How to Plan Your Private Angkor Temples Tour in Siem Reap
If you’re planning a trip to Siem Reap, Cambodia, then visiting Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world should be at the top of your list. One of the best ways to experience the temples is through a private tour, which offers greater flexibility, personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide, and a more in-depth experience.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan your private Angkor Temples tour in Siem Reap, including what’s included in the tour, what to expect, and other essential details.
What’s Included in the Private Angkor Temples Tour?
The Private Angkor Temples. Tour by Viator offers a rich historical experience of the Angkor temples. The tour includes a round trip by Tuk Tuk, an English speaking guide, Lunch, and entrance fee to Angkor Wat 37 US$/day. However, it is important to note that personal expenses like souvenirs and items not included in the itinerary are not covered by the tour fee.
What to Expect on the Private Angkor Temples Tour
The Private Angkor Temples tour typically starts at 8:00 AM, with local hotels in Siem Reap serving as pick-up points. Your guide will escort you to a Tuk Tuk, which will be your ride for the day. Tuk Tuk is a popular Cambodian mode of transportation that allows you to enjoy the view and feel the local Cambodian environment.
After picking up guests, the tour normally makes its way to Angkor Thom, the last capital city of the Khmer Empire, and your guide will lead you through the South Gate on foot. Next, you’ll explore the Bayon Temple, with its vast array of enigmatic faces, followed by the Baphuon Temple and Terrace of the Elephants.
Afterward, you’ll proceed to view the iconic Angkor Wat Temple, which was originally built as a Hindu temple and later changed to a Buddhist temple. Your guide will show you the highlights of this massive structure, including the intricate carvings that tell tales of the gods and the epic battles of the Khmer Empire.
After exploring Angkor Wat, the tour proceeds to Ta Prohm, a Temple built during the 1186 AD, and a temple that remained relatively untouched and overgrown by the forest. Ta Prohm is most well-known as the filming location for the movie Tomb Raider.
Finally, you’ll have lunch at a local restaurant, which serves traditional Khmer cuisine. The tour completes around 3:00 PM, and you’ll be returned to your hotel or preferred pick-up points in Siem Reap.
Additional Information
To ensure the best experience, here’s some additional information to keep in mind:
Meeting and Pickup
Guests are normally picked up from local hotels in Siem Reap at 8:00 AM, and your guide will contact you the day before to provide precise pick-up information. Please arrive at the hotel lobby at 8:00 AM to be picked up.
Cancellation Policy
The Private Angkor Temples tour comes with a flexible cancellation policy. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the scheduled start, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
Note
It’s important to note that this private tour is not wheelchair accessible, however, infant seats are available should you need them. Unfortunately, expectant mothers are not allowed for safety reasons.
Booking Your Private Angkor Temples Tour
If you’re ready to book your private Angkor Temples tour, you can do so securely and easily from Viator.com. The tour provides a great value-for-money experience, offering both pick-up and drop-off service, so all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the temples.
Conclusion
The Private Angkor Temples tour is a must-do when visiting Siem Reap, providing both an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and an opportunity to dive into Cambodia’s rich history. Remember, by planning your trip well in advance, you can fully enjoy the highlights of the temples and make lifelong memories.
Siem Reap: Frequently Asked Questions
Siem Reap is a city in northwestern Cambodia and is best known for being the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Wat. It is a popular destination for tourists looking to explore the rich history and culture of Cambodia. Visitors to this city often have many questions, so we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip.
1. What is the Best Time to Visit Siem Reap?
The best time to visit Siem Reap is between November and March when the weather is dry and cool. The temperatures are typically between 20-30°C, and the humidity is low. It is also the peak tourist season, and many events and festivals take place during this time. The rainy season, from May to October, can make exploring the temples and other attractions challenging. However, the lush greenery and the relatively quieter atmosphere can make it an appealing time of year for some visitors.
2. How Do I Get to Siem Reap?
The easiest way to get to Siem Reap is by flying into the Siem Reap International Airport, which is less than 20 minutes from the city center. There are many international airlines such as AirAsia, Cathay Pacific, and Singapore Airlines that fly directly to Siem Reap. Another alternative is to fly into the capital city of Phnom Penh and take a bus or a private car to Siem Reap, which is approximately a 6-hour drive.
3. Do I Need a Visa to Visit Siem Reap?
Yes, most visitors to Cambodia need a visa, but fortunately, it is straightforward to obtain one. Visitors can apply for an e-visa through the official website of the Cambodia Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. Alternatively, travelers can obtain visas on arrival at the airport or land borders.
4. How Do I Get Around Siem Reap?
Siem Reap is a relatively small city, and most of the attractions are within walking distance. However, visitors can also use tuk-tuks or taxis to get around the city more comfortably. The best way to explore the Angkor Archaeological Park is by renting a bicycle, which is a popular and affordable option for tourists.
5. What Are the Must-See Attractions in Siem Reap?
The most famous attraction in Siem Reap is the Angkor Wat temple complex, which is the largest religious monument in the world. Other must-see temples include Bayon Temple and Ta Prohm, which is famously known as the “Tomb Raider Temple.” Beyond the temples, visitors can explore floating villages, attend a Cambodian circus, and immerse themselves in the Khmer culture at the Angkor National Museum.
6. What is the Currency Used in Siem Reap?
The currency used in Siem Reap is the Cambodian Riel, but the US Dollar is also widely accepted. Most tourist businesses, such as hotels, restaurants, and tours, quote prices in US Dollars. However, travelers can easily convert their dollars into Riel at banks, currency exchange booths or ATMs.
7. What Should I Wear in Siem Reap?
The weather in Siem Reap is generally hot and humid all year round. Visitors should dress comfortably, with light and breathable clothing during the day. However, visitors should also dress conservatively when visiting temples, covering their shoulders and knees.
8. What is the Food Like in Siem Reap?
The food in Siem Reap is delicious and flavorful, with a strong emphasis on fresh ingredients and spices. Some popular dishes to try include Amok, a curry made with fish, and Lok Lak, a beef dish served with vegetables and rice. There are also many international restaurants, cafes, and bakeries that cater to the expat and tourist crowds.
9. Is Siem Reap Safe For Tourists?
Siem Reap is a relatively safe city for tourists, with low levels of violent crime. However, visitors should take standard safety precautions, such as not flashing their valuables, watching out for pickpockets, and using reputable taxi services.
10. What Souvenirs Should I Buy in Siem Reap?
Siem Reap is known for its handicrafts, and there are many traditional products that tourists can take home, such as silk scarves, ceramics, and woodcarvings. Some popular souvenirs include handwoven baskets, coconut shell lamps, and Khmer spices.
Conclusion
Siem Reap is a vibrant and exciting city, with a rich history and culture that invites visitors to explore and discover its many unique attractions. With this guide to the most frequently asked questions, visitors can prepare themselves for their journey with ease and peace of mind. Whether you are planning a short trip or an extended stay, Siem Reap will undoubtedly charm and enchant you with its beauty and hospitality.
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