First, you get to stop at Skun Market, famously known as “Spider Ville,” where you can try local snacks and soak in the lively atmosphere. Second, the visit to Sambor Prei Kuk, a collection of 6th-7th century temples hidden in the jungle, offers a glimpse into Cambodia’s ancient past. The stops at the ancient Kampong Dkei bridge and Kampong Kleang floating fishing villages add layers of authenticity and unique local experiences.

A possible consideration is the cost of additional tickets—around $10 for temple entry and up to $15 for the boat ride—so budget accordingly if you want to maximize your experience. The tour suits travelers who love seeing off-the-beaten-path sights, enjoy a bit of adventure, and appreciate the comfort of a private, guided trip. Whether you’re pressed for time or want a relaxed way to combine sightseeing with travel, it’s a solid choice.

Key Points

• Comfortable private transfer ensures a stress-free journey between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
• Stops at key attractions like Sambor Prei Kuk and floating villages provide authentic cultural and historical insights.
• Flexible options for sightseeing and timing make this a personalized experience.
• Knowledgeable English-speaking drivers significantly enhance the experience with local insights.
• Value for money considering the length of the trip, personalized service, and multiple stops.
• Additional costs for temple tickets and boat rides should be factored into your planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Phnom Penh – Siem Reap Road Transfer Plus Sightseeing

Traveling between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap can be done in many ways—by bus, plane, or private car. But if you’re after a leisurely, sightseeing-focused experience, this tour ticks many boxes. For around $99, you get a dedicated private vehicle with an English-speaking driver, who acts as both chauffeur and guide. This means you’re not stuck with a group, and you can customize your stops or enjoy a relaxed pace. Plus, the reviews show that most travelers have found this trip to be both comfortable and packed with interesting sights.

The Itinerary and Its Highlights

Starting Point: The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in either Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, depending on your booking. Expect your guide to arrive promptly—most reviews praise the punctuality and friendliness of drivers like Thearak, Polen, or Kosal. You’ll be whisked away in a modern vehicle with air conditioning, perfect for Cambodia’s warm weather.

Skun Market, or Spider Ville: Your first stop is the vibrant Skun Market, famed for its exotic snacks and lively atmosphere. It’s a great place to see daily local life and try some unusual Cambodian street foods—most notably the roasted insects and spiders. Many travelers rave about this stop; one reviewer sums it up as “fun and interesting,” especially if you’re curious about local cuisine.

Sambor Prei Kuk Temples: Next, you’ll head into the jungle north of Kampong Thom to visit Sambor Prei Kuk, a UNESCO-listed archaeological site with 6th-7th century temples. Unlike Angkor Wat, these temples are less crowded and more hidden among the trees. The reviews highlight the impressive size and preservation of the structures. One traveler expressed how “the temple group is a real peek into ancient Cambodia,” and others appreciated the chance to explore history in a peaceful, natural setting.

Lunch in Pre Bros: After a couple of hours exploring the temples, you’ll stop for lunch in Pre Bros. This is usually a local restaurant where you can enjoy Khmer dishes and maybe some fresh fruit. It’s a good chance to relax and recharge before the afternoon.

Kampong Kdei Ancient Bridge: Post-lunch, you’ll visit the 12th-century Kampong Kdei bridge, also called “Spean Preah Toses.” Built at the same time as Angkor Wat, this long, historic stone structure offers a beautiful photo opportunity and a tangible link to Cambodia’s medieval engineering prowess. The reviews mention how “the bridge was built at the same time as Angkor Wat,” adding a layer of historical intrigue.

Kampong Kleang Fishing Village: The final major stop is the floating and stilted fishing community of Kampong Kleang on Tonle Sap Lake. Here, you’ll see how local residents live on the water—homes, schools, and markets all floating or built on stilts. Many reviews highlight this as a highlight, describing it as “fascinating to see the buildings and watch the local people ending their day of fishing.” A boat ride here, costing about $15 per person, allows you to get close to the floating houses, providing a genuine glimpse into everyday rural Cambodian life.

Return Journey: After a full day of sightseeing, your driver will take you back to your hotel in Siem Reap or Phnom Penh, depending on your initial pickup. The entire trip lasts roughly 11 hours, with plenty of time for photos, questions, and just soaking in the scenery.

What to Expect During the Trip

This tour is all about combining comfort with authentic experiences. Expect a private transfer in a clean, air-conditioned vehicle—most travelers mention how much they appreciated the cooling bottles of water and the comfortable seats after some hot stops.

Your English-speaking driver is key; reviews often mention how knowledgeable and friendly they are. Drivers like Thearak or Polen go beyond just driving—they share insights into Cambodian culture, history, and daily life, making the journey educational.

Timing is flexible, but most travelers appreciate the opportunity to pace themselves, especially at the temples and floating villages. The stops are well-spaced, usually about an hour or so each, allowing enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

The Sights in Detail

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Skun Market (‘Spider Ville’)

Expect a lively, colorful scene teeming with vendors selling fresh produce, roasted insects, and local snacks. If you’re adventurous, trying the roasted spiders or crickets is a must. Even if you’re not, watching locals go about their day offers a slice of authentic Cambodian daily life. Multiple reviews praised this stop as “fun and interesting,” with one saying it was “a great way to see local life and try some snacks.”

Sambor Prei Kuk Temples

Less crowded than Angkor, these ancient ruins are nestled among trees and jungle. The structures reflect a different era—more primitive than Angkor Wat but equally impressive in their quiet, untouched state. Travelers note the peacefulness of the site, making it a more contemplative experience. We loved the way the temples felt like a secret, almost mystical place, perfect for those interested in history and ancient architecture.

Kampong Kdei Bridge

This is a great example of medieval Cambodian engineering. Built in the same period as Angkor, the bridge’s long, sturdy stones have withstood the test of time. The structure’s historic significance makes it a favorite for photography and reflection on Cambodia’s long history.

Kampong Kleang Floating Village

This is the highlight for many travelers—an authentic look into a life lived almost entirely on water. The floating houses, schools, and markets create a surreal but ordinary scene for residents. The boat ride provides a close-up view of the daily routines of fishermen and families. Reviewers often describe this as “fascinating,” “eye-opening,” and “a real peek into rural Cambodia.”

Transportation and Practicalities

The private vehicle means no waiting around with strangers—just a dedicated driver who is professional, friendly, and eager to share insights. The air conditioning is a blessing in Cambodia’s heat, and the journey is well-paced.

Cost-wise, you should factor in the additional fees for temple entry ($10) and boat rides ($15), but these are optional and paid locally. Many reviewers found the overall value excellent, especially given the convenience and personalized experience.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes for temple exploring, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are essentials. Some reviews mention that the vehicle provides cold water, which is greatly appreciated. The tour is not suitable for those with back problems or mobility issues, as it involves some walking and boat rides.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers wanting a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning multiple transfers. If you enjoy exploring less-touristed sites like Sambor Prei Kuk and the floating villages, you’ll find it enriching. It’s also ideal for those who prefer a personalized experience—the private transfer and flexible stops allow for a more relaxed day.

Travelers who appreciate good value and are willing to pay a bit extra for the convenience and in-depth experience will find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suited for those interested in Cambodia’s history, rural life, and authentic local culture rather than just Angkor Wat.

FAQs

How long is the trip?
The journey lasts approximately 11 hours, including all stops, so it’s a full-day commitment but well worth it for the sights.

What does the price include?
The $99 covers the private transfer, English-speaking driver, gasoline, tolls, parking fees, and passenger insurance. Meals and entry tickets are extra.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, temple tickets ($10) and boat rides ($15) are paid separately and are optional but highly recommended for a complete experience.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
It’s best suited for those who are comfortable with a full day of travel and walking. It’s not recommended for travelers with back problems, mobility issues, or those over 95 years old.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and cash for extras.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss with your driver and guide about spending more or less time at certain sites.

Is the driver knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews frequently praise the drivers’ friendliness and insight into local history and culture.

What is the quality of the vehicle?
Most travelers find the vehicle modern, clean, and comfortable, with air conditioning and amenities like cold bottled water.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve now without paying upfront, and the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.

To sum it up, whether you’re eager to explore Cambodia’s ancient temples, see daily life in floating villages, or simply want a comfortable way to travel between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, this private sightseeing transfer offers excellent value. It’s especially well-suited for curious travelers who want more than just a transfer—a day packed with interesting sights, local flavor, and the comfort of a dedicated guide. Expect a well-paced, personalized journey that will leave you with a deeper appreciation of Cambodia’s diverse landscape and history.

You can check availability for your dates here: