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.

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.