Mad Monkey Siem Reap Sunrise Angkor Wat Temple Tour

If you’re planning a visit to Siem Reap and want to see one of the world’s most iconic sights, the Mad Monkey Siem Reap Sunrise Angkor Wat Temple Tour promises an early morning adventure with a dose of culture and stunning views. It’s a chance to witness Angkor Wat’s legendary sunrise—a bucket list moment—without breaking the bank. For just $22 per person, this tour offers a well-organized experience that appeals to budget travelers eager for authentic sights and a bit of local flair.

What we particularly like about this offering is its focus on convenience and value. The inclusion of private, air-conditioned transportation ensures comfort, especially when waking early might not be everyone’s favorite thing. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy additional perks like free cold towels and a couple of draft beers at the end provide a nice touch of relaxation after a full morning of temples. The only potential downside? The early start time might be tough for late risers or those with mobility issues, and the tour is quite brief, focusing mainly on Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a timely, straightforward glimpse of Angkor Wat with the convenience of guided commentary, especially those on a budget or with limited time. If you’re after a deeper exploration or a more relaxed pace, you might want to consider longer or more extensive excursions. But for an efficient, reasonably priced taste of the temples at sunrise, this tour ticks many boxes.

Key Points

• Affordable Experience: At $22, it offers great value, including transportation, guide, and some extras.
• Early Start: Perfect for sunrise chasers, but the early wake-up might challenge some travelers.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private, air-conditioned transport makes the trip more comfortable in the tropical heat.
• Focused Tour: Visits to the three main temples—Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm—cover the highlights efficiently.
• Balanced Education: The guide provides detailed historical insights, enriching the experience.
• Relaxation & Refreshments: Cold towels, water, and two draft beers help unwind after touring.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Early for a Bucket List Moment

The tour begins at 4:15 PM, when you meet in the Mad Monkey Siem Reap hostel lobby. The early start is designed to beat the crowds—an advantage many travelers appreciate based on reviews—and to catch the spectacular sunrise over Angkor Wat. From the moment you meet your guide holding your breakfast box (available for an extra $6), you’ll realize this is a well-organized operation. The 30-minute drive to Angkor Park is a chance to soak in the early morning quiet and prepare for the awe-inspiring visuals ahead.

The Temple Stops and Highlights

Once passed the ticket booth, the guide leads you to three main temples—Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm. Each of these sites offers something unique:

• Angkor Wat: The star of the show, especially at sunrise. You’ll see the temple’s silhouette against the sky, a sight that’s truly unforgettable. The tour guide will point out details about its architecture and history, helping you appreciate the craftsmanship and spiritual significance.

• Bayon: Famous for its giant stone faces, this temple adds a touch of mystique to the tour. The guide provides historical context, making the visit more meaningful than just snapping photos.

• Ta Prohm: Known for its trees entwined through ancient stonework, it looks like a scene from an adventure movie. The guide explains its history and the importance of preservation efforts.

The Knowledge and Pace

Reviews indicate that travelers appreciated the detailed explanations provided by the guide—“the historical information made the temples come alive,” as one review said. The tour’s group size is typically small enough to allow for personalized attention but large enough to keep the energy lively.

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Post-tour Relaxation and Views

By 12:30 PM, you’re back at Mad Monkey Hostel, a reasonable time for a late breakfast or lunch. The tour includes free cold towels and water, essential for cooling down after a morning in the tropical heat. As a bonus, travelers can claim two draft beers at the bar, giving a laid-back way to toast the experience.

The Practicalities: Transportation, Cost, and Comfort

The inclusion of private, air-conditioned transport is a big plus, especially considering the early start. It ensures you’re not exposed to the heat and humidity before sunrise, and it’s more comfortable than local tuk-tuks or buses for such a trip.

Cost-wise, at $22, the value is quite good. The price covers transportation, guide, water, and towels—essentials for a smooth tour. The optional $6 breakfast box adds convenience but isn’t necessary for those on a tight budget.

Group Size and Tour Duration

The tour is designed to be brief but impactful, focusing on the main temples. It’s ideal for those with limited time in Siem Reap who want to check off the sunrise experience without a long day of touring. However, some reviews suggest that the short duration might leave travelers wanting more, especially if they’re eager to explore lesser-known temples or enjoy a more relaxed pace.

The Review: What Travelers Are Saying

While overall reviews are mixed, the stunning views and good value are frequently praised. One traveler noted, “The sunrise over Angkor Wat was worth waking up early for,” and others highlight the quality of the guide’s explanations. The inclusion of cold towels and draft beers after the tour are seen as thoughtful touches that add comfort and relaxation.

Some reviews mention the early start as a challenge but acknowledge that the crowds are thinner at that hour, making for a more peaceful experience. The limited time at each site is a common criticism, but for most, the trade-off is worthwhile given the price point.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for budget travelers eager to see Angkor Wat’s sunrise without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves. It’s also great for those who want a packed, efficient tour that hits the highlights with minimal fuss. If you’re someone who values comfort and convenience and doesn’t mind an early morning, you’ll find this tour delivers a memorable experience.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace, more in-depth exploration, or are traveling with mobility concerns, you might want to look at longer, more comprehensive options.

Final Thoughts

The Mad Monkey Siem Reap Sunrise Angkor Wat Temple Tour offers a solid value and a chance to see one of the world’s most iconic monuments at its most magical moment—the sunrise. The combination of pre-dawn start, professional guiding, and comfortable transport makes it an appealing choice for anyone eager to tick this experience off their bucket list.

While it’s not a comprehensive tour of all Angkor’s sights, it hits the high points efficiently. The inclusion of refreshments and a relaxed post-tour atmosphere adds to the overall appeal. For travelers who want a budget-friendly, well-organized sunrise experience, this tour fits the bill nicely.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 4:15 PM, designed to lead you to Angkor Wat for sunrise the following morning. Be sure to check availability for specific starting times.

How long is the tour?
The main part of the tour lasts until about 12:30 PM, including temple visits and transportation, giving you a morning of cultural sights.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private, air-conditioned transportation is part of the package, ensuring comfort in the tropical heat.

What should I bring?
You’ll need your passport or ID card for entry. It’s also wise to bring sun protection, a hat, and perhaps a camera for photos.

Are there any restrictions?
Pregnant women and people with mobility issues might find this tour challenging, given the early start and walking involved.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

In short, this tour offers an accessible, affordable way to experience the spectacle of sunrise over Angkor Wat, along with a taste of Cambodia’s ancient temples—an experience that many travelers find worth waking up for.

You can check availability for your dates here: