2-Days Angkor Sunrise & Banteay Srei & Floating Village Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Siem Reap, a tour that combines the iconic Angkor temples with the local floating villages offers a fantastic way to experience Cambodia’s cultural and natural beauty. This 2-day private tour from Angkor Guide Tours is designed to give you a comprehensive glimpse into the region’s most famous sites—starting with the breathtaking sunrise over Angkor Wat, and ending with a boat trip through the traditional floating houses at Kampong Phluk.

What we appreciate most about this experience is the thoughtful balance it strikes: early mornings to catch the sunrise, visits to both grand and lesser-known temples, plus a boat trip that really brings out the local way of life. The tour’s price of $108 per person offers impressive value, especially considering the private guide, transportation, and included hotel pickup and drop-off.

One thing to consider is the upfront cost for temple tickets and the boat cruise, which aren’t included. Still, for the access and insights you gain, this tour offers a practical and immersive introduction to Angkor’s wonders. It’s best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded, flexible experience that covers major highlights without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Two Days of Guided Exploration: Covering Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Banteay Srei, and more.
• Early Sunrise Experience: Witness the iconic sunrise over Angkor Wat with stunning reflections.
• Floating Village Visit: Discover local life on Tonle Sap Lake with a private boat ride.
• Comfort and Convenience: Hotel pickup/drop-off, private guide, and transportation included.
• Cost-Effective: At $108, it offers great value considering the inclusions.
• Flexible & Private: Ideal for travelers seeking a personalized tour experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Tour Experience

Day 1: Discovering Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat

We start early—around 8:00 AM—after a hearty breakfast. The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel, arriving in time for a full day exploring the sprawling Angkor Thom complex. Known as the “Great City,” Angkor Thom is a maze of temples, terraces, and statues that reveal the grandeur of Khmer civilization. You’ll visit the South Gate, famous for its massive smiling faces reflected in the water, a perfect photo opportunity that delights travelers of all ages.

From there, the guide takes you through the Bayon Temple, renowned for its numerous serene stone faces. We loved how the guide explained the transition from Hindu to Buddhist influences in the temples, adding context to what might otherwise seem like just ancient stones. Walking through the Elephant Terrace and the Terrace of the Leper King, we felt immersed in a site that’s both awe-inspiring and historically layered.

By midday, you’ll break for lunch at a nearby local restaurant. After refueling, the focus shifts to Angkor Wat—the crown jewel of the archaeological park. The temple’s scale and intricate bas-reliefs are striking even for seasoned travelers. The guide will help you spot details you might miss on your own, sharing stories about the carvings and their significance.

As the day winds down, you’ll ascend Bakheng Mountain for sunset. The views from the top—over the sprawling Angkor landscape—are jaw-dropping. Watching the sun dip behind the ruins is a fitting end to a busy day of exploring.

Day 2: Sunrise at Angkor Wat and the Floating Village

This day begins even earlier—around 4:30 AM—to catch the famous sunrise over Angkor Wat. If you’ve ever seen those iconic images of the sun rising behind the temple’s towers, you’ll know why this is a highlight. We loved the peaceful early morning atmosphere and the chance to see the temple reflected in the water outside its walls.

After sunrise, you’ll return to your hotel for breakfast, then head out for a day packed with more temple visits. The guide takes you through the big circle, showcasing temples like Banteay Srei and Banteay Samre. Banteay Srei, often called the “Pink Ladies” Temple, is particularly admired for its well-preserved, detailed carvings and pink sandstone construction. It’s a bit of a drive from Angkor Thom but well worth it for its delicate artistry and smaller, more manageable size.

Following more temple visits, you’ll have a hearty lunch before heading southeast to the Tonle Sap Lake area. Here lies the floating village of Kampong Phluk, where you hop onto a private boat to see the fishermen’s houses built on stilts. This part of the tour offers a fascinating glimpse into local life—something you won’t get at the more touristy temples. The boat ride provides a unique perspective on Cambodia’s natural prosperity and traditional livelihoods.

The tour concludes around 3:30 PM, giving you plenty of time to relax after an active two days.

The Logistics and What Matters

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Transportation and Comfort

The tour includes A/C transportation and a dedicated driver, which makes city touring much more comfortable—especially in the heat. The small group size and private guide enhance the experience, allowing for flexibility and personalized attention. The guide is fluent in English, helping you understand the history, myths, and daily life stories linked to each site.

Timing and Flexibility

The start times are flexible—check availability—but the two-day structure allows you to see key highlights without feeling overwhelmed. Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunset help maximize your sightseeing while avoiding the midday heat.

Cost and Value

At $108 per person, including guide, transportation, water, and towels, this tour offers good value. Keep in mind, the temple ticket cost of $37 per day and the boat cruise are separate, so budget accordingly. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off is a big plus, saving you from navigating unfamiliar transport.

Practical Tips

Bring comfortable shoes for walking, a hat, sunscreen, and water—these are essentials for staying comfortable during long days of sightseeing. Don’t forget your camera; the scenery and photo opportunities are plentiful. Since the tour involves early mornings, being prepared to wake up before sunrise is key for that unforgettable moment.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to Angkor’s most famous sites without the hassle of organizing transfers or guides. It suits those interested in a flexible, private experience with insightful commentary, rather than large, group tours. It’s perfect for history buffs, photographers, or anyone eager to see Cambodia’s spiritual and natural beauty in a manageable four-day window.

If you’re short on time but want a well-rounded visit, or if you prefer a more personal and relaxed pace, this tour checks those boxes.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Angkor Sunrise & Banteay Srei & Floating Village Tour offers a well-balanced mix of iconic temples, authentic local life, and breathtaking scenery. The early morning sunrise over Angkor Wat is a memory you’ll cherish, and the boat trip through Kampong Phluk adds a special touch of Cambodian daily life. The convenience of private transport and guide means a smoother, more personalized experience—making the $108 price seem like a worthwhile investment.

While the costs of entrance fees and the boat are separate, the overall value and richness of the experience make it a solid choice for those wanting to see the highlights efficiently. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a flexible, immersive introduction to Cambodia’s most treasured sites, without the crowds or confusion of self-guided touring.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics one less thing to worry about.

What is the cost of temple tickets?
Temple tickets are not included in the $108 fee. They cost $37 per day, so plan accordingly.

Can I join this tour if I want to see the sunrise?
Absolutely. The tour starts early enough to include the sunrise over Angkor Wat, which is a major highlight.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and a camera for capturing the views.

How long does the boat trip to the floating village last?
The boat trip is part of the second day, after lunch, and offers a glimpse into local life on Tonle Sap Lake.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are local restaurants nearby for lunch.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s suitable for most ages, especially since it’s private and can be tailored to your pace.

How many people will be in my tour group?
The tour is designed for private groups, so you’ll have personalized attention.

What is the best time to book?
Check availability early, especially for the sunrise day, as spots can fill up quickly during peak seasons.

In the end, this tour offers a thoughtful and comprehensive way to experience Cambodia’s most famous landmarks and local culture. It’s perfect for travelers who want a smooth, well-organized, and memorable journey into the heart of Angkor’s ancient marvels.

You can check availability for your dates here: