Angkor Balloon Sunrise or Sunset ride and Pick up/Drop off

Angkor Balloon Sunrise or Sunset Ride and Pick-up/Drop-off: A Clear Look at This Unique Experience

Imagine floating in a massive helium balloon, just 800 meters from the iconic Angkor Wat, offering a bird’s eye view of the sprawling temple complex. For around $43 per person, you can enjoy a 30-minute tethered balloon flight that promises memorable photos and a different perspective on Cambodia’s most revered site. The experience is operated by Passion Indochina Travel Co., Ltd., with the balloon managed since 2018 by the French company Aerophile, which is known for its safety standards and iconic balloons in France and the USA.

What we love about this tour is how it combines spectacular aerial views with the chance to see Angkor Wat from an entirely different angle. Plus, the pick-up service from your hotel saves you from navigating unfamiliar streets early in the morning or late in the day. Another highlight: the choice of flying at sunrise or sunset—two times when the light makes everything more magical and the temples more photogenic.

One potential drawback? Weather can always be unpredictable, and the reviews show some inconsistency—rides can be shorter than scheduled or delayed if conditions aren’t right. It’s worth planning with some flexibility and checking the weather forecast. This experience best suits travelers who love scenic views, unique photo opportunities, and don’t mind the possibility of shorter or slightly delayed flights.

If you’re a traveler who seeks an authentic, visually stunning experience rather than just visiting Angkor Wat by ground, this balloon ride might be perfect. It’s especially appealing for those wanting a memorable highlight of their Cambodia trip with an aerial perspective.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: Offers a unique bird’s eye perspective of Angkor Wat, especially at sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting.
• Safe and Affordable: Conducted under international safety standards at a reasonable rate of $43.
• Convenient: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, saving time and hassle.
• Weather Dependent: Flights depend heavily on weather conditions; delays or shorter rides might occur.
• Limited Duration: The ride lasts about 30 minutes, which is enough to enjoy the experience but may leave some wanting more.
• Authentic Experience: Managed by a reputable company, Aerophile, with a long history of ballooning.

A Detailed Look at the Angkor Balloon Experience

Location and Accessibility

Located just 800 meters from Angkor Wat, the Angkor Balloon provides something few other experiences in Siem Reap can match—a close aerial view of the world’s largest religious monument. The balloon station is easy to reach with the included transfer, typically from your hotel, and the ride itself is a short tuk-tuk journey of about 20 minutes from the city. The proximity to Angkor Wat means you can enjoy your flight amidst the early morning or late afternoon light, adding to the magic of the views.

The Itinerary and Timing

The itinerary is straightforward but well-organized:

• Sunrise flights: Arrive 15 minutes before sunrise to catch the initial light, usually around 5:30 am. The early morning part of the experience is quiet, offering a peaceful start to your day.
• Sunset flights: Arrive about 30 minutes before sunset, typically around 5:20 pm, to enjoy the changing hues in the sky as you float above Angkor Wat.
• Duration: Each flight lasts approximately 30 minutes, providing ample time to enjoy the views and take photos.

The entire experience, including pickup and transfer, generally takes about an hour or so, making it a compact but memorable activity in your day.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package covers hotel pickup and drop-off, the balloon flight itself, and a bird’s eye view of Angkor Wat and Siem Reap. You’ll also get the chance to hover over the city during sunset, with the balloon illuminated at dusk for stunning photos.

However, some practical considerations include:

• You must arrive early (5:20-5:30 am/pm) at the station, so planning your day around these times is necessary.
• You should bring a camera to capture the views—don’t forget extra batteries or memory cards.
• The experience is weather-dependent; cloudy or rainy days could cancel or shorten your flight, so check the weather forecast before confirming.

What to Expect During the Ride

Once airborne, the view is truly extraordinary. You’ll see Angkor Wat’s intricate temple spires from above, surrounded by lush greenery and the sprawling landscape of Siem Reap. The balloon hovers at a staggering height, giving you a perspective that’s impossible from the ground. The balloon itself is the largest helium balloon in the world, offering a stable and smooth ride, according to the management’s safety standards.

Authenticity and Real Experiences

Feedback from travelers paints a mixed picture. Many praise the stunning views and the chance to see Angkor Wat from above, describing it as a “unique photo opportunity”. One traveler said, “Was good. Hot air balloon much more interesting,” highlighting the appeal of the aerial view over traditional temple visits.

However, some reviews note disappointing experiences with shorter flights or delays. For example, a traveler named Dominique expressed frustration: “…we were only up for 19 minutes instead of 30 minutes,” and was hurried by the balloon operator, causing her to miss the sunset entirely. Others report being told the ride was fully booked and offered a shorter trip, which can be a concern if you’ve set your heart on a specific time or duration.

The Value and Practical Considerations

At $43, the ride offers good value for such a unique perspective. Compared to other aerial experiences in tourist-heavy destinations, this provides a memorable, intimate view of Angkor Wat without breaking the bank. The inclusion of hotel transfers adds convenience, especially early morning or evening.

That said, it’s essential to remain flexible. Weather can be unpredictable, and reviews suggest rides may be shorter or delayed. Always check the weather and confirm your flight times in advance. If you’re a traveler who appreciates visual storytelling, photography, or just a spectacular view, this experience is likely to be a highlight.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This balloon ride is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to see Angkor Wat from the sky and capture incredible photos. It’s perfect for early risers or sunset lovers who appreciate the changing light and the quiet of dawn or dusk. If you’re traveling with family or friends, the private group setting ensures a more personalized experience.

However, those with strict schedules or who dislike weather-dependent activities may want to weigh the possibility of delays or shorter flights. It’s also worth noting that some travelers have found the ride shorter than expected, so if you’re expecting a full 30-minute experience, confirm this beforehand.

The Sum Up

The Angkor Balloon ride offers a spectacular, memorable way to view Angkor Wat, especially if you’re seeking that perfect sunrise or sunset shot. The peaceful altitude, combined with the proximity to the temple, makes for an experience that’s both unique and visually stunning. It’s perfect for travelers who want a special highlight on their Cambodia trip without spending a fortune or spending hours on a ground tour.

While weather and timing can be unpredictable, the safety standards and scenic reward make it worthwhile for those who enjoy aerial views and authentic experiences. It’s a great choice for those wanting to see Angkor Wat from a different angle—literally—and return home with photos that will impress for years to come.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the experience involves floating in a large helium balloon, which might not be suitable for very young children or those with a fear of heights. Check with the provider if you have concerns.

How long before sunrise or sunset should I arrive?
You should arrive about 15 minutes before sunrise and 30 minutes before sunset to ensure a smooth start and safety briefing.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Flights depend heavily on weather conditions. If the weather isn’t suitable, the flight may be canceled or postponed. Always check with the provider for updates.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera and any necessary accessories, such as extra batteries or memory cards, to capture the views.

How long does the entire experience take?
Including pickup, transfer, and flight, plan for about an hour. The actual balloon ride is approximately 30 minutes.

Is this experience worth the price?
Many find it good value for the chance to see Angkor Wat from above at sunrise or sunset. The views and photo opportunities are considered the main draws.

Can I book the experience for sunset or sunrise?
Yes, you can choose either option, but be sure to arrive early to enjoy the full experience.

What if I want a longer ride?
The ride duration is approximately 30 minutes, and shorter rides are possible if weather or operational issues occur. Confirm expectations and duration ahead of time.

Is the experience private?
Yes, the tour is offered as a private group, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Experience the wonder of Cambodia from the sky with a balloon ride over Angkor Wat—an unforgettable way to see this ancient site in a new light.

You can check availability for your dates here: