How to plan 3 days in Siem Reap for the Angkor temples
Spend three days exploring the Angkor Archaeological Park by purchasing a three-day temple pass and hiring a private tuk-tuk driver for the duration of your trip. Focus your time on the 'Big Three'—Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm—while mixing in smaller, outer temples to avoid the heaviest crowds.
- Buy your Angkor Pass online. Purchase your 3-day pass ($62 USD) through the official Angkor Enterprise website. Digital passes are accepted at all temple gates, saving you time standing in line at the physical ticket office.
- Hire a tuk-tuk driver. Secure a driver for all three days ($15–$20 USD per day). Ask your accommodation to recommend one, or use a local booking app like PassApp. Having the same driver ensures they know where to meet you after you exit different temple gates.
- Set your start time early. Be at the gates by 5:00 AM for sunrise or no later than 7:30 AM to beat the tour buses. Take a midday break back at your hotel from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM to avoid the peak heat and temple fatigue.
- Can I cycle to the temples?
- You can, but it is not recommended. The distance between temples is significant, and the heat in Cambodia is extreme. Stick to a tuk-tuk.
- Do I need to tip my tuk-tuk driver?
- Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. $2–$5 extra per day is a kind gesture for a good driver.