How to Plan Your Siem Reap Day Tour

Siem Reap, located in northwestern Cambodia, is home to the world-renowned Angkor Wat and many other famous temples. A day tour in Siem Reap is an excellent opportunity to explore the temples and learn about the rich history of this city. If you’re planning on taking a day tour of Siem Reap, here is a step-by-step guide to help make your planning easier.

Step 1: Choose a Tour Company

Choosing the right tour company for your day tour in Siem Reap is crucial. Make sure to research various tour companies beforehand to find one that offers a well-rounded experience with knowledgeable guides. The 2-Days Private Tour to Explore Small Tour Temples, City Tour, and Floating Village offered by Viator is an excellent option. This tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking tour guide, chilled bottled water, temple passes, and two meals.

Step 2: Decide on Pickup Location

The tour pick-up location is at the Siem Reap Pub Hostel, located behind the Angkor Night Market in Krong Siem Reap. If you prefer, the tour company can arrange for pickup from your accommodation. Simply let them know where you’re staying and a contact number when you book, and they’ll handle the rest. It’s important to note that on booking, you select the pick-up time for Angkor Wat, and the floating village tour starts at either 8:00 a.m. or 8:30 a.m. the next day, which will be arranged with your tour guide based on your preference.

Step 3: Bring Essentials

The day can be scorching in Siem Reap, so it’s essential to come prepared. Bring a hat or umbrella, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera for memories that will last a lifetime. The tour comes with chilled bottled water, so you don’t need to worry about hydration.

Step 4: Visit the Temples

The tour includes a visit to various temples, including Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple, and Ta Prohm Temple. These temples are some of the most beautiful religious structures in Southeast Asia, and their beauty and history are worth exploring.

Step 5: Enjoy the City Tour

Apart from temples, the tour includes a city tour that takes you to exciting locations like the famous Phnom Kulen Waterfall, Cambodia Landmine Museum, and Tonle Sap Lake.

Step 6: Experience the Floating Village

The tour’s last destination is the traditional floating village on Tonle Sap Lake, where you can see the unique traditions and daily life of the local people living in the area.

Step 7: End Your Tour

The day tour ends at the Siem Reap Pub Hostel, the same location where you started the tour. Please ensure that you’re ready at least 30 minutes before the scheduled tour start time.

Conclusion

A day tour in Siem Reap is an excellent opportunity to explore the beauty and history of this remarkable city. Whether you’re interested in temples, lakes, or museums, there’s something for everyone. With proper planning and the right tour company like the 2-Days Private Tour to Explore Small Tour Temples, City Tour, and Floating Village offered by Viator, you’re sure to have a fabulous time. Don’t forget to book the tour here and discover the best of what Siem Reap has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions about Siem Reap

Siem Reap is a city located in the northwest region of Cambodia, and it is famous for its cultural and historical attractions, including the famous Angkor Wat temple complex. If you are planning a trip to Siem Reap, you may have a few questions in mind. In this article, we will cover the most frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip to Siem Reap.

1. What is the best time to visit Siem Reap?

The best time to visit Siem Reap is from November through to April. During this time, the weather is dry and cool, making it easy to explore the temples and other attractions. The rainy season typically runs from May to October, and it can be muggy and hot, making it challenging to explore the temples.

2. How many days should I spend in Siem Reap?

We recommend spending at least three to four days in Siem Reap to explore the temples and other attractions. If you have more time, you can also visit other nearby attractions like the Tonle Sap Lake or the Kulen Mountain range.

3. Do I need a visa to visit Siem Reap?

Yes, visitors need a visa to enter Cambodia, including Siem Reap. Tourists can obtain a visa upon arrival at the airport or land border crossing. However, it’s best to apply for an e-visa before you arrive to avoid long queues at the airport.

4. How much should I budget for my trip to Siem Reap?

The cost of a trip to Siem Reap can vary depending on your travel style and preferences. On average, budget travelers can expect to spend around $20 to $30 per day on accommodation, street food, and transportation. Mid-range travelers can expect to spend around $50 to $80 per day on comfortable accommodation, restaurant meals, and organized tours of temples. Luxury travelers can expect to spend upwards of $200 per day on high-end hotels, fine dining, and private tours of temples.

5. Is it safe to visit Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is considered safe for tourists. However, visitors should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings when traveling around the city. Some common tourist scams include overpriced tuk-tuk rides and tour guides offering to take visitors to lesser-known temples. To avoid these issues, it’s best to book tours through reputable travel agencies or your hotel.

6. What should I wear when visiting temples in Siem Reap?

Temple etiquette requires modest and respectful clothing. Visitors should dress conservatively, covering their shoulders and knees at all times. Loose-fitting and breathable clothing is recommended, as the temples can be hot and humid during the day.

7. Do I need to hire a guide to visit the temples in Siem Reap?

While it’s not mandatory to hire a guide, hiring one can greatly enhance your temple experience. Guides can provide valuable information about the temples’ historical and cultural significance and help visitors navigate the temples’ vast grounds. There are plenty of licensed guides available for hire in Siem Reap, or visitors can book a guided tour through their hotel or travel agency.

8. What is the best way to get around Siem Reap?

Tuk-tuks are the most popular and affordable form of transportation in Siem Reap. They can be found all around the city and are a great way to navigate the temples and other local attractions. Rental bicycles and scooters are also available for visitors who prefer to explore the city on their own.

9. What other attractions are there to see in Siem Reap?

In addition to the temples, Siem Reap has a range of other attractions to see and do. The Tonle Sap Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and is home to floating villages and wetlands that can be explored by boat. The Kulen Mountain range is known for its waterfalls, ancient ruins, and scenic hiking trails. Visitors can also explore the night markets, visit local art galleries, or take a cooking class to learn more about Cambodian cuisine.

10. Can I use US dollars in Siem Reap?

Yes, US dollars are widely accepted in Siem Reap, and many local businesses and tour operators prefer to receive payment in US dollars. Visitors should be aware that smaller businesses and street vendors may not be able to provide change in US dollars, so it’s always best to carry small denominations of Cambodian riel.

Conclusion

We hope this article has answered some of your questions about Siem Reap and helped you plan your trip to this historic and culturally rich city. Remember to pack appropriately for temple visits, be aware of common tourist scams, and budget accordingly. By following these tips, you can have an enjoyable and memorable trip to Siem Reap.