Siem Reap: Guided Countryside Sunset Tour by Jeep

If you’re looking to experience Cambodia beyond the bustling temples and tourist hotspots, the Guided Countryside Sunset Tour by Jeep offers a refreshing glimpse into rural life. This tour promises a relaxed, authentic journey through the outskirts of Siem Reap, all while riding in a vintage open jeep.

What we really like about this experience is the chance to see real village life up close and enjoy a peaceful sunset away from the crowds. Plus, the vintage jeep adds a fun, nostalgic touch to your adventure. That said, it’s not the cheapest option out there, but for the value of genuine sights and the relaxed pace, it might just be worth it.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, culture, and a more laid-back, non-touristy atmosphere. If you want a picture of everyday Cambodian life in the countryside, this trip could be just what you’re after.

Contents hide

1 An Honest Look at the Experience

2 What We Think About the Price and Value

3 Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

4 Who Should Consider This Tour?

Key Points

Authentic rural experience with visits to local villages, markets, and pagodas
Enjoy a peaceful sunset over rice paddies with drinks on hand
Travel in style aboard a vintage open jeep for a fun and comfortable ride
Learn about Cambodian life from knowledgeable guides
Avoid crowds and touristy areas by exploring the outskirts
Flexible schedule with pickup and drop-off from your hotel included

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

We think this tour is a standout for those wanting a more genuine, laid-back look at Cambodian life—away from the temples and tourist throngs. It’s a three-and-a-half-hour escape that’s designed to show you what daily life looks like in the countryside, with some beautiful scenery and cultural tidbits along the way.

The experience kicks off with hotel pickup, which makes it easy to get started without worrying about transportation logistics. Your ride in the open jeep promises an engaging way to see the sights—imagine feeling the breeze while passing through rice paddies and traditional stilt houses. As one traveler put it, “The driver spoke very good English, he told us about the landscape around, he had cold water and towels with him. And the trip is amazing.”

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Siem Reap.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First, you’ll hop into a vintage jeep and head out of the city. Your first stop is a brief drive—roughly 20 minutes—to the countryside, giving you a taste of what’s to come. Once in the rural areas, you’ll get a series of stops designed to maximize scenic viewing and cultural insight.

The scenic village and rice field pass-by are the core of this trip. Expect to see traditional stilted houses, local vegetable gardens, and lotus ponds. These sights provide a genuine look into daily life, far removed from the typical tourist routes. You’ll also visit a local market, where you can observe the vibrant, everyday commerce of Cambodian villagers.

Another highlight is the visit to a local pagoda—a peaceful spot that offers a glimpse into religious life and the community’s spiritual heart. This stop adds depth to your understanding of Cambodian culture beyond the temples.

Sunset in the Countryside

The real highlight is the sunset viewing from rice paddies. You’ll arrive at a “secret stop,” where you’ll settle in with a drink in hand—beers or soft drinks—while soaking up incredible views. As the sun dips behind the rice fields, the scene is truly breathtaking, with warm light illuminating the landscape and creating perfect photo moments.

One review mentions, “You can see the villages around Siem Reap, rice fields, lotus farms and see the breathtaking sunset. 100% recommend.” The peacefulness of this setting makes it clear why many travelers choose this tour as a relaxing way to end their day.

Returning to Siem Reap

After the sunset, you’ll hop back into the jeep for a short ride back to your hotel, completing a well-paced, relaxed afternoon. The entire experience is designed to be flexible, with pickups and drop-offs included, making it an effortless addition to your Cambodia trip.

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What We Think About the Price and Value

At $49 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option, but it offers a lot in terms of authenticity, comfort, and scenery. For those who want to see the countryside in a relaxed, fun way while avoiding crowds, it’s a good deal. The inclusion of a guide, drinks, and snacks adds extra value—especially since it’s a private group, which enhances the feeling of intimacy and personalized attention.

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The Benefits of Small Group and Private Tours

Being part of a private group means you’ll get the guide’s full attention and customized insights, which is often more engaging than larger tours. The English-speaking guide ensures you understand what you’re seeing and can ask questions along the way—a big plus for curious travelers.

Practical Considerations

The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, making it suitable for a late afternoon or early evening activity. You’ll be traveling in an open jeep, which is fun and nostalgic but also exposes you to the elements—so dress comfortably and bring sun protection if needed.

It’s worth noting that this experience is designed to be non-touristy; it’s about genuine, local sights rather than commercialized attractions. If you’re after a laid-back, scenic experience with cultural insights, this tour hits that mark.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

Two reviews strongly highlight the guide’s knowledge and the stunning sunset views. One reviewer, Ola, praised the guide’s English skills and detailed explanations about the landscape, coupled with the “breathtaking sunset”—a phrase that captures the essence of this tour’s appeal. The same reviewer also appreciated the cold water and towels provided, which speaks to thoughtful hospitality.

Another reviewer, Monica, found the activity “somewhat different,” emphasizing that it’s a nice way to escape the tourist crowds and see people’s daily lives more closely. She notes that it’s a bit more expensive than some alternatives but feels it offers a unique, genuine experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a peaceful, scenic escape from Siem Reap’s bustling tourist scene. It’s perfect if you enjoy cultural insights, beautiful landscapes, and relaxing sunset moments. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple, the private group setting makes it more intimate.

It’s less suited for those seeking temple exploration or highly energetic activities, but for a mellow, scenic, cultural glimpse into rural Cambodia, it checks many boxes.

In essence, this Guided Countryside Sunset Tour by Jeep offers a wonderful balance of comfort, authenticity, and scenic beauty. It provides travelers a chance to see the true Cambodia—villages, rice fields, lotus ponds, and spiritual sites—while enjoying a leisurely sunset. The vintage jeep adds a fun, nostalgic touch, making the journey more memorable.

While it isn’t the cheapest activity, the combination of local insights, stunning views, and a relaxing pace makes it a worthwhile option for those wanting an escape from crowds and a deeper look at rural life. It works best for travelers who appreciate cultural authenticity, scenic serenity, and a touch of adventure.

If you’re seeking a well-rounded, authentic, and peaceful evening experience outside the temples, this tour is a strong contender in Siem Reap’s array of sightseeing options.

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and dropoff at your accommodation in Siem Reap, making it easy to join without extra logistics.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3.5 hours, mainly in the late afternoon and early evening, perfect for catching the sunset.

What is the transportation like?
Travel is by open vintage jeep, which adds a fun, nostalgic feel but also means you’ll be exposed to the elements, so dress accordingly.

Are drinks included?
Yes, soft drinks, beers, or water are provided during the sunset stop, along with some local snacks along the route.

Is this a private or group tour?
It’s a private group experience, allowing for a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

What are the main sights I will see?
Expect to see villages, rice paddies, lotus ponds, local markets, and a pagoda, culminating in a scenic sunset over the rice fields.

Is this activity suitable for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for families and groups looking for a peaceful, scenic experience with cultural insights, especially thanks to the private guide.

This guided countryside sunset jeep tour offers a genuinely different way to experience Cambodia’s simple, honest charm — a perfect addition to your Siem Reap adventure.