How to Plan Your Private Angkor Wat Tour from Siem Reap
Planning a trip to see the wonders of Angkor can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little bit of planning and research, you can have an unforgettable experience exploring the UNESCO-listed ruins of Angkor Wat and the Angkor complex. In this post, we’ll show you how to plan your private Angkor Wat tour from Siem Reap and what to expect on the tour.
Overview of the Private Angkor Wat Tour
The private tour of Angkor Wat from Siem Reap is a full-day guided tour consisting of a journey to explore the vast ruins of Angkor Wat and its surrounding temples. Your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel or port in an air-conditioned vehicle and take you on a journey back in time to the Khmer Empire.
The tour will take you through the majestic temples of Bayon and Banteay Kde, where you can marvel at the intricate carvings and architecture. You will also stroll through the eerily overgrown temple of Ta Prohm, famously known for its appearance in the movie Tomb Raider. The tour will also take you to the Terrace of the Leper King and the Terrace of the Elephants, where you can enjoy the breathtaking views.
What’s Included in the Tour
The private Angkor Wat tour from Siem Reap includes the following:
- Bottled water/Cold towel
- Hotel/Port pickup and drop-off
- Private car and driver
- Entrance fees to the Angkor complex (approximately USD$37)
Benefits of the Private Angkor Wat Tour
Choosing a private tour of Angkor Wat from Siem Reap has several benefits. Firstly, it provides flexibility in terms of the itinerary, allowing you and your guide to tailor the tour to your interests. You can also choose the time of day for the tour, either morning or afternoon, depending on your schedule.
Secondly, a private tour ensures you receive personalized attention from your guide, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience and learn more about the history of the Khmer Empire. You’ll also avoid crowded tour groups, ensuring that you can take your time exploring all that Angkor has to offer.
Booking Your Private Angkor Wat Tour
Booking your tour is easy. Simply click the link below to book your tour through Viator, a reputable tour operator:
Tips for Your Private Angkor Wat Tour
Here are some helpful tips to make the most out of your tour:
- Dress appropriately by wearing comfortable shoes and clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. This is a sign of respect for the religious sites and will also protect you from the sun.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect you from the intense heat.
- Bring insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes and other pests.
- Bring cash to purchase souvenirs and to tip your guide and driver. It’s customary to tip around 10% of the tour cost.
- Bring a camera to capture all the incredible sights you’ll see on your journey.
Final Thoughts
A visit to Angkor Wat is a must-see for anyone traveling to Cambodia. By following these guidelines and booking a private tour from Siem Reap, you can immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the Khmer Empire. Remember to book in advance to secure your spot, and always respect the religious sites and the local culture. We hope you have a fantastic journey exploring the wonders of Angkor!
Siem Reap: Frequently Asked Questions
Siem Reap is a city in Cambodia that is internationally famous for being the gateway to the ancient city of Angkor. Every year, millions of tourists visit Siem Reap to explore the numerous temples of Angkor, learn about the Khmer culture and indulge in the various activities the city has to offer. If you’re planning a trip to Siem Reap, it’s understandable to have a few questions about the city. Here are some frequently asked questions about Siem Reap.
What is the best time to visit Siem Reap?
The best time to visit Siem Reap is from November to February. During these months, the weather is cool and dry, perfect for exploring the temples of Angkor. March to May can be quite hot, so make sure you carry sun protection and stay hydrated. The months from June to October bring about the monsoon season, so there’s a high chance of rainfall for a few hours a day.
What is the currency of Siem Reap?
The currency used in Siem Reap is the Cambodian riel, but US dollars are widely accepted in the city, especially in the tourist areas. It is advisable to carry small denominations of US dollars as it is easier to get change. Credit cards are also accepted in high-end establishments.
What language is spoken in Siem Reap?
The official language of Cambodia is Khmer, but English is widely spoken, especially in the tourist areas of Siem Reap. You can easily communicate with the locals and tourist guides in English.
What are the must-visit temples in Angkor?
The Angkor Archaeological Park is home to several temples, and it is impossible to visit them all. However, there are a few temples that you shouldn’t miss visiting.
Angkor Wat:
This is the most significant and well-known temple. Built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II, this temple is a prime example of Khmer architecture.
Bayon Temple:
This temple was built in the 12th century by King Jayavarman VII and is famous for its tower faces.
Ta Prohm:
This temple is also known as the “Tomb Raider” temple since it was featured in the movie with the same name. The temple is famous for its trees that have grown over and around the temple walls.
What are the best activities to do in Siem Reap?
Apart from visiting the temples of Angkor, there are plenty of other activities to do in Siem Reap. Here are some of the best ones:
Visit the Floating Villages:
The floating villages are a unique experience that you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Siem Reap. Take a boat ride on the Tonle Sap Lake and visit the floating markets, schools, and houses.
Visit the Landmine Museum:
The Landmine Museum is a great place to learn about Cambodia’s landmine problem and how the country is tackling it.
Explore the Old Market:
The Old Market is a bustling market where you can find all sorts of souvenirs, handicrafts, and local produce. It’s a great place to shop for gifts and try some street food.
Is Siem Reap safe for tourists?
Yes, Siem Reap is relatively safe for tourists. However, like any other tourist destination, petty theft and scams can occur. It’s always advisable to take precautions like keeping your valuables safe, not flashing them around, and being aware of your surroundings.
What is the dress code for visiting temples in Angkor?
Since the temples are religious sites, it’s important to dress appropriately. Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. Loose and comfortable clothing is preferable as you’ll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs.
What is the food like in Siem Reap?
Cambodian cuisine is delicious and flavorful, and Siem Reap is no exception. Some must-try dishes in Siem Reap include Fish Amok, Khmer Red Curry, and Banana Blossom Salad. There are plenty of restaurants and street food vendors in the city that serve delicious Khmer food as well as international cuisine.
How do I get around Siem Reap?
Tuk-tuks are the most popular mode of transportation in Siem Reap for tourists. They are cheap, and the drivers also double up as tour guides. You can also rent a bicycle or a scooter if you’re comfortable riding one. If you prefer air-conditioned comfort, taxis are also available.
Conclusion
We hope this article has answered some of your questions about Siem Reap. It’s a beautiful city with plenty of history, culture, and activities. Make sure to plan your trip well in advance and enjoy your time in Siem Reap.
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