Angkor Cycling Tour

If you’re looking for a way to experience Angkor beyond the usual tourist hustle, the Angkor Cycling Tour offers a memorable, active way to see the temples and local scenery. For $65 per person and lasting about 7 hours, this guided bike trip takes you on a journey through both the famous sights and some quieter, less crowded paths. It’s perfect if you want to combine culture, adventure, and a bit of physical activity — all with the support of knowledgeable guides and some handy tuk-tuk backup.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the balanced mix of paved roads and off-the-beaten-track dirt trails — about 30% on smooth surfaces, 70% on dirt and single tracks, which keeps things lively and engaging. Plus, the frequent stops for water and fruit, along with a traditional Khmer lunch, make it feel like a well-rounded day rather than just a cycling marathon.

One thing to consider: you’ll need a Temple Pass, which isn’t included in the price, so plan ahead. Also, since the tour involves cycling through sun-drenched temple areas, packing sunscreen and sun protection is a must. This tour suits active travelers, history buffs wanting a hands-on experience, and those eager to see the hidden corners of Angkor while getting some exercise.

Key Points

• Active exploration combining well-known temples and secret trails
• Expert guides with local knowledge and personality
• All-day support, including tuk-tuk backup and refreshments
• Includes a traditional Khmer lunch and plenty of water
• Light challenge with varied terrain, suitable for moderate fitness
• Not suitable for pregnant women or those unable to cycle for extended periods

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and Bike Fitting

Your adventure begins early — the tour kicks off with a hotel pickup around 7:35 am from your Siem Reap accommodation. We loved the personalized touch of being collected from our hotel lobby, making the start seamless. Upon arrival at the tour office, each rider is fitted with a suitable mountain bike and helmet, ensuring comfort and safety for the day’s journey.

This focus on gear fitting is small but meaningful; it shows the tour operators’ attention to detail. Whether you’re tall or petite, they cater to your height with different bike sizes, so you’re not fighting against your ride all day.

Cycling into Angkor: The Hidden Entrance of Angkor Wat

After a quick transfer via tuk-tuk to the starting point, we begin cycling along the Siem Reap River towards Rd. 60, where we secure our Temple Pass — an essential ticket for temple access. We loved the peaceful back roads that lead into the Angkor complex, offering a quieter approach than the main tourist entrances.

Our first main stop is the renowned Angkor Wat, which we reach via a back route. Here, the bikes are dropped off for the next two hours of exploration on foot. Visiting Angkor Wat from this lesser-used entry feels special; fewer crowds mean more space to soak in the grandeur and intricate carvings without jostling for photo space.

Exploring Angkor Thom & the South Gate

Back on the bikes, we head to Angkor Thom, the ancient city with its imposing walls and famous Bayon Temple. Our guide, who clearly knows this site inside out, shared stories and insights that made the stones come alive. We cycled along the moat and climbed to the city walls, taking in panoramic views while learning about the city’s strategic layout.

The highlight here was cycling around the Ghost Gate and visiting the Elephant Terrace, which offers a perfect spot for photos and a chance to appreciate the scale of the ruins. As one review notes, our guide’s personality and knowledge really added to the experience, making the history engaging rather than a static narrative.

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Lunch Break at a Local Eatery

Next, we enjoyed a hearty traditional Khmer lunch at a local restaurant. This is a nice break from the biking, giving you a chance to relax and refuel. The meal was well-organized and delicious, emphasizing local flavors — a genuine taste of Cambodia’s culinary heritage.

Discovering Hidden Temples: Ta Nei and Prasat Ta Phrom

Post-lunch, the tour takes a turn into lesser-visited temples. Our group rode leisurely toward Ta Nei Temple, an area largely enclosed by rainforest. We loved the quiet atmosphere and the chance to step off the beaten path. The guide’s stories about the temple’s history made the ruins more vivid.

A highlight was cycling on a single dirt track to reach Prasat Ta Phrom — the famous Tomb Raider Temple. The lush surroundings and the sense of adventure make this stop memorable. One reviewer said, “We felt luck we found this trip — it’s well-organized, and you get to enjoy the culture, cycling, and fun.”

Final Adventure: Jungle Trails and Back to Siem Reap

The last stretch involves cycling on single dirt tracks back toward the Siem Reap River, passing through rainforest scenery and quiet village roads. This final leg captures the essence of Cambodia’s rural charm. The tour concludes with a tuk-tuk transfer back to your hotel, a relaxed end to an active day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Authentic Trails and Cultural Highlights

Unlike standard bus tours, this experience immerses you in Cambodia’s natural and historic landscape. Cycling through back roads, rainforest tracks, and temple ruins offers a genuine glimpse into local life and ancient architecture. The guides’ familiarity with the trails means you get insider insights and a smooth ride, even on uneven terrain.

Balance of Famous and Hidden Sights

The tour thoughtfully combines a visit to Angkor Wat and Bayon with stops at Ta Nei and Ta Phrom — temples that are less crowded but equally fascinating. This mix provides a broader perspective of Angkor’s extensive complex without feeling rushed.

Support and Comfort

The tuk-tuk backup and refreshments at every stop ensure you stay energized and comfortable. The inclusion of water, snacks, and a lunch adds value, making the day seem less tiring and more enjoyable, especially given the physical activity involved.

Guides Who Add Personality

Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable and personable guides — they don’t just recite facts but also share stories and anecdotes that connect you to the history and environment. This personal touch elevates the experience beyond just a sightseeing tour.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

Cycling for 7 hours might not suit everyone, especially if you’re not used to bike rides or have mobility issues. The terrain varies from paved to dirt tracks, so a reasonable level of fitness helps. Also, since Temple Passes are not included in the tour price, you’ll need to purchase these separately, which is an added cost to consider.

Weather can also be a factor — Cambodia’s sun can be intense, so sun protection, hats, and sunscreen are strongly recommended. The tour starts early, which is good for avoiding midday heat and crowds but requires an early wake-up.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure appeals most to active travelers who want to combine sightseeing with physical activity. History lovers who enjoy storytelling will appreciate the knowledgeable guides, while those looking to escape the crowds will find the off-the-beaten-track trails refreshing. It’s also ideal for travelers who enjoy a full day of exploration and don’t mind cycling on uneven terrain.

Final Thoughts

The Angkor Cycling Tour offers a fresh way to experience Angkor’s wonders. It’s well-suited to those who want more than just a bus ride and are happy to get a bit of exercise in the process. The combination of stunning temples, scenic trails, and local insights makes it a rewarding day for anyone eager to see Cambodia’s ancient capital with a more personal touch.

The inclusion of local guides, frequent refreshment stops, and a well-organized itinerary make this a standout choice for active, curious travelers. If you’re comfortable on a bike and want to explore Angkor’s secrets, this tour deserves a spot on your list.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Temple Pass to join this tour?
Yes, a Temple Pass is required for temple visits, but it is not included in the tour price. You’ll need to purchase it separately before or during the day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour involves cycling on various terrains, the information provided doesn’t specify age restrictions. It’s best for children who are comfortable biking for several hours and are physically active.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable shorts or lightweight clothing are fine, but remember to bring spare clothes for temple visits, as loose clothing isn’t allowed inside some temples. Closed-toe shoes are required for biking, and sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses) is highly recommended.

How long are the cycling sections?
The tour covers approximately 35 km, split between paved roads and dirt tracks. The cycling is paced to allow for sightseeing stops and meals, making it manageable for most active visitors.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers mountain bikes and helmets, lunch at a local restaurant, water and snacks, English-speaking guides, first aid kit, bike spares, and free tuk-tuk transfers.

Is the tour available every day?
Yes, it runs daily, starting at 7:45 am, with a 7-hour window from the first activation.

If you’re craving a day that combines culture, adventure, and outdoor fun, the Angkor Cycling Tour offers a balanced, authentic experience that’s hard to beat. It’s perfect for those who want to see the temples from a local’s perspective — on two wheels, with plenty of insider stories along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: