Top Siem Reap Natural Attractions

Set off early and beat the tour groups on this day trip to Phnom Kulen National Park, the birthplace of the ancient Khmer Empire. On this private tour, enjoy waterfalls and swimming holes and explore landmarks like the reclining Buddha at Preah Ang Thom and the River of 1000 Lingas without the strict schedules or stressful crowds of a large tour group. In the afternoon, visit the majestic pink sandstone temple of Banteay Srei and get stunning photos to take back home.

Finding an evening activity in Siem Reap that feels meaningful—rather than just another tourist show—can be difficult, especially if you want something that reflects real Cambodian culture. A Phare Circus performance solves that problem by offering an authentic, high-quality experience created and performed by local artists, while also supporting a nonprofit organization that helps vulnerable communities. Relax and enjoy a moving, visually striking performance that combines storytelling, music, and circus arts into one unforgettable night.

Exploring the UNESCO-listed Angkor Temples is a must for visitors to Siem Reap, and this small-group tour offers a more personalized and less crowded experience. Visit at least three of the must-see temples—Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm—and let your guide point out architectural details you might otherwise miss. Gain insight into the fascinating history of the Khmer Empire and seek out the best viewpoints.

After seeing the mighty Angkor Wat, take a day trip from Siem Reap to explore some of the region’s other magnificent temples. Visit the Hindu temple Pre Rup temple; admire the grand Banteay Srei temple, the ‘Citadel of Women’; and learn more about the ancient Khmer empire as you tour the Ta Som and East Mebon temples.

The UNESCO-listed Angkor Wat is the star attraction of Cambodia and the magnificent temple complex is even more atmospheric at sunrise. This full-day small-group tour from Siem Reap makes an early start to avoid the crowds and visits highlights including Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, and Bayon temple (entrance fees at your expense). Hotel pickup and drop-off is included.

Cruise Tonle Sap Lake to Kompong Phluk on a half-day tour from Siem Reap, and explore the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. See communities that thrive at the edge of the water, pass floating schools and markets, and visit a local home to get a glimpse of daily life and culture. This half-day Kompong Phluk tour includes all activities, as well as pickup and drop-off at Siem Reap hotels, and both morning and afternoon departures are available.

The UNESCO-listed Angkor Archeological Site is a highlight of any visit to Cambodia, with temples and sculptures that sprawl across 150 square miles (400 square km.). This full-day, small-group tour makes it possible to explore the complex in one day with a professional historian guide. In addition to visiting Angkor’s architectural highlights, take in jungle-shrouded buildings.

Gain hands on experience in the art of Cambodian cuisine during a 3-hour cooking lesson with a local chef. In the morning or afternoon, travel round-trip by tuk-tuk from your hotel to a rural village outside Siem Reap. You’ll take part in an interactive workshop with a small group of food lovers and enjoy your 3-course meal afterward.

Visit the sacred peak of Kulen Mountain and explore the natural landscapes of the surrounding Phnom Kulen National Park on this full-day tour from Siem Reap. Take in the views from the mountaintop, admire the 16th-century reclining Buddha statue, and hike to Kulen Waterfall.

Whole communities thrive at the edges of Tonlé Sap, South-East Asia's largest freshwater lake. Expect to learn how Khmer people have begun to live in houses built on stilts and hear how the locals live and interact within this unique ecosystem during this half-day tour. Your professional guide is the key to understanding Kompong Phluk and reveals highlights of the floating villages that are difficult to access on your own.

You could spend days exploring the vast temple complex of Angkor, but this private tour lets you take in the highlights in one day. Watch the sunrise over Angkor Wat, marvel at the grand gates of Angkor Thom, and visit the jungle temple of Ta Prohm. Also included is Bayon temple and Bantey Srei.