Siem Reap: Angkor Wat Sunrise Tour With Small Group

Imagine waking up before dawn, the air still cool, and heading to Angkor Wat to witness the sun rising over one of the world’s most incredible archaeological sites. For just $13 per person, this small-group tour offers an intimate look at Cambodia’s most famous monument, combined with visits to other stunning temples like Bayon, Banteay Kdei, and Ta Prohm. Guided by local experts, you’ll get a fascinating mix of history, art, and photo opportunities—minus the overwhelming crowds.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it balances early morning tranquility with a comprehensive exploration of the Angkor complex. The guide’s insights bring the stories behind the carvings and sculptures to life, making each stop not just a visual treat but also an educational one. Plus, the chance to see Ta Prohm‘s overgrown roots—famous from the Tomb Raider movie—is truly unforgettable. The only caveat? You’ll need to be comfortable with an early start, as the tour kicks off with a pre-dawn pickup and temple visit. This experience suits travelers eager for a more authentic, less crowded temple visit and those who appreciate a guided, small-group setting where questions are welcomed and stories flow easily.

Key Points

• Stunning sunrise over Angkor Wat offers the perfect start to your day.
• Knowledgeable guides help you understand Cambodia’s history, art, and cultural significance.
• Visit multiple temples: Angkor Wat, Bayon, Banteay Kdei, and Ta Prohm, each with its unique charm.
• Affordable price of $13, with extras like transportation and water included.
• Small group size creates a more personal, relaxed experience.
• Timing and early start help avoid crowds and heat, especially for photography.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Early Morning Pickup and Ticket Purchase

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or accommodation, a convenience that saves you from navigating Siem Reap’s streets early in the morning. The guide then takes care of purchasing your temple entrance tickets, which is a crucial step because all visitors need a valid pass to explore the Angkor Archaeological Park. These are not included in the $13 fee, so plan for an extra purchase either online or at the ticket center on the day of your visit.

Watching the Sunrise at Angkor Wat

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly witnessing the sunrise over Angkor Wat. This is one of those moments that makes a trip memorable. You’ll arrive early enough to secure a good spot and enjoy the changing sky as the first light hits the iconic silhouette of the temple’s towers. We loved the way the guide shared insights into what makes Angkor Wat so special, not just as an architectural marvel but as a symbol of Cambodia. The peaceful setting before the crowds arrive means fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to soak in the atmosphere.

Exploring Angkor Wat

Once the sun has risen, the tour continues inside the temple. Here, your guide will walk you through the impressive sculptures and carvings, explaining their meanings and significance. We appreciated how the guide balanced factual storytelling with engaging anecdotes, making the history accessible whether you’re a seasoned history buff or a first-time visitor.

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Visiting Tonle Om Gate

Next stops include the Tonle Om Gate, renowned for its intricate carvings and towering structure. This spot is perfect for snapping memorable photos. The detailed stonework reflects the craftsmanship of the Khmer empire and helps set the tone for the rest of the day.

Bayon Temple in Angkor Thom

The tour then heads to Bayon, located in the heart of Angkor Thom. Famous for its 54 towers adorned with giant stone faces, this temple provides some of the most iconic photo opportunities in the entire complex. The guide will help you navigate the labyrinth of corridors and explain the stories behind the sculptures, adding depth to your visit.

Banteay Kdei

Following Bayon, the group visits Banteay Kdei, often called the “Citadel of Chambers.” Known for its peaceful and well-preserved architecture, it offers a quieter, contemplative atmosphere—ideal after the busier Bayon. The temple’s serene ambiance lets you take your time soaking in the ancient Khmer grandeur.

Ta Prohm—The Overgrown Marvel

The tour concludes at Ta Prohm, the temple famous for its roots and trees intertwining with the stone structures—a scene straight out of a jungle adventure. It’s a highlight for many visitors, especially those who remember Lara Croft’s Tomb Raider escapades. Your guide will point out the best spots for photos and share stories about how the temple was left in its wild state to preserve its dramatic appearance.

End of the Tour

After visiting the temples, you’ll head back to your hotel or opt to be dropped off at Pub Street or Old Market in Siem Reap. The flexibility of ending at a lively area makes it easy to continue exploring or relax after an early start.

What’s Included and What to Prepare

The tour price covers pick-up, drop-off, transportation, a knowledgeable tour guide, and drinking water. Keep in mind that temple entrance fees are not included, so you’ll need to purchase your tickets separately either beforehand online or on the day of your visit. Meals are also not part of the package, so plan accordingly.

To make the most of your experience, bring essentials like sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen. Remember, pets and baby strollers are not allowed, likely due to the early morning start and the temple terrain.

The Experience from Real Travelers’ Perspectives

One reviewer praised a “very friendly guide” who “explained the history well,” emphasizing how much they enjoyed the personalized attention and informative storytelling. Another reviewer highlighted the value of setting off early to avoid the heat and crowds, noting that “the sunrise was great,” and making it clear that the early start is often worth it.

A less positive review labeled the experience a “scam,” which underscores the importance of booking through reputable providers and ensuring you understand what’s included. Overall, most reviews are favorable, focusing on friendly guides, stunning views, and the value for money.

Practical Considerations

• Booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially from November to February, which are peak tourist months. Securing your spot ahead of time guarantees a smoother experience.
• Tickets for Angkor Wat are not included and need to be purchased separately—plan to do this either online in advance or at the ticket center.
• Expect an early start, with the tour beginning before sunrise, so be prepared for a longer day.
• The small group size fosters a relaxed atmosphere, allowing for questions and more personal interaction with your guide.
• The tour lasts a good part of the morning, so wear comfortable shoes and dress modestly for temple visits.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for travelers eager for a peaceful sunrise experience combined with a meaningful exploration of Cambodia’s iconic temples. It suits those who appreciate guided insights that deepen understanding and enjoy photo opportunities in less crowded conditions. If you’re someone who likes to avoid large tour groups and prefers a more authentic, intimate experience, this will suit you well.

It’s also a good fit for budget-conscious travelers, given the competitive price of just $13—especially considering transportation, guide, and water are included. However, be prepared for an early start and a full morning out, which might not be ideal if you’re not an early riser.

Final Thoughts

If seeing Angkor Wat at sunrise is on your bucket list, this tour offers a fantastic opportunity to do so affordably and without the hassle of navigating alone. The small-group setting enhances the experience, making it easier to ask questions and get personalized insights. The stops at Bayon, Banteay Kdei, and Ta Prohm round out the day with varied architecture, history, and photo-worthy moments.

While the price is modest, the value lies in the knowledgeable guides, less crowded temples, and stunning scenery—all wrapped into one memorable morning. It’s a great pick for travelers who want to combine early morning serenity with a rich exploration of Angkor’s most famous sites.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins early in the morning, typically around dawn, so you’ll need to be ready for a pre-sunrise pickup and start.

Are the temple tickets included?
No, tickets are purchased separately either online or at the ticket center on the morning of the tour.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes. Since the tour involves early morning hours, pack light and breathable clothing.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for babies under 1 year or individuals over 95 years old, mainly because of the early start and walking involved.

How long does the tour last?
It typically covers the early morning hours and involves visiting several temples, lasting until late morning or early afternoon.

Can I customize the ending location?
Yes, after visiting the temples, the tour can drop you back at your hotel or at popular areas like Pub Street or Old Market, depending on your preference.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and ensure a smooth experience.

What is the main highlight?
The sunrise at Angkor Wat is the star feature, accompanied by visits to key temples like Bayon and Ta Prohm, all guided by knowledgeable locals.

Is this tour worth the price?
Absolutely, considering transportation, guide, and water are included, plus the priceless experience of seeing Angkor Wat at sunrise in a small-group setting—it’s excellent value.

This small-group sunrise tour offers a meaningful, beautifully paced way to start your Angkor adventure, blending impressive sights with cultural storytelling. Perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights without losing the magic of that early morning moment.

You can check availability for your dates here: