Siem Reap and the Angkor Temple complex can’t really be separated as they enjoy such a symbiotic relationship. The iconic Angkor Temples act as the bait attracting millions of visitors into Siem Reap’s airport and Siem Reap acts as the guardian housing and feeding the visitors, keeping them a respectful distance away from the temples.
Come to see Angkor and you’ll stay in Siem Reap, just 15 minutes drive away. The town is growing fast and you’ll have to dig a bit to find any authentic charm, but it is home to a fantastic range of hotels, restaurants, bars and cafes that will suit every mood and budget.
Angkor Awaits
For most this is enough, as during the day Angkor awaits. There are a choice of 1, 3 and 7 day passes and most visitors opt for 3 days. This allows you to visit the Angkor Archaeological Park on the afternoon you arrive, enjoy a full 2nd day and a final morning on the 3rd, before flying out that afternoon.
The Siem Reap /Angkor region is one of the hottest areas of Cambodia and this allows you to miss the worst of the heat and the temples are best viewed in the lower light. On the other hand to truly appreciate the scale and history that’s condensed into this area 7 days may not be enough! We can build the itinerary to suit you.
When you enter the park one of the first things you notice are the magnificent massive trees that offer a superb backdrop to the temples. The park’s protection has saved them from the deforestation that has scarred much of the country and adds to the allure of any visit, especially if you visit at dawn and listen to the jungle awake.
A guide is a must
Unless you’re a noted historian a guide is an absolute must, as they will not only bring the history alive, they will also offer local insight and know where and when to visit, so you avoid the worst of the crowds and see the temples in their best light. An added bonus is that the day can be totally tailored to you and adjusted on the ground as you get to know what you’d like to see. All our tours include experienced, professional guides based in Angkor.
For most first time visitors we include what are considered the highlights, but essentially the tours can be built around you, perhaps taking in some of the lesser known temples. Apart from Angkor Wat we would also recommend the walled city of Angkor Thom that includes the Bayon, Terrace of Elephants and Terrace of the Leper King. Ta Prohm is great in the stillness of dawn and further out Banteay Srei, Banteay Samre and Pre Rup are often cited a favourites.
There are a multitude of temples to visit and below are some example itineraries to whet your appetite. Please call us to discuss the options available.
