Need Tips for Siem Reap: Airport Transfers, Angkor Wat Day Trip & Top Activities?

Travel with Niyo
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Greetings Niyo Community. We are travelling to Siam Reap in Cambodia next week. Any tips / suggestions / recommendations w.r.t
(1) airport transfers, (2) Day trip to Angkor Wat and (3) activities in Siam Reap itself. Thanking you in advance!

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Hey @Cari!

This should help you make the most of your Siem Reap adventure😃:

1. Airport Transfers :airplane:

  • New Airport Location: The airport is about 50-60 minutes from the city center, so plan accordingly.

  • Best Transport Options:

    Hotel Pickup or Official Taxis ($20-25/₹1,660-2,080): Reliable and hassle-free.

    PassApp: Great for city travel, though not for airport transfers.

    Pre-booking through your hotel is recommended, especially during peak times.

:bulb: Tip: You can withdraw USD from airport ATMs or exchange money at reputable places for the best rates.

2. Angkor Wat Experience :classical_building:


Smart Pass Strategy :

Buy your pass after 5 PM to get the evening free plus the next full day.

2024 Pass Prices:
- 1-day: $40/₹3,330
- 3-day: $72/₹6,000
- 7-day: $100/₹8,330

Best Ways to Explore:

  • Tuk-tuk Rates (book in advance during peak season):
    - Small circuit: $18-25
    - Grand circuit: $25-30

  • Consider a licensed guide + tuk-tuk combo for a richer experience.

  • Start your day early (around 4:30 AM) to catch the magical sunrise at Angkor Wat.

  • Suggested route: Angkor Wat → Bayon → Ta Prohm → Angkor Thom.


3. Siem Reap Activities :tada:


Must-Do Experiences:

  • Pub Street: Vibrant, full of food & drink options at great prices.
  • Night Market: Perfect for souvenirs (start bargaining at 50% of the quoted price).
  • Phare Circus: A unique Cambodian show – book your tickets in advance! ($18/₹1,500)
  • Old Market (Psar Chas): Get a taste of local life.
  • Artisans Angkor: Free tours to see traditional crafts.
  • Tonle Sap Lake: Eco-friendly tours available.
  • Cooking Classes: Learn to make traditional Cambodian dishes ($25-30).
  • Apsara Dance Shows: A must-see for cultural immersion.

4. Accommodation :hotel:


  • Budget-Friendly: Guesthouses near Pub Street or Old Market offer great value for money.

  • Mid-Range: Hotels in the city center offer comfort and convenience, often with pools and restaurants.

  • Luxury: Resorts near the temples offer a tranquil escape with stunning views and world-class amenities.

5. Pro Tips :bulb:

  • Payments: Many places now accept cards, but it’s always good to have cash (USD and Riel) for smaller purchases.
  • Transport: Use PassApp for reliable city transport at fair pricing.
  • Weather: Start your temple visits early to avoid the heat.
  • Food: There are food options for every budget, from street food to upscale restaurants.
  • SIM Card: Get a local SIM at the airport or in the city for easy access to PassApp and other essentials.

Day Trip Suggestion: Beng Mealea🌄

  • Beng Mealea: A lesser-known temple complex that’s much less crowded than Angkor Wat. It offers a more authentic experience of Cambodia’s ancient architecture.

Cheers, have a wonderful trip!

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Beng Mealea is the cherry on the top on this. Thanks @Zahid_Niyo for this travel tip :heart::raised_hands:

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