Siem Reap Angkor Wat Sunrise Jeep Tour: A Detailed Review

Thinking of visiting Angkor Wat at sunrise? Well, you’re not alone. That initial view of the temples, catching those gold sun rays? Very spectacular! A Siem Reap Angkor Wat Sunrise and Market Tour by Jeep? It really seemed like a wonderful way to do it. A little bit different, you know? More character than just any standard tour bus. In short, that’s precisely why I tried it out myself. So, here’s my firsthand account to really give you the scoop on this unique adventure. Hopefully, it’ll actually help you decide if it’s the right call for your trip.

Why Choose a Jeep Tour for Angkor Wat Sunrise?

You could potentially go to Angkor Wat any old way. Busses. Tuk-tuks. Cars. So, what’s with the Jeep thing, very much anyway? For one, it’s almost an experience in itself. A Jeep simply offers a feeling of going back. A vintage touch that sort of fits Angkor’s ancient vibe. Too, it’s a fun way to avoid the large crowds often packed into buses. Being out in the open air adds a degree of adventure. That is, it’s a really direct feel of the Cambodian countryside as you’re going along. But is it actually worth it? We’ll actually have to see!

My Pre-Dawn Pickup and the Drive to Angkor

Okay, so the tour stated that they’d pick me up at 4:30 AM. In that case, they were on time, so thumbs up already! The Jeep? Open-top, very, very old. Very Indiana Jones, in a way, that! The driver, he seemed very friendly. Knew English okay. Right from the city, the route out to Angkor took you past just-waking villages. Farmers already starting their day. It really did add a certain feeling, seeing real local goings-on that you absolutely don’t get inside some enclosed vehicle. A little bit bumpy. Fairly, actually. But that simply added to the charm.

The Angkor Wat Sunrise Experience: Was it Worth the Hype?

I’ll give it to you plain. Observing sunrise behind Angkor Wat? Basically stunning. Is it teeming with peeps? Unfortunately. The tour guides know all the great spots though. My driver? He walked me straight to a brilliant place by the reflecting pond. That meant very nice reflections of the temple. Just a little waiting. Then that sun came up. Boom! Solid gold on old stone. Definitely a sight to really make the early wake-up more than worth it. Is that worth the hype? For sure! I’d do it again.

Exploring Angkor Wat: Beyond the Sunrise

Seeing sunrise isn’t quite all this tour’s actually got going. You also actually get a nice look around Angkor Wat itself. With your tour person or on your own, whichever you wish. I did both. Getting that person give you the deets on the temple’s old story and layout really brought it all alive. After, I sort of wandered solo. Very cool to take pictures and simply soak it all up without being right next to any big tour group.

The Local Market Visit: A Taste of Cambodian Life

After Angkor Wat, that Jeep went to a local market. A proper one. This absolutely wasn’t any tourist trap. Loads of action. Super colorful. I was walking all around folks doing their day-to-day buying and selling. That said, you could actually try some native fruits. Taste street food. See just how local Cambodians actually get stuff done. A super sharp change from the temples. And actually showed you something else of Cambodian society.

What I Ate on the Tour

Speaking of chow, that tour had snacks and drinks at points, you know. Plenty of chilled water (much needed!). I bought a native breakfast pastry thing at the market (Nom Kong). Really quite yum. If you’re a food dabbler, really be willing to test things while you’re visiting that market stop! A very cool chance to taste real Cambodian chow, without getting the fancy restaurant markups.

The Jeep Ride Experience: Comfort and Practicality

Okay. Actual truth. That Jeep trip isn’t any super smooth limo ride, so too it’s almost definitely worth keeping in mind. Roads outside the actual town? Sort of tough in spots. The open top? Wonderful for taking pictures and seeing. Still, bear in mind, you actually get the sun directly. Pack sunblock. A cap as well. They handed out chilled towels too, which was good. Very pleasant. Fact is, expect some bumps, some warmth, plus prepare for the environment. If you do? Really you’ll very likely be good to go!

Things to Consider Before Booking

Got some things for you before booking, like your decisions you really need to factor in.

What Time of Year It Is: Dry season? Dust will be a thing. Wet season? Possibly bring waterproof covering for camera stuff.
Your Body Condition: That sunrise part begins very early. See if you’re game for that kind of thing, too it’s almost crucial.
Jeep Suitability: In general, if you’ve any back issues, that potentially rough ride could actually be a challenge.
Market Openness: Some days, that market may be smaller, more quiet, actually, owing to holidays, and the like.

Think through it. That way, that tour actually turns out great for you!

Is the Siem Reap Angkor Wat Sunrise Jeep Tour Worth It?

Plain answer? Possibly, really, if you would like a sprinkle of adventure mixed with your old temples. A Jeep just makes things a bit unusual. Gives cool vistas. That market bit? You’ll peek into native life. In any case, just realize. Early mornings. Maybe rough trips. Perhaps warm weather. On balance, very good for people wanting something a bit offbeat. More memorable. Very, very, very likely exceeding just some normal tour.

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