Angkor Cycling Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Siem Reap and want to experience Angkor beyond the usual crowds, the Angkor Cycling Tour looks like an excellent choice. This guided excursion offers a full day of exploring some of the most iconic temples alongside lesser-known trails, all from the saddle of a mountain bike. Based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it’s clear this tour balances adventure, culture, and comfort—perfect for those craving an active but authentic encounter with Angkor.

What we love about this tour? First, the combination of paved roads and off-beat tracks makes for a dynamic ride, giving you a real sense of the landscape and less touristy areas. Second, the knowledgeable guides bring history alive and ensure you’re well-supported throughout the day. Third, the inclusion of local Khmer lunch, water refreshment, and snacks makes it feel like more than just a sightseeing trip — it’s a cultural experience. One thing to consider is that the tour requires a full day commitment of roughly 7 hours, so it suits travelers who want a hearty, active day.

This tour is ideal for active travelers, history buffs, or anyone eager to see Angkor from a different perspective—through cycling on quiet trails, with plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere away from the crowds.

Good To Know

• Balance of Roads and Trails: 30% paved, 70% off-beaten tracks for a varied cycling experience
• Expert Guides: Guides know the trails intimately and keep the day engaging and informative
• Authentic Cultural Experience: Visits to major temples plus hidden gems like Ta Nei and Ta Phrom
• Inclusive Support: Tuk-tuk support and spare bike parts provide peace of mind
• All-Inclusive Value: Lunch, water, snacks, helmets, and bike rental included
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation and pay later options add peace of mind

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Angkor Cycling Tour

This tour is a well-rounded introduction to the Angkor complex, designed for travelers who like a mix of activity, history, and local flavor. Starting early at 7:45 am from your Siem Reap hotel, the day unfolds with a pickup just before, followed by a transfer to the tour office via tuk-tuk. The initial step involves fitting each participant with a mountain bike, then heading out along the Siem Reap River on a scenic route toward Rd. 60 for the temple pass — a necessary ticket that fuels your temple adventures.

Cycling into Angkor Wat and the Iconic Temple

One of the highlights is cycling into Angkor Wat through a back route, avoiding the crowds at the main entrance. After dropping off the bikes, you get around two hours to explore this marvel. The guide will share insights into its architecture and significance, making it a highlight of the trip. Reviewers like Lars have praised the guide’s personality and good mood, which helped make this part memorable. The quiet, personal approach allows you to really appreciate the scale and craftsmanship of Angkor Wat—something that often gets lost in busier, tour-group chaos.

Exploring Angkor Thom and Its Surroundings

After Angkor Wat, the route takes you along the moat to South Gate village, where you’ll ascend to the ramparts. Here, you’ll get sweeping views over the moat and surrounding jungle interiors. Walking around the walls, the guide explains the city’s history and the significance of the Ghost Gate. From there, the visit continues with Prasat Bayon, famous for its serene stone faces, and the Elephant Terrace, where a Khmer-style lunch awaits.

Hidden Treasures: Ta Nei and Ta Phrom

Post-lunch, the trip takes a detour into less-visited temples. Ta Nei, often overlooked by larger tours, offers a peaceful, rainforest-enclosed setting that many reviewers find charming and authentic. Michaela notes, “We felt lucky to find this hidden gem.” Next, the group ventures onto a dirt track leading to Ta Phrom, the “Tomb Raider” temple, renowned for its roots entwined with ancient stone, providing a perfect blend of adventure and photo opportunities. The hour spent here is often described as “a true adventure,” with some reviewers mentioning the thrill of exploring less-crowded ruins.

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Cycling Back and Support

The final leg involves cycling on single dirt tracks back toward Siem Reap, passing through scenic countryside and quiet temple areas. Support vehicles and tuk-tuk support ensure you’re comfortable and safe, especially if fatigue sets in. The tour wraps up with a transfer back to your hotel, usually around 3 pm or 4 pm, giving you the rest of the day to relax or explore further.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $65 per person, this experience packs in about 7 hours of active exploration, culture, and scenic beauty. The inclusion of high-quality mountain bikes, helmets, water, snacks, and a traditional Khmer lunch means there are no hidden costs. The support from guides who know the trails intimately significantly enhances the experience—adding context and safety that you might not get on a self-guided ride.

The fact that you skip the lines at major temples through a separate entrance can save valuable time and frustration, especially during busy seasons. Plus, the flexibility of booking with free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later makes it accessible for last-minute plans or uncertain schedules.

The Guides and Their Value

From reviews, it’s clear that the guides make a big difference. Lars describes their guide as adding “personality and a good mood” to the day, which can turn a good tour into a memorable one. Michaela emphasizes how her guide was “perfect and accommodating,” making the experience enjoyable and stress-free, even for those who might be less confident cyclists.

The Terrain and Experience Level

The combination of paved roads and off-beat tracks means this tour is suitable for most cycling abilities, provided you’re comfortable on a mountain bike. The terrain varies, but the routes are well-chosen to avoid overly challenging sections. It’s a full day of activity, so expect to be on your feet and bike for several hours. That said, the support vehicles and the option to take breaks help keep fatigue at bay.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring closed-toe shoes: For safety and comfort during biking and temple visits.
• Wear light, breathable clothing: You’ll be cycling in the sun, so packing a spare shirt might be a good idea.
• Use sunscreen and sunglasses: The sun can be intense, especially during outdoor sections.
• Have your height in cm ready: For bike fitting, ensuring maximum comfort during your ride.
• Bring a spare cloth: Helpful for temple visits after biking or if you get sweaty.
• Respect temple rules: Loose clothing isn’t allowed inside temples, so plan accordingly.

The Sum Up

The Angkor Cycling Tour offers a compelling way to see Angkor from a different angle—literally. With a carefully curated route that balances major highlights and hidden corners, guided by knowledgeable locals, and supported by comfortable logistics, it provides an authentic and active experience. It’s especially suited for travelers who love adventure, want to avoid the crowds, and appreciate local culture and history.

For the price, you get a full day filled with scenic views, fascinating sites, and personal connections—plus the added bonus of feeling like an explorer rather than just a tourist. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a curious beginner, this tour promises a memorable way to connect with Angkor’s stories and landscapes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves cycling on varied terrain and is about 7 hours long, so it’s best for older children comfortable on a mountain bike. Check with the provider for specific age recommendations.

Do I need to bring my own bicycle?
No, the tour provides mountain bikes of all sizes, along with helmets, so you just need to show up ready to ride.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes a traditional Khmer lunch at a local restaurant, giving you a taste of authentic cuisine.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible if your plans change.

What’s the best time to start?
The tour starts every day at 7:45 am, ideal for avoiding the heat and crowds at the temples.

Are there support vehicles available?
Yes, tuk-tuk support is on hand throughout the day, plus spare bike parts, to ensure your safety and comfort.

What should I wear during the tour?
Comfortable, breathable clothing, closed-toe shoes, sunscreen, and sunglasses are recommended. Bring a spare shirt and a hat for extra sun protection.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers due to the physical activity involved.

This cycling adventure in Angkor offers a well-rounded mix of culture, scenery, and activity. It’s perfect for those wanting a more intimate and energetic way to engage with Cambodia’s most famous archaeological site.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby